Setting up Windows version: Difference between revisions
This is a WIP right now - reformatting to prepare for the 1.6.0 in 2-3 months. (Considering it's already outdated, I assume the WIP state isn't an issue?) I also intend to have this guide replace the .pdfs bundled with the installer.
Karasuhebi (talk | contribs) No edit summary |
(This is a WIP right now - reformatting to prepare for the 1.6.0 in 2-3 months. (Considering it's already outdated, I assume the WIP state isn't an issue?) I also intend to have this guide replace the .pdfs bundled with the installer.) |
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=Introduction= | =Introduction= | ||
This guide explains how to download, install and properly configure '''PCSX2''' in Windows. It will also give some tips on how to use PCSX2 more efficiently. Keep in mind that the guide was written for PCSX2 '''v1. | This guide explains how to download, install and properly configure '''PCSX2''' in Windows. It will also give some tips on how to use PCSX2 more efficiently. Keep in mind that the guide was written for PCSX2 '''v1.6.0''' but can still be used for other versions of the emulator. | ||
There are also [[Setting up Linux version|Linux]] and [[Setting up Mac version|Mac]] versions of this guide. | There are also [[Setting up Linux version|Linux]] and [[Setting up Mac version|Mac]] versions of this guide. | ||
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===Minimum requirements=== | ===Minimum requirements=== | ||
These are the minimum system requirements to run PCSX2, bear in mind however that most games will be unplayable or slow with these low-end specs: | These are the minimum system requirements to run PCSX2, bear in mind however that most games will be unplayable or slow with these low-end specs: | ||
*Windows Vista or newer Windows OS. (XP is no longer supported after 1.4.0) | |||
*CPU: Any that supports SSE2 (Pentium 4 and up, Athlon64 and up) | *CPU: Any that supports SSE2 (Pentium 4 and up, Athlon64 and up) | ||
*GPU: Any that supports Pixel Shader model 2.0, except Nvidia FX series (broken SM2.0, too slow anyway) | *GPU: Any that supports Pixel Shader model 2.0, except Nvidia FX series (broken SM2.0, too slow anyway) | ||
* | *1GB RAM for 32-bit or 2GB for 64-bit | ||
===Recommended requirements=== | ===Recommended requirements=== | ||
These are the recommended system requirements to run PCSX2: | These are the recommended system requirements to run PCSX2: | ||
*Windows | * Windows 8 or Windows 10 (32bit or 64bit) with the latest DirectX | ||
*CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo @ 3.2 GHz or better OR i3/i5/i7 @ 2 | *CPU: Intel or AMD CPU that supports AVX2. Intel Core 2 Duo @ 3.2 GHz or better OR i3/i5/i7 @ 2.8 GHz or better OR AMD Phenom II @ 3.2 GHz or better | ||
*GPU: | *GPU: 8800GT or better | ||
* | *RAM: 2GB or more on Windows 8 / Windows 10 | ||
===Recommended high-end requirements=== | |||
* Windows 10 (32bit or 64bit) | |||
* CPU: Intel i5/i7 (Haswell or newer architecture) or AMD equivalent that supports AVX2 instruction set. | |||
* NVIDIA GPU: Geforce GTX 600 series or newer (OpenGL renderer is highly recommended) | |||
* AMD GPU: R9-250 or newer (Note: OpenGL performance is significantly slower on AMD GPUs. Until a driver fix is released, it is advised that you use the DirectX 11 renderer in GSdx.) | |||
* RAM: 8GB or more on Windows 10 | |||
{{Tip|Because of the complex nature of emulation, even if you meet the recommended requirements there will be games that will '''NOT''' run at full speed due to emulation imperfection, floating point emulation differences, issues with emulator itself or other problems.}} | {{Tip|Because of the complex nature of emulation, even if you meet the recommended requirements there will be games that will '''NOT''' run at full speed due to emulation imperfection, floating point emulation differences, issues with emulator itself or other problems.}} | ||
<br /> | <br /> | ||
=Getting PCSX2= | =Getting PCSX2= | ||
You can get PCSX2 for Windows [http://pcsx2.net/download/releases/windows/viewcategory/6-windows.html here]. There are | You can get PCSX2 for Windows [http://pcsx2.net/download/releases/windows/viewcategory/6-windows.html here]. There are versions available for download: standalone installer and Windows binaries. | ||
===Standalone Installer=== | ===Standalone Installer=== | ||
This is the default option for most users. The installer will contain the latest stable version of PCSX2. After opening it, you will be able to select the installation options. | This is the default option for most users. The installer will contain the latest stable version of PCSX2. After opening it, you will be able to select the installation options. | ||
