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[[Image:playstation.jpg|right|]] The '''PlayStation 2''' is the sixth-generation video game console released by Sony. With the exception of [[Guitar Hero: On Tour]] and [[Guitar Hero On Tour: Decades]], it is be the only console which every [[Guitar Hero (series)|Guitar Hero]] game has been released, as well as the only system for which the original [[Guitar Hero]] was released.

==Guitar Hero games on the PlayStation 2==
*[[Guitar Hero]] (2005)
*[[Guitar Hero II]] (2006)
*[[Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80s]] (2007)
*[[Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock]] (2007)
*[[Guitar Hero Aerosmith]] (2008)
*[[Guitar Hero World Tour]] (2008)
*[[Guitar Hero Metallica]] (2009)

[[Category:Consoles]]


{{Redirect|PS2}}
{{Infobox VG system
|title = PlayStation 2
|logo = [[File:PlayStation 2 logo.svg|230px|Official PlayStation 2 logo]]
|image = [[File:PlayStation 2.png|220px|A '''PlayStation 2''' in the original color]]
|manufacturer = [[Sony Computer Entertainment]]
|family = [[PlayStation (series)|PlayStation]]
|type = [[Video game console]]
|generation = [[History of video game consoles (sixth generation)|Sixth generation era]] ([[128-bit]] era)
|lifespan = {{vgrelease|JP=March 4, 2000}}{{vgrelease|NA=October 26, 2000<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/news/6181828.html Sony: 120 million PS2s sold - News at GameSpot<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>}}{{vgrelease|EU=November 24, 2000}}{{vgrelease|AUS=November 30, 2000}}
<!-- ===================================================== -->
<!-- Do not change CPU bit-length without reliable sources -->
<!-- ===================================================== -->
|CPU = 64-bit<ref name="CAAQA"/><ref name="MPR"/> "[[Emotion Engine]]" clocked at 294.912 MHz (launch), 299 MHz (newer models)
|GPU = "[[PlayStation 2#Technical specifications|Graphics Synthesizer]]" clocked at 147.456 MHz
|media = [[DVD]], [[Compact Disc|CD]]
|storage = [[Memory card]]
|connectivity=[[Ethernet]]/[[modem]] adapter
|controllers = [[DualShock#DualShock 2|DualShock 2]]
|onlineservice = [[DNAS|Dynamic Network Authentication System]]
|units sold = 140 million <small>(as of July 20, 2008)</small><ref name="Financial Times"/>
<!-- ============================================================ -->
<!-- Do not change the top game without using the talk page first -->
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|topgame = ''[[Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec]]'': 14.89 million shipped <small>(as of April 30, 2008)</small><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://asia.playstation.com/eng_hk/index.php?q=node/1517 |title=Gran Turismo Series Shipment Exceeds 50 Million Units Worldwide |date=2008-05-09 |accessdate=2008-06-03 |publisher=[[Sony Computer Entertainment]]}}</ref>
|compatibility = [[PlayStation]] 
|predecessor = PlayStation<!--STOP LINKING THIS. It is already linked above. See [[WP:MOS]] for more info.-->
|successor = [[PlayStation 3]]
}}
The '''PlayStation 2''' (abbreviated "'''PS2'''") is a [[History of video game consoles (sixth generation)|sixth-generation]] [[video game console]] manufactured by [[Sony]]. The successor to the [[PlayStation]], and the predecessor to the [[PlayStation 3]], the PlayStation 2 forms part of the [[PlayStation (brand)|PlayStation series]] of video game consoles. Its development was announced in March [[1999 in video gaming|1999]] and it was released [[2000 in video gaming|a year later]] in [[Japan]]. 

The PS2 is the [[List of best-selling game consoles|best-selling console]] to date,<ref>[http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2007/02/15/date-xbox-marry-wii-kill-playstation.aspx PS2 on fool.com]</ref><ref>[http://www.thejakartapost.com/yesterdaydetail.asp?fileid=20061223.Q10 The Jakarta Post - The Journal of Indonesia Today<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> having reached over 140 million units in sales by July 2008.<ref name="Financial Times"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/hirai-targets-150-million-ps3-sales |title=Hirai targets 150 million PS3 sales |accessdate=2008-07-21 |date=2008-07-21 |publisher=[[GamesIndustry.biz]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=199883 |title=Hirai wants PS3 to beat PS2 |accessdate=2008-07-21 |date=2008-07-21 |publisher=[[Eurogamer]]}}</ref> 

==History==
Only a few million people had obtained consoles by the end of 2000 due to manufacturing delays.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=21241 |title=PS2 history|publisher= gamesindustry.biz|date=2006-11-22| accessdate=2007-09-25}}</ref> Directly after its release, it was difficult to find PS2 units on retailer shelves.<ref>{{cite web |title=PlayStation 2 Timeline |publisher=[[GameSpy]] |url=http://archive.gamespy.com/articles/february04/ps2timeline/index2.shtml |accessdate=2007-12-19 |pages=p. 2-3}}</ref> Another option was purchasing the console online through auction websites such as [[eBay]], where people paid over one thousand dollars for a PS2.<ref>{{cite web |title=PlayStation 2 Timeline |publisher=[[GameSpy]] |url=http://archive.gamespy.com/articles/february04/ps2timeline/index3.shtml |accessdate=2007-12-19 |pages=3}}</ref> The PS2 initially sold well partly on the basis of the strength of the PlayStation brand and the console's backward compatibility, selling over 980,000 units by March 5, 2000, one day after launch, in Japan.<ref>{{cite web |title=PlayStation 2 Timeline |publisher=[[GameSpy]] |url=http://archive.gamespy.com/articles/february04/ps2timeline/index2.shtml |accessdate=2007-12-19 |pages=2}}</ref> This allowed the PS2 to tap the large install base established by the PlayStation &mdash; another major selling point over the competition. Later, Sony gained momentum with new development kits for game developers and more PS2 units for consumers.

