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[GUIDE] The Ultimate CFW Installation Guide

elite

Oldie moldie
The Ultimate CFW Installation guide
This guide covers any possible way to install/recover CFW on PSP

***Note - This guide contains a total of 7 sections. Just find the one that you need, and don't get confused with the rest. The sections are :

  • For CFW PSP users to update to 5.00 M33-6*
  • For CFW PSP users to update to 5.50 GEN-D3 Final (NEW METHOD)*
  • For CFW PSP users to update to 5.50 GEN-D3 Final (Manual METHOD)
  • How to Change Despertar del Cementerio 8 into XGEN Pandora
  • How to Reflash/update/downgrade Firmware (Semi-Bricked/1.50/CFW PSP Users See Here)
  • For PSP Fat/slim (Not Ta-88 v3! & PSP 3000) Users Who Are Under 5.03 OFW
  • For Bricked/OFW/to Downgrade/Upgrade PSP Users (Hackable Mother Boards VIA Pandora)
  • How-To Install Custom Firmware Enablers on PSP-1000,2000,3000 (Un/Hackable Motherboards) (All HEN/HBL/CFEs/MHU Related including the new way of creating Pandora battery on HEN for 6.20/6.35)
* Prometheus Upgrade Included
[FIELDSET="Remark"]To quickly find your section, press control+F on the keyboard. Then, copy/paste your desired title of any section.[/FIELDSET]

A new day, a new experience, and a new guide. :) I present The Ultimate CFW Installation Guide with an integrated part of ChickHen R2 just for hackable VIA Pandora PSPs (1K/2K). This guide is divided into seven sections, which will be pretty obvious when read. To find out what is the model of the mother board of your PSP. You can use PSPident 0.73 (which can be used only on CFW/HEN to know that. Here is the chart for the hackable PSPs (PSPs that will or won't take CFW):

2ica9e0.png


[FIELDSET="WARNING"]This section and the one after it is only for PSPs that can be hacked VIA Pandora (not PSP slim with Ta-88v3 motherboard neither a PSP-3000.[/FIELDSET]

Check this Spoiler if you want to know the firmware/motherboard of the PSP prior to buying it

Limited Edition & New Boxstyle:
Star Wars Limited Edition (TA-085)
(CONFIRMED)
Simpsons Limited Edition (TA-085)(CONFIRMED)
Daxter Limited Edition Pack (TA-85v2/3.80 OFW)(CONFIRMED)
God of War Limited Edition Pack (TA-88v2/3.95 OFW)(CONFIRMED)
Madden 09 Limited Edition Pack (TA-88v2/3.95 OFW & TA-88v3/4.01 OFW)(CONFIRMED)
Piano Black with the New Box Style (TA-88v3)(UNCONFIRMED)
Piano Black (Amazon.com)(TA-88v3)(PARTIALLY CONFIRMED)

PSP-2000 Original Boxstyle Box Codes:
(No Letter) = 3.60
A = 3.71

B = UNKNOWN
C = 3.72
D = UNKNOWN
E = 3.80
F = 3.90

G = 3.95 / 4.01 (TA-88v2 / TA-88v3)
A PSP with G and the 4.01 firmware is most likely a TA-88v3 motherboard, so it is advised that you stay away from them.


boxcode list for the ofw that are inside

For the Phat models (01g):
1. A = 1.50
2. B = 1.51
3. C = 1.52
4. D = 1.52
5. E = 1.52
6. F = 2.00
7. G = 2.01
8. H = 2.50
9. I = 2.60
10. J = 2.70
11. K = 2.71
12. L = 2.81
13. M = 3.01
14. N = 3.03
15. O = 3.10
16. P = 3.11
17. Q = 3.30
18. R = 3.40
19. S = 3.50
20. T = 3.51
21. U = 3.52

For the Slim & Lite (02g):
1. (No letter) = 3.60
2. A = 3.71
3. B = 3.71
4. C = 3.72
5. D = 3.73
6. E = 3.80
7. F = 3.90
8. G = 3.95 / 4.01
9. H = 3.95 / 4.01
10. I = 4.01
11. J = 4.05

For the 3k models (03g):
1. (No letter) = 4.20
2. A = 4.20/4.21
3. B = ??
4. C = 5.02
5. D = ??
6. E = ??

Also here are some icons.

PSP 100x date code location
20349608.jpg


PSP 200x date code location
datecode.jpg

Comparison Table of 5.00 M33-6 & 5.50 GEN-D3 Final


2j6ah3n.png

Side installation: Can be installed via applications.
- MS Speed-up for 5.50 GEN-D3 Final
- 1.50 Support on 5.00 M33-6 can be installed with 2 ways:
I - 1.50 Kernel add-on
II - LEDA 0.2

For help in decrypting new games. Check this guide.

For CFW PSP users to update to 5.00 M33-6

You have a PSP under CFW. To update to 5.00 M33-6 directly you need to have at least 3.52 M33-3. If you are on a firmware less than 3.52 M33 (especially 1.50), then I suggest you use the section of semi-bricked users to directly go to 5.00 M33-6 without the need of updating twice. Now for users that have 3.52 M33-3 or more, continue to check the instructions.

images

1 - Download 5.00 EBOOT, and 5.00 M33-6.

2 - Reboot the PSP holding the R button, and the go to Configurations->Game folder homebrew, and make sure that it is set to 3.XX/4.XX/5.XX.

3 - Connect your PSP to the PC.

4 - Extract 5.00 M33-6, and copy the UPDATE folder to the GAME folder inside the PSP folder in the memory stick.

5 - Extract the 5.00 EBOOT, and place it inside the UPDATE folder after renamed to exactly "500.PBP" without quotes. Remember that .PBP is the extension, not a part of the file name.

6 - Disconnect your PSP, and execute the update from the Game menu.

7 - The update will look really official, but don't worry. It is meant to be like that.

8 - After the update finishes, press X to reboot the PSP.
[FIELDSET="Note"]When finished, you can delete the update folder.[/FIELDSET]
You now have 5.00 M33-6 installed on your PSP

Prometheus Auto-Installer (Updated)

What is it?
This Prometheus MOD automatically decrypts newer games to be directly manipulated on 5.00 M33-6
1 - Download 5.00 Prometheus-4 Installer. (Will always be updated if new version is released)
2 - Extract the Folder Prometheus Installer.
3 - Copy the folder into PSP/GAME/ and run the installer.

