This is my second How To post, and in this one, I will specifically be going over the installation of Yellow Dog Linux , which is the PS3 ’s main alternative to their System Software OS. These Instruction refer to the latest version of YDL, v6.0, but this tutorial should work with ay other Linux form, such as Fedora.

Here are the requirements:

• A PS3 connected to a HDTV or a monitor via HDMI Cable;
• A controller connected to your console;
• A USB Keyboard and Mouse connected to your console;
• The latest version of System Software. Best bet is to just check for updates.

Here’s what you need for the Installation:

• A PlayStation 3
• A Blank DVD
• A Blank CD
• A USB Stick
• A USB Keyboard and Mouse (mentioned before)

The good thing about the inventory for this installation is that it’s completely free, I mean, if you’re considering installing a hardcore OS onto your gaming system, you’ve probably already got a USB Keyboard and Mouse, or you may just have an old one lying around. A USB Stick is something you can get pretty cheap these days, or you could just borrow one. I recommend just buying a 1GB stick and keeping it handy for the future. Blank CDs, no biggy, and it’s pretty much the same with DVDs.

Now, down to business.

Preparation

Step 1

Firstly, and most importantly, BACK UP ALL YOUR STORED DATA . The main thing is to back up save files, and other files, such as music, are optional. To back up, go to

‘Settings’ > ‘System Settings’ > ‘Format Utility’ > ‘Format Hard Disk’ > ‘Yes’

Then select ‘Quick Format’ and push the (X) Button. Your PS3 will back itself up and Reboot now.

Step 2

OK. Now to the actual Download/Installation Process. Now you need to Download YDL V6.0 from TerraSoft , and burn it onto your Blank DVD. This will take a pretty long time, so while you are waiting do the next step.

Step 3

Download the PS3 Linux Add-On CD from the Linux website: Download it here , and burn this onto your Blank CD.

Step 4

Now, we start the Installation. Pop in the DVD you made earlier, now you are giving up control of your PS3 to YDL for a few minutes. However, you will still be in control to initiate the control transfer. Go to

‘Settings’ > ‘System Settings’ > ‘Install other OS’

Now you should hear your PS3 whirring away, scanning the DVD for the ‘bootloader’, which will start the installation process.

Step 5

Confirm discovery of

‘/ps3/otheros/otheros.bld’

and press (X) to begin installation. Lets roll.

Step 6

Select ‘Other OS’ by going to

‘Settings’ > ‘System Settings’ > ‘Default System’ > ‘Other OS’

when prompted, select ‘Yes’.

Installation

Step 1

Now you will see the bootloader screen: ‘kboot’ . Before the bootloader times-out, select the maximum capability of your HDTV or Monitor .

If you don’t know your screen resolution, just select ‘install_ps3_720p’ .

Step 2

Enter the YDL Installer called Anaconda and proceed.

Step 3

Simply follow the on screen instructions. If this is your first time installing YDL, you will get a message saying:

‘The partition table on this device, ps3da was unreadable…’

Don’t worry, just select ‘Yes’ and continue.

Step 4

Now, select ‘Automatic Partitioning’ .

Step 5

You will now be faced by 3 options:

Remove all Linux Partitions

Remove all Partitions

Keep all Partitions and use existing free space

If this is your first time installing Linux on your PS3, select ‘Keep all Partitions and use existing free space’ . This will not harm your System Software OS or your game data.

If you have previously installed Linux on your PS3, you have a choice. The first option deletes all your Linux files and the actual OS, replacing it with YDL. The second option deletes all game data as well as the System Software OS. The last option means you will have 2 versions of Linux. Take your pick.

Finito