A notable piece of advertising for the PS2 launch was accompanied by the popular "PS9" television commercial. 9 was to be the epitome of development, toward which the PS2 was the next step. The ad also presaged the development of the [[PlayStation Portable]]{{Fact|date=March 2008}} (first released in Japan on December 12, 2004).

Many analysts predicted a close three-way matchup between the PS2 and competitors [[Microsoft]]'s [[Xbox]] and the [[Nintendo GameCube]] (GameCube being the cheapest of the three consoles and had an open market of games); however, the release of several blockbuster games during the 2001 [[Christmas/winter holiday season|holiday season]] maintained sales momentum and held off the PS2's rivals.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://money.cnn.com/2002/05/14/technology/ps2_pricecuts/ | title=Sony slashes PlayStation prices: Preemptive move undercuts competition and could spark video game price war | publisher=CNN |date=May 14, 2002 | author=Chris Morris}}</ref>

Although Sony, unlike [[Sega]] with its [[Dreamcast]], placed little emphasis on online gaming during its first years{{Fact|date=December 2007}}, that changed upon the launch of the [[Xbox Live|online-capable Xbox]]. Sony adapted in late 2002 to compete with Microsoft, with several online first–party titles released alongside it, such as ''[[SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs]]'' to demonstrate its active support for Internet play. Sony also advertised heavily, and its online model had the support of [[Electronic Arts]]. Although Sony and Nintendo both started out late, and although both followed a decentralized model of online gaming where the responsibility is up to the developer to provide the servers, Sony's attempt made online gaming a major selling point of the PS2.

In September 2004, in time for the launch of ''[[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas]]'', Sony revealed a new, slimmer PS2 (see ''[[#Hardware revisions|Hardware revisions]]''). In preparation for the launch of a new, slimmer PS2 model (SCPH-70000), Sony stopped making the older PS2 model (SCPH-5000x) during the summer of 2004 to let the distribution channel empty its stock of the units.{{Fact|date=December 2008}} After an apparent manufacturing issue caused some initial slowdown in producing the new unit, Sony reportedly underestimated demand, caused in part by shortages between the time the old units were cleared out and the new units were ready. The issue was compounded in Britain when a Russian oil tanker became stuck in the [[Suez Canal]], blocking a ship from China carrying PS2s bound for the UK. During one week in November, British sales totaled 6,000 units &mdash; compared to 70,000 units a few weeks prior.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article400887.ece | title=Merry Christmas, your PlayStation 2 is stuck in Suez | author=Valerie Elliott | publisher=News International | work=Times Online |date=December 9, 2004}}</ref> There were shortages in more than 1700 stores in North America on the day before Christmas.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.corporate-ir.net/ireye/ir_site.zhtml?ticker=GME&script=1010&item_id=997399 | title=2004 Holiday Sales Results Call | publisher=GameStop | accessdate=2006-09-09}}</ref>

On November 29, 2005, the PS2 became the fastest game console to reach 100 million units shipped, accomplishing the feat within 5 years and 9 months from its launch. This achievement occurred faster than its predecessor, the PlayStation, which took 9 years and 6 months to reach the same benchmark.<ref name="shipmentrecord">{{cite press release |url=http://www.scei.co.jp/corporate/release/pdf/051130e.pdf|title=PlayStation 2 Breaks Record as the Fastest Computer Entertainment Platform to Reach Cumulative Shipment of 100 Million Units |date=2005-11-30 |publisher=[[Sony Computer Entertainment]] |accessdate=2008-06-08}}</ref>

==Hardware and software compatibility==
[[Image:Memory Card for PlayStation 2.jpg|thumb|110px|left|OEM PlayStation 2 8 MB [[Memory Card]].]]
{{Seealso|List of PlayStation 2 games|List of PlayStation games incompatible with PlayStation 2|List of PlayStation 2 CD-ROM games|List of PlayStation 2 DVD-9 games|List of PlayStation 2 games with HD support|Chronology of PlayStation 2 games}}
In addition to PS2 software, the PS2 can read both [[Compact Disc|CD]]s and [[DVD]]s and is [[Backward compatibility|backward compatible]] with PlayStation games. The ability to play DVD movies was an added incentive for consumers to be able to justify purchasing the PS2 (the [[MSRP]] was US$300 in October 2000). The PS2 also supports PlayStation [[memory card]]s (for PlayStation game saves only) and controllers, although the memory cards only work with PS1 games and the controllers may not support all functions (such as analog buttons) for PS2 games.

[[Image:Sony Dual Shock 2.jpg|thumb|right|180px|The PlayStation 2's DualShock 2 controller is cosmetically similar to the original DualShock.]]

The PS2's [[DualShock|DualShock 2]] controller is essentially an upgraded PlayStation DualShock; [[analogue electronics|analog]] face, shoulder and D-pad buttons replaced the [[digital]] buttons of the original. Like its predecessor, the DualShock 2 controller has [[Haptic#Games|force feedback]], which is commonly called the "vibration" function. The standard PlayStation&nbsp;2 memory card has an 8[[Megabyte|MB]] capacity and uses Sony's [[MagicGate]] encryption. This requirement prevented the production of memory cards by third parties who did not purchase a license for the MagicGate encryption. The memory card can store PlayStation game saves, but PlayStation games cannot read from or write to the card - it can only be used as a [[backup]].

