164w ago - For those who didn't update to PS3 Firmware v3.21 yet, here is CodecSys H.264 Encoder API for PS3/OtherOS reversed.

When CodecSys version 1.3 came out I gave it a try and liked the speed you get, just sucks that you're quite limited concerning cropping and stuff, even multiple passes is disabled for the PS3 version.

So I did take a look at it. I usually hate .Net but in this case it made things a lot easier and by a lot I mean a lot. Long things short, I reversed mosted of the api dll which connects to the PS3 and stuff and used it to encode some frames.

Rebooting and stuff works as well, the cecom running on the PS3 seems to be buggy though and doesn't reboot to game_os for me, not even with the original application. Attached source is more or less based on QT, and still a work in progress, just wanted to share it.

Download: CodecSys H.264 Encoder API for PS3/OtherOS / CodecSys H.264 Encoder API for PS3/OtherOS v0.1

173w ago - Fixstars CodecSys CE-10 H.264 software encoder for PS3 was updated to v1.3.0.0 last month, which offers stunning H.264 encoding speeds for home users.

The previous update was quite some time ago, and the following features are now included in the latest version for the PlayStation 3 entertainment system:

CodecSys Version 1.3.0.0 Features:

Improved Picture Quality
• Added support for Open GOP.
• Improved rate control method. 
 
New Features
• Added support for custom matrix setting. 
• A different matrix can be applied per frame. 
• FLAT16 and JVT will be selectable as preset. 
• Revised the encode setting dialog. 
• Optimized speed of color matrix conversion. 
• Changed the communication module to native code. 

Other
• And more small resolves. 

203w ago - Approximately a month ago the Japanese CodecSys CE-10 H.264 Software Encoder for PS3 was released.

Today, bogaromi dropped by our PS3 Forums to let us know the English version is also now available!

Those interested can sign up for the free 14-Day Trial and the full press release is available below.

Additionally, an F.A.Q. is available along with a list of Required Hardware and License Key Registration details.

Finally, an Installation Guide is available and be sure to register the license key after the CodecSys CE-10 Professional Free Trial is installed.

The CE-10 software gets installed on a PC, but allows users to access the power of the PS3 via OtherOS as a way of accelerating video encoding.

Press Release: Affordable, Broadcast Quality, Near Real-Time H.264 Encoder...

207w ago - Update: A translated Install Guide is now available.

Today rickylyh let us know Fixstars Corporation of Japan has released a free 14-day trial of CodecSys CE-10, an H.264 Software Encoder for use with Sony's PlayStation 3.

It was first announced a few months ago, and although Fixstars' English Site doesn't have the trial available yet it is expected sometime this month.

The CE-10 software gets installed on a PC, but allows users to access the power of the PS3 via OtherOS as a way of accelerating video encoding.

Cool news indeed, and let the speed tests begin!

214w ago - Here's another way to harness the power of the PS3's Cell chip, to quote:

Fixstars Corporation of Japan has announced CodecSys CE-10, the first H.264 encoder that's designed specifically for the PS3. The product will be showcased at the National Association of Broadcasters show in Las Vegas starting April 20th.

The CE-10 software will be installed on a PC, but will somehow allow users to access the power of the PS3 as a way of accelerating video encoding. Fixstars is promising "ultra fast HD encoding" and "high quality low bit rate compression," targeted at the prosumer market at a prosumer price.

When questioned further on how the PS3 would interface with the CE-10 program, we were provided this rather useful document (pictured below).

It appears the PS3 will need Linux installed, severely limiting its accessibility to all but hardcore PS3 owners. Considering the rather specific demands of this application, perhaps that makes sense.

CE-10 will be available for purchase in June 2009. For burgeoning HD filmmakers, this should be a very cheap way of turning the PS3 into a powerful piece of video hardware.