Setting up Windows version: Difference between revisions
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My point isn't that the original work was crap; for 1.2.1, it was quite excellent and thorough. My point is that, because it hadn't been updated essentially whatsoever since 2015 and was predominantly created in 2014, it had become outdated crap. If I were to write a Wikipedia article about software that's 13 years old and still in development and just leave it by the wayside for seven or eight years, you'd hopefully be unsurprised when people start calling it – say it with me – outdated crap.
m (Calling other people's work crap is very mature. Thanks anyway.) |
(My point isn't that the original work was crap; for 1.2.1, it was quite excellent and thorough. My point is that, because it hadn't been updated essentially whatsoever since 2015 and was predominantly created in 2014, it had become outdated crap. If I were to write a Wikipedia article about software that's 13 years old and still in development and just leave it by the wayside for seven or eight years, you'd hopefully be unsurprised when people start calling it – say it with me – outdated crap.) |
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{{Clear new paragraph}}[[image:PCSX2_Wizard_3.png|400px|thumb|center|Click to enlarge]] | {{Clear new paragraph}}[[image:PCSX2_Wizard_3.png|400px|thumb|center|Click to enlarge]] | ||
{{Clear new paragraph}}In the third screen, you will be prompted to select one of your BIOS images from the list. If you can't see anything in this list, you need to either copy your BIOS files in the folder shown below, or change that folder to point to a location where BIOS images are saved. For more information about the BIOS, check the [[#BIOS|BIOS configuration section]] of this guide. Note that you will not be able to use PCSX2 without a proper BIOS image. | {{Clear new paragraph}}In the third screen, you will be prompted to select one of your BIOS images from the list. If you can't see anything in this list, you need to either copy your BIOS files in the folder shown below, or change that folder to point to a location where BIOS images are saved. For more information about the BIOS, check the [[#BIOS|BIOS configuration section]] of this guide. Note that you will not be able to use PCSX2 without a proper BIOS image. | ||
To finish the configuration process press ''Finish'' button. You will be taken to the main GUI (Graphical User Interface) of PCSX2: | To finish the configuration process press ''Finish'' button. You will be taken to the main GUI (Graphical User Interface) of PCSX2: | ||
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[[image:ConfigMenu.png|400px|thumb|left|Click to enlarge.]] | [[image:ConfigMenu.png|400px|thumb|left|Click to enlarge.]] | ||
PCSX2 1.6.0 is a plugin-oriented program. Your ''pcsx2.exe'' is the main processor that can emulate the real PS2 on the PC, but it does not work alone. It needs a graphics plugin to display the game graphics and a sound plugin to play the game sounds and music, and it also needs a pad plugin to allow you to play using your keyboard, mouse or gamepad. All plugins are stored (by default) in the ''plugins'' folder of your main PCSX2 folder. | PCSX2 1.6.0 is a plugin-oriented program. Your ''pcsx2.exe'' is the main processor that can emulate the real PS2 on the PC, but it does not work alone. It needs a graphics plugin to display the game graphics and a sound plugin to play the game sounds and music, and it also needs a pad plugin to allow you to play using your keyboard, mouse or gamepad. All plugins are stored (by default) in the ''plugins'' folder of your main PCSX2 folder. | ||
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*''Enable FX Shader'': Since version 1.2.0, PCSX2 is able to use [[external shaders]] for visual improvements and to add various special effects. By default, PCSX2 comes with 4 simple scanline shaders (which you can cycle through with F7 while ingame). For a huge set of shader effects which include UHQ FXAA, Bilinear FS Filtering, Bicubic FS Filtering, Gaussian FS Filtering, High Quality Blended Bloom, Per-Channel Gamma Correction, Scene Tone Mapping, RGB Colour Correction, S-Curve Contrast Enhancement, Texture, Sharpening, Pixel Vibrance, Post-Complement Colour Grading, Cel Shading, Scanline Emulation, Vignette and Subpixel Dithering you can download Asmodean's shader file [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Custom-Shaders-for-GSdx?pid=334766#pid334766 from the PCSX2 forums]. <br /> | *''Enable FX Shader'': Since version 1.2.0, PCSX2 is able to use [[external shaders]] for visual improvements and to add various special effects. By default, PCSX2 comes with 4 simple scanline shaders (which you can cycle through with F7 while ingame). For a huge set of shader effects which include UHQ FXAA, Bilinear FS Filtering, Bicubic FS Filtering, Gaussian FS Filtering, High Quality Blended Bloom, Per-Channel Gamma Correction, Scene Tone Mapping, RGB Colour Correction, S-Curve Contrast Enhancement, Texture, Sharpening, Pixel Vibrance, Post-Complement Colour Grading, Cel Shading, Scanline Emulation, Vignette and Subpixel Dithering you can download Asmodean's shader file [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Custom-Shaders-for-GSdx?pid=334766#pid334766 from the PCSX2 forums]. <br /> | ||