The console also features [[Universal Serial Bus|USB]] and [[IEEE 1394 interface|IEEE 1394]] expansion ports. Compatibility with USB and IEEE 1394 devices is dependent on the software supporting the device. For example, the PS2 BIOS will not boot an [[ISO image]] from a [[USB flash drive]] or operate a USB printer, as the machine's operating system does not include this functionality. By contrast, ''[[Gran Turismo 4]]'' is programmed to save screenshots to a [[USB mass storage device class|USB mass storage device]] and print images on certain USB printers. A [[PlayStation 2 HDD]] can be installed in an [[PlayStation 2 Expansion Bay|expansion bay]] on the back of the console, with some exceptions (see ''Hardware revisions'' below).

==Online==
{{Seealso|List of PlayStation 2 network games}}
With the purchase of a separate unit called the [[PlayStation 2 Expansion Bay#Network adaptor|Network Adapter]] (which is built into the slimline model), some PS2 games support [[Online game|online multiplayer]]. Instead of having a unified, subscription-based online service like Xbox Live, online multiplayer on the PS2 is split between publishers and run on third-party servers. Most recent PS2 online games have been developed to exclusively support [[broadband Internet access]]. Xbox Live similarly requires a broadband Internet connection.

All online PS2 games released in and after 2003 are protected by the Dynamic Network Authentication System ([[DNAS]]). The purpose of this system is to prevent [[Copyright infringement|piracy]] and [[Cheating in online games|online cheating]]. DNAS will prevent games from being played online if they are determined to be pirated copies or if they have been modified. Recently, however, methods have been developed to get around this protection by modifying key files in the modified game.

Also, some unofficial modifications have been made on the PS2 software allowing it to be used as a fully-functional web browser or messenger when connecting to a certain network. The PS2 can also run [[PS2 Linux|Linux]].

==Hardware revisions==
The PS2 has undergone many revisions, some only of internal construction and others involving substantial external changes. These are colloquially known among PS2 hardware hackers as V0, V1, V2, ''etc''., up to V15b<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.mod-chip.com/en/ps2version.htm | title=PS2 Revision Identification | publisher=Mod-Chip.com}}</ref> (as of 2008).

The PS2 is primarily differentiated between models featuring the original case design and "slimline" models, which were introduced at the end of 2004.

===Original case design===
[[File:Playstation 2.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The original PlayStation 2 design.]]
<!--  Commented out because image was deleted: [[Image:ps2ocean.jpg|thumb|right|150px|A transparent blue (ocean blue) PS2]] -->
Three of the original PS2 launch models (SCPH-10000, SCPH-15000, and SCPH-18000) were only sold in Japan, and lacked the expansion bay (Dev9) of current PS2 models. These models included a [[PC card|PCMCIA]] slot instead of the Dev9 port of newer models. A PCMCIA-to-Dev9 adapter was later made available for these models{{Fact|date=July 2008}}. SCPH-10000 and SCPH-15000 did not have a built-in DVD movie playback and instead relied on encrypted playback software that was copied to a memory card from an included CD-ROM (normally, the PS2 will only execute encrypted software from its memory card, but see [[PS2 Independence Exploit]]). V3 had a substantially different internal structure from the subsequent revisions, featuring several interconnected [[printed circuit board]]s. As of V4 everything was unified into one board, except the power supply. V5 introduced minor internal changes, and the only difference between V6 (sometimes called V5.1) and V5 is the orientation of the Power/Reset switch board connector, which was reversed to prevent the use of no-solder [[modchip]]s. V7 and V8 included only minor revisions to V6.
Assembly of the PS2 moved to the [[People's Republic of China]] during the development of V9 (model numbers SCPH-50000 and SCPH-50001). The upgraded console added an [[infrared]] port for the optional DVD [[remote control]], removed the IEEE 1394 port, added the capability to read DVD-RW and DVD+RW discs, added progressive-scan output of DVD movies, and added a quieter fan. V10 and V11 were only minor revisions to V9.

The PS2 standard color is matte black. Several different variations in color have been produced in different quantities and regions, including ceramic white, light yellow, metallic blue (aqua), metallic silver, navy (star blue), opaque blue (astral blue), opaque black (midnight black), pearl white, [[Sakura]] purple, satin gold, satin silver, snow white, super red, and transparent blue (ocean blue).<ref>{{cite web | last =Calvert | first =Justin | title =PS2 price drop, new colors for Japan | publisher =GameSpot |date=2003-11-04 | url =http://uk.gamespot.com/ps2/action/mobilesuitzgundamaeugvstitans/news.html?sid=6078108 | accessdate =2007-07-10 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last =Fahey | first =Rob | title =Sony launches new PS2 colours in Japan | publisher =gamesindustry.biz |date=2004-03-09 | url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=3080 | accessdate =2007-07-10 }}</ref><ref>[http://www.consolecolors.com/sony.html A list of all console colors and console Limited Editions]. Consolecolors.com</ref><ref>{{cite news | author =Martyn Williams | title =Sony: New hues on PlayStation 2 | publisher =CNN |date=October 14, 2001 | url=http://archives.cnn.com/2001/TECH/fun.games/10/14/ps2.colors.idg/index.html | accessdate=2007-07-10 }}</ref>

The small PlayStation logo on the front of the disc tray could be rotated ninety degrees, in order for the logo to be the right way up in both vertical and horizontal console orientations.

