Tutorial • PlayStation PS1 FAT • Video / Frequency • Delta SmartWave

Delta SmartWave – Installation Guide

This tutorial will guide you step by step through the installation of the Delta SmartWave inside your Sony PlayStation 1 PS1. SmartWave automatically fixes frequency (50/60 Hz) and video subcarrier issues to achieve a correct, clean, and stable image on Freezone consoles equipped with a modchip or an ODE such as XStation, DeltaStation, or PicoStation.
Fixes black-and-white image issues with imported games, restoring full color output.

🧠 Smart PAL/NTSC detection 🎛️ Ultra-precise frequencies 🌍 PAL 50Hz / NTSC 60Hz 🧩 QSB installation
🛒 Available in the Delta Store: Delta SmartWave (PS1)
The premium solution to correct regional frequencies (PAL/NTSC) with maximum accuracy. Ideal for purists, OSSC, capture, and anyone who wants a “perfect” Freezone PS1.
Tip: to play all import games and fix black & white video, get the bundle Delta PSNee + Delta SmartWave.
Key points
 
🎯
Goal
Automatically fix 50/60 Hz + video subcarrier on consoles equipped with an ODE or a modchip.
🧬
Key step
Identify your Playstation PS1 motherboard (PU-7 → PU-23) before installation.
Delta SmartWave PS1
 
🔒 Important safety instructions
⚠️ MUST be done with power disconnected
Fully unplug the console (power + cables).
• Press Power (while unplugged) to help discharge residual power.
Wait ~2 hours (minimum) for capacitors to discharge.
• Never work on the console while powered.
• Do not disassemble / handle the internal power supply.
 

✨ Features – Why Delta SmartWave?

Smart correction
  • Automatically detects PAL 50Hz or NTSC 60Hz
  • Adjusts GPU frequency and the video subcarrier
  • Eliminates black & white image issues (composite)
Premium accuracy
  • Ultra-precise frequency generator
  • Aligned with original PAL/NTSC specifications
  • Excellent results for OSSC, capture, and purists
Better than DFO / MFO
  • Smarter than MFO / MOFO and DFO
  • No programming, no surprises
  • Compatible with all PlayStation versions (PU-7 and PU-8 EARLY included)
Recommended bundle: Delta PSNee (imports / CD-R playback) + Delta SmartWave (frequency/video correction) = the ultimate console without owning multiple PAL/USA/JAP systems.
Note: an RGB cable can “restore color”, but it does not fix the internal frequency. SmartWave fixes the real issue.
 

🧰 Required tools

  • Delta SmartWave
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Soldering iron (fine tip recommended)
  • Solder (electronics grade)
  • (Recommended) Flux + magnifier / microscope

🧩 Compatibility PS1

The Delta SmartWave is compatible with all PlayStation PS1 FAT versions: PU-7, PU-8 EARLY, PU-8 LATE, PU-16, PU-18, PU-20, PU-22, PU-23.
 

🌍 PlayStation FAT compatibility (models)

PAL NTSC U/C NTSC J NTSC J (ASIA)
Models
SCPH-1002
SCPH-5502
SCPH-5552
SCPH-7002
SCPH-7502
SCPH-9002
Models
SCPH-1001
SCPH-5001
SCPH-5501
SCPH-7001
SCPH-7501
SCPH-9001
Models
SCPH-1000
SCPH-3000
SCPH-3500
SCPH-5000
SCPH-5500
SCPH-7000
SCPH-7000W
SCPH-7500
SCPH-9000
Models
SCPH-5503
SCPH-5903
SCPH-7003
SCPH-7503
SCPH-9003
 

✅ 1 - Identify your PlayStation console

Check the label under your console and note the model (e.g. SCPH-7502). This is useful, but to choose the correct procedure you must confirm the motherboard revision (PU-7 → PU-23).

Tip: go to step 3 to accurately identify your motherboard before installing.
Identify the PlayStation model (label)
Label located under the console (example).
 

🔧 2 - Disassemble the PlayStation console

⚠️ WARNING – Electrical safety
Unplug everything, press Power, then let the console rest for ~2 hours to allow a full capacitor discharge. Do not touch the internal power supply.
🎥 Disassembly videos (by model)
Goal: access the motherboard. You do not need to disassemble the power supply—please do not touch it.
 

