New PlayStation 3 SKU Rumor Madness

Yes, there is an FCC file floating out there about a test for CECHG01, a new model of the PS3. Yes, it has been filed early enough for a late November release date. Yes, there could be a new version of the PS3 released in time for Christmas. No, the new PS3 is not going to feature Evander Holyfield's new grill.

Beyond that, take your best guess, anything could happen. We may be seeing a new 40GB discount PS3, it may be a totally different configuration, wouldn't a 120GB hard drive be nice?

konangrit, over on the PS3 forums, has compiled a list of features in the report that represent minimums of what will be in the CECHG01 version of the PS3.

• 1 x HDMI Port
• 1 x AV Port
• 1 x LAN Port
• 2 x USB Ports
• Bluetooth Ver. 2.0+EDR
• WLAN 802.11b/g

Other differences from the existing PS3s found in the report:

• This version of the PS3 draws less current: 3A down from the previous 3.2A
• Bluetooth has better Antenna gain. Antenna1 is up from 0.21dBi (max) in the original 60Gb, to 3.83dBi (max) in the new SKU. Antenna2 is up from 4.13dBi (max) to 4,92 dBi (max).
• WLAN is still 802.11b/g, however, Antenna gain has increased here too. ANT0 is .69dBi up from 0.10dBi, and ANT1 is now -0.26dBi from 0.91dBi.
Admittedly, I know very little about wireless technology, and Sony has been tight lipped about the new version of the PS3. So I return to my original position, who knows? I will pass on more details as they come available.