===Slimline===
[[File:SCPH-75000CB.jpg|thumb|100px|right|The redesigned slimline PlayStation 2.]] 
In September 2004, Sony unveiled its third major hardware revision (V12, model number SCPH-70000). Available in November 2004, it is smaller, thinner, and quieter than the older versions and includes a built-in [[Ethernet]] port (in some markets it also has an integrated [[modem]]). Due to its thinner profile, it does not contain the 3.5" [[PlayStation 2 Expansion Bay|expansion bay]] and therefore does not support the [[PlayStation 2 Expansion Bay#Hard disk drive|internal hard disk drive]]. It also lacks an internal power supply, similar to the [[Nintendo GameCube|GameCube]], and has a modified [[Multitap]] expansion. The removal of the expansion bay has been criticized as a limitation due to the existence of titles such as ''[[Final Fantasy XI]]'', which require the use of the HDD. The official [[Linux for PlayStation 2|PS2 Linux]] also requires an expansion bay to function. Currently only the modified MultiTap is sold in stores, meaning that owners of older PS2s must find a used or non-Sony MultiTap in order to have 4 or 8 players during a single game. Third-party connectors can be soldered into the unit giving hard drive support, however IDE connections were completely removed in the V14 revision, thereby eliminating this option.

[[File:PS2Slim.JPG|thumb|200px|left|Comparison of the Slimline PlayStation 2 design with the PlayStation 2, with an [[Eye Toy]] on top.]]
There are some disputes on the numbering for this PS2 version, {{Fact|date=February 2007}} since there are actually two sub-versions of the SCPH-70000.<ref>[http://www.mod-chip.com/ps2version.htm Mod-Chip.Com - Your Primary Source Of Modchips For Your Console<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> One of them includes the old EE and GS chips, and the other contains the newer unified EE+GS chip, but otherwise they are identical. Since the V12 version had already been established for this model, there were some disputes regarding these sub-versions. Two propositions were to name the old model (with separate EE and GS chips) V11.5 and the newer model V12, and to name the old model V12 and the newer model V13. Currently, most people use V12 for both models, or V12 for the old model and V13 for the newer one.

The V12 model was first released in black, but a silver edition is available in the [[United Kingdom]], [[Germany]], [[Australia]], [[United Arab Emirates]] and other GCC Countries, [[France]], [[Italy]], South Africa, and most recently, North America. It is unknown whether or not this will follow the color schemes of the older model, although a limited edition Pink PS2 has become available since March 2007.

V12 (or V13) was succeeded by V14 (SCPH-75001 and SCPH-75002), which contains integrated EE and GS chips, and different [[ASIC]]s compared to previous revisions, with some chips having a copyright date of 2005, compared to 2000 or 2001 for earlier models. It also has a different lens and some compatibility issues with a different number of PlayStation games and even some PS2 games.

In the beginning of 2005 it was found that some black slimline console power transformers bought between November and December 2004 were faulty and could overheat. The units were recalled by Sony, with the company supplying a replacement model made in 2005.

Later hardware revisions had better compatibility with PlayStation games (''[[Metal Gear Solid]]: VR Missions'' operates on most silver models); however, the new Japanese slim models have more issues with playing PlayStation games than the first PS2 revisions. {{Fact|date=February 2007}}

[[File:Slim silver ps2.JPG|thumb|200px|left|The mainboard of the new silver slim PS2 (model SCPH-79000).]] 
In 2006, Sony released the latest hardware revisions (V15, model numbers SCPH-77001a and SCPH-77001b). It was first released in Japan on September 15, 2006, including the Silver limited edition. After its release in Japan, it was then released in North America, Europe, and other parts of the world. The new revision uses an integrated, unified EE+GS chip, a redesigned ASIC, a different laser lens, an updated BIOS, and updated drivers. 

In July 2007, Sony started shipping a revision of the slimline PlayStation 2 (SCPH-79000) featuring a reduced weight of 600 grams compared to 900 grams of the SCPH-77001, achieved through a reduction in parts. The unit also uses a smaller motherboard as well as a custom [[ASIC]] which houses the [[Emotion Engine]], [[Graphics Synthesizer]], and the [[RDRAM]]. The AC adaptor's weight was also reduced to 250 grams from the 350 grams in the previous revision.<ref name="ign-lighterps2">{{cite web | last =Gantayat | first =Anoop | title =PS2 Gets Lighter | publisher =IGN.com |date=2007-06-08 | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/802/802262p1.html | accessdate =2007-07-10 }}</ref>

Another refinement of the slimline PlayStation 2 (SCPH-90000) was released in Japan on November 22, 2007, and in the US and [[European Union|EU]] in late 2008, with an overhauled internal design that incorporates the power supply into the console itself, with a further reduced total weight of 720 grams.<ref>[http://www.scei.co.jp/corporate/release/071106ae.html PLAYSTATION2 (SCPH-90000 SERIES) comes in a new design and in three color variations | Press releases｜Sony Computer Entertainment Inc<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>

===PSX===
{{main|PSX (DVR)}}

Sony also manufactured a consumer device called the [[PSX (DVR)|PSX]] that can be used as a [[digital video recorder]] and DVD burner in addition to playing PS2 games. The device was released in Japan on December 13, 2003 and though a U.S. release date was never set, it is believed the system was sold in select locations for a brief amount of time in the U.S. The PSX was poorly received in both areas, some major features were absent from the first revisions of the hardware and experienced very weak sales in spite of major price drops. The system is considered a rarity and is now selling for around $500 on ebay (currently more expensive than the [[PS3]]).<ref>{{cite web | last =Fahey  | first =Rob | title =Japanese retailers slash PSX prices as sales remain slow | publisher =gamesindustry.biz |date=2004-09-06 | url =http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=4280 | accessdate =2007-07-10 }}</ref>