🧭 3 - Identify your motherboard (PU)

Identify your motherboard using the photos below. This step is essential because solder points vary depending on the revision.

PU-7
PU-7 motherboard
References:
PU-7 // 1-655-322-11
PU-7 // 1-655-322-13 / 13A
PU-7 // 1-655-322-14 / 14A
PU-7 // 1-655-322-15
PU-7 // 1-655-322-16
PU-8 EARLY
PU-8 EARLY motherboard
References:
PU-8 // 1-658-467-11
PU-8 // 1-658-467-12
PU-8 // 1-658-467-13
PU-8 LATE
PU-8 LATE motherboard
References:
PU-8 // 1-658-467-21
PU-8 // 1-658-467-22
PU-8 // 1-658-467-23
PU-8 // 1-658-467-41
PU-8 // 1-658-467-42
PU-16 (SCPH-5903)
PU-16 motherboard
Reference:
PU-16 // 1-665-191-11
PU-18
PU-18 motherboard
References:
PU-18 // 1-664-537-11
PU-18 // 1-664-537-21
PU-18 // 1-664-537-31
PU-18 // 1-664-537-41
PU-18 // 1-664-537-52
PU-18 // 1-664-537-62
PU-18 // 1-664-537-72
PU-18 // 1-664-537-82
PU-20
PU-20 motherboard
References:
PU-20 // 1-668-413-12
PU-20 // 1-668-413-22
PU-20 // 1-668-413-32
PU-20 // 1-668-413-42
PU-22
PU-22 motherboard
References:
PU-22 // 1-671-858-11
PU-22 // 1-671-858-12
PU-22 // 1-671-858-21
PU-22 // 1-671-858-22
PU-22 // 1-671-858-32
PU-23
PU-23 motherboard
References:
PU-23 // 1-674-987-11
PU-23 // 1-674-987-21
PU-23 // 1-674-987-31
PU-23 // 1-674-987-41
PU-23 // 1-674-987-51
 

🧩 4 - Delta SmartWave installation (by motherboard)

Important: Delta SmartWave is designed to be installed without wires (QSB), *except PU-7 and PU-8 EARLY which require 1 wire.
4.1 – PU-7 motherboard
1 wire required
Note: depending on your version, you should have only one of the two resistors circled in red (left).
4.1.1 – Locate the resistors circled in red and remove them (top side):
PU-7 remove resistor
4.1.2 – Place your Delta SmartWave and solder (QSB + wire):
PU-7 soldering QSB
PU-7 soldering wire
PU-7 QSB done
PU-7 wire done
4.1.3 – Reassemble your console.
4.2 – PU-8 EARLY motherboard
1 wire required
Note: depending on your version, you should have only one of the two resistors circled in red (left).
4.2.1 – Locate the resistors circled in red and remove them (top side):
PU-8 EARLY remove resistor
4.2.2 – Place your Delta SmartWave and solder (QSB + wire):
PU-8 EARLY soldering QSB
PU-8 EARLY soldering wire
PU-8 EARLY QSB done
PU-8 EARLY wire done
4.2.3 – Reassemble your console.
4.3 – PU-8 LATE & PU-16 motherboards
Wire-free QSB
Note: depending on your version, you should have only one of the two resistors circled in red.
4.3.1 – Remove the resistors (top side):
PU-8 LATE remove resistor up
4.3.2 – Remove the resistors (bottom side):
PU-8 LATE remove resistor down
4.3.3 – Place your Delta SmartWave and solder (QSB):
PU-8 LATE soldering QSB
PU-8 LATE installed QSB
4.3.4 – Reassemble your console.
4.4 – PU-18 motherboard
Metal shield must be removed
4.4.1 – Remove the upper metal shield using a soldering iron.

4.4.2 – Remove the resistor circled in red (top side):
PU-18 remove resistor
4.4.3 – Place Delta SmartWave on the bottom side and solder (QSB):
PU-18 soldering QSB
PU-18 installed QSB
4.4.4 – Reinstall the upper metal shield using a soldering iron.
4.4.5 – Reassemble your console.
4.5 – PU-20 motherboard
Metal shield must be removed
4.5.1 – Remove the upper metal shield using a soldering iron.