For CFW PSP users to update to 5.50 GEN-D3 Final (NEW METHOD)
*Prometheus Upgrade included

5-03gen-d3-2.jpg

[FIELDSET="Note"]
  • This app runs on any CFW (except 5.50 GEN-B1 and any CFW less than 4.00 M33), and can update your PSP to 5.50 GEN-D3 directly without any patches. If you are on of the CFW users less than 4.00 M33, then check the section of "How to Reflash/update/downgrade Firmware (Semi-Bricked/1.50/CFW PSP Users See Here)".
    • If you are on 5.50 GEN-B1 and want to update to 5.50 GEN-D3, you should update to 5.50 GEN-B2 manually. Then, use this section.
  • To bypass the battery check, connect your AC cord.
[/FIELDSET]

1 - Download XGEN UPDATER V5.

2 - Extract the XGEN UPDATER V5, place the UPDATE folder into the GAME folder inside the memory stick, and 5.50.PBP in the root of the memory stick.
[FIELDSET="Note"]Root : The first directory in the memory stick[/FIELDSET]

3 - Run the updater VIA XMB Game menu.

4 - Click on "Flash Install CFW 5.50 GEN-D3". This will then format the Flashs, load all modules of the updater, and then install it.

5 - When finished, press X to reboot, or O to shutdown.

You now have the latest CFW 5.50 GEN-D3 Final installed

[fieldset="Prometheus Update *Will always be updated if new version is released*"]
What is it?
Aptly called CFW 5.50 Prometheus, this brew also allows you to launched all the latest titles that requires 6.20/6.30/6.31 without thelengthy patching procedures.

1 - Download 5.50 Prometheus-4.
2 - Extract the file CFW 5.50 Prometheus.
3 - Copy the folder into PSP/GAME/ and run the installer.[/fieldset]

For CFW PSP users to update to 5.50 GEN-D3 Final (Manual METHOD)

[fieldset="Remark"]I don't recommend this for anyone that wants to upgrade to 5.50 GEN-D3 Final since it takes time for a process that can be finished in minutes rather than hours (Look at the preceding section "For CFW PSP users to update to 5.50 GEN-D3 Final (NEW METHOD)"). I keep the Manual Method for linking purposes (single Eboot.PBP updates).[/fieldset]
To update to 5.50 GEN-D3 Final, you need at least a PSP running firmware 3.52 M33-3. If an older CFW is installed, then I suggest using the section for semi-bricked users to avoid updating twice. Instructions :

1 - Download 5.50 EBOOT, .50 GEN-A, 5.50 GEN-B, 5.50 GEN-B2, 5.50 GEN-C, 5.50 GEN-D, 5.50 GEN-D2, [STRIKE]5.50 GEN-D3[/STRIKE], and 5.50 GEN-D3 Final.

2 - Extract them all, and connect your PSP to the PC.

3 - Copy the 5.50 EBOOT to the root of the memory stick after renaming it to exactly 550.PBP if it is not named yet.

4 - Copy the UPDATE folder in pspgen-cf550gen-build4 extracted from 5.50 GEN-A to the GAME folder in the memory stick.

5 - Copy 5.50-genB-update extracted from 5.50 GEN-B to the GAME folder in the memory stick.

6 - Copy 5.50-genB2-update extracted from 5.50 GEN-B2 to the GAME folder in the memory stick.

7 - Copy the UPDATE folder in PSP/GAME extracted from 5.50 GEN-C to the GAME folder in the memory stick.

8 - Copy the UPDATE folder in PSP/GAME extracted from 5.50 GEN-D to the GAME folder in the memory stick.

9 - Copy the folder named "GEN-D2" extracted from 5.50 GEN-D2 to the GAME folder in the memory stick.

10 - Copy the folder named "UPDATE" extracted from 5.50 GEN-D3 Final to the GAME folder in the memory stick.

11 - Disconnect the PSP from the PC.

12 - Reboot the PSP holding the R button, and the go to Configurations->Game folder homebrew, and make sure that it is set to 3.XX/4.XX/5.XX.

13 - Execute the 5.50 GEN-A update from XMB->Game menu. When the installer finishes, press X to reboot to XMB.

14 - Do the same to 5.50 GEN-B/B2/C/D update. You can't skip GEN updates (for example from GEN-A to update directly to GEN-D. You have to update subsequently.
[FIELDSET="Note"]When finished, you can delete all of the update folders.[/FIELDSET]

You now have the latest CFW 5.50 GEN-D3 Final installed

How to Change Despertar del Cementerio 8 into XGEN Pandora

images

For OFW users who want to update to the latest GEN CFW VIA Pandora, see this to alter DDC 8 to XGEN Pandora Installer!
[FIELDSET="Remark"]If you didn't install DDC 8 yet on your MS, then check this guide. Section "Instruction For Preparing a MMS (Magic Memory Stick) Using DDC 8"[/FIELDSET]

1 - Prepare a DDC 8 magic memory stick.
[FIELDSET="Note"]If you are using a CFW PSP, then continue to step 2. If not, then you should provide also Pandora battery with DDC 8 to install 5.00 M33-6. You need a CFW PSP to patch DDC 8.[/FIELDSET]

2 - Download XGEN UPDATER V5 included with 5.50 EBOOT.

3 - Place the 5.50 EBOOT in the root of the memory stick renamed to "550.PBP" without quotes. PBP is the extension.

4 - Launch the XGEN UPDATER VIA XMB->Game Menu.

5 - Accept the "use at your own risk" note, then press "Install XGEN PANDORA V5".

6 - When the patcher finishes, you can press O for going back to the menu. Then, press "Reboot Device".

How to Reflash/update/downgrade Firmware (Semi-Bricked/1.50/CFW PSP Users See Here)

recovery_flasher_160.png

[fieldset="Important Note"]
  • As of now, you can upgrade directly from CFW/1.50 OFW to 5.50 with the new AddOn. This section will take care of both upgrading/downgrading to 5.00 M33-6 & 5.50 GEN-D3. ;)
[/fieldset]

For 1.50 to upgrade to latest CFWs:

1 - Download Hellcat's recovery flasher v 1.65.

