PlayStation Development Network

High guys, I've been into consoles since the PS1 and Amiga 500.

I'm an amateur programmer / electronics hobbiests.
I got pic-programmers, a few ESP8266 micros, etc.

Now I want to get into PS1 programming and homebrewing.
Machine wise, I have a 7000 (Japan spec).

I actually tried installing a PIC based mod-chip which did not work and ironically I only recently removed it... not realising that the Japanese PS1 3000+ had some additional BIOS level protection.

Anyway, I just want to homebrew, so would love to know what can I do?
I do not have an action replay (I used to have one many years ago, which could let me do the disc swap).

I've read a few threads but am still a bit confused:
1) Could I just use a serial cable and my FTDI? (I got one).
2) I guess I need to run special software on the PSX --> Can a 7000 do the disc swap without mods? Do I need to put a chip? (PsNee seems to be the latest) --> I guess I only need CD-R reading, right? Then I can patch the disc that I need to run on my Japanese console?
3) Do I need a parallel port based device (like the action replay clones)?

Sorry I know these questions come across as mega n00b.

There should be heaps of information on how to build a serial cable on these forums. Just search, but basically yes all you need is an FTDI and connect it to the Rx, Tx and GND of the PSX

http://www.psxdev.net/forum/viewtopic.p ... 125#p19125

Although the fastest is the serial cable adapted to the PSX, I am making a charger to upload the PsEXE via the control port. All you need is an Arduino NANO or ONE. It is much slower, but in return we have to work on a PsONE and we don't need to make the skywalker cable.

https://github.com/rpsubc8/serialpad/blob/master/readmeEnglish.md#uploadpsexe

Cool project, but yes it will be very slow. Also, the PSone has the serial pads on the mainboard still. You just need to solder directly to them.