4.5.2 – Remove the two resistors circled in red:
PU-20 remove resistor
4.5.3 – Place SmartWave and solder (QSB):
PU-20 soldering QSB
PU-20 installed QSB
4.5.4 – Reinstall the upper metal shield.
4.5.5 – Reassemble your console.
4.6 – PU-22 motherboard
Micro-soldering recommended
Warning: PU-22 requires good soldering skills.
4.6.1 – Remove the upper metal shield.

4.6.2 – Remove the two resistors circled in red:
PU-22 remove resistor
4.6.3 – Place SmartWave and solder (QSB):
PU-22 soldering QSB
PU-22 installed QSB
4.6.4 – Reassemble your console.
4.7 – PU-23 motherboard
VIA prep + pin lifting
Warning: PU-23 requires good soldering skills and dexterity.
4.7.1 – Remove the resistor circled in red:
PU-23 remove resistor
4.7.2 – Locate the two VIAs circled in red. Lightly scrape, then tin them:
PU-23 prepare soldering
PU-23 QSB tinned
PU-23 prepare soldering 2
4.7.3 – Locate pin 6 of IC204 and lift it (scalpel + soldering iron):
PU-23 lift pin
4.7.4 – Place SmartWave and solder (QSB):
PU-23 soldering qsb
PU-23 soldering qsb done
4.7.5 – Reassemble your console.
 
🚀 Ready to take your PS1 to the next level?
Delta SmartWave is the premium solution to automatically fix PAL/NTSC, with accuracy superior to DFO/MFO mods. For the “ultimate console”, combine it with a Delta PSNee (imports + CD-R) to get a perfect setup.
PlayStation - Delta Smartwave

Image

Introduction
This topic aims to guide you through the installation of the chip "Delta SmartWave" in your Sony PlayStation 1 console.

Features
The Delta SmartWave allows your console to automatically adapt to the GPU frequency and video subcarrier based on the region of the inserted game (50Hz or 60Hz).

If you try to play an imported game (e.g., JAP) on a European (PAL) console, you may end up with a black and white screen. This is due to the incorrect timing required by the game compared to what is present in your console.
A 60Hz game (JAP or USA) should normally be played on an NTSC console.
A 50Hz game (PAL) should normally be played on a PAL console.

Thanks to the Delta PSNee (available at the ImageDelta Store >>), you can play all games on your console.
However, the console's frequency is not modified, which results in black and white images.
Some people use an RGB cable to improve the quality of the video signal.
The RGB cable will return color to your games, but will hide the frequency issue. For purists and OSSC owners, it is essential to correct this.

That's where Delta SmartWave comes in!

Through intelligent detection, the Delta SmartWave automatically adjusts the GPU frequency and video subcarrier with great precision, correcting all the previously mentioned issues.

With the combination of "Delta PSNee" + "Delta SmartWave," you will have the ultimate console—no need to own three different consoles for each region (PAL, JAP, USA).

Finally, we remind you that Delta SmartWave was designed to be soldered without cables!

Delta SmartWave est plus precise et plus intelligente que :
- PS1 MFO / MOFO (Multi Output Frequency Oscillator)
- PS1 DFO (DUAL Output Frequency Oscillator)

No need for programming or unpleasant surprises like the mods mentioned above!

Delta SmartWave is an intelligent solution that adapts to all situations, without asking any questions

Delta SmartWave: A Major Advancement Over Traditional DFO (Dual Frequency Oscillator) and MFO (Multi Frequency Oscillator)

 

1. An Intelligent Microcontroller for Precise Adjustments

As the name suggests, the SmartWave is “smart.” It features a microcontroller capable of automatically detecting the console version (PU-7, PU-8 early, PU-8 late, PU-18, etc.) on which it is installed. This allows it to precisely adjust its frequencies to match the technical specifications of each model, unlike DFO/MFO, which do not cover all variants, such as the PU-7 and PU-8 early.

 

2. Universal and Automatic Compatibility

Frequency management varies between PlayStation versions. While DFO/MFO often require modifications or are incompatible with certain models, the SmartWave automatically detects the region and console characteristics, adjusting to the correct frequency (PAL 50Hz or NTSC 60Hz) without manual intervention.