2 - Extract the downloaded archiver. Copy the folder "%__SCE__rflash" and "__SCE__rflash" that are located in a folder called "FW1.50", then place them in ms0:/PSP/GAME. If there is no such directory, create it.

[fieldset="Destination CFW (5.00/5.50)"]
  • To update to 5.00 M33-6:
    • Download 5.00 EBOOT.
    • Extract the archive, and rename the given EBOOT to exactly "500.PBP" without the quotes.
    • Copy the renamed EBOOT to the root of your memory stick.
    • Run the application from XMB->Game Menu.
    • The program will identify your PSP. When you enter the menu, make sure that "Target FW: X.XX" is placed to 5.00.
    • Press the second option which is "Install CFW (of version selected above)".
    • Now, it will ask you to reset/not reset settings while the CFW is being installed. Of course, reset them.

  • To update to 5.50 GEN-D3:
    • Download 5.50 EBOOT.
    • Extract the archive, and rename the given EBOOT to exactly "550.PBP" without the quotes.
    • Copy the renamed EBOOT to the root of your memory stick.
    • The update for 5.50 GEN-D3 is included in the Hellcat pack. Check the download again and you'll see a folder named "FW-Packs".
    • Extract the packs to any location on desktop.
    • You'll see different Packs (6.20 OFW & 5.50 GEN-D3). One for PSP-1000 and one for PSP-2000. Of course, choose the 5.50 GEN-D3 one that fits the type of your PSP, and copy it to the root of the memory stick.
    • Run the application from XMB->Game Menu.
    • The program will identify your PSP. It will enter the menu. On the first option, where you can select the (C)FW version to be installed, press "X" until it reads "load from external FW pack".
    • Press the second option which is "Install CFW selected above".
    • From the now shown list, choose the Firmware Pack that you want
      to install.
[/fieldset]
The updater is now running, and you just have to wait. When the installer finishes, you are prompted to press any button to reset the PSP. You will notice that the power led is blinking. DON'T freak out. That is normal. Power up the PSP after it shuts down. Enjoy. :)

For any CFWed/HEN PSP that is/isn't bricked:

1 - Download Hellcat's recovery flasher v 1.65.

2 - Extract the downloaded archive and copy the folder "RECOVERY" into ms0:/PSP/GAME.

3 - Reboot the PSP holding the R button, and the go to Configurations->Game folder homebrew, and make sure that it is set to 3.XX/4.XX/5.XX.
[FIELDSET="Remark!"]If you are on 5.03 ChickHen R2, skip this step[/FIELDSET]

4 - Run the recovery flasher VIA M33 recovery menu by selecting the third option which is "Run program at /PSP/GAME/RECOVERY/EBOOT.PBP" or by the XMB if you PSP isn't bricked.
[FIELDSET="Remark!"]If you are on 5.03 ChickHen R2, then run the program from the XMB![/FIELDSET]

[fieldset="Destination CFW (5.00/5.50)"]
  • To update to 5.00 M33-6:
    • Download 5.00 EBOOT.
    • Extract the archive, and rename the given EBOOT to exactly "500.PBP" without the quotes.
    • Copy the renamed EBOOT to the root of your memory stick.
    • Run the application from XMB->Game Menu.
    • The program will identify your PSP. When you enter the menu, make sure that "Target FW: X.XX" is placed to 5.00.
    • Press the second option which is "Install CFW (of version selected above)".
    • Now, it will ask you to reset/not reset settings while the CFW is being installed. Of course, reset them.

  • To update to 5.50 GEN-D3:
    • Download 5.50 EBOOT.
    • Extract the archive, and rename the given EBOOT to exactly "550.PBP" without the quotes.
    • Copy the renamed EBOOT to the root of your memory stick.
    • The update for 5.50 GEN-D3 is included in the Hellcat pack. Check the download again and you'll see a folder named "FW-Packs".
    • Extract the packs to any location on desktop.
    • You'll see different Packs (6.20 OFW & 5.50 GEN-D3). One for PSP-1000 and one for PSP-2000. Of course, choose the 5.50 GEN-D3 one that fits the type of your PSP, and copy it to the root of the memory stick.
    • Run the application from XMB->Game Menu.
    • The program will identify your PSP. It will enter the menu. On the first option, where you can select the (C)FW version to be installed, press "X" until it reads "load from external FW pack".
    • Press the second option which is "Install CFW selected above".
    • From the now shown list, choose the Firmware Pack that you want
      to install.
[/fieldset]

The updater is now running, and you just have to wait. When the installer finishes, you are prompted to press any button to reset the PSP. You will notice that the power led is blinking. DON'T freak out. That is normal. Power up the PSP after it shuts down. Enjoy. :)

For Bricked/OFW/to Downgrade/Upgrade PSP Users (Hackable Mother Boards VIA Pandora)

The first thing you need to consider for un-bricking your PSP in this case is to have Pandora battery. What is a Pandora battery? Is it safe? How can I make a Pandora battery, or acquire one?

- A Pandora Battery is kind of like homebrew but inside that battery which allows for you to either Downgrade/upgrade any PSP or unbrick a bricked PSP.

- Pandora is 100% safe as long as you follow all directions.

- There is two ways to make a Pandora battery : softmod and hardmod. Softmod requires the user to have a CFW PSP, or a PSP running HEN. Hardmod doesn't require a PSP. It just requires directions and patience. However, softmodding a battery is better than hardmodding one, since a hardmodded battery can't be converted back to a normal battery when finished installing CFW on the PSP.
[fieldset="REMARK"]Any PSP user whether it is an OFW or CFW can now create a Pandora battery. That is because of the recent Sony encryption codes such that devs can sign their applications. The process is explained later in the guide.[/fieldset]

- You can acquire a Pandora battery by either softmodding/hardmodding your own battery,or by ordering/borrowing from specific places/websites such as this, this, and many others.

To softmod your battery you need:

1 - A PSP which has any FW installed be it CFW/HEN/OFW.