Open downloaded zip file and extract ''PCSX2Fx_Settings.txt'' and ''shader.fx'' files in the same directory ''pcsx2.exe'' is located. You can change some shaders' settings by editing the ''PCSX2Fx_Settings.txt'' (the file contains all the needed instructions). External shaders should be used with caution because some of them may potentially have an enormous impact on speed. Note that you can '''use''' external shaders even with GSdx '''software''' renderer, which is the best way to get higher visual quality in this rendering mode. | Open downloaded zip file and extract ''PCSX2Fx_Settings.txt'' and ''shader.fx'' files in the same directory ''pcsx2.exe'' is located. You can change some shaders' settings by editing the ''PCSX2Fx_Settings.txt'' (the file contains all the needed instructions). External shaders should be used with caution because some of them may potentially have an enormous impact on speed. Note that you can '''use''' external shaders even with GSdx '''software''' renderer, which is the best way to get higher visual quality in this rendering mode. | ||
{{Tip|You can toggle the external shaders on and off by pressing '''Home''' button while ingame.}} | {{Tip|You can toggle the external shaders on and off by pressing '''Home''' button while ingame.}} | ||
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*''Alpha'': Try this if your game has issues with fog like effects or shadows. | *''Alpha'': Try this if your game has issues with fog like effects or shadows. | ||
*''Half-pixel Offset'': This hack adds an 0.5 pixel offset to all surfaces so some common up-scaling issues may be fixed. You can try it when blur or halo effects seem to appear shifted to the upper-left corner from where they should be. | *''Half-pixel Offset'': This hack adds an 0.5 pixel offset to all surfaces so some common up-scaling issues may be fixed. You can try it when blur or halo effects seem to appear shifted to the upper-left corner from where they should be. | ||
*''Sprite'': Gets rid of black inner lines in 2D sprites. Grayed option is recommended. | *''Sprite'': Gets rid of black inner lines in 2D sprites. Grayed option is recommended. | ||
*''WildArmsOffset'': Lowers GS precision to avoid gaps in pixels when upscaling. It's known to help with upscaling problems for some 2D games. Read the description at the right panel for more information. | *''WildArmsOffset'': Lowers GS precision to avoid gaps in pixels when upscaling. It's known to help with upscaling problems for some 2D games. Read the description at the right panel for more information. | ||
*''Aggressive-CRC'': Can remove effects in some games to make image clearer. Read the description at the right panel for more information. | *''Aggressive-CRC'': Can remove effects in some games to make image clearer. Read the description at the right panel for more information. | ||
*''Alpha Stencil'': This setting will disable partial transparency or prevent drawing some elements. May improve drawing shadows. Read the description at the right panel for more information. | *''Alpha Stencil'': This setting will disable partial transparency or prevent drawing some elements. May improve drawing shadows. Read the description at the right panel for more information. | ||
*''Nvidia Hack'': Fixes odd stretching issues in certain NVIDIA drivers when upscaling (using DirectX 11). Try not to use this unless your game Videos or 2D screens are stretching outside the frame. | *''Nvidia Hack'': Fixes odd stretching issues in certain NVIDIA drivers when upscaling (using DirectX 11). Try not to use this unless your game Videos or 2D screens are stretching outside the frame. | ||
*''Disable CRCs'': The option will disable all the GSdx hacks. This will break many games; but for certain games like [[Shadow of the Colossus]], you might like the result better. | *''Disable CRCs'': The option will disable all the GSdx hacks. This will break many games; but for certain games like [[Shadow of the Colossus]], you might like the result better. | ||
*''TC Offset X/Y'': These settings can help fixing some misaligned textures when using upscaling. They will correct textures in some games, including [[Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3|Persona 3]], [[Haunting Ground]] and [[Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra|Xenosaga]]. | *''TC Offset X/Y'': These settings can help fixing some misaligned textures when using upscaling. They will correct textures in some games, including [[Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3|Persona 3]], [[Haunting Ground]] and [[Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra|Xenosaga]]. | ||
