The purpose of this site, as the title suggests, is to be a place where people with an interest in modding can go to learn about the basics of console hardware and software modification. First off, it would be important to differentiate between hardware modding and software modding.
Hardware Modding – Refers to physical modification of the console hardware, such as modifying the casing to add portability, swapping out components for improved audio or video quality, or maybe even using the parts for something completely unrelated.
This PS3 Grill being an example of the latter.
Hardware modification opens up a world of possibilities for people with enough time and dedication. Of course, the older consoles are a lot easier to work with for someone just getting started; they are generally more compact, a lot simpler, and have a lot less embedded protection than their modern counterparts. This discrepancy can lead to some pretty cool projects with the old consoles.
Such as this R2D2 Console Hack which contains 8 game systems and a projector located in the head. (To see more cool hardware mods check out the Some Cool Console Mods page)
Software Modding – refers to the modification of a console’s firmware or embedded software in order to perform a new function. Software mods are generally easier to accomplish than hardware mods as most of the work is done on the computer and all that’s required is a Flashdrive or SD card to transfer the new software over to the console.
The Homebrew Channel is a software mod for the Wii that allows the user to run third party applications. (Click the link to find out how to install it)
There are plenty of reasons to perform a software mod, such as running legal backups of owned games, running old console emulators, and various other tasks that can be accomplished with third party applications. Though software modding doesn’t carry the same risk as hardware modding, in that you aren’t taking apart the console, but by circumventing the console firmware there is a potential legal penalty . This still applies to hardware modding with the newer consoles, but basically any software mod is liable to violate the DMCC. (To learn more about the Legality of Modding click the link)
Basic Modding 