Models
The Sony PlayStation 3 is produced in two different models. The sole difference between these models is the hard drive size. The Sony PS3 comes with either a 120 GB or 250 GB hard drive. The actual function of these two video game systems is otherwise identical.
Input
The main input on the Sony PS3 is a Blu-Ray player. This can be used to read PS3 games and Blu-Ray movies. The PS3 has two USB ports that are typically used to connect specialized peripheral controllers to the system. Most PS3 controllers are connected wirelessly to the console using Bluetooth. A maximum of seven devices can be connected in this manner.
AV Output
The Sony PS3 supports several different options for the audio visual (AV) output of the system. The standard AV output is one potential option. The PS3 also supports HDMI and Digital output as alternatives. The PS3 can be set to 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i and 1080p resolution. Not all games or televisions support the higher resolution options.
Online Feature
The Sony PlayStation 3 has a variety of features available from connecting online to the PlayStation Network. Many games use the PlayStation Network to download updates and play against other players online. Some games also have additional add-ons and expansions that can be purchased and downloaded online. There are a number of games that can only be purchased by downloading the full game through the PlayStation Network. Users can also rent movies through Netflix and instantly watch them on the PS3 video game system.
Backwards Compatibility
Backwards compatibility with Sony PlayStation 2 games was a short-lived feature of the PS3. The original versions of the PS3 came with the Emotion chip, the processor from the PS2, which made those consoles completely backwards compatible. In 2007, the chip was removed and a software-based emulator was added. In late 2007, this feature was dropped completely. Any Sony PS3 video game console made after 2008 is not backwards compatible with PS2 games. All PS3 video game systems are backwards compatible with the older PS1 games.