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This is arguably the most advanced PAD plugin for PCSX2. Use ''configure'' button to open LilyPad configuration dialog.<br /> | This is arguably the most advanced PAD plugin for PCSX2. Use ''configure'' button to open LilyPad configuration dialog.<br /> | ||
You'll see a configuration dialog (pictured, click to enlarge). | You'll see a configuration dialog (pictured, click to enlarge). | ||
*LilyPad supports keyboards, mouse, game pads and XBOX 360 pads. It also has some very handy hacks like ''ESC hack'' or ''Disable Screensaver'' option. | *LilyPad supports keyboards, mouse, game pads and XBOX 360 pads. It also has some very handy hacks like ''ESC hack'' or ''Disable Screensaver'' option. | ||
*LilyPad downside is that you '''will''' need to configure the plugin fully at least once before playing any game and it may take quite some time if you are not familiar with it. | *LilyPad downside is that you '''will''' need to configure the plugin fully at least once before playing any game and it may take quite some time if you are not familiar with it. | ||
*For a very detailed description about what each setting does and how to properly configure it visit [[LilyPad]] article and/or the official [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-LilyPad-0-10-0 thread of the plugin]. | *For a very detailed description about what each setting does and how to properly configure it visit [[LilyPad]] article and/or the official [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-LilyPad-0-10-0 thread of the plugin]. | ||
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In most cases you will only need to use the PCSX2 built-in ''ISO loader'' ('''ISO''' option in the ''CDVD'' menu, then use '''ISO Selector''' to select actual game image from the ''image history list'' or choose ''Browse...'' to select the image from disk.<br /> | In most cases you will only need to use the PCSX2 built-in ''ISO loader'' ('''ISO''' option in the ''CDVD'' menu, then use '''ISO Selector''' to select actual game image from the ''image history list'' or choose ''Browse...'' to select the image from disk.<br /> | ||
However, if you want to play a game from the actual DVD disk or to create a dump of an ISO file, use the '''Plugin''' option in the ''CDVD'' menu. It will let you use one of the PCSX2 CDVD plugins instead of ''ISO loader''.<br /> | However, if you want to play a game from the actual DVD disk or to create a dump of an ISO file, use the '''Plugin''' option in the ''CDVD'' menu. It will let you use one of the PCSX2 CDVD plugins instead of ''ISO loader''.<br /> | ||
The default PCSX2 1.6.0 installation has one CDVD plugin: | The default PCSX2 1.6.0 installation has one CDVD plugin: | ||
#Gigaherz's CDVD v0.11.0 | #Gigaherz's CDVD v0.11.0 | ||
*Configuration allows you to select your DVD-ROM drive letter. This option will allow you to play directly from your PS2 DVD without dumping it to an ISO image. Put your PS2 DVD disk in the selected drive before starting emulation. | *Configuration allows you to select your DVD-ROM drive letter. This option will allow you to play directly from your PS2 DVD without dumping it to an ISO image. Put your PS2 DVD disk in the selected drive before starting emulation. | ||
===Dev9 (HDD and ethernet) plugins=== | ===Dev9 (HDD and ethernet) plugins=== | ||
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===USB emulation plugins=== | ===USB emulation plugins=== | ||
As with Dev9 plugins PCSX2 does not currently have any official working plugin to properly emulate USB access. The release package includes only ''USB Null v0.7.0'' which is yet another stub plugin. However | As with Dev9 plugins PCSX2 does not currently have any official working plugin to properly emulate USB access. The release package includes only ''USB Null v0.7.0'' which is yet another stub plugin. However | ||
there is a USB plugin called ''Nuvee'' that supports USB mice, keyboards and lightguns by '''[http://forums.pcsx2.net/User-shalma Shalma]'''. You can get it from [http://pcsx2.net/download/viewcategory/9-plugins.html here].<br /> | there is a USB plugin called ''Nuvee'' that supports USB mice, keyboards and lightguns by '''[http://forums.pcsx2.net/User-shalma Shalma]'''. You can get it from [http://pcsx2.net/download/viewcategory/9-plugins.html here].<br /> | ||
Additionally, there is a new plugin by '''[http://forums.pcsx2.net/User-jackun jackun]''' called ''USBqemu wheel mod'' emulating steering wheels. The plugin is a modification of an old USB ''Qemu'' plugin. USBqemu is fully capable of supporting various steering wheels. For more information visit the plugin's [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Qemu-USB-Wheel-Storage-mod dedicated thread] on the forums and/or you can download it using [http://pcsx2.net/download/viewcategory/9-plugins.html this link]. | Additionally, there is a new plugin by '''[http://forums.pcsx2.net/User-jackun jackun]''' called ''USBqemu wheel mod'' emulating steering wheels. The plugin is a modification of an old USB ''Qemu'' plugin. USBqemu is fully capable of supporting various steering wheels. For more information visit the plugin's [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Qemu-USB-Wheel-Storage-mod dedicated thread] on the forums and/or you can download it using [http://pcsx2.net/download/viewcategory/9-plugins.html this link]. | ||
