Identifying your model
Identifying Your Model
Before attempting any modification, you need to know exactly which PlayStation you own. The original "fat" PlayStation spanned a long production run, and small differences between units change which methods apply to your console. Three pieces of information together give you a reliable identification.
The SCPH Number
Every PlayStation carries an SCPH model number printed on a sticker on the underside of the console. Examples range from SCPH-1000 on the earliest Japanese units up through SCPH-9000 on the final fat models, with the slim redesign carrying SCPH-101. This number is the single most useful identifier, because it roughly tracks the board revision and feature set.
Serial Number
Alongside the SCPH number you will find a serial number. Serials are useful for narrowing down production batches within a model, which matters for early units where features changed mid-run. Record it carefully.
Date Code
Many units include a date code on the underside label or on internal components, indicating roughly when the console was manufactured. Earlier date codes generally correspond to earlier board revisions.
Why This Matters
Whether your console supports the swap trick, which ports it has, and which board revision sits inside all depend on these three identifiers. Note all of them down before continuing to the rest of this section.