The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls

Main => Consoles => Topic started by: KenToad on July 18, 2018, 01:00:12 pm

Title: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on July 18, 2018, 01:00:12 pm
https://shop.8bitdo.com/products/mod-kit-for-nes-controller

So they have drop in replacement pcb's for original snes, nes and 6-button Genesis controllers that have Bluetooth and rechargable batteries. I think they look pretty awesome. What do you guys think?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: pbj on July 18, 2018, 01:08:40 pm
For $20, I think you're better off spend $25 and getting an SN30.

Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on July 18, 2018, 01:49:42 pm
Are they at least as good as the original controllers?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on July 18, 2018, 02:04:32 pm
I think this is a brilliant move by 8BitDo. I would prefer to have original controllers converted to bluetooth versus having their aftermarket ones. If they can come out with these drop in PCBs (and receivers) for the earlier Sega consoles like the Master System, Genesis, and Saturn and also for the NEC consoles like PC Engine, Turbo Grafx, and Super Grafx I think they could make a ton of money. For the NEC systems, the controllers are almost all identical. That should make it even more compelling for them...
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: JDFan on July 18, 2018, 02:18:33 pm
For $20, I think you're better off spend $25 and getting an SN30.

Esp seeing that the $20 is just for the PCB for the controller and does not include the bluetooth dongle for the connection. SO you need to also buy a $20 dongle device.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on July 18, 2018, 02:20:39 pm
Are they at least as good as the original controllers?
They are. Especially after the buttons are broken-in more, softening the silicone pads so the buttons are a bit more mushy like your old controllers.  I can't remember how my SNES controllers felt when they were brand new, but I've been using my SN30's a lot lately, mainly for Switch and I've got one that's broken-in pretty nicely and feels very close to my originals.

They are perfect for Octopath Traveller...I'm getting my old Final Fantasy feels here!
(https://i.imgur.com/1Mri3Hw.jpg)


I think this is a brilliant move by 8BitDo. I would prefer to have original controllers converted to bluetooth versus having their aftermarket ones. If they can come out with these drop in PCBs (and receivers) for the earlier Sega consoles like the Master System, Genesis, and Saturn and also for the NEC consoles like PC Engine, Turbo Grafx, and Super Grafx I think they could make a ton of money. For the NEC systems, the controllers are almost all identical. That should make it even more compelling for them...
Personally I wouldn't want to do this to my original controllers.  But to do this to the Classic Mini controllers is fine in my books. But still, for a $20 DIY board, I think that's still a bit too expensive.
I think if they knocked down the price by $5 it would be worth it more.

For $20, I think you're better off spend $25 and getting an SN30.
^this.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: pbj on July 18, 2018, 03:02:46 pm
I don't even remember when/how/why I ended up with an SN30 but I regret not taking it out of the drawer sooner.  Works great with my Pi Zero and now I ponder the money I spent on all those HDMI mini consoles.   :P
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on July 18, 2018, 03:14:50 pm
For $20, I think you're better off spend $25 and getting an SN30.

Esp seeing that the $20 is just for the PCB for the controller and does not include the bluetooth dongle for the connection. SO you need to also buy a $20 dongle device.

Yeah, I would have to buy the dongle. I may buy a couple of Snes pcb's and a Genesis pcb, especially since the latter has partially shorted out wires. I also like that the controllers can do x-input and d-input. I have a bunch of USB converters, but the wires are a PITA.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on July 18, 2018, 03:16:18 pm
Thinking about this more, I wouldn't mind doing this mod to an NES Classic Mini controller.

The 8bitdo Bluetooth NES controllers has additional buttons on it (basically making it an SNES controller), which was disappointing because I would have rather a bluetooth controller that is only 2-buttons like the original NES.  With this mod, you can take the NES Classic Mini controller with the proper buttons and upgrade it.

But, I'm curious on how charging works too. Does it connect to that plastic nub that fills the cord hole?

Edit:  Found my answer on their Facebook page:

Quote from: 8bitdo
There is no need to unscrew anything. If you take a look at the LED tube, there is tiny little whole in the centre which functions as the USB port for the special USB cable we provide you with for charging
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: Howard_Casto on July 18, 2018, 03:25:31 pm
I got a generic "wireless gamepad" snes clone from amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BDCW923/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BDCW923/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

It's pretty much an 8bitdo, and should probably work with the 8bit dongles as it's a generic hid gamepad.  As-is it works for the snes/nes classic and the pc.  It feels fairly identical to a real snes pad except the select and start buttons oddly aren't rounded on the top.  I like the fact that they mapped the buttons on the pc like a xb360 controller, so start and select work properly for most games.  Keep in mind I bought this when it was 14 bucks though.