2 - A PSP battery. Here are the batteries compatible/uncompatible :

Compatible :
  • Sony "standard" Li-ion 1800 mAh.
  • Sony PSP-280 2200mAh.
  • Datel, PSP Battery 3600 mAh (X2).
  • Datel, PSP Battery 1800 Max Power.
  • Datel, PSP Battery GO MAX (Model # GM1000, uses AAA batteries).
  • Slim 3.6v 1200mAh batteries.
Incompatible:
  • 3.6v 3600 mAh Battery Pack (Silver letters) (Model PSP-360) (Fake).
  • 2600 mAh Mega Battery Pack (Fake).
  • Atomic Battery Pack 3.6V 1800mAh.
  • Sony PSP-280 2200mAh (Fake).
  • Sony PSP Bloc-Battery pack 3.6v 1800 mAh .
  • Battery 3600mAh, unknown brand, (china made model NK-RH008) (Fake).
  • Battery Pack, unknown brand, (lithium) 3.6v 3600 mAH (Fake).
  • Intec 1800 mAh Li-ion.
  • Intec 2200 mAh.
  • UltraLast e-Boost 3.7v 2200mAh Li-PO battery.

untitled.jpg

3 - Hellcat's Pandora Installer revision 4 to convert your battery safely.

To convert your normal battery into a Pandora battery:

1 - Extract the Pandora Installer Revision 4 you downloaded to your desktop.

2 - Enter the extracted folder and copy 'pan3xx' to X:/PSP/GAME on your memory stick.

3 - Launch it via the game menu in XMB.

4 - The credit screen will appear. just press "OK" or "Do not show this again" to proceed.

5 - Scroll down to "Battery options" and choose "dump batter serial to file". (To maintain the original serial of your battery when you want to reconvert it to a normal battery again). Note: when you want to convert your battery to a normal one again, choose "set battery serial file".

6 - Then, choose "make battery Pandora".

7 - When done, exit the application.
******************************

I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGES​

To hardmod a normal battery you need :

1 - A Pandora compatible battery from the list above.

2 - sharp/thin plastic. You can get that from a plastic CD case. Just break it and use the pieces.

Instruction for FAT PSP BATTERIES only!

1 - Lift and handle the sharp piece of plastic. Start at the seen around the edge of the battery. Once you get the tool your using started into the battery work your way around the edge, you will here plastic snapping as you do so, its normal. Once you get the battery open you will see this:



2 - The red circle is the section you need to pay attention to. It is a small chip with four prongs coming out of each end of it. On the main board, beside the chip, you will see ICO4. The pin under the number 4 is the pin that you need to remove.This is what it should look when you are over :



Instructions for SLIM PSP BATTERIES only!

1 - Lift and handle the sharp piece of plastic. Start at the seen around the edge of the battery. Once you get the tool your using started into the battery work your way around the edge, you will here plastic snapping as you do so, its normal. Once you get the battery open you will see this:



2 - Carefully fold the main board up so that you can see the side that is against the battery pack.

3 - You'll see a small black chip with four prongs coming out of each side. The will be ICO4 printed below the chip.

4 - Remove the pin on the top left.

I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGES DONE​

Since now you have a Pandora battery, we can move on to turn the memory stick into a magic memory stick to install CFW on the PSP. For this guide, we will use Rain's UltraLite MMS Maker for 5.00 M33-4.

What you need for this to work:

1 - A memory card compatible with the PSP fake/genuine. I prefer genuine in this kind of situation, but either way it works.

2 - Rain's UltraLite MMS Maker for 5.00 M33-4 which you can download from here.

3 - A memory card reader for the PC, or a friend's working PSP.

4 - 5.00 EBOOT

For the procedure :

rainsultralitemms500.jpg

1 - Download Rain's UltraLite MMS Maker for 5.00 M33-4 from the link supplied above, and run RainsUltraLiteMMS.exe. This application installs DDC 8.

2 - Download the 5.00 EBOOT, amd place it in the same folder as the program (Rain's UltraLite MMS Maker).

3 - Insert your memory stick in the card reader, or connect to the PC with a USB cable if you have another working PSP (that is if you have a bricked PSP, otherwise just use your PSP) with your memory stick inserted in it.

4 - Close any windows or other programs connected to the PSP.

5 - When you are ready, click "Make MMS"

6 - When its finished, safely remove your memory stick.

Using the MMS and the Pandora battery :

1 - Insert the MMS first into your PSP.

2 - Insert the Pandora battery, while holding the left trigger (L button). Then the application will guide you from there. For available options and extra guidance, check this thread.

When you finish downgrading/upgrading/reflashing your PSP, and you want to convert the battery,which was softmodded (NOT HARDMODDED), back to normal, continue reading.

To convert your Pandora battery into a normal battery:

1 - Extract the Pandora Installer Revision 4 you downloaded to your desktop.

2 - Remove the battery of the PSP and plugin the AC adapter.

3 - Power up the PSP, then place the battery back.

4 - Enter the extracted folder and copy 'pan3xx' to X:/PSP/GAME on your memory stick.

5 - Launch it via the game menu in XMB.

6 - The credit screen will appear. just press "OK" or "Do not show this again" to proceed.

7 - Scroll down to Battery option and choose "make battery normal".
[fieldset="Remark"]If you have the original serial of the battery dumped, then choose the option "set battery serial from file".[/fieldset]
8 - When done, exit the application.

How-To Install Custom Firmware Enablers on PSP-1000,2000,3000 (Un/Hackable Motherboards)

Before you continue to your desired sub-section, here is a list of stuff you need to know about:
  • This section has recently constituted of signed applications. After the discovery of the PSP encryption codes, devs can now sign their homebrew such that they can work on any OFW. Always use the signed applications and installers for fast activation of HEN/CFE.
  • That 5.03 GEN-C + Prom-4 is the best CFW to use on unhackable PSP's. It's best to use 5.03 GEN-C than 6.20 or 6.35. Those who have GEN-C currently wouldn't see improvements from upgrading to the new HEN.
  • 6.20 TN-C hen is better than 6.31/6.35 Pro, so unless the user has upgraded, 6.20 TN-Cis a better option.
  • 6.31 HEN is exactly the same as 6.35 HEN, and that the former is superior because Davee said he's gonna release a 6.31 > 6.20 downgrader.
  • Remember that all CFWs you see in this section are not permanent. They are tentative which means that whenever you fully shutdown your PSP, you have to go through the same process of reloading the CFE/HEN/HBL.

