November 17th, 2006
PlayStation 3 doesn't do 1080i
Do you own an older CRT HD TV set that only supports 480i, 480p, and 1080i? If you do, Sony's new PlayStation 3 has a surprise for you - it doesn't do 1080i.
What this means is that the image is downscaled from 720p to 480p instead of being upscaled to 1080i. This problem specifically affects games designed for 720p but not 1080i, for example Resistance: Fall of Man, NHL 2K7, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07, and Need for Speed Carbon. This upscaling is something that Microsoft's Xbox 360 can handle without a problem (although it can have a problem with 1080i).
Loading ...There's no word from Sony yet as to whether this is a problem that can be fixed via an update or whether it's a true technical limitation, so some early adopters could be in for a nasty (and possibly expensive) surprise. If your HD TV doesn't support 1080p and you're not in the mood to buy one that does, then you might be better off waiting a little while and seeing how this one plays out.
Sony really, really, want you to buy games for your PS3 - and lots of them!As an aside, it's also interesting to note how much Sony is subsidizing the PS3. It turns out that they are losing $307 for every 20GB PS3 and $241 for every 60GB PS3, and that's before before marketing and distribution costs. Compare this to the Xbox, where initially Microsoft was losing $153 per unit a year ago but who are now making $75.70 on each one sold. When it comes to the Wii, Nintendo is making a profit from the outset. What does this tell you? That Sony really, really, want you to buy games for your PS3 - and lots of them!
So, if you're buying a PS3 any time soon, and it feels like a lot of money, just remember that Sony is feeling your pain too.
Adrian is a technology journalist and author who has devoted over a decade to helping users get the most from technology. He also runs a popular blog called The PC Doctor. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations
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| 11/17/06
