Modder Transforms PlayStation 4 Slim into Portable Handheld Console

A YouTuber known as Restore Technique recently unveiled his personal venture into the world of PlayStation modding with a remarkable 27-minute video. This piece shows off his impressive skill in crafting a PlayStation 4 handheld. Using a custom-designed 3D-printed casing, unique PCBs, a 7-inch screen, and the core of a PlayStation 4 Slim console motherboard, he managed to bring a truly portable PlayStation 4 to life. At dimensions of 249 x 156 x 49.2mm and weighing in at 1.7 Kg, some enthusiasts might argue that this creation stands head and shoulders above the streaming-focused PlayStation Portal as a worthy successor to the PlayStation Vita.

In the accompanying visuals, a concept illustration is showcased, offering a rough breakdown of the components required for the project. Another image captures the assembled device complete with a battery indicator, and other photos demonstrate the handheld playing popular games like Rocket League and Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes, using either battery or wall power.

In his video, Restore Technique delves into the factors that set his Portable PlayStation 4 apart from other handheld console mods. Unlike the more frequently modded Nintendo systems, such as the GameCube or Wii, this project utilizes the PlayStation 4, a more powerful console that can still run a variety of games. This makes his endeavor more ambitious, though the PlayStation 4 Slim’s modified power-efficient design certainly contributed to achieving the necessary balance of heat and power for this revolutionary device.

Taking a careful approach, Restore Technique opted for a PlayStation 4 model that consumes less power, featuring a smaller PCB. Using top-tier soldering gear, he removed ports and components and employed a Dremel rotary tool to trim down the aluminum heat spreader covering various motherboard elements. To address potential overheating, he added a fan controller to boost the fan speed beyond its original capacity.

Crafting the handheld involved integrating a DualShock controller, with numerous wires skillfully redirected to fit the new setup. A custom-made 3S2P LiPo 12V 10,000 mAh battery pack powers the device, equipped with an upgraded 10 Amp DC power jack for simultaneous charging and playing. To manage the voltage, he incorporated DC buck converters for the 12V and 5V rails, ensuring compatibility with the screen’s lower requirements.

In gameplay footage shared in the video, Restore Technique demonstrates the handheld’s capabilities by playing The Last of Us for 86 minutes—highlighting that longer play sessions are best conducted with the charger. A word of caution, though: the battery’s power output is so high that it would likely be prohibited on most airlines.

The project didn’t come without challenges. As detailed in the video, Restore Technique tackled initial thermal and power issues that caused graphical glitches and slowdowns. After enhancing the controller frames and improving internal electric shielding and heat dissipation, the PS4T finally delivered stable performance without any graphical hitches.

This initiative not only highlights exceptional electronic, 3D printing, and soldering skills, but also embodies the DIY spirit of learning from experimentation and mistakes. It’s a fascinating journey for those who love the art of making, and definitely a project worth following.