Sony PlayStation PocketStation

Console Information

On 8th October 1998, Sony announced the December 23rd release of the PlayStation PocketStation in Japan. The PocketStation is a mini Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) which can be used as an add-on for the Sony PlayStation for saving game data (up to 15 blocks - just like any other memory card) or it can be used to play mini games on its own by using data downloaded from the CD-ROM via the memory card. Data downloaded from games can be altered within the PocketStation, then uploaded back onto the PlayStation to be used in the compatible games.

It is much like the Sega Dreamcast VMU (released earlier) but has a 32-bit RISC processor and infrared capabilities as well as a clock and calendar. The screen is black and white LCD and the system runs on a CR 2032 lithium battery (like a watch battery). PocketStation did well mostly in Japan but experienced some success in other parts of the world.

Sony PlayStation PocketStation Technical Specifications

• CPU: 32-bit ARM7T RISC Processor running at approximately 33 KHz
• SRAM: 2K bytes
• Flash RAM: 128K bytes
• Display: 32 x 32 dot monochrome LCD
• Sound: 8-bit PCM with 12-bit range, Miniature speaker

• Infrared communication: Bi-directional (supports IrDA based and conventional remote control systems)

• Power: CR 2032 Lithium battery

• Dimensions: 64 mm (2.52 inches) long x 42 mm (1.65 inches) wide x 13.5 mm (0.53 inches) high

• Weight: Approximately 30g (1.06 ounces)

• Built-in calendar/clock