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How to Install a PS2 Hard Drive

During the life of the PlayStation 2, several games were released that required more space for game data than the system's memory card would allow. The solution to this need was the release of the the PlayStation 2 hard drive, a 40-gigabyte drive compatible with the original PS2 model. This hard drive is connected to the PS2 network adapter and inserted into the expansion bay on the rear of the console. Gamers who install this drive can download additional content and play games such as ̶0;Resident Evil Outbreak̶1; and ̶0;Final Fantasy XI.̶1;

Things You'll Need

Sony PlayStation 2 model 30000 to 50000
PS2 network adapter

Instructions

- 1
  Power down your PlayStation 2 and press the switch on the back of your system so the red light goes off. Remove the AV and power cable from the back of the system.
- 2
  Place the PS2 onto a flat, clean surface. Make sure the area is clean, because you will be opening up the back of the PS2 and will want to avoid any dust from getting into the console.
- 3
  Turn the PS2 around so you are looking at the back of the console. Locate the expansion bay cover on the bottom left of the rear of the console. Insert your finger into the tab at the top of the cover and pull outward to remove it.
- 4
  Place the network adapter face down on your work surface so that the two connectors are facing upward. These connectors will fit into your hard drive.
- 5
  Hold the hard drive over the network adapter so that the ports of the hard drive are aligned with the connectors of the adapter. Press the two tabs on the opposite side of the hard drive inward to allow the two accessories to connect.
- 6
  Attach the hard drive to the network adapter by placing the connectors from the adapter into the ports on the hard drive. Notice that one connector is longer than the other. Use this as a guide when fitting the two pieces together. Release the tabs on the hard drive to lock it in place.
- 7
  Grasp both sides of the hard drive and turn it to face your PS2. Insert the hard drive into the expansion bay and slide it until only the network adapter is visible. If inserted correctly, the Ethernet port will be in the top right corner of the adapter.
- 8
  Insert a coin into the two screws on the bottom of the adapter and turn it clockwise. This will secure the hard drive and adapter in place.
- 9
  Plug the power and AV cables back into the PS2 and power on the system. You will be taken through the setup of the drive (this is an automated process), after which it will be usable.

PlayStation 2