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{{tip|Interesting fact: For maximum compatibility it is recommended that you use a BIOS image '''different''' than SCPH10000.BIN which is the oldest one. That's because with this BIOS there are problems in memory card emulation and in other sections. '''auMatt'''.}} | {{tip|Interesting fact: For maximum compatibility it is recommended that you use a BIOS image '''different''' than SCPH10000.BIN which is the oldest one. That's because with this BIOS there are problems in memory card emulation and in other sections. '''auMatt'''.}} | ||
The dumping of BIOS is a complicated process so follow the instructions you can get [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Official-English-PCSX2-configuration-guide-v0-9-8#Bios from this thread]. You can start dumping by downloading the tool from [http://pcsx2.net/download/releases/tools.html this page] or refer to the official guide [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Guide-to-Dumping-Your-PS2-Bios-over-LAN here]. Also, [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3AVqzYcqSw here] is a YouTube tutorial on dumping your BIOS (by '''FullGrownGaming'''). | The dumping of BIOS is a complicated process so follow the instructions you can get [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Official-English-PCSX2-configuration-guide-v0-9-8#Bios from this thread]. You can start dumping by downloading the tool from [http://pcsx2.net/download/releases/tools.html this page] or refer to the official guide [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Guide-to-Dumping-Your-PS2-Bios-over-LAN here]. Also, [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3AVqzYcqSw here] is a YouTube tutorial on dumping your BIOS (by '''FullGrownGaming'''). | ||
Apart from the main BIOS file (''SCPH-XXXX.bin'' must be exactly 4Mb of size) your BIOS files collection may include ''rom1.bin'',''rom2.bin'',''erom.bin'' and ''SCPH-XXXXX.nvm'' files (note that ''XXXXX'' is the version of your BIOS, e.g. ''SCPH-34004.nvm'' and ''SCPH-34004.bin''). The last file contains some PS2 common and regional settings and it can also be created by the PCSX2 itself after you configure your BIOS while in emulation mode (set time zone, language, etc.) but it would still be fine to dump this file directly from your console. | Apart from the main BIOS file (''SCPH-XXXX.bin'' must be exactly 4Mb of size) your BIOS files collection may include ''rom1.bin'',''rom2.bin'',''erom.bin'' and ''SCPH-XXXXX.nvm'' files (note that ''XXXXX'' is the version of your BIOS, e.g. ''SCPH-34004.nvm'' and ''SCPH-34004.bin''). The last file contains some PS2 common and regional settings and it can also be created by the PCSX2 itself after you configure your BIOS while in emulation mode (set time zone, language, etc.) but it would still be fine to dump this file directly from your console. | ||
{{tip|Interesting fact 2: Basically the first Japaneese PS2 had a single BIOS and the DVD player etc were installed on the memcard. The PS2's after that first model had the DVD Player software installed in a separate ROM (EROM) which is encrypted. The ROM1 is an additional part of the BIOS that contains some extra stuff like ID's for DVD Player version etc. ROM2 is the same really but I think only available in Chinese PS2's. '''auMatt'''.}} | {{tip|Interesting fact 2: Basically the first Japaneese PS2 had a single BIOS and the DVD player etc were installed on the memcard. The PS2's after that first model had the DVD Player software installed in a separate ROM (EROM) which is encrypted. The ROM1 is an additional part of the BIOS that contains some extra stuff like ID's for DVD Player version etc. ROM2 is the same really but I think only available in Chinese PS2's. '''auMatt'''.}} | ||
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===VUs=== | ===VUs=== | ||
[[image:VUs.png|300px|thumb|right]] | [[image:VUs.png|300px|thumb|right]] | ||
VUs stand for ''Vector Unit''s which are the PlayStation®2 co-processors working in parallel with the EE and IOP CPUs. The PlayStation®2 has two VUs called ''VU0'' and ''VU1''. | VUs stand for ''Vector Unit''s which are the PlayStation®2 co-processors working in parallel with the EE and IOP CPUs. The PlayStation®2 has two VUs called ''VU0'' and ''VU1''. | ||