I like the idea of the pcbs on jankly, busted up gamepads, but I wouldn't use them on my good stuff.  Honestly what kills the 8bitdo stuff is the fact that they don't include the dongle with the purchase of a gamepad. 

opt2not:  For the nes classic just go to allied express.... you'll find wireless gamepads that are identical to the nes gamepad (except for the Nintendo logo) for 12 bucks.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on July 18, 2018, 03:47:15 pm
From the videos 8BitDo has on their website, the old PCB pops out of the controller and the new one slips in. There is no modification of the controller whatsoever. Given the fact that nothing gets "hacked up" in the process, I wouldn't mind doing this mod in any of my gamepads. It could all be reversed at any time. I do agree that the price seems a little high. I'm sure the rechargeable battery and "proprietary" charging cable add a lot to the cost. I have a feeling these things will end up on eBay for a lot cheaper like most of 8BitDos controllers.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: pbj on July 18, 2018, 05:01:03 pm
I got a generic "wireless gamepad" snes clone from amazon

If that thing actually works with both the SNES Classic and a PC then it's got more functionality than the 8bitdo controllers. 

 :o

Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: Howard_Casto on July 18, 2018, 08:16:10 pm
Yeah it works great.  Beat Mega Man X with it a couple of weeks ago.  You just have to pair it when switching for pc to console and you just press down + start for that. 

Btw for the 8bitdo fans I saw the dongles for $12 on amazon this morning.  Isn't that kind of cheap?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on July 18, 2018, 08:49:32 pm
Btw for the 8bitdo fans I saw the dongles for $12 on amazon this morning.  Isn't that kind of cheap?
That's for the classic mini dongle.  The NES (original) dongle is still $20...

Anyway, I was able to pick up a NES classic mini controller for $10 on ebay. Brand new, official controller. Went to the 8bitdo site to grab the Mod Kit for NES, proceeded to check-out and noticed these are shipping from China!  Great.  That means if you want it in any reasonable shipping time, it'll cost you $20+.  :timebomb: But 7-15 business days for China E-packet shipping is $3.99.

Looks like I'll be waiting to do this mod for a little while then. But at the end of the day, to get a new controller with the proper amount of buttons, that has the Nintendo branding, and bluetooth connectivity is going to cost me $33.98.   That doesn't include the NES dongle!

Yes, the aliexpress clones are much cheaper, but honestly I always try to avoid purchasing Chinese clones whenever I can.

EDIT:   I can grab the NES dongle on ebay for $10.  Again, shipping from China.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on July 19, 2018, 07:13:30 am
Opt, let us know what you think of the kit and the installation process once the slow boat from the far east arrives. I've got the 4 button (N30?) controller that looks like a NES gamepad and might consider selling that and picking up this kit instead. Like you said, it would be nice to have a controller with the proper buttons and the Nintendo logo on it. Definitely would look and feel more authentic.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: jdbailey1206 on July 20, 2018, 11:54:30 am
I love my N30 Pro for my Pi.  They work well but get uncomfortable after 3+ hours of play.  I'm considering upgrading to SN30 Pro G Classic Edition.  Looks like it will work better for extended play on N64 and PSX games.  Just bums me they don't have a NES color scheme.  Just a Famicom, Super Famicon, and SNES color scheme.  Might be able to mod the buttons and what not.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on August 03, 2018, 02:57:57 pm
Received my kit yesterday, surprisingly fast! Just about 2 weeks for the cheapest shipping from China.

Comes with the PCB, a screwdriver for taking apart your controller, a USB charge cable that has a custom plug, and an easy to follow instruction sheet.
(https://i.imgur.com/zSXlnNd.jpg)

I went with a brand-new NES Classic controller, rather an modding my old original. Some familiar looking parts in here:
(https://i.imgur.com/A9piFGW.jpg)

Installation is easy, drop-in, took no more than 5 mins.
The custom usb charging nub/port fills the hole in the shell that was for the controller's cable, acts is both a connection port and an LED indicator.
(https://i.imgur.com/0SsXUQa.jpg)

Functionally the controller is the same as my SN30, from selecting modes on power-up, syncing, and powering off. I played a bunch of Salamander, Gradius II, and Mega Man 2 in the few hours I had for testing it, and I didn't feel any lag.  I did have to update the firmware on my NES Retro Receiver to get it to synchronize with the controller. So if you guys are using this on original hardware make sure your Receiver is updated.

Next I'll see how it feels on the Switch, I've been playing a bunch of Pocket Rumble (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKGTDgfN80k) lately and it's a 2-button fighter that would be perfect with an NES controller. I usually prefer an arcade stick when playing fighting games, but this game was built with a pad in mind.

Overall I'm really happy with this kit!
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on August 04, 2018, 09:59:42 am
Thanks for the write-up Opt. Looks like a pretty cool piece of kit. Hopefully they make these for other controllers and also make receivers for systems like the Genesis/PC Engine/etc. There’s definitely market out there...
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on August 08, 2018, 10:20:34 pm
Wow, that looks really neat. Thanks for sharing, opt2not.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: 05SRT4 on August 09, 2018, 02:49:33 am
I don't even remember when/how/why I ended up with an SN30

Bruh  :'(
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: Titchgamer on August 09, 2018, 04:32:57 am
Great write up opt.

I emailed 8bitdo the other day asking if they will be doing neo geo controller replacements anytime soon and they said they would pass my request onto the dev team.

They seem to be giving retro gamers what they need so ime quietly hopeful!
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 12, 2018, 12:53:17 am
I finally bought my own 8bitdo DIY kits, one each for original NES, SNES and 6 button Genesis. I also got SNES and NES retro receivers.

So far, everything works perfectly. One of the coolest