 

3. An Ultra-Precise Frequency Generator

The SmartWave integrates the most precise frequency generator available to date, ensuring perfectly aligned frequencies with the original specifications of PAL and NTSC consoles. By comparison, DFO/MFO use approximate frequencies, often with high decimal values. While functional, they are significantly less optimized.

 

4. Easy Installation and Optimized Performance

Unlike DFO/MFO, which may require complex manual configurations, the SmartWave is easy to install, without additional wiring (*one wire required for PU-7 and PU-8 EARLY). Once in place, it operates autonomously, offering unmatched precision and eliminating video synchronization issues or black-and-white display problems.



The Issue of Regional Frequencies

When a PAL PlayStation is used with an NTSC-J or NTSC-U/C game and the original composite video cable, the display appears in black and white.

An RGB cable can restore color, but this only solves part of the problem…

The real issue lies within the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and the video subcarrier:

1. The console’s GPU is clocked differently depending on the PlayStation’s original region.

2. PlayStations use region-specific crystals (PAL or NTSC), which can lead to underclocking or overclocking depending on the game being played.

This discrepancy, while subtle, is noticeable:

• The GPU and other components do not operate at their optimal frequencies.
• This can cause slowdowns or a loss of fluidity in certain games.



Why Delta SmartWave is Different ?

Delta SmartWave directly adjusts the GPU clock frequencies and the video subcarrier.

Thanks to its intelligent management system:
• It automatically detects whether the game is PAL or NTSC and adjusts frequencies accordingly.
• It restores perfectly aligned frequencies (PAL 50Hz or NTSC 60Hz), eliminating any underclocking or overclocking.

 

In Summary

Delta SmartWave vastly outperforms DFO and MFO in terms of precision, compatibility, and intelligent frequency adjustment. It offers an innovative plug-and-play solution that adheres to the original console specifications, delivering an unmatched retro gaming experience.



- Compatible with all PlayStation versions :
ImagePAL ImageNTSC U/C ImageNTSC J ImageNTSC J (ASIA)
SCPH-1002
SCPH-5502
SCPH-5552
SCPH-7002
SCPH-7502
SCPH-9002
SCPH-1001
SCPH-5001
SCPH-5501
SCPH-7001
SCPH-7501
SCPH-9001
SCPH-1000
SCPH-3000
SCPH-3500
SCPH-5000
SCPH-5500
SCPH-7000
SCPH-7000W
SCPH-7500
SCPH-9000

SCPH-5503
SCPH-5903
SCPH-7003
SCPH-7503
SCPH-9003

Difficulty
Image

  • Delta SmartWave
    ImageDelta Store >>

    • A Phillips screwdriver

    • A soldering iron

    • Solder

Tutorial

1 - Identification of your PlayStation console

First, locate the label underneath your PlayStation console.
On this label, identify the model of your PlayStation.


Image

In this example, the model is “SCPH-7502”. While this reference provides important information, we need to verify the exact motherboard revision.
To do this, we will need to access your console’s motherboard.



2 - Disassembly of the PlayStation console
 !  WARNING

⚠️ WARNING! To eliminate any electrical risk, please unplug all cables from your console, press the “Power” button, and set the console aside for approximately 2 hours to allow the capacitors to fully discharge!

Below, you will find various videos.
The goal is to access the motherboard. You do not need to disassemble the console’s power supply. Please do not touch it!


3 - Identification of your PlayStation motherboard

Please identify your motherboard using the following photos :

