Decisions Decisions

[Cyber Akuma]

I always wanted to get a 25 pim modchip soldered in at first, but I can't find a DECENT place that will solder the chip on (at a price I cna afford). I heard that a PS2 V4 no-solder modchip came out recently. I am thinking of getting that.

Theres a couple of problems though:

1. I am not 100% sure my ps2 is a v4 or v5.
specs:
Bought it last christmas
USA Version
Serial: U0
Model: 30001-R
Date: 1C
Seems to have 8 screws on the bottom
Dosent have that screw thing on the top of the expansion bay

So anyone know what version it is?

Also, are there any advantages/disadvantages I should be aware of?

Edit: I also heard that there is a version that is one chip which works with version 4,5 and/or 6 systems, any ideas on that?

I am aware that it cannot play backed up EA games and that you need to do a swaptrick. What I want to know is.

Can it play ORIGINAL and/or BACKEDUP Japaniese ps2 games?
Can it play Original/Backed up Japaniese ps1 games?
I know that backed up EA games won't work, but will original EA games work?
What other limitations does it have? (DVD/CDs need to be a certain size, etc)

So if anyone knows what version PS2 I have, and if I should bother buying this chip, please answer.

PS: I still prefer to get a 25 pin mod though, so if anyone knows a place that does it for a decent price (and they are realiable) please tell me that addy.

Thanks

[Warlock]

If it doesnt have the 3rd screw in the expansion bay then its a v4.

[Cyber Akuma]

Yeah, most tests seem to indicate its a v4, a FEW indicate that its a v5 though. so, know anything about the other questions I asked?