==Sales==
<!--DO NOT CHANGE these numbers without a reference-->
<!--VGCHARTS.COM and NEXGENWARS.COM are NOT reliable sources-->
{| class="wikitable" border="1" style="float:right;margin:0 0 0.5em 1em;"
|-
! Region !! [[List of best-selling game consoles|Units sold]] !! First available
|-
|Japan
|21,454,325 <small>(as of October 1, 2008)</small><ref name=Japansales>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/news/xbox-360-growth-in-japan-has-topped-all-platforms-from-march-to-september |title=Xbox 360 Growth in Japan Has Topped All Platforms from March to September |author=James Brightman |work=[[GameDaily]] |publisher=[[AOL]] |date=2008-10-20 |accessdate=2008-10-25}}</ref>
|March 4, 2000
|-
|North America
|50 million <small>(as of January 1, 2009)</small><ref name="ps2americasales">{{cite web |url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/01/15/ps2-sells-over-50-million-units-in-north-america-breaks-console-sales-record/ |title=PS2 Sells Over 50 Million Units in North America, Breaks Console Sales Record |accessdate=January 17, 2009|author=John Koller |date=January 15, 2009|publisher=PlayStation.Blog}}</ref>
|October 26, 2000
|-
|Europe
|48 million <small>(as of May 6, 2008)</small><ref name=Europesales>{{cite web |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=137142 |title=PS3 has outsold Xbox 360 in Europe |author=Ellie Gibson |date=2008-05-06 |publisher=[[Eurogamer]] |accessdate=2008-10-25}}</ref>
|November 24, 2000
|-
|'''Worldwide'''
|140 million <small>(as of July 20, 2008)</small><ref name="Financial Times">{{cite web |url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/1c46ad2e-5678-11dd-8686-000077b07658.html |title=Sony sets 150m sales target for PS3 |author=Chris Nuttall |date=2008-07-20 |publisher=[[Financial Times]] |accessdate=2008-07-21}}</ref>
|}

On November 29, 2005, the PlayStation 2 became the fastest game console to reach 100 million units shipped, accomplishing the feat within 5 years and 9 months from its launch. This achievement occurred faster than its predecessor, the [[PlayStation]], which took 9 years and 6 months to reach the same benchmark.<ref name="shipmentrecord"/>

The PS2 has sold 140 million units worldwide as of July 20, 2008, according to Sony.<ref name="Financial Times"/> In Europe, the PS2 has sold 48 million units as of May 6, 2008, according to Sony Computer Entertainment Europe.<ref name=Europesales/> In the United States, the PS2 has sold 42.5 million units as of August 1, 2008, according to the [[NPD Group]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.edge-online.com/features/in-depth-analysis-games-and-console-sales?page=0,3 |title=In-Depth Analysis of Games and Console Sales |author=Matt Matthews |publisher=''[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]'' |date=2008-08-18 |accessdate=2008-10-25}}</ref> In Japan, the PS2 has sold 21,454,325 units as of October 1, 2008, according to ''[[Famitsu]]''/[[Enterbrain]].<ref name=Japansales/>

In Europe, the PS2 sold 6 million units [[2006 in video gaming#Europe|in 2006]] and 3.8 million [[2007 in video gaming#Hardware and software sales|in 2007]], according to estimates by [[Electronic Arts]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://media.corporate-ir.net/media_files/IROL/88/88189/Q3FY08SupSeg.pdf#page=4 |title=Supplemental Segment Information |author=[[Electronic Arts]] |work=[[Thomson Financial]] |publisher= |pages=4 |date=2008-01-31 |accessdate=2008-02-09}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=17206 |title=EA Reveals European Hardware Estimates |author=David Jenkins |publisher=[[Gamasutra]] |date=2008-02-01 |accessdate=2008-02-09}}</ref> In 2007, the PS2 sold 3.97 million units in the US according to the [[NPD Group]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/news/npd-us-video-game-industry-totals-1794-billion-halo-3-tops-all/19119/?biz=1 |title=NPD: U.S. Video Game Industry Totals $17.94 Billion, Halo 3 Tops All |accessdate=2008-08-02 |author=James Brightman |date=2008-01-17 |publisher=[[GameDaily]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=17006 |title=NPD: 2007 U.S. Game Industry Growth Up 43% To $17.9 Billion |author=Brandon Boyer |publisher=[[Gamasutra]] |date=2008-01-18 |accessdate=2008-08-02}}</ref> and 816,419 units in Japan according to Enterbrain.<ref name=Japan2007-2008/> [[2008 in video gaming#Hardware and software sales|In 2008]], the PS2 sold 480,664 units in Japan, according to Enterbrain.<ref name=Japan2008>{{cite web |url=http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/1221045_1124.html |title=2008年国内ゲーム市場規模は約5826億1000万円（エンターブレイン調べ） |work=[[Famitsu]] |publisher=[[Enterbrain]] |language=Japanese |date=2009-01-05 |accessdate=2009-01-15}}</ref><ref name=Japan2007-2008>{{cite web |url=http://www.mcvuk.com/interviews/403/JAPANESE-2008-MARKET-REPORT |title=Japanese 2008 Market Report |publisher=[[Market for Home Computing and Video Games]] |date=2009-01-09 |accessdate=2009-01-15}}</ref>