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===Windows binaries=== | ===Windows binaries=== | ||
This option is recommended for advanced users. You will download the archive containing the Windows binaries. You should then unpack it in a desired location and run '''pscx2.exe'''. Start menu entries or a desktop shortcut will not be created automatically. | This option is recommended for advanced users or those who prefer a portable install, as well as users who do not have admin rights to run the installer. You will download the archive containing the Windows binaries. You should then unpack it in a desired location and run '''pscx2.exe'''. Start menu entries or a desktop shortcut will not be created automatically. | ||
<br /> | <br /> | ||
* You will need [http://www.7-zip.org/ 7-Zip] to decompress the files and the [https://download.microsoft.com/download/9/3/F/93FCF1E7-E6A4-478B-96E7-D4B285925B00/vc_redist.x86.exe Visual Studio 2015 redistributable package] for this version to work. | |||
<br /> | <br /> | ||
On its first run the emulator is going to create the previously mentioned folders. | On its first run the emulator is going to create the previously mentioned folders. | ||
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''The Component Selector'' is the plugin and BIOS configuration window that opens when you select '''Config => Plugins/Bios''. It has 3 tabs -- Plugins, BIOS and Folders. | ''The Component Selector'' is the plugin and BIOS configuration window that opens when you select '''Config => Plugins/Bios''. It has 3 tabs -- Plugins, BIOS and Folders. | ||
==BIOS== | |||
Obtaining PS2 games can be as easy as buying PS2 DVDs off eBay. However, an original game DVD is not enough to make PCSX2 work. You'll also need the BIOS dumped from your PS2. Unlike the PS2 PCSX2 does not implement region locking so if you have a PAL BIOS in your PS2 you can still play NTSC games, and vice versa. | |||
[[image:Bios_with_Bios.png|thumb|left]] | |||
The ''BIOS'' tab of the Plugin/BIOS selector window will allow you to select a BIOS image from the list of BIOSes available to you or to specify the folder where these images are stored.<br /> | |||
{{Warning|Note that the only '''legal''' way of obtaining a BIOS image is to dump it from your '''own''' Playstation 2 console. Do '''not''' attempt to ask where to get BIOS images on the PCSX2 forums, because it's against the [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Announcement-Global-Forum-Rules forum rules]. The PS2 BIOS is a copyrighted material of [[Sony|Sony Corporation]]. It is illegal to distribute the copyrighted files without copyright holder consent. PCSX2 team could get in trouble if suspected of illegally supplying people with BIOS files!}} | |||
If your BIOS image does not appear in the BIOS images list and you are sure that you have selected the correct folder, you may what to try dumping your BIOS again because the one you have is probably not valid or corrupted.<br /> | |||
{{tip|Interesting fact: 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'''). | |||
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. | |||
==Folders== | |||
[[image:Folder_selector.png|400px|caption|left]] | |||
This page will allow you to select different folders to store [[Savestate|savestates]], snapshots or system logs. Uncheck the ''Use default setting'' checkbox to be able to choose the required folder. | |||
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==Plugins configuration== | ==Plugins configuration== | ||
[[File:ConfigMenu.png|400px|thumb|left|Click to enlarge.]] | [[File:ConfigMenu.png|400px|thumb|left|Click to enlarge.]] | ||
PCSX2 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. | PCSX2 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. Every slot must have a plugin for PCSX2 to function. All plugins are stored (by default) in the ''plugins'' folder of your main PCSX2 folder. | ||
'''Warning: If you select a plugin you will not be able to configure it until you press ''apply'' button!'''<br/> | '''Warning: If you select a plugin you will not be able to configure it until you press ''apply'' button!'''<br/> | ||
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=== | ===Presets=== | ||
For users who do not want to spend the time fiddling with settings or just want to start playing games right away; the ''Presets'' slider located in ''Emulation Settings'' allows you to get started quickly with pre-defined settings. | |||
