in Electronics

Gamecube HDMI Mod

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Modifying a DOL-001 Gamecube to output over HDMI

 Here is a brief overview of how I modded my DOL-001 Nintendo Gamecube to display over HDMI, ditching the original, poprietary digital out port.

  The heart of this mod is the Pluto-II FPGA that converts the original digital out signal to an HDMI signal for modern displays using the open-source GC-Video firmware.

  An excellent video tutorial by Tito Perez can be found on his youtube channel, "Macho Nacho Productions". Note, he uses a new flex cable to make the install easier. This cable was not availible when I ordered the parts for this mod a few months ago, so I opted to do the older method of soldering 18 wires from the original port to the FPGA. This is not difficult work, however it is tedious, and I would highly reccomend the $7 USD cable Perez showcased in his video to save yourself time.

  The install was very simple, though I would strongly suggest using a hot-air gun to desolder the original port instead of using a solder sucker or desoldering braid. After the port is out, the hardest part is over. follow this guide to determine where to solder each pin, as well as where to tap power and controller data if not using the aformentioned flex cable.

  The reason I had not installed this mod for a long time was the next bit - there is a 3d-printable bracket that is used to both hold the pluto FPGA in place, and function to fill the excess space that is left in the back of the gamecube. I recently built my Prusa MK3S+ printer, which has truly exceeded my expectations as a 3d printer newbie. Print this part and place the bracket inside the gamecube, then the FPGA inside the bracket.

  Thats about all there is to the mod! Do watch Perez' video to see a more in-depth instalation guide, this webpage is just ment to be a showcase of what projects I've completed. I would strongly reccomend anyone who wants to get a cleaner video signal out of their 'cube to do this mod. The parts needed for this mod come in way cheaper than a GC-compenent cable, or any aftermarket HDMI solution from Carby or EON.