For a long time I was hesitant about getting into on-line gaming - especially after all the reviews thrashing the games.Finally a relation bought me the adapter as they know I had broadband.
Installation - easy - just follow the steps and warnings
Registration - moderate - found the controls a little awkward at first - had to get used to it.
Wait for Registration ID - longest ever.... 1 to 2 wks
Activation - small difficulties - it tried to reinstall when I went back in - but this may have been due to me choosing wrong option.
Do not think that once you plug this in you will be playing immediately - you have to wait for the activation number to arrive by post. But once it arrives - it is fantastic.
Gaming will never be the same again.
My first few games had me sitting in front of the TV giggling like a madman while I tried to kill as many others as possible.
Would definitely recommend this to all gamers; ignore the bad press - there are some great games out there.
Deathmatch mode has been my favourite on Call of Duty.
But I am now getting into Capture the Flag - takes a little getting used to working with other gamers but very enjoyable.
This is so good (although I do believe we have been conned a bit, this should have been included within the PS2 system.). I would like to comment on the post by “discoenergy” (if this is not posted on the site I would like a copy to be sent to discoenergy if possible (this may help him a bit). I am pleased to inform you that the PS2 network adapter does accept wireless connections (I would also suggest to never ever go to Dixons for advice).
Wireless connection is pretty easy really (although it does help to know a little about computers). It is not as easy as plug in the network adapter stick a few wires here and there and hey presto, oh know, for this job you need to be wired! (Pun intended!) Oh yeah for this you need equipment. I will explain how to connect your PS2 using a wireless router connection.If you want to connect your PS2 and your computer to the Internet at the same time, or add your PS2 to your existing wireless home network - here's how to do it.
A wireless Router Connection is essentially the same as a standard, wired Router Connection, except without the clutter of cables everywhere. As with a Router Connection it allows you to share your Internet connection between your PC and your PlayStation 2, and allows you to play network games even when the computer is switched off (as the router effectively does the job of a computer for you).
Equipment required
PlayStation 2
Memory Card (8Mb)
Network Adaptor (Ethernet)
Network Access Disc
Two (2) network cables (as recommended by your modem's manufacturer)
Ethernet-based cable or ADSL modem
Wireless router with base station (access point) functions
Ethernet to wireless bridge adapter
Computer with wireless network card installed
Instead of a standard router and Ethernet-based cable or ADSL modem, you may own a combined router/modem, which incorporates the hardware and functionality of a router and an Ethernet modem in one box. If this is the case, then you should use a wireless Direct Connection.
Note: Before beginning set-up, configure your wireless bridge according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Quick Set-up
Turn off your PlayStation 2, cable/ADSL modem, and wireless router. Plug the first network cable into a free out port on your cable or ADSL modem. Plug the other end of the same cable into a free in port on your wireless router. Plug the second network cable into your PlayStation 2's Network Adaptor out port. Plug the other end of the second cable into the Ethernet to wireless bridge adapter. Switch on your cable or ADSL modem, your wireless router and then your computer. Check that your computer can access the Internet via your router. Turn on your PlayStation 2, insert the Network Access Disc and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step-by-Step Set-up
1.Turn off the PlayStation 2, cable or ADSL modem and wireless router (base station). (If there's no power button on your cable or ADSL modem then disconnect it from its power source.)
2.Take the first of your network cables, and locate a free out port on your cable or ADSL modem. (The port will probably say 'LAN' or have a number above or near it. If you can't find an 'out' port, check your modem's manual.) Push - but do not force - the network cable all the way into your cable or ADSL modem's out port until you hear a small click. The cable is then connected.
3. Take the other end of the first network cable, and locate a free 'in' port on your wireless router. (The port will probably say 'in' above or near it.) Again, push - but do not force - the network cable all the way into your router's in port, until you hear a small click.
4.Take your second network cable and push it all the way into the PlayStation 2's Network Adaptor Network port until you hear a small click.
5.Take the other end of the same network cable and connect it as previously described to the Ethernet to wireless bridge adapter.
6.Switch on your cable or ADSL modem, then your wireless router, then your computer (in that order).
7.Check that your computer can access the Internet through the wireless router. You may need to configure the wireless router using the manufacturer's instructions.
8.If your router is able to access the Internet, turn on your PlayStation 2 and insert the Network Access Disc.
9.Follow the on-screen instructions on how to install, and configure, your PlayStation 2 Network Adaptor.
If the PlayStation 2 Network Access Disc menu appears on your TV, congratulations! You're well on your way to enjoying PlayStation 2 network games. If you have any problems, go to www.PS2.co.uk for more detailed information.