[fieldset="Signed Applications & Installers"]
- 5.03 HEN: Signed by VirtuousFlame, use it directly after upgrading to 5.03 OFW. No need to load the Tiff images.
- 6.20 TN-D: signed by Total-Noob, you can directly load this in XMB. No need for HBL too!
- 6.31 HEN v3: Use it directly without loading HBL
- 6.35 HEN v3: Use it directly after upgrading to 6.35 OFW. No need for HBL!
- 6.36 HEN v3: Signed by Virtuous Flame and Coldbird, enjoy.
[/fieldset]


Unsigned
[FIELDSET="For users aiming to use 5.03:"]What do you need:

4251155361_2995aba660.jpg

1 - PSP-1000, 2000, or 3000 (hackable motherboard or non-hackable motherboards).

2 - Signed HEN.

3 - 5.03 firmware.

4 - CFE 3.70 (latest) or 5.50 GEN-C (latest).

Upgrading to 5.03 OFW

[FIELDSET="Note"]If you have 5.03 firmware installed, then skip this section.[/FIELDSET]

1 - Download 5.03 OFW.

2 - Create a folder called UPDATE in PSP/GAME on your memory stick.

3 - Extract the archive, and Place the EBOOT.PBP in the UPDATE folder.

4 - Run the 5.03 Firmware update from the game menu in XMB.

5 - When the updater finishes, you will have 5.03 installed. The firmware required to run ChickHEN.

Booting to ChickHen R2
[fieldset="For PSP 2k,3k"]If you want to boot ChickHEN R2 on these kind of PSPs (2k,3k). I recommend you use this modded version of ChickHen. It is guaranteed to work in the first try.
P.S : The same steps apply with this one too.[/fieldset]

slim+jpg.jpg

- You can now run 5.03 HEN without using these tiresome steps. Just use the signed version and directly run it from the XMB!

*If you have a Japanese PSP, then I recommend you change the Character Set in System Configuration to US if you don't have it set to there yet.

1 - Download ChickHEN R2. Open the ChickHEN R2 archive. For slim users(psp-2000,3000): place the folder inside Slim with gif images into your PSP memory stick PICTURE folder (ms0:/PICTURE) (later it will be PICTURE/ChickHEN), for fat users(psp-100X): place the folder inside FAT with gif images into your PSP memory stick location PICTURE folder.

2 - Now place the h.bin into the root of your memory stick pro duo. Where the folders PSP, MUSIC etc are located.

3 - Go back into settings in your psp and turn off UMD Auto-Start and UMD Cache.

4 - Place the memory stick into the PSP, and navigate to your photos folder, and enter the ChickHen folder. Wait, you will see five egg giff images, these will start to load thumbnails. Your PSP may freeze and reset. Just keep retrying and ChickHEN R2 will load up&.But if you see flashing colors, your PSP will reboot loading the ChickHen.
1 - It is quite simple, just download this signed HEN and launch it from the XMB. :)

Now you can only play homebrew games, but for the real fun continue following the guide to install custom firmware on your psp!

[FIELDSET="WARNING"]If you installed the two CFWs GEN and CFE on the same PSP without installing one of them first, you won't be able to play PSX games. Except if you have a hackable mobo VIA Pandora.​
  • If you have a fat psp, then I recommend to install 5.00m33-6 directly (CFE and GEN won't work on PSP fat) using a pandora battery rather than going in all of these procedures. If you don't have a Pandora battery, then use the section of "How to Reflash/update/downgrade Firmware (Semi-Bricked/1.50 PSP Users See Here)" for installing it via Hellcat's Recovery flasher on 5.03 HEN!
[/FIELDSET]

How to install 5.03 GEN-C
[FIELDSET="Remark!"]You don't have to be on 5.03 GEN-A/B to update to 5.03 GEN-C.[/FIELDSET]

1 - Download 5.03 GEN-C[/COLOR] for ChickHen R2.

2 - Extract the ZIP, and drag the "GEN-C" folder to PSP/GAME folder on memory stick.

3 - Run the updater VIA XMB->Game Menu.

4 - When the process finishes, press X. The PSP will reboot.

[fieldset="Prometheus Update *Will always be updated when new version is released*"]
What is it?
5.03 Prometheus is a handy tool based on CFW 5.03 GEN-C that allows PSP-2000 TA088v3 (2000v3) and PSP-3000 users to launched all the latest titles that requires firmware 6.20+ without the need of any plug-ins.

1 - Download 5.03 Prometheus-4.
2 - Extract Prometheus 5.03 to ms0:/PSP/GAME.
3 - Start the installer, press X to install.[/fieldset]

You are now in the world of custom firmware. :)


How to install CFE 3.70 MHU

[FIELDSET="Note"]If you are on 5.03 GEN-A, and want to install CFE 3.70 or vice versa, check the section after this one.[/FIELDSET]

1 - Download Custom Firmware enabler v3.70[/COLOR] A.K.A 3.70 MHU A.K.A 5.00 M33-6 for unhackable PSPs VIA Pandora.

2 - Extract the archive and prepare the folder "CFWEnabler" to be copied (it is located in PSP/GAME after the archive is extracted).

3 - Connect your PSP to the computer, and copy CFWEnabler folder to PSP/GAME.

4 - Run the updater from game menu in XMB.

5 - Click on the first option and accept.

[FIELDSET="Note"]After the first time you install CFE, don't install it again. If your PSP crashes or shutsdown due to any reason, just launch the updater and don't press anything. It will automatically reboot your PSP to CFE.[/FIELDSET]

Uninstalling GEN-C then installing CFE or vice versa:

[FIELDSET="Note"]You need the latest version of CFE to uninstall CFE or GEN-A. GEN-A installer doesn't have an option to uninstall CFW files in flash0, so we will use CFE 3.70 here.[/FIELDSET]

1 - Download CFE 3.70.

2 - Extract the archive and prepare the folder "CFWEnabler" to be copied (it is located in PSP/GAME after the archive is extracted).