* You can change VUs compilation modes independently for VU0 and VU1 (although it makes sense to set them to the same value). As with ''EE'' and ''IOP'' CPUs there is an old and very slow ''interpreter'' mode which is useful only for debugging. VUs however have two different ''recomplilers'' -- ''microVU'' (more compatible default recompiler) and ''superVU'' (legacy less compatible recompiler used mainly for debugging, but it can be slightly faster). It is recommended to leave both settings at their default ''microVU Recompiler'' value. | * You can change VUs compilation modes independently for VU0 and VU1 (although it makes sense to set them to the same value). As with ''EE'' and ''IOP'' CPUs there is an old and very slow ''interpreter'' mode which is useful only for debugging. VUs however have two different ''recomplilers'' -- ''microVU'' (more compatible default recompiler) and ''superVU'' (legacy less compatible recompiler used mainly for debugging, but it can be slightly faster). It is recommended to leave both settings at their default ''microVU Recompiler'' value. | ||
* ''VU0/VU1 Advanced recompiler options'' let you select ''Round mode'' and ''Clamping mode'' for floating point numbers emulation much like with ''EE'' and ''IOP'' CPUs modes (see [[#EE/IOP|above]]). | * ''VU0/VU1 Advanced recompiler options'' let you select ''Round mode'' and ''Clamping mode'' for floating point numbers emulation much like with ''EE'' and ''IOP'' CPUs modes (see [[#EE/IOP|above]]). | ||
* ''Restore Defaults'' button will restore all settings to their default values (which are seen in bold or green font). | * ''Restore Defaults'' button will restore all settings to their default values (which are seen in bold or green font). | ||
{{Tip|If you experience spikey polygons (SPS) or bad geometry, try setting ''Clamping mode'' to '''Extra + Preserve Sign'''.}} | {{Tip|If you experience spikey polygons (SPS) or bad geometry, try setting ''Clamping mode'' to '''Extra + Preserve Sign'''.}} | ||
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#''Disable Framelimiting'': With this option enabled the frame rate will only be limited by the power of your PC. It will '''not''' however increase the game performance in case the game runs slow. This option may be useful when you want to skip some repetitious sections of the game. You can toggle it while playing by pressing ''F4''. | #''Disable Framelimiting'': With this option enabled the frame rate will only be limited by the power of your PC. It will '''not''' however increase the game performance in case the game runs slow. This option may be useful when you want to skip some repetitious sections of the game. You can toggle it while playing by pressing ''F4''. | ||
#''Base Framerate Adjust'': This option will allow you to adjust the base framerate for your games by a percentage. The emulator will limit the game frame rate by the base NTSC (59.94 FPS) or PAL (50 FPS) constants. Frame rate will be increased or decreased according to this value. Again, this option will not speed up the slow game it may only limit the frame rate of a game performing faster than needed on your PC. | #''Base Framerate Adjust'': This option will allow you to adjust the base framerate for your games by a percentage. The emulator will limit the game frame rate by the base NTSC (59.94 FPS) or PAL (50 FPS) constants. Frame rate will be increased or decreased according to this value. Again, this option will not speed up the slow game it may only limit the frame rate of a game performing faster than needed on your PC. | ||
#''Slow Motion Adjust'' and ''Turbo Adjust'': PCSX2 has two additional frame rate modes that you can freely switch to while playing a game. ''Slow Motion'' mode can be switched (on and off) by using ''Shift-Tab'' and ''Turbo'' mode be switched by just using ''Tab'' key. | #''Slow Motion Adjust'' and ''Turbo Adjust'': PCSX2 has two additional frame rate modes that you can freely switch to while playing a game. ''Slow Motion'' mode can be switched (on and off) by using ''Shift-Tab'' and ''Turbo'' mode be switched by just using ''Tab'' key. | ||
{{Tip|Pressing '''Tab''' while playing a game will increase a frame rate to a certain point (if your PC allows it); '''F4''' will disable frame limiter completely. You can also use '''Shift + Tab''' to slow game game down. Pressing the key combination the second time will restore the original frame rate}} | {{Tip|Pressing '''Tab''' while playing a game will increase a frame rate to a certain point (if your PC allows it); '''F4''' will disable frame limiter completely. You can also use '''Shift + Tab''' to slow game game down. Pressing the key combination the second time will restore the original frame rate}} | ||
#''NTSC Framerate'' and ''PAL Framerate'': These boxes indicate the base frame rate to limit the speed of NTSC or PAL games. The default values are 59.94 FPS and 50 FPS respectively. These values can be changed only by editing the ''pcsx2_vm.ini'' (in ''inis'' folder of PCSX2, see ''FramerateNTSC'' and ''FrameratePAL'' variables). It is not recommended to change them because it will break a number of games (but note that decreasing the values can speed up a few games). | #''NTSC Framerate'' and ''PAL Framerate'': These boxes indicate the base frame rate to limit the speed of NTSC or PAL games. The default values are 59.94 FPS and 50 FPS respectively. These values can be changed only by editing the ''pcsx2_vm.ini'' (in ''inis'' folder of PCSX2, see ''FramerateNTSC'' and ''FrameratePAL'' variables). It is not recommended to change them because it will break a number of games (but note that decreasing the values can speed up a few games). | ||