==Accessories==
{{Main|DualShock|PlayStation 2 HDD|EyeToy|PlayStation 2 Headset|Logitech}}
The PlayStation 2's DualShock 2 [[game controller|controller]] is largely identical to the PlayStation's DualShock, with the same basic functionality; however, it includes [[analog signal|analog]] pressure sensitivity on the face, shoulder and D-pad buttons, is lighter and includes two more levels of [[oscillation|vibration]]. The L2 and R2 buttons are also significantly larger. The fact that the design did not change pleased some consumers who were already used to the DualShock controller.{{Fact|date=December 2007}}
[[File:EyeToy.JPG||thumb|right|200px|The EyeToy digital camera sitting atop a Slimline PS2.]]
[[File:Resident evil 4 chainsaw controller.jpg|left|thumb|130px|''Resident Evil 4'' chainsaw controller compatible with the PlayStation 2.]]
Optional hardware includes DualShock or DualShock 2 controllers, a PS2 DVD [[remote control]], an internal or external [[hard disk|HDD]], a network adapter, horizontal and vertical stands, PlayStation or PS2 [[memory card]]s, [[light gun]]s ([[GunCon]]), fishing rod and reel controllers. Also available are various cables and interconnects, including the [[Multitap]] for PlayStation or PS2, [[S-Video]], [[RGB]], [[SCART]], [[VGA]] (for progressive scan games and [[PS2 Linux]] only), [[Component video|component]] and [[composite video]] cables, an [[RF modulator]],  a [[USB]] camera ([[EyeToy]]), [[dance pad]]s for ''[[Dance Dance Revolution]]'', ''[[In the Groove (video game)|In the Groove]]'', and ''[[Pump It Up]]'' titles, [[Konami]] microphones for use with the ''[[Karaoke Revolution]]'' games, dual [[microphone]]s (sold with and used exclusively for ''[[SingStar]]'' games), various "guitar" controllers (for the ''[[Guitar Freaks]]'' series and [[Guitar Hero (series)|''Guitar Hero'' series]]), the drum set controller (sold in a box set (or by itself) with a "guitar" controller and a USB microphone for use with ''[[Rock Band]]''), ''[[Onimusha 3: Demon Siege|Onimusha 3]]'' katana controller, ''[[Resident Evil 4]]'' chainsaw controller, a USB [[computer keyboard|keyboard]] and [[Mouse (computing)|mouse]], and a [[Headphones|headset]]. Unlike the PlayStation, which required the use of an official Sony [[Playstation Mouse|PlayStation mouse]] to play mouse-compatible games, the few PS2 games with mouse support work with standard PC-compatible USB mice. Early versions of the PS2 could be networked via an [[FireWire|iLink]] port, though this had little game support and was dropped. The original PS2 multitap cannot be plugged into the newer slim models (as the multitap connects to the memory card slot as well as the controller slot and the memory card slot on the slimline is shallower). New slim-design multitaps are manufactured for these models, however third-party adapters also exist to permit original multitaps to be used. Some third party manufacturers have created devices that allow disabled people to access the PS2 through ordinary switches etc. One such device is the PS2-SAP from LEPMIS.

==Homebrew development==
{{main|Linux for PlayStation 2}}

Sony released a version of the [[Linux]] operating system for the PS2 in a package that also includes a [[computer keyboard|keyboard]], [[computer mouse|mouse]], [[Ethernet]] adapter and [[hard disk|HDD]]. Currently, Sony's online store states that the Linux kit is no longer for sale in [[North America]]. However as of July 2005, the European version was still available. The kit boots by installing a proprietary interface, the [[run-time environment]], which is on a region-coded [[DVD]], so the European and North America kits only work with a PS2 from their respective regions.

In [[Europe]] and [[Australia]], the PS2 comes with a free [[Yabasic]] interpreter on the bundled demo disc. This allows simple programs to be created for the PS2 by the end-user. This was included in a failed attempt to circumvent a UK tax by defining the console as a "computer" if it contained certain software.{{Fact|date=October 2007}}

A port of the [[NetBSD]] project and [[BlackRhino GNU/Linux]], an alternative [[Debian]]-based distribution, are also available for the PS2.

Using homebrew programs (e.g. 'SMS Media Player'<ref>Simple Media System for Playstation 2 - http://home.casema.nl/eugene_plotnikov/</ref>) it is possible to listen to various audio file formats ([[MP3]], [[Ogg Vorbis]], [[Advanced Audio Coding|AAC]], [[FLAC]], [[AC3]]), and watch various video formats ([[MPEG1]], [[MPEG2]], [[MPEG-4 Part 2|MPEG4-ASP]] in [[AVI|AVI Container]]) using the console.  Media can be played from any device connected to the console i.e. external [[USB]]/[[Firewire]] [[thumb drive]]/[[hard disk]] ([[FAT32]] only), the internal hard disk on early revision consoles, optical CD-R(W)/DVD±R(W) disks, or network shares ([[Server Message Block|Windows Network]] or PS2 host: protocol).

Homebrew programs can be launched directly from a memory card on unmodified consoles by using certain software that takes advantage of a long known and used exploit, dealing with the boot part of the EE/IOP process.

Homebrew programs can be used to play patched backups of original PS2 DVD games on unmodified consoles, and to install retail discs to an installed hard drive on older models. 