3 - Connect your PSP to the computer, copy CFWEnabler folder to PSP/GAME.
[fieldset="Rermark"]If you have CFE/GEN already running, you can't uninstall it. You have to fully shutdown the PSP, then reboot to ChickHEN R2 ONLY. After shutting it down completlely, powering it up, and running ChickHEN, follow the second step.[/fieldset]
4 - Launch the app in XMB while holding the R trigger. That will go to the menu which has the uninstall option.

5 - When you finish, choose if you want to update to CFE 3.70 or GEN-A. After you finish, follow the 5.03 GEN-c section if you want to install GEN firmware, or follow the CFE 3.70 section if you install it.

[FIELDSET="Remarks!"]
  • These kinds of CFW are not permanent. If you shutdown the psp, the psp will not load the custom firmware again. You need to reload ChickHen R2, then reload your CFW.
  • Because of that, I recommend just using the standby mode.
  • When you have installed the custom firmware in your flash, you can remove the "files" folder in the MS ROOT.For your own safety, it is better to rename or erase the prx called "flasher.prx" in the MAIN APP folder to avoid wrong flashing times.

  • Don't ever flash an irrelevant firmware to your psp-2000,3000 (flash0) (unhackable motherboards). This will result in a permanent brick that can't be fixed until a new way of installing CFW is found for unhackable PSPs.
[/FIELDSET][/FIELDSET]

[FIELDSET="For users aiming to use 6.20"]
Upgrading to 6.20 OFW
[FIELDSET="Note"]If you have 6.20 firmware installed, then skip this section.[/FIELDSET]

1 - Download from this link if you have a PSP-1k/2k/3k, or from this link if you have a PSP Go.

2 - Create a folder called UPDATE in PSP/GAME on your memory stick.

3 - Extract the archive, and Place the EBOOT.PBP in the UPDATE folder.

4 - Run the 6.20 Firmware update from the game menu in XMB.

5 - When the updater finishes, you will have 6.20 installed. The firmware required to run HBL on the Patapon 2 exploit.

Launching HBL & 6.20 TN-B

44345163.jpg

[FIELDSET="Note"]Before you continue:

- You can use the signed TN-D that doesn't require HBL.
- If you still want to do this harder process, you can get all of the stuff you need to download from this link. Such that you don't need to download them one by one.[/FIELDSET]
1 - Download the Patapon 2 demo, then place it in the PSP/GAME folder.

2 - Download HBL, and extract the HBL folder to the root of the memory stick including the h.bin file.

3 - Download the modified SAVEDATA. Then, extract save folder and place it in the PSP/SAVEDATA folder.

4 - Download 6.20 TN-B

5 - Run Patapon without creating new savedata when it ask for it.

6 - Click on continue and load the modified savedata you placed earlier.

7 - When asked for it by patapon, click on any button to continue, then press the R trigger.

8 - A menu should now be presented. Launch the HEN and the HBL should load it. It will return to the XMB.
[FIELDSET="Note"]A message saying Warning, memory leak! might appear, this is normal, and wont prevent the Hen from running.[/FIELDSET]

9 - Once youre in the XMB, press select to make sure the TN Hen menu displays correctly.
1 - Just download 6.20 TN-D from this link.
2 - Extract its contents and place the installer in PSP/GAME.
3 - Launch the installer then install.

If you want to identify your PSP, use PSPident 0.73.

Making 6.20 TN-D Permanent!

1 - Download the 6.20 TN permanent patch.

2 - Connect the PSP with the PC and copy the "620_TN_D_Permanent_patch" folder (after extracting the downloaded file) to "PSP/Game" folder of the PSP.

3 - On the main screen of the PSP, press "SELECT" to bring up the VSH menu and disable the PROTECT FLASH0 option.

4 - After that, just run the patch from the XMB

5 - In the next screen, press the X button once to start the patch. After that, the patch prompts you with a choice. Press X again to make a fake(test) installation to see if it is safe to install or O to really install the patch.

Using Prometheus Loader to load ISOs on 6.20 TN-C
[FIELDSET="Remark!"]As you all know, TN mainly created his Homebrew enabler for the sole purpose of Homebrew joy. However, you will always have that part of the PSP scene that heads for piracy. Nonetheless, here are the tools for ISO loading.[/FIELDSET]

1 - Promethus ISO loader work for all PSPs.
2 - OpenIdea ISO loader for all PSP except PSP Go.
3 - OpenIdea ISO loader for ONLY PSP Go.

For both ISO loaders, you need TN-C to be already launched.

Instructions for Prometheus loader:

1 - Create an folder named "ISO" at the root of your memory stick/internal storage if you have a Go. Place games in it if you want.
2 - Place the ISO loader in PSP/GAME folder.
3 - Launch the loader from XMB.

Instructions for OpenIdea loader:

1 - Copy your ISO/CSO games in ms0:/ISO/.
2 - Extract content of this archive in ms0:/PSP/SYSTEM/OIP/.
3 - Add "ms0:/PSP/SYSTEM/OIP/isoctrl.prx 1" to ms0:/SEPLUGINS/vsh.txt.
4 - Disable CXMB and Game Categories if there are any.
5 - Reset the PSP using the VSH Menu.

How to Downgrade with 6.20 TN-D

[FIELDSET="Note"]This guide is done by my fellow moderator nickxab. Major preps for him! :)[/FIELDSET]

***Remark - You can now downgrade via Hellcat's Recovery Flasher on only PSPs that are capable of permanent CFW (all PSPs except the PSP-3k, the TA-88v3 motherboard for the PSP-2k, and the PSP Go).

First of all use it at your own risk.
Don't blame for any brick or something like this.

1 - Start 6.20 TN-D (if you haven't already).

2 - Find and download the following files:
  • PSARDumper
  • Any OFW (EBOOT.PBP) Update. See Firmware packages from this site.
Check this Spoiler to see if your PSP is compatible with downgrading:
PSP 100X with 01G Module:
- Downgrading to OFW 1.50 and above Possible

PSP 200X with TA88-V2 and lower:
- Downgrading to OFW 2.60 and above Possible

PSP 200X with TA88-V3:
- Downgrading to OFW 4.20 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 4.21 Possible
- Downgrading to OFW 5.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.01 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.02 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.03 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.51 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.10 Possible.