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*''Hide window when paused'': With this option enabled, the GS window will be hidden whenever emulation is paused. | *''Hide window when paused'': With this option enabled, the GS window will be hidden whenever emulation is paused. | ||
*''Default to fullscreen mode on open'': This will instruct PCSX2 to start emulation in ''fullscreen'' mode. Switch back to ''windowed'' mode by pressing ''Alt'' + ''Enter''. | *''Default to fullscreen mode on open'': This will instruct PCSX2 to start emulation in ''fullscreen'' mode. Switch back to ''windowed'' mode by pressing ''Alt'' + ''Enter''. | ||
*''Double-click toggles fullscreen mode'': Enables to use ''double-click'' to switch between ''fullscreen'' and ''windowed'' modes (along with ''Alt'' + ''Enter'') | *''Double-click toggles fullscreen mode'': Enables to use ''double-click'' to switch between ''fullscreen'' and ''windowed'' modes (along with ''Alt'' + ''Enter'') | ||
*''Wait for vsync on refresh'': When checked, PCSX2 will use [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Analog_television#Vertical_synchronization ''vertical synchronization''] when drawing frames. ''Vsync'' can reduce image tearing but will also greatly reduce actual FPS. This option will only apply to ''fullscreen'' mode and may not work with all GS plugins. | *''Wait for vsync on refresh'': When checked, PCSX2 will use [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Analog_television#Vertical_synchronization ''vertical synchronization''] when drawing frames. ''Vsync'' can reduce image tearing but will also greatly reduce actual FPS. This option will only apply to ''fullscreen'' mode and may not work with all GS plugins. | ||
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<spoiler show="Expand Speed Hacks" hide="Collapse Speed Hacks"> | <spoiler show="Expand Speed Hacks" hide="Collapse Speed Hacks"> | ||
*''Enable speedhacks'': You can disable all speed hacks in one click by unchecking this box. This may be useful if your game is unstable and you are narrowing down the possible cause of this. | *''Enable speedhacks'': You can disable all speed hacks in one click by unchecking this box. This may be useful if your game is unstable and you are narrowing down the possible cause of this. | ||
*''Emotion Engine (EE) Cyclerate'': This hack will increase the time required for one EE operation to complete (essentially down-clocking ''[[#EE/IOP|Emotion Engine]]''). Your CPU will get additional cycles to spend on emulation of other PS2 processors. This will speed up those game that do not utilize EE processor fully (VUs and GS will get additional CPU power). In contrast, the games that use EE fully will appear slowed and may start skipping frames. | *''Emotion Engine (EE) Cyclerate'': This hack will increase the time required for one EE operation to complete (essentially down-clocking ''[[#EE/IOP|Emotion Engine]]''). Your CPU will get additional cycles to spend on emulation of other PS2 processors. This will speed up those game that do not utilize EE processor fully (VUs and GS will get additional CPU power). In contrast, the games that use EE fully will appear slowed and may start skipping frames. | ||
#''Slider Level 1'' (default): This will emulate the ''EE'' on its actual speed. | #''Slider Level 1'' (default): This will emulate the ''EE'' on its actual speed. | ||
#''Slider Level 2'': Reduces the EE cycle rate by 33%. Moderate speed increase for many games and small compatibility hit. | #''Slider Level 2'': Reduces the EE cycle rate by 33%. Moderate speed increase for many games and small compatibility hit. | ||
#''Slider Level 3'': Reduces the EE cycle rate by 50%. Big speed increase for some games and moderate compatibility hit. '''This setting can also cause stuttering audio in game videos'''. | #''Slider Level 3'': Reduces the EE cycle rate by 50%. Big speed increase for some games and moderate compatibility hit. '''This setting can also cause stuttering audio in game videos'''. | ||