* This system contains 6 optimized presets that quickly adjust specific options, game fixes and speed-ups according to the level you choose. Check ''Preset'' checkbox on the botton of settings window to enable using presets. This will disable most of the options on many tabs (because they will now be controlled by PCSX2 automatically). | |||
* Presets go from the safest (but also the slowest) to the most unsafe (but the fastest one). You should start with level '''1''' or '''2''' if you have a powerful machine. Level '''3''' and '''4''' are for those who do not have a good machine or have a very demanding game to emulate. Level '''5''' or '''6''' are not recommended and should only be used as a last resort (note that some game can even be ''slowed down'' by those levels). | |||
<br/> | |||
==GSdx (Graphics plugin)== | |||
GSdx is a graphics plugin that was originally authored by Gabest, and is now handled by the PCSX2 Team. GSdx allows PCSX2 to provide the graphical output on the screen (i.e. to render the picture). | |||
[[image:GSDx2.png|thumb|GSdx]] | [[image:GSDx2.png|thumb|GSdx]] | ||
The default PCSX2 installation | The default PCSX2 installation includes 3 versions of GSdx (for 3 different CPU instruction sets, slowest to fastest): SSE2, SSE4, and AVX2. <br /> | ||
You must use only the versions supported by your CPU otherwise the emulator may crash. | You must use only the versions supported by your CPU otherwise the emulator may crash. If you are unsure which plugin to use, your safe choice is the SSE2 version. | ||
The | The AVX2 instructions give a minor speed-up '''only when GSdx works in software mode'''. This does not affect the speed in hardware mode.<br /> | ||
{{Tip| | {{Tip| | ||
*'''SSE2''' supporting CPUs: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SSE2#CPUs_supporting_SSE2 Check here] | *'''SSE2''' supporting CPUs: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SSE2#CPUs_supporting_SSE2 Check here] | ||
*'''SSE4.1''' supporting CPUs: Intel Core 2 Duo Penryn series (E7xxx,E8xxx and Q9xxx models), Intel Corei3, Intel Corei5, Intel Corei7, AMD Bulldozer/Bobcat | *'''SSE4.1''' supporting CPUs: Intel Core 2 Duo Penryn series (E7xxx,E8xxx and Q9xxx models), Intel Corei3, Intel Corei5, Intel Corei7, AMD Bulldozer/Bobcat | ||
*'''AVX2''' supporting CPUs: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advanced_Vector_Extensions#CPUs_with_AVX2 Check here] | *'''AVX2''' supporting CPUs: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advanced_Vector_Extensions#CPUs_with_AVX2 Check here] | ||
You can also use [http://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html CPU-Z] to find out your processor's supported instruction set.}} | You can also use [http://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html CPU-Z] to find out your processor's supported instruction set.}} | ||
To configure GSdx plugin press ''configure'' button. | To configure GSdx plugin press ''configure'' button. | ||
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This option allows you choose the interface through which the graphics will be rendered. | This option allows you choose the interface through which the graphics will be rendered. | ||
*''"OpenGL (hardware)"'': GSdx will use the OpenGL interface to render the image. | |||
*''"OpenGL (hardware)"'': GSdx will use the OpenGL interface to render the image | |||
*''"OpenGL (software)"'': GSdx will use the OpenGL backend in software mode. | *''"OpenGL (software)"'': GSdx will use the OpenGL backend in software mode. | ||
*''"Direct3D9 ( | |||
*''"Direct3D9/Direct3D11 (Hardware)"'': GSdx will use the Direct3D capabilities of your graphics card. Direct3D11 mode which is often faster and usually more compatible. It is '''recommended''' to use this option if your system supports it. | |||
*''"Direct3D9/Direct3D11 (Software)"'': GSdx will use its built-in software renderer which will not utilize your graphics card at all. The image will be rendered solely by your CPU. This will greatly reduce the rendering speed but unfortunately this is the most compatible mode. This option is recommended if you encounter graphics bugs with the hardware renderer. | |||
'''Interlacing'''<br /> | '''Interlacing'''<br /> | ||
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You can find some additional information on GSdx plugin [[GSdx|here]]. | You can find some additional information on GSdx plugin [[GSdx|here]]. | ||
==Pad (input) plugins== | |||
Default PCSX2 installation allows you to select one of two PAD plugins: | |||
#LilyPad v0.11.0 (recommended) | |||
Default PCSX2 installation allows you to select one of | |||
#LilyPad v0.11.0 | |||