Homebrew emulators of older computer and gaming systems have been developed for the PS2<ref>PS2 Emulators - http://www.sksapps.com/index.php?page=emus.html</ref>. Using these homebrew programs the PS2 can emulate the; [[Atari 2600]], [[Atari 5200]], [[BBC B|BBC Micro]], [[Commodore 64]], [[Game Boy]], [[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]], [[MSX]], [[Neo Geo (console)|Neo Geo]], [[Nintendo Entertainment System]], [[TG16|TurboGrafx-16]], and [[SNES|Super Nintendo]].

==Controversies==
{{criticism-section|date=July 2008}}
===Disc read error===
An unknown number of early PS2 models suffered from problems reading DVD (silver bottom) discs; subsequently, a class action [[lawsuit]] was filed against [[Sony]]. Sony agreed to provide free repair or replacement for the faulty consoles and continued to do so until February 2005. {{Fact|date=June 2008}}

===Capabilities===
Before the PS2 was even released in [[Japan]], there were controversies over the capabilities of the PS2. Japan initially imposed export restrictions on the PS2. The PS2 was even said to contain parts, especially its powerful graphics hardware, which could be used for navigation of missiles.<ref>{{cite web | last =Martin | first =Peter | title =Could the Playstation 2 be used as nuclear weaponry | publisher =ABC.net.au |date=2000-04-10 | url =http://www.abc.net.au/pm/stories/s119754.htm | accessdate =2007-07-10 }}</ref>

==Technical specifications==<!--This section is linked from [[Graphics Synthesizer]]-->
The specifications of the PlayStation 2 console are as follows, with hardware revisions:
[[File:Sony EmotionEngine CXD9615GB top.jpg|thumb|[[Emotion Engine]] CPU]]
[[File:Sony Graphics Synthesizer CXD29314GB.jpg|thumb|Graphics Synthesizer GPU]]
[[File:SCPH39000-GS.JPG|thumb| Graphics Synthesizer as on SCPH39000.]]
[[File:CXD9833GB.png|thumb| Older EE+GS that does not incorporate system memory (Found in Older Charcoal Black Slim PS2s. (SCPH-70001).]]
[[File:Neweegs.JPG|thumb| [[ASIC]] that incorporates the EE, GS, and system memory (found in silver slim PS2s. Model SCPH-79000).]]
[[File:Sony Playstation 1 CPU.jpg|thumb|The I/O Processor, containing a MIPS R3000-based CPU used in the PlayStation 1 and I/O logic]]

<!-- ===================================================== -->
<!-- Do not change CPU bit-length without reliable sources -->
<!-- ===================================================== -->
*[[Central processing unit|CPU]]: [[64-bit]]<ref name="CAAQA">[[John L. Hennessy]] and [[David A. Patterson]]. "Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach, Third Edition". ISBN 1-55860-724-2</ref><ref name="MPR">Keith Diefendorff. "Sony's Emotionally Charged Chip". The Microprocessor Report, Volume 13, Number 5, April 19, 1999. Microdesign Resources.</ref> "[[Emotion Engine]]" [[clock signal|clocked]] at 294.912 [[Hertz|MHz]] (299 MHz on newer versions), 10.5 million [[transistor]]s
**[[Main memory|System Memory]]: 32 [[Megabyte|MB]](32 × 2<sup>20</sup> bytes) Direct [[Rambus]] or [[RDRAM]] 
**[[Memory bus]] Bandwidth: 3.2 [[gigabytes per second]]
**Main processor: [[MIPS architecture|MIPS]] R5900 CPU core, 64 bit, little endian (mipsel).
**[[Coprocessor]]: [[Floating Point Unit|FPU]] (Floating Point Multiply Accumulator × 1, Floating Point Divider × 1)
**Vector Units: VU0 and VU1 (Floating Point Multiply Accumulator × 9, Floating Point Divider × 1), 32-bit, at 150 MHz.
***VU0 typically used for polygon transformations optionally (under parallel or serial connection), physics and other gameplay based things
****Parallel performs transformations in parallel in the same moment
****Serial (series) performs transformations in a series of steps or stages coherent to the design of each VU
*****Stage 1: VU0 does perspective and cam, boning, animations and movement laws per triangle
*****Stage 2: VU1 does colors, lights and effects per triangle)
***VU1 typically used for polygon transformations, lighting and other visual based calculations
****Texture matrix able for 2 units (UV/ST)<ref>[http://www.technology.scee.net/files/presentations/agdc2000/ThePowerOfPS2.pdf Power of PS2 (See data handling)]</ref>
**Floating Point Performance: 6.2 [[gigaFLOPS]] (single precision 32-bit floating point)
***FPU 0.64 gigaFLOPS
***VU0 2.44 gigaFLOPS
***VU1 3.08 gigaFLOPS (with Internal 0.64 gigaFLOP EFU)
**3D CG Geometric transformation(VU0+VU1 parallel): 66 million [[polygon]]s per second
***3D CG Geometric transformations under curved surfaces: 16 million polygons per second
***3D CG Geometric transformations at peak bones/movements/effects(textures)/lights(VU0+VU1): 15-20 million polygons per second (dependent on if series or parallel T&L)
***Actual real-world polygons (per frame):500-650k at 30fps, 250-325k at 60fps
**Compressed Image Decoder: [[MPEG-2]]
**I/O Processor interconnection: [[Remote Procedure Call]] over a serial link, DMA controller for bulk transfer
**[[Cache memory]]: Instruction: 16 [[kilobyte|KB]](16 × 2<sup>10</sup> bytes), Data: 8 KB + 16 KB (ScrP)