PSP 300X with 03G Module:
- Downgrading to OFW 4.20 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 4.21 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 5.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.01 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.02 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.03 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.51 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.10 Possible.

PSP 300X with 04G Module:
- Downgrading to OFW 4.20 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 4.21 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 5.00 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.01 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.02 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.03 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.51 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.10 Possible.

PSP GO with 05G Module:
- Downgrading to OFW 4.20 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 4.21 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 5.00 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.01 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.02 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.03 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.51 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.00 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.10 Possible.

SOURCE
. It's recommended to use PSPIdent to identify before attempting to downgrade.

3 - Place PSARDumper in the PSP/GAME folder like you would any other homebrew and copy the OFW EBOOT.PBP to the root of your memory stick.

4 - Start PSARDumper and dump the FW EBOOT.PBP.

5 - After the program finishes, connect the USB cable to your PSP and navigate to the folder F0, which should now be at the root of your memory stick.

6 - Copy /F0/vsh/etc/version.txt to /seplugins/version.txt

7 - Go back to your PSP XMB and press select to bring up the VSH menu. Go to Fake Index.dat and change it to enabled. Next, select restart vsh

8 - Copy the OFW EBOOT.PBP to PSP/GAME/UPDATE/EBOOT.PBP

9 - On your PSP start the OFW installation as you would any other firmware update

10 - After it finishes, the PSP will restart and a blue screen will appear saying that the PSP settings are invalid. Press circle and the PSP will restore default settings and restart. You now have OFW installed.
[/FIELDSET]

[FIELDSET="For users aiming to use 6.35/6.36"]
Upgrading to 6.35 OFW
[FIELDSET="Note"]- If you have 6.35 firmware installed, then skip this section.
- 6.36 OFW comes with the Monster Hunter 3rd UMD, so I won't add guidelines for upgrading to 6.36.[/FIELDSET]

1 - Download from this link if you have a PSP-1k/2k/3k, or from this link if you have a PSP Go.

2 - Create a folder called UPDATE in PSP/GAME on your memory stick.

3 - Extract the archive, and Place the EBOOT.PBP in the UPDATE folder.

4 - Run the 6.35 Firmware update from the game menu in XMB.

Launching HBL & 6.35 pro/6.36 HEN

1 - Download the exploitable Minna no Sukkiri game. Extract it and you should see a folder named "NPJG90047" which is the actual game. Copy that folder to the PSP/GAME folder. You will also see "UCJS10094.zip". Copy the folder in that archive into PSP/SAVEDATA folder. This is the modified savedata.

2 - Download the R112 HBL rev for Sukkiri demo. Copy the files from this archive to the root of your memory stick.
You should end up with a h.bin file and an HBL folder at the root of your memory stick.

3 - Here is the 6.35 HEN and here is the 6.36 HEN. Just extract it to PSP/GAME. You should now have PSP/GAME/HEN6_35 folder available.

4 - Launch the sukkiri demo from the PSP. On the first menu, directly press the O button. It will load the modified savedata, and the HBL menu will be presented.

5 - Select "HEN", and the PSP will boot into 6.35 pro or 6.36 HEN based on what FW/HEN you used.
1 - Just download the latest signed 6.35 PRO-B4.
2 - Extract the installer in the PSP/GAME then launch it from the PSP main screen.

If you want to identify your PSP, use PSPident 0.73.

Using Prometheus Loader to load ISOs on 6.35 pro/6.36 HEN

- Promethus ISO loader works for all PSPs.

You need to have 6.35 pro/6.36 HEN already launched.

Instructions for Prometheus loader:

1 - Create an folder named "ISO" at the root of your memory stick/internal storage if you have a Go. Place games in it if you want.
2 - Place the ISO loader in PSP/GAME folder.
3 - Launch the loader from XMB.
[/FIELDSET]

[FIELDSET="How to convert your battery into a Pandora one by using any OFW/CFW/HEN"]
This is very easy. Install Hellcat's Pandora Installer. After that, follow the steps found in the section "For Bricked/OFW/to Downgrade/Upgrade PSP Users (Hackable Mother Boards VIA Pandora)" only related to converting your battery into Pandora using Hellcat's Pandora installer.
[/FIELDSET]
[FIELDSET="For users aiming to use 6.37 only for PSP-2k (non-TA088v3):"]

To update to 6.37 ME-8 you need to be on a CFW ex: 5.00 M33-6/6.20 TN-D/etc...
1 - Download 6.37 ME v8.
2 - Download the 6.37 OFW here.
3 - Copy UPDATE folder (from 6.37 ME v8) at ms0:/PSP/GAME/.
4 - Put 6.37 official update at ms0:/PSP/GAME/UPDATE/638.PBP .
5 - Run installer from xmb.
[/FIELDSET]
[FIELDSET="For users aiming to use 6.38 only for PSP-2k (non-TA088v3)/PSP-1k:"]
To update to 6.38 ME v2 you need to be on a CFW/HEN ex: 5.00 M33-6/6.20 TN-D/etc...

1 - Download 6.38 ME v2.
2 - Download the 6.38 OFW here.
3 - Copy UPDATE folder (from 6.38 ME v2) at ms0:/PSP/GAME/.
4 - Put 6.38 official update at ms0:/PSP/GAME/UPDATE/638.PBP .
5 - Run installer from xmb.
[/FIELDSET]
[FIELDSET="For users aiming to use 6.39:"]
Here is the download for the 6.39 OFW. It is recommended before installing any CFW.

1 - 6.39 TN-A:

1 - Download 6.39 TN-A.
2 - Extract it to any folder in computer (prefer the desktop).
3 - Access the extracted folders until you see "TN-HEN".
4 - Extract that folder to the "PSP/GAME" folder in your memory stick
5 - Install the HEN and have fun

2 - 6.39ME-5:

1 - Download 6.39ME-5.
2 - Extract it to desktop.
3 - Access the extracted folder and copy both the "installer" and "launcher to the memory stick.
4 - Launch "639 installer" from XMB.
5 - You'll be represented by a meny. Press X to install the CFW.
6 - It will return to the XMB. After that, launch "639 launcher" from XMB. Enjoy.