#Pokopom 2.1.0 | #Pokopom 2.1.0 | ||
===LilyPad=== | |||
[[image:LilyPad_Settings.png|200px|thumb|left|Lilypad]] | [[image:LilyPad_Settings.png|200px|thumb|left|Lilypad]] | ||
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 /> | ||
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===Pokopom=== | |||
[[image:Pokopom_Settings.jpg|thumb|left|Pokopom]] | [[image:Pokopom_Settings.jpg|thumb|left|Pokopom]] | ||
This plugin is much easier to handle for the new users whilst it still allows for a great options flexibility (and some of its options are not implemented in LilyPad) Use ''configure'' button to open Pokopom configuration dialog.<br /> | This plugin is much easier to handle for the new users whilst it still allows for a great options flexibility (and some of its options are not implemented in LilyPad) Use ''configure'' button to open Pokopom configuration dialog.<br /> | ||
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== | ==SPU2-X (Sound plugin)== | ||
[[image:SPU2-X_Settings.png|200px|thumb|left|SPU2-X]] | [[image:SPU2-X_Settings.png|200px|thumb|left|SPU2-X]] | ||
SPU2-X is the most advanced, compatible and up-to-date sound plugin for PCSX2. It was first based on '''Gigaherz's''' SPU2ghz and later modified by '''Jake Stine (Air)'''. This is the only SPU2 plugin that supports audio processing effects (like reverberation and Dolby Pro Logic (if your sound card is able to decode it)). Many games only work correctly with SPU2-X. | SPU2-X is the most advanced, compatible and up-to-date sound plugin for PCSX2. It was first based on '''Gigaherz's''' SPU2ghz and later modified by '''Jake Stine (Air)'''. This is the only SPU2 plugin that supports audio processing effects (like reverberation and Dolby Pro Logic (if your sound card is able to decode it)). Many games only work correctly with SPU2-X. | ||
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*''Enable debug options'': This option is only useful for developers (it will allow for extensive logging and dumps). | *''Enable debug options'': This option is only useful for developers (it will allow for extensive logging and dumps). | ||
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==CDVD plugins== | |||
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. | ===ISO loader=== | ||
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. | |||
===CDVD gigaherz=== | |||
* If you want to play a game from the actual DVD disk without dumping it to an ISO, select the '''Plugin''' option in the ''CDVD'' menu and use '''Plugin Menu''' to select the source drive you want to read from. Put your PS2 DVD disk in the selected drive before starting emulation. | |||
[[image:Cdvd_Gigaherz_Settings.png|left|thumb|The drive selection menu in CDVDgigaherz]] | |||
{{Tip|This is the only plugin that at least partially supports disk changing. Some games may wait for the next disk to advance; this plugin is the only choice for such games!}} | {{Tip|This is the only plugin that at least partially supports disk changing. Some games may wait for the next disk to advance; this plugin is the only choice for such games!}} | ||
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== | ==Specialty plugins (not included)== | ||
These plugins are not included with PCSX2. To use these, you must download the corresponding plugin here [http://pcsx2.net/download/category/41-win-plugins.html] or look in the PCSX2 forums. | |||
===Dev9 (HDD and ethernet) plugins=== | ===Dev9 (HDD and ethernet) plugins=== | ||
Dev9 is a collective name for plugins that handle '''HDD''' and '''ethernet''' (LAN/Internet) access. | Dev9 is a collective name for plugins that handle '''HDD''' and '''ethernet''' (LAN/Internet) access. | ||
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===Firewire emulation plugins=== | ===Firewire emulation plugins=== | ||
At this moment, there are no official or unofficial working Firewire plugins for PCSX2 | At this moment, there are no official or unofficial working Firewire plugins for PCSX2. | ||
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''Emulation Settings'' config window is the collection of main PCSX2 settings to tune the behavior of PCSX2 itself (not unlike the plugins separate configurations can tune the behavior of a particular plugin). You can access the window from ''Config'' => ''Emulation settings'' menu. There are 6 tabs, ''EE/IOP'', ''VUs'', ''GS'', ''GS Window'', ''Speedhacks'' and ''Gamefixes'' each of which has its own set of settings. | ''Emulation Settings'' config window is the collection of main PCSX2 settings to tune the behavior of PCSX2 itself (not unlike the plugins separate configurations can tune the behavior of a particular plugin). You can access the window from ''Config'' => ''Emulation settings'' menu. There are 6 tabs, ''EE/IOP'', ''VUs'', ''GS'', ''GS Window'', ''Speedhacks'' and ''Gamefixes'' each of which has its own set of settings. | ||