*''VU Cycle Stealing'': This hack specifies the number of cycles the ''[[#VUs|Vector Units]]'' steal from the ''[[#EE/IOP|Emotion Engine]]''. This option is somewhat resembling the previous although the donated CPU power will go directly to two VUs (not ''[[#GS|GS]]'' emulation or other PCSX2 needs). As ''VUs'' tend to need more power than ''EE'', the hack will exploit this fact by overclocking VUs in the cost of EE clock speed reduction. Please note that it can cause false FPS readings (especially in higher values), screen flashing, slowdowns and possibly more serious bugs for some games! Using the slider control you can select up to four levels of VU stealing starting with level 0 (no VU stealing) to level 3 (severely incompatible option that will cause flickering, slowdowns and graphical bugs for the majority of games). Level 1 is fairly compatible while level 2 is selectively compatible and should be used with a caution. | *''VU Cycle Stealing'': This hack specifies the number of cycles the ''[[#VUs|Vector Units]]'' steal from the ''[[#EE/IOP|Emotion Engine]]''. This option is somewhat resembling the previous although the donated CPU power will go directly to two VUs (not ''[[#GS|GS]]'' emulation or other PCSX2 needs). As ''VUs'' tend to need more power than ''EE'', the hack will exploit this fact by overclocking VUs in the cost of EE clock speed reduction. Please note that it can cause false FPS readings (especially in higher values), screen flashing, slowdowns and possibly more serious bugs for some games! Using the slider control you can select up to four levels of VU stealing starting with level 0 (no VU stealing) to level 3 (severely incompatible option that will cause flickering, slowdowns and graphical bugs for the majority of games). Level 1 is fairly compatible while level 2 is selectively compatible and should be used with a caution. | ||
*''Other Hacks'' | *''Other Hacks'' | ||
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===Game fixes=== | ===Game fixes=== | ||
[[image:GameFixes.png|300px|thumb|right]] | [[image:GameFixes.png|300px|thumb|right]] | ||
This tab contains some game-specific hacks and fixes. These fixes are disabled by default but enabled automatically if the game in question is detected to be running. The ''Automatic Gamefixes'' option can be also switched off (although it is not recommended) in ''System'' sub-menu of PCSX2 main menu. You should not enable these hacks unless you have a game that somehow was not detected by PCSX2 automatically (note also that some of these fixes are not applied automatically). | This tab contains some game-specific hacks and fixes. These fixes are disabled by default but enabled automatically if the game in question is detected to be running. The ''Automatic Gamefixes'' option can be also switched off (although it is not recommended) in ''System'' sub-menu of PCSX2 main menu. You should not enable these hacks unless you have a game that somehow was not detected by PCSX2 automatically (note also that some of these fixes are not applied automatically). | ||
The game-specific fixes are temporal solutions to some unresolved emulation issues. PCSX2 developers provided them to increase compatibility levels so some games, otherwise broken, can still be enjoyed. As the emulation compatibility will continue to improve some of these options may become obsolete and will be removed. | The game-specific fixes are temporal solutions to some unresolved emulation issues. PCSX2 developers provided them to increase compatibility levels so some games, otherwise broken, can still be enjoyed. As the emulation compatibility will continue to improve some of these options may become obsolete and will be removed. | ||
Most of these hacks are needed because the PS2 has different float arithmetic than x86 CPUs. Some of these differences do not lead to any problems, others however may cause serious issues in certain games. You can read hacks descriptions and hints to get more information. | Most of these hacks are needed because the PS2 has different float arithmetic than x86 CPUs. Some of these differences do not lead to any problems, others however may cause serious issues in certain games. You can read hacks descriptions and hints to get more information. | ||
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***You can specify a custom folder for memory cards using ''browse'' button. | ***You can specify a custom folder for memory cards using ''browse'' button. | ||
***''Open in Explorer'' will open the selected folder in Windows Explorer (to access its contents). | ***''Open in Explorer'' will open the selected folder in Windows Explorer (to access its contents). | ||
***Selecting a memcard from the list will allow you to ''Duplicate'', ''Rename'' or ''Delete'' it. | ***Selecting a memcard from the list will allow you to ''Duplicate'', ''Rename'' or ''Delete'' it. | ||
***''Eject'' button is available when you select one of the two ''active'' memcards. ''Ejecting'' memcard will not delete its contents it will only make the card inactive disallow PS2 games to use it in any way. To ''insert'' card in one of two available virtual card slots, select a disabled card, press ''Insert'' button and choose a virtual port to insert your card to (any memcard already in this port will be automatically ''ejected'' and disabled). | ***''Eject'' button is available when you select one of the two ''active'' memcards. ''Ejecting'' memcard will not delete its contents it will only make the card inactive disallow PS2 games to use it in any way. To ''insert'' card in one of two available virtual card slots, select a disabled card, press ''Insert'' button and choose a