3 - 6.39 PRO-B6:

1 - Download from here.
2 - Extract the folders into desktop.
3 - Move both folders "FastRecovery" and "PROUPDATE" to "PSP/GAME" in your memory stick.
4 - Launch the update from the XMB (not the recovery)!
5 - Install the CFW and enjoy.
*If you ever lose the CFW 'cause of a full shutdown, use fast recovery to restore yet.
[/FIELDSET]


Credits:
  • Dark_Alex for all his great work on scene since 4 years.
  • Davee for his great chickHEN R2.
  • Virtuous Flame & Coldbird for their 6.35 HEN.
  • Total_Noob for his 6.20 TN-C.
  • P1220DRS from an another forums for writing the hardmodding part.
  • RainMotorsports for his great app (Rains Ulralite MMS for 5.00 M33-4).
  • Hellcat for his great app (Hellcat's Recovery Flasher v 1.65).
  • Skorpian & nickxab for support.
  • You for your patience and for just reading my tutorial. :)
History:
  • 08-13-2009, 09:41 PM - Made the guide.
  • 09-14-2009, 06:12 PM - Added 5.00 M33-6 and 5.50 GEN-B2 update section.
  • 10-02-2009, 09:41 PM - Added new method to update to 5.50 GEN-B2 from any CFW.
  • 10-12-2009, 05:33 PM - Reorganized/edited the guide.
  • 10-19-2009, 05:11 PM - Changed XGEN UPDATER link to update to 5.50 GEN-C from any CFW.
  • 10-22-2009, 04:58 PM - Changed XGEN UPDATER link to update to 5.50 GEN-D from any CFW.
  • 10-22-2009, 08:29 PM - Added section "How to Change Despertar del Cementerio 8 into XGEN Pandora".
  • 11-07-2009, 12:02 PM - Added "How to convert softmodded Pandora battery to normal battery".
  • 12-16-2009, 03:19 PM - Added XGEN Updater V5 to update to latest CFW (5.50 GEN-D3) and modified posts.
  • 12-18-2009, 12:09 AM - Added 5.50 GEN-D3 Final update to all links.
  • 12-20-2009, 12:33 AM - Modified and edited sections.
  • 01-22-2010, 05:58 PM - Modified titles.
  • 03-17-2010, 09:06 PM - Added notes.
  • 05-15-2010, 08:13 PM - Edited titles, added notes, and heavily changed HC section.
  • 06-26-2010, 11:01 PM - Added Prometheus installation.
  • 06-08-2010, 06:07 PM - Added Comparison table (5.00 M33-6 VS 5.50 GEN-D3).
  • 08-09-2010, 02:01 AM - Added Prometheus-2.
  • 11-08-2010, 09:34 PM - Added Prometheus-3.
  • 11-18-2010, 03:38 PM - Added Prometheus-3 v4.
  • 12-07-2010, 10:04 PM - Added Prometheus-4 (Latest Patch).
  • 01-05-2011, 09:26 PM - Added the latest 6.20 TN-B, 6.35 pro, all latest HBLs, and extra modifications for the guide.
  • 01-18-2011, 10:48 PM - Added latest signed GEN/CFE installers.
  • 01-25-2011, 08:48 AM - Added 6.20 TN-C and some modifications and additions.
  • 04-16-2011, 06:03 PM - Did more organizations and added the latest CFWs/CFEs.
  • 04-20-2011, 05:51 PM - Added 6.38 ME-2.
  • 12-06-2011, 09:57 AM - Added 6.39 ME-5, 6.39 TN-A HEN, and 6.39 PRO-B6.
 

KezraPlanes

Just some dood
Holy crap awesome guide.
 

EvilSeph

Administrator
Uh whoops, I accidentally banned you from this thread instead of giving you +rep. Excellent guide, thank you very much for posting it. Did you write it all yourself? Just curious.
 

elite

Oldie moldie
Yeah and you're welcome.

Did you write it all yourself? Just curious.
Yeah, if somebody shared writing it, I would have of course placed his name on the top of the list.

I have other guides to contribute here. Stay tuned. :)
 

Seth

MD Party Room
Very welcome guide, something that definably need updating from the old guides. I had no idea about the XGEN Pandora or what a pain it is it update 5.50 GEN-D2 ( The old way). If I recall M33 let you use the psp in built update system to update to the newest M33 why the hell doesn't GEN do the same thing.
 

elite

Oldie moldie
Very welcome guide, something that definably need updating from the old guides. I had no idea about the XGEN Pandora or what a pain it is it update 5.50 GEN-D2 ( The old way)
Yeah, but I ran into some problems(certain PSPs) that require you to manually update.
 

elite

Oldie moldie
JPGBX, they are already placed in the full brick PSP section.
 

elite

Oldie moldie
No. PSP-3k can't create Pandora batteries (>TA-90V1).

Thanks nick. :)
 

AR3S

G0d of W@R
hmm... I am having trouble updateing to 5.50 gen-d3. I have a psp phat. I first tried to update from 5.50 gen-d2. After running the installer and checking my psp fw in the system settings, it says 5.50 gen (full) rather than 5.50 gen d-3. After running the update again on 5.50 gen d(full), it stays at 5.50 gen d (full) How do I get it to go to 5.50 gen-d3.
 

elite

Oldie moldie
That is normal. It is displayed as 5.50 GEN D (full) on my PSP too. The weird thing is that it displays GEN-D3 on Slim PSPs but not original ones. Might be a bug in the CFW. But the functions of the CFW are still there.
 

AR3S

G0d of W@R
alright... good...
I thought I was going crazy:p
That is a strange because the gen-d2 showed up as gen-d2:confused:
 

Frozty

New Member
dcv8 to xgen didn't work i prepared dcv8 with rain's mms installer,then used the xgen updater to patch dcv8,reboot hold l but nothin.
 

elite

Oldie moldie
JPGBX, try it with the DDC 8 installer. It might be because of rain's MMS Installer. I will modify the guide if the DDC 8 installer + XGEN Pandora worked.

---------- Post added 12-18-2009 at 01:28 AM ---------- Previous post was 12-17-2009 at 07:10 PM ----------

Guide updated once again for 5.50 GEN-D3 Final.
 
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