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Quick Start Guide

Your Name edited this page Mar 7, 2025 · 1 revision

Quick Start Guide

This guide will help you quickly get started with ARK4 Helper and install ARK-4 on your PSP.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have:

  • ARK4 Helper installed on your computer (see Installation Guide)
  • A PSP with firmware version 6.60 or 6.61
  • A USB cable to connect your PSP to your computer
  • Internet connection for downloading ARK-4

Step 1: Prepare Your PSP

  1. Turn on your PSP
  2. Check your firmware version:
    • Go to Settings → System Settings → System Information
    • Verify that your firmware is 6.60 or 6.61
  3. Connect your PSP to your computer using a USB cable
  4. On your PSP, go to Settings → USB Connection to enable USB mode
    • Your PSP should now appear as a removable drive on your computer

Step 2: Launch ARK4 Helper

  1. Open ARK4 Helper on your computer
  2. The application will automatically check for the latest version of ARK-4

Step 3: Detect Your PSP

  1. Click the "Detect PSP" button in ARK4 Helper
  2. The application will scan for connected PSP devices
  3. Once detected, your PSP's drive letter will be displayed
  4. If your PSP is not detected automatically, select the correct drive letter from the dropdown menu

Step 4: Install ARK-4

  1. Click the "Start" button to begin the installation process
  2. ARK4 Helper will:
    • Download the latest version of ARK-4 from GitHub
    • Extract the necessary files
    • Copy the files to your PSP
  3. The progress bar will show the installation progress
  4. Once complete, you'll see a success message

Step 5: Complete Installation on Your PSP

After the files are copied to your PSP, you need to complete the installation on the device:

  1. Safely disconnect your PSP from your computer
    • Click "Cancel" in ARK4 Helper
    • Properly eject the PSP from your computer
    • Exit USB mode on your PSP
  2. On your PSP, go to Game → Memory Stick
  3. Run the "ARK Loader" application
    • This will install the temporary ARK-4 CFW
  4. For permanent installation (optional):
    • Run the "Ark cIPL Flasher" application
    • Follow the on-screen instructions

Step 6: Verify Installation

To verify that ARK-4 is installed correctly:

  1. Restart your PSP
  2. Check for the ARK-4 menu or custom firmware indicators
  3. Try running a homebrew application

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues during the installation:

  • Check the Troubleshooting page for common solutions
  • Review the debug log in ARK4 Helper by clicking the "Debug Log" button
  • Ensure your PSP is properly connected and in USB mode
  • Verify that your PSP firmware is compatible (6.60 or 6.61)

Next Steps

Now that you have ARK-4 installed on your PSP, you can:

  • Install homebrew applications and games
  • Explore the features of ARK-4
  • Check out the Advanced Topics section for more information

For more detailed information about using ARK4 Helper, refer to the other wiki pages.

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