==EE/IOP== | ===EE/IOP=== | ||
EE/IOP | EE/IOP stands for ''Emotion Engine / Input Output Processor'' which are the core components of the Playstation 2. The tab contains 4 settings. | ||
[[file:EE-IOP.png|300px|thumb|right]] | [[file:EE-IOP.png|300px|thumb|right]] | ||
*''Emotion Engine'': Enables or disables ''recompiler'' (i.e. the program that translates the native PS2 code into the native x86 code, instead of slowly interpret each PS2 command) for PS2 ''Emotion Engine'' (EE) processor emulation. ''Interpreter | *''Emotion Engine'': Enables or disables ''recompiler'' (i.e. the program that translates the native PS2 code into the native x86 code, instead of slowly interpret each PS2 command) for PS2 ''Emotion Engine'' (EE) processor emulation. ''Interpreter'' mode shouldn't be used for anything but debugging purposes. | ||
**''Enable EE Cache'': Used only with ''interpreter'' mode, and only known to help the Japanese version of ''[[Dead or Alive 2]]''. | **''Enable EE Cache'': Used only with ''interpreter'' mode, and only known to help the Japanese version of ''[[Dead or Alive 2]]''. | ||
*''Round mode'': Changes the rounding method for float numbers. If your game is freezing, try changing this value. Default and the most compatible setting is ''Chop/Zero''. This default value will be changed automatically for some games known to need a different value when ''Automatic Gamefixes'' mode is enabled (see ''System'' main menu). | |||
*''Clamping mode'': Changes the implementation of emulation of ''INF'' and ''NaN'' numbers. By default the value is ''Normal'' which will work fine for most games without compromising the speed much. This default value will be changed automatically for games known to need a different value when ''Automatic Gamefixes'' mode is enabled (see ''System'' main menu). | |||
*''IOP'': Enables or disables ''recompiler'' for PS2 ''Input Output processor'' (IOP). You should also leave this option enabled. | *''IOP'': Enables or disables ''recompiler'' for PS2 ''Input Output processor'' (IOP). You should also leave this option enabled. | ||
*''Restore Defaults'': This button will restore all settings to their default values (which are seen as in bold or green font). | *''Restore Defaults'': This button will restore all settings to their default values (which are seen as in bold or green font). | ||
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==VUs== | ===VUs=== | ||
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''. | ||
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==GS== | ==GS== | ||
GS stands for ''Graphics Synthesizer'' Playstation 2 co-processor responsible for rendering the graphics (but is also used by some games for additional calculations and other purposes). | GS stands for ''Graphics Synthesizer'' Playstation 2 co-processor responsible for rendering the graphics (but is also used by some games for additional calculations and other purposes). PCSX2 will work in conjunction with GSdx to emulate PS2 graphical co-processor and convert its output into input understood by the PC video cards. | ||
[[image:GS.png|300px||thumb|right]] | [[image:GS.png|300px||thumb|right]] | ||
===Framelimiter=== | |||
The options in this group can be used to control the frame rate of your games in various ways. | |||
* | * Disable Framelimiting (F4): 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. | ||
* 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. | |||
{{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). | ||
===Frame Skipping=== | |||
Frame skipping is a technique which tells the emulator to refrain from drawing some frames making it possible to increase the perceived game performance when the normal game speed can't be achieved by other means. PS2 internal design (the way GS processor's output and communications are implemented) does not allow for the precise frame skipping. Although this feature may help some slow games to work smoother, it will inevitably cause stuttering, flashing or other abnormal behavior in other games, so use it with cation and do not forget to disable it when you're about to switch to another game. Frame skipping can be toggled while ingame by pressing ''Shift + F4''. The following frame skipping modes are available: | |||
* ''Disabled'': This option will have frame skipping disabled (you can still enable it by the mentioned ''Shift + F4'' combination) | |||