*[[Graphics processing unit]]: "Graphics Synthesizer" clocked at 147 MHz
**Pixel pipelines: 16
**Video output resolution: variable from 256x224 to 1280x1024 pixels
**4 MB (4 × 2<sup>20</sup> bytes) [[Embedded DRAM]] [[video memory]] bandwidth at 48 [[gigabytes per second]] (main system 32 MB can be dedicated into VRAM for off-screen materials)
***Texture buffer bandwidth: 9.6 [[gigabyte|GB]]/s
***Frame buffer bandwidth: 38.4 GB/s
**DRAM Bus width: 2560-bit (composed of three independent buses: 1024-bit write, 1024-bit read, 512-bit read/write)
**Pixel Configuration: RGB: Alpha:Z Buffer (24:8, 15:1 for RGB, 16, 24, or 32-bit Z buffer)
**Dedicated connection to: Main CPU and VU1
**Overall Pixel fillrate: 16x147 = 2.352 [[gigapixel|Gpixel]]/s (rounded to 2.4 Gpixel/s)
***Pixel fillrate: with no texture, flat shaded 2.4(75,000,000 32pixel raster triangles)
***Pixel fillrate: with 1 full texture(Diffuse Map), [[Gouraud shading|Gouraud shaded]] 1.2 (37,750,000 32-bit pixel raster triangles)
***Pixel fillrate: with 2 full textures(Diffuse map + specular or alpha or other), Gouraud shaded 0.6 (18,750,000 32-bit pixel raster triangles)
**GS effects: AAx2 (poly sorting required)<ref>[http://www.technology.scee.net/files/presentations/agdc2000/ThePowerOfPS2.pdf Power of PS2 (See GS effects)]</ref>, Bilinear, Trilinear, Multi-pass, Palletizing (4-bit = 6:1 ratio, 8-bit = 4:1)
**Multi-pass rendering ability
***Four passes = 300 [[megapixel|Mpixel]]/s (300 Mpixels/sec divided by 32 pixels = 9,375,000 triangles/sec lost every four passes)<ref>[http://www.technology.scee.net/files/presentations/agdc2002/PS2Optimisations.pdf PS2 Programming Optimisations]</ref>
*Audio: "SPU1+SPU2" (SPU1 is actually the CPU clocked at 8 MHz)
**Number of voices: 48 hardware channels of ADPCM on SPU2 plus software-mixed channels
**Sampling Frequency: 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz (selectable)
**Output: [[Dolby Digital]] 5.1 [[Surround sound]], [[Digital Theater System|DTS]] ([[Full motion video]] only), later games achieved analog 5.1 surround during gameplay through [[Dolby Pro Logic#Dolby Pro Logic II|Dolby Pro Logic II]]
*I/O Processor
**CPU Core: Original PlayStation CPU (MIPS R3000A clocked at 33.8688 MHz or 37.5 MHz)
**Automatically underclocked to 33.8688 MHz to achieve hardware backwards compatibility with  original Playstation format games.
**Sub Bus: 32-bit
**Connection to: SPU and CD/DVD controller.

*Interfaces: 
** 2 proprietary PlayStation controller ports (250 kHz clock for PS1 and 500 kHz for PS2 controllers)
** 2 proprietary Memory Card slots using [[MagicGate]] [[encryption]] (250 kHz for PS1 cards, up to 2 MHz for PS2 cards)
** Expansion Bay (PCMCIA on early models for PCMCIA Network Adaptor and External Hard Disk Drive) DEV9 port for Network Adaptor
** [[Modem]], [[Ethernet]] and Internal Hard Disk Drive (single IDE/ATA channel, possible to hook 2 devices to.)
** [[FireWire]] (only in SCPH 10xxx – 3xxxx)
** [[Infrared]] remote control port (SCPH 5000x and newer) — ''IEEE 1394 port removed and Infrared port added in SCPH-50000 and later hardware versions.''
** 2 [[Universal Serial Bus|USB]] 1.1 ports with an OHCI-compatible controller.

*Disc Drive type: proprietary interface through a custom micro-controller + DSP chip. 24x speed (PlayStation 2 format CD-ROM, PlayStation format CD-ROM), 4x (Supported DVD formats) — Region-locked with anti-copy protection. Can't read "Gold Discs" ''i.e.'', normal CD-ROMs.

*Supported Disc Media: PlayStation 2 format CD-ROM, PlayStation format CD-ROM, [[Red Book (audio CD standard)|Compact Disc Audio]], PlayStation 2 format DVD-ROM (4.7 [[Gigabyte|GB]])(some games on DVD9 8.5GB), [[DVD Video]] (4.7 GB), [[DVD-9]] (8.5 GB Dual-Layer). Later models are [[DVD+RW]], and [[DVD-RW]] compatible.

==See also==
{{Portal|Sony PlayStation}}
* [[HDD Utility Disc]]
* [[PlayStation Broadband Navigator]]

==References==
<!-- ----------------------------------------------------------
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{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
{{Commons}}
; Official sites
* [http://www.playstation.com/ PlayStation official site]
* [https://www.ps2-pro.com/ Official PS2 Developer Site – only for registered developers]

; Directories
* {{dmoz|Games/Video_Games/Console_Platforms/Sony/PlayStation_2|{{pagename}}}}

{{PlayStation}}
{{Sony Corp}}
{{dedicated video game consoles}}

[[Category:PlayStation]]
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[[Category:Sony consoles]]
[[Category:PlayStation 2]]
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