TOKYO--It seems that Sony Computer Entertainment is seeking help for some last-minute development for the PSP. The company has posted a want ad on its Web site's recruitment section calling for experienced software developers to work on vital programs for the handheld device, namely its system software and network programs.

　　The system programmers will be working on the PSP's development kits (to note, SCE has already released software-based development kits to third-party publishers). The various programmers SCE is recruiting include those with experience creating device drivers and program libraries, audio and visual codecs, compilers and debuggers, operating systems for embedded devices, application GUI (graphical user interface), digital AV firmware, 3D graphics and sound programs, and PS2 games.

　　The network programmers will also be dealing with software associated with the wireless LAN, such as the LAN’s firmware, device drivers, TCP/IP protocol, and network middleware. Requirements for the position are all related to network programming and include experience in writing code for protocol stacks and drivers, network middleware and applications, and wireless LAN functions on embedded devices.

　　SCE's ad also said applicants with a TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) score of 700 or higher will be given first priority toward both job positions. The reason may be that the company expects its programmers to work on the translation of the software’s menus and manuals into English.