* ''Skip when on Turbo only'': This option will enable the feature automatically in ''Turbo'' mode (see above, use ''Tab'' to toggle the turbo mode while ingame) | |||
* ''Constant Skipping'': This allows the frame skipping to be enabled by default. | |||
* ''Frames to Draw'' and ''Frames to Skip'': These boxes allow to adjust the frame skipping mechanism to your liking. You can specify how many frames will be drawn before skipping (''Frames to Draw'') and how many frames will be skipped prior to start drawing again (''Frames to Skip''). Default values are ''2'' and ''2''. | |||
{{Tip|To enable frame skipping while playing press '''Shift + F4'''. Press this combination again to disable it.}} | {{Tip|To enable frame skipping while playing press '''Shift + F4'''. Press this combination again to disable it.}} | ||
*''Use Synchronized MTGS'': This will enable a different MTGS mode. The mode is very slow and useful for debugging purposes only. | *''Use Synchronized MTGS'': This will enable a different MTGS mode. The mode is very slow and useful for debugging purposes only. | ||
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[[image:GSWindow.png|300px|thumb|right]] | [[image:GSWindow.png|300px|thumb|right]] | ||
===Aspect Ratio=== | |||
You can select the window aspect ratio (shape) here. The options available are ''Standard (4:3)'', ''Widescreen (16:9)'' or ''Fit to Window/Screen''. In the latter case image will always be stretched. | |||
* If you have a widescreen (16:9) monitor you may want to remove the left and right black bars to get a better experience. Unfortunately many games do not natively support wide screen aspect ratio and selecting it here will cause the image to stretch which may not be a desirable side effect. | |||
* Some games however may be helped to support 16:9 resolution by special ''widescreen patches'' made by the community. If the game neither have the native 16:9 support nor the patch to overcome this your only options are to play it with 4:3 aspect ratio with black bars or bear with image stretching whichever option is the best for you. | |||
* If you have downloaded widescreen patch (a file with ''pnach'' extension) you should place it into '''cheats_ws''' folder of your PCSX2 (Documents/PCSX2/cheats_ws). This way you will be able to enable cheats and widescreen patches (essentially cheats as well) separately for any game. To enable patches from '''cheats_ws''' folder select ''Enabled Widescreen Patches'' item in ''System'' sub-menu of PCSX2 main menu | |||
*If you have downloaded widescreen patch (a file with ''pnach'' extension) you should place it into '''cheats_ws''' folder of your PCSX2. This way you will be able to enable cheats and widescreen patches (essentially cheats as well) separately for any game. To enable patches from '''cheats_ws''' folder select ''Enabled Widescreen Patches'' item in ''System'' sub-menu of PCSX2 main menu | |||
*For more information regarding widescreen patches, please check [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-PCSX2-Widescreen-Game-Patches ''Widescreen Game Patches''] this forum post }} | * For more information regarding widescreen patches, please check [http://forums.pcsx2.net/Thread-PCSX2-Widescreen-Game-Patches ''Widescreen Game Patches''] this forum post }} | ||
*''Custom window size'': This option lets your define the GS window size in pixels. Note that this | ===Additional Window Options=== | ||
*''Zoom'': This option will zoom in or out the rendering image (around the central point). It may help in certain situations (decrease black bars for instance by zooming them out of the view). You can also use this feature while in game by pressing ''Ctrl'' and '' numpad +'' to zoom in, ''Ctrl'' and ''numpad -'' to zoom out and ''Ctrl'' and ''numpad <nowiki>*</nowiki>'' to reset zoom | *''Custom window size'': This option lets your define the GS window size in pixels. This setting will also change if the GS window is dragged with the mouse cursor. Note that this size will not be saved unless you have specified a window size you have selected here. | ||
*''Zoom'': This option will zoom in or out the rendering image (around the central point). It may help in certain situations (decrease black bars for instance by zooming them out of the view). You can also use this feature while in game by pressing ''Ctrl'' and '' numpad +'' to zoom in, ''Ctrl'' and ''numpad -'' to zoom out and ''Ctrl'' and ''numpad <nowiki>*</nowiki>'' to reset zoom to 100%. | |||