 
Image ImagePU-7
PU-7 // 1-655-322-11
PU-7 // 1-655-322-13
PU-7 // 1-655-322-13A
PU-7 // 1-655-322-14
PU-7 // 1-655-322-14A
PU-7 // 1-655-322-15
PU-7 // 1-655-322-16
Image ImagePU-8 EARLY
PU-8 // 1-658-467-11
PU-8 // 1-658-467-12
PU-8 // 1-658-467-13
Image ImagePU-8 LATE
PU-8 // 1-658-467-21
PU-8 // 1-658-467-22
PU-8 // 1-658-467-23
PU-8 // 1-658-467-41
PU-8 // 1-658-467-42
Image ImagePU-16
PU-16 // 1-665-191-11
Image ImagePU-18
PU-18 // 1-664-537-11
PU-18 // 1-664-537-21
PU-18 // 1-664-537-31
PU-18 // 1-664-537-41
PU-18 // 1-664-537-52
PU-18 // 1-664-537-62
PU-18 // 1-664-537-72
PU-18 // 1-664-537-82
Image ImagePU-20
PU-20 // 1-668-413-12
PU-20 // 1-668-413-22
PU-20 // 1-668-413-32
PU-20 // 1-668-413-42
Image ImagePU-22
PU-22 // 1-671-858-11
PU-22 // 1-671-858-12
PU-22 // 1-671-858-21
PU-22 // 1-671-858-22
PU-22 // 1-671-858-32
Image ImagePU-23
PU-23 // 1-674-987-11
PU-23 // 1-674-987-21
PU-23 // 1-674-987-31
PU-23 // 1-674-987-41
PU-23 // 1-674-987-51
4 - Installation of the "Delta SmartWave"

4.1 - PU-7 Mainboard

4.1.1 - Locate the resistors marked in red and remove them (top side).
Please note that depending on your motherboard version, you should have only one of the two resistors marked in red on the left.
Image

4.1.2 -Position your Delta SmartWave and proceed with soldering according to the following diagram:
For PU-7, an additional wire must be installed, running from the bottom side to the top side of the motherboard.
Image Image
Image Image

4.1.3 - Reassemble your console.

4.2 - PU-8 EARLY MainBoard

4.2.1 - Locate the resistors marked in red and remove them (top side).
Please note that depending on your motherboard version, you should have only one of the two resistors marked in red on the left.
Image

4.2.2 - Position your Delta SmartWave and proceed with soldering according to the following diagram
For PU-8 EARLY, an additional wire must be installed, running from the bottom side to the top side of the motherboard.
ImageImage ImageImage

4.2.3 - Reassemble your console.

4.3 - PU-8 LATE & PU-16 Mainboard

4.3.1 - Locate the resistors marked in red and remove them (top side).
Please note that depending on your motherboard version, you should have only one of the two resistors marked in red.
Image

4.3.2 - Locate the resistors marked in red and remove them (bottom side).
Please note that depending on your motherboard version, you should have only one of the two resistors marked in red.
Image

4.3.3 - Position your Delta SmartWave and proceed with soldering according to the following diagram.
Image Image

4.3.4 - Reassemble your console.

4.4 - PU-18 Mainboard
4.4.1 - Remove the upper metal shield from the motherboard using your soldering iron

4.4.2 - Locate the resistor marked in red on the top side of the motherboard and remove it.
Image

4.4.3 - Position your Delta SmartWave on the bottom side of the motherboard and proceed with soldering according to the following diagram.
Image Image

4.4.4 - Reinstall the upper metal shield on the motherboard using your soldering iron.

4.4.5 - Reassemble your console.

4.5 - PU-20 Mainboard
4.5.1 - Remove the upper metal shield from the motherboard using your soldering iron.

4.5.2 - Locate the two resistors marked in red and remove them.
Image

4.5.3 - Position your Delta SmartWave and proceed with soldering according to the following diagram.
Image Image

4.5.4 - Reinstall the upper metal shield on the motherboard using your soldering iron.

4.5.5 - Reassemble your console.

4.6 - PU-22 Mainboard

The PU-22 requires good soldering skills to ensure a proper and secure installation.

4.6.1 - Remove the upper metal shield from the motherboard using your soldering iron.

4.6.2 - Locate the two resistors marked in red and remove them.
Image

4.6.3 - Position your Delta SmartWave and proceed with soldering according to the following diagram.
Image Image

4.6.4- Reassemble your console.

4.7 - PU-23 Mainboard
The PU-23 requires good soldering skills to ensure a proper and secure installation.

4.7.1 - Locate the resistor marked in red and remove it :
Image

4.7.2 - Locate the two “VIA” points marked in red.
Using a scalpel, gently scrape the VIA points, then tin them with solder using your soldering iron :
Image Image Image

4.7.3 - Locate pin 6 of the IC204 component and carefully lift it using a scalpel and a soldering iron :Image

4.7.4 - Position your Delta SmartWave and proceed with soldering according to the following diagram.
Image Image

4.7.5 - Reassemble your console.