virtual port to insert your card to (any memcard already in this port will be automatically ''ejected'' and disabled). | ||
***To ''create'' a new card you can select '''<nowiki>[-- Unused cards --]</nowiki>''' slot and press ''Create'' button. You will need to specify your new card's name and size ('''8Mb''' is a recommended option because some older games will not be able to use large memory cards). ''Use NTFS file compression'' will create a file with NTFS ''compress'' flag (it will save some of your HDD space but considering the midget card size by today's standards it will not make any noticeable difference). | ***To ''create'' a new card you can select '''<nowiki>[-- Unused cards --]</nowiki>''' slot and press ''Create'' button. You will need to specify your new card's name and size ('''8Mb''' is a recommended option because some older games will not be able to use large memory cards). ''Use NTFS file compression'' will create a file with NTFS ''compress'' flag (it will save some of your HDD space but considering the midget card size by today's standards it will not make any noticeable difference). | ||
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**''Clear all Settings'': This item will delete all configured settings in all plugins, all core settings will be reset to their default values and the ''[[#Running PCSX2 for the first time|First Time Configuration Wizard]]'' will be open. Use this option as a last resort if your game started behaving abnormally and you are unable to find and reverse your misconfiguration. Otherwise '''stand clear''' of it because it may cost you a lot of time which you spent on PCSX2 configuration. Fortunately, it will show the confirmation dialog before proceeding. | **''Clear all Settings'': This item will delete all configured settings in all plugins, all core settings will be reset to their default values and the ''[[#Running PCSX2 for the first time|First Time Configuration Wizard]]'' will be open. Use this option as a last resort if your game started behaving abnormally and you are unable to find and reverse your misconfiguration. Otherwise '''stand clear''' of it because it may cost you a lot of time which you spent on PCSX2 configuration. Fortunately, it will show the confirmation dialog before proceeding. | ||
*'''Misc menu''' contains some miscellaneous options including GUI language option. | *'''Misc menu''' contains some miscellaneous options including GUI language option. | ||
**''Show Console'' item will show and hide PCSX2 debugging log window (also known as Console Window). You can use portions of information in this window when submitting a possible bug. If you are an advanced PCSX2 user you can also use some log messages to determine reasons behind hangs and slow-downs. The window may be further configured by its own menu (you can choose what to log, change its appearance and save the log to a text file). | **''Show Console'' item will show and hide PCSX2 debugging log window (also known as Console Window). You can use portions of information in this window when submitting a possible bug. If you are an advanced PCSX2 user you can also use some log messages to determine reasons behind hangs and slow-downs. The window may be further configured by its own menu (you can choose what to log, change its appearance and save the log to a text file). | ||
**''About'' item shows the list of PCSX2 authors (developers). | **''About'' item shows the list of PCSX2 authors (developers). | ||
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*A collection of older official guides can be found on [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Forum-English-Guide the official forum]. | *A collection of older official guides can be found on [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Forum-English-Guide the official forum]. | ||
*The official video configuration guide (for PCSX v1.0.0) can be found [https://www.youtube.com/embed/plo8rMytBNg?wmode=transparent&rel=0&autoplay=1&fs=1&start=0 here]. | *The official video configuration guide (for PCSX v1.0.0) can be found [https://www.youtube.com/embed/plo8rMytBNg?wmode=transparent&rel=0&autoplay=1&fs=1&start=0 here]. | ||
*The translations of the official PCSX2 configuration guide v1.2.1 on different '''languages''' can be found [http://pcsx2.net/config-guide/guide-translations.html here]. | *The translations of the official PCSX2 configuration guide v1.2.1 on different '''languages''' can be found [http://pcsx2.net/config-guide/guide-translations.html here]. | ||
*The shorter version of the official PCSX2 configuration guide v1.2.1 made by [http://forums.pcsx2.net/User-avih avih] can be found [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Quick-Start-PCSX2-Configuration-Guide-v1-0-0 here].--> | *The shorter version of the official PCSX2 configuration guide v1.2.1 made by [http://forums.pcsx2.net/User-avih avih] can be found [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-Quick-Start-PCSX2-Configuration-Guide-v1-0-0 here].--> | ||