{{Tip|There is also a hidden key combination to stretch GS window while in game only vertically. Use ''Ctrl'' + ''Alt'' and ''numpad +'', ''numpad -'' and ''numpad *'' to increase, decrease or reset vertical stretch. This option may be useful when you need to remove vertical top and bottom black bars but remember that the image itself will get stretched and will lose original proportions.}} | {{Tip|There is also a hidden key combination to stretch GS window while in game only vertically. Use ''Ctrl'' + ''Alt'' and ''numpad +'', ''numpad -'' and ''numpad *'' to increase, decrease or reset vertical stretch. This option may be useful when you need to remove vertical top and bottom black bars but remember that the image itself will get stretched and will lose original proportions.}} | ||
*''Disable window resize border'': This option will | *''Disable window resize border'': This option will disable the ability to resize the GS window with the mouse cursor. | ||
*''Always hide mouse cursor'': This option will disable drawing the mouse cursor anywhere within GS window. This may be helpful if the mouse is used for aiming in game. | *''Always hide mouse cursor'': This option will disable drawing the mouse cursor anywhere within GS window. This may be helpful if the mouse is used for aiming in game. | ||
*''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 | *''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 may reduce actual FPS. This option will only apply to ''fullscreen'' mode. | ||
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*''OPH flag Hack'': Needed for [[Bleach: Blade Battlers]], Growlancers [[Growlanser II: The Sense of Justice|II]] and [[Growlanser III: The Dual Darkness|III]] and [[Wizardry: Tale of the Forsaken Land|Wizardry]]. | *''OPH flag Hack'': Needed for [[Bleach: Blade Battlers]], Growlancers [[Growlanser II: The Sense of Justice|II]] and [[Growlanser III: The Dual Darkness|III]] and [[Wizardry: Tale of the Forsaken Land|Wizardry]]. | ||
*''Ignore DMAC writes when it's busy'': Needed for [[Mana Khemia: Alchemists of Al-Revis]] and [[Metal Saga]]. | *''Ignore DMAC writes when it's busy'': Needed for [[Mana Khemia: Alchemists of Al-Revis]] and [[Metal Saga]]. | ||
*''Simulate VIF1 | *''Simulate VIF1 FIFO read ahead'': Can help games which load slow (for ex. [[Test Drive Unlimited]] or [[Transformers]]) | ||
*''Delay VIF1 stalls (VIF1 FIFO)'': Fixes [[SOCOM II: U.S. Navy SEALs]] HUD. | *''Delay VIF1 stalls (VIF1 FIFO)'': Fixes [[SOCOM II: U.S. Navy SEALs]] HUD. | ||
*'' | *''Enable GIF FIFO'': Fixes [[Hot Wheels: Beat That!]], [[Hot Wheels]], [[Wallace & Grommit]], [[DJHero]]. | ||
*''Switch to GSdx software rendering when an FMV plays'': This will allow [[GSdx]] to automatically switch to a software renderer when FMV starts to play and back to hardware renderer when the video is finished. This option is very useful considering the number of games that have issues with videos in GSdx hardware mode. | *''Switch to GSdx software rendering when an FMV plays'': This will allow [[GSdx]] to automatically switch to a software renderer when FMV starts to play and back to hardware renderer when the video is finished. This option is very useful considering the number of games that have issues with videos in GSdx hardware mode. | ||
*''Preload TLB hack to avoid TLB miss on Goemon'': Helps to fix [[Bouken Jidai Katsugeki Goemon]] TLB miss issue. | *''Preload TLB hack to avoid TLB miss on Goemon'': Helps to fix [[Bouken Jidai Katsugeki Goemon]] TLB miss issue. | ||
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=PCSX2 main menu= | =PCSX2 main menu= | ||
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**''Exit'': This item will close the emulator. | **''Exit'': This item will close the emulator. | ||
*'''CDVD menu''' contains options for PCSX2 internal ISO loader. | *'''CDVD menu''' contains options for PCSX2 internal ISO loader and cdvdGigaherz. | ||
**''ISO Selector'': This item will allow you to select one of the recent ISO images or add new ISO image to the list by using ''browse..'' item. The image you selected here can be booted in ''system menu'' (see description above). | **''ISO Selector'': This item will allow you to select one of the recent ISO images or add new ISO image to the list by using ''browse..'' item. The image you selected here can be booted in ''system menu'' (see description above). | ||
**''Plugin Menu'': This item will let you quickly choose [[#CDVD plugins|CDVD plugin]] and access its configuration (rather than going through plugins configuration). The menu will only be accessible if you choose ''Plugin'' item in ''CDVD menu'' menu (i.e. if you prefer to boot your game using plugins instead of