PlayStation Hardware
Sony's gaming revolution
The original PlayStation's hardware combined a 32-bit MIPS CPU with custom graphics processing, enabling 3D gaming that transformed the industry.
Overview
Sony’s PlayStation launched with hardware designed specifically for 3D polygon gaming. The 33MHz MIPS R3000 CPU worked alongside custom graphics and sound processors. Geometry transformation happened in the GPU; the SPU handled audio. The architecture prioritised what 3D games needed: polygon throughput, texture mapping, and CD-ROM access.
Fast facts
- CPU: MIPS R3000A at 33.8688MHz.
- GPU: custom Sony graphics chip.
- RAM: 2MB main, 1MB video.
- Sound: 24-channel SPU, 512KB audio RAM.
- Media: CD-ROM (2x speed).
- Polygon capability: 360,000 polygons/sec (theoretical).
Graphics architecture
PlayStation’s rendering approach:
- Geometry engine (GTE): coprocessor for 3D maths.
- GPU: texture mapping, Gouraud shading.
- No texture filtering: characteristic “warping” effect.
- VRAM: frame buffer and texture storage.
Audio system
Sound Processing Unit:
- Channels: 24 voices.
- Sample playback: ADPCM compressed.
- Effects: reverb, echo.
- CD audio: direct playback capability.