Learning curves and PS2s

I did it - I found a well-priced PS2 and bought it, along with a DVD-remote, extender cable and 2nd-controller pack. Now it's just a memory card and game or two needed.

We tested it briefly yesterday to ensure it's working well, and learnt something new. That games come in both NTSC and PAL mode - and we've got PAL, which doesn't play NTSC. You see, my son got a few free games with overseas magazines at the cheap-books shop, and they're not the right type for our system.

Another learning curve this morning involved finding out if there's a "fix" for a PS2 that can enable playing both types, and I've now learnt a lot about mod-chips and other interesting goodies that can sort out the problem. At a price, of course...

The PS2 is now put away until the birthday, before which I need to add the memory/game combo. Have found a few cheaper-than-the-shops ones online, so it seems it's time to haul out the credit card.

Thank goodness I not only received a mid-year bonus, but was able to claim some cash back against my new digital camera! It's only because of this that my son is getting a rather expensive birthday gift, and the car is also getting a service...

::update::
One question I have yet to answer - are PS2s supposed to get hot while in use? How hot is too hot? And if they DO get hot during use, would that vertical stand thingy help keep the temp down?