internal ISO loader). | **''Plugin Menu'': This item will let you quickly choose [[#CDVD plugins|CDVD plugin]] and access its configuration (rather than going through plugins configuration). The menu will only be accessible if you choose ''Plugin'' item in ''CDVD menu'' menu (i.e. if you prefer to boot your game using plugins instead of internal ISO loader). | ||
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*'''Config menu''' will allow you to access plugins' configurations and core emulation settings (all of these options were described above) | *'''Config menu''' will allow you to access plugins' configurations and core emulation settings (all of these options were described above) | ||
**''Emulation Settings'': Please refer to [[#Emulation Settings (Core configuration)|Emulation Settings]]. | **''Emulation Settings'': Please refer to [[#Emulation Settings (Core configuration)|Emulation Settings]]. | ||
**''Memory cards'': Will open the [[Memcard|memcard]] manager able to manipulate your virtual memcards | **''Memory cards'': Will open the [[Memcard|memcard]] manager able to manipulate your virtual memcards. Refer to the next section below for more info | ||
**''Plugin/BIOS selector'': Please refer to [[#The Component Selector (Plugins, BIOS and folders configuration)|this part]] of the guide for more information on this menu item. It will allow you to configure all plugins in one dialog, but if you rather want to reconfigure a certain plugin you may prefer to use the next sub-menus -- ''Video (GS)'', ''Audio (SPU2)'', ''Controllers (PAD)'', ''Dev9'', ''USB'' or ''Firewire''. They will allow you to quickly select (or configure) for example PAD plugin or select [[#ZeroGS|ZeroGS]] instead of [[#GSdx|GSdx]] when game demands it. | **''Plugin/BIOS selector'': Please refer to [[#The Component Selector (Plugins, BIOS and folders configuration)|this part]] of the guide for more information on this menu item. It will allow you to configure all plugins in one dialog, but if you rather want to reconfigure a certain plugin you may prefer to use the next sub-menus -- ''Video (GS)'', ''Audio (SPU2)'', ''Controllers (PAD)'', ''Dev9'', ''USB'' or ''Firewire''. They will allow you to quickly select (or configure) for example PAD plugin or select [[#ZeroGS|ZeroGS]] instead of [[#GSdx|GSdx]] when game demands it. | ||
**''Multitap 1'' and ''Multitap 2'': These items will allow you to use up to 8 controllers through the multitap support (up to 4 for one PAD port). Prior to enabling these options however you will have to configure multitap in the ''[[#LilyPad|Lilypad]]'' plugin. Multitap support does not work with all games yet, but most games are compatible with it. | **''Multitap 1'' and ''Multitap 2'': These items will allow you to use up to 8 controllers through the multitap support (up to 4 for one PAD port). Prior to enabling these options however you will have to configure multitap in the ''[[#LilyPad|Lilypad]]'' plugin. Multitap support does not work with all games yet, but most games are compatible with it. | ||
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*'''Debug menu''': This item will only appear in case you're using debug build. It will allow developers to use built-in debugger to trace code and see the contents of emulated PS2 registers and memory. It has little to no use for the ordinary users. | *'''Debug menu''': This item will only appear in case you're using debug build. It will allow developers to use built-in debugger to trace code and see the contents of emulated PS2 registers and memory. It has little to no use for the ordinary users. | ||
===Memory Card Manager=== | |||
[[image:MemcardManager.png|300px|thumb|right|The Memory Card manager]] | |||
**The memory card manager allows you to manipulate your virtual memcards. | |||
***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). | |||
***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). | |||
***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). | |||
***''Auto-Eject Memcards when loading save states'' option will momentarily eject and reinsert both selected memcards every time you load savestate while playing. This will avoid such problems as memcard corruptions if the game tightly synchronizing some internal variables with memcard's contents. Ejecting it will force the game to re-index the card contents avoiding possible desynchronization. Some games however (ex. [[Guitar Hero]]) do not like this technique. You'll have to uncheck this option in case you encounter savestates loading problems. | |||
<br /> | <br /> | ||
=PCSX2 Shortcuts/hotkeys= | =PCSX2 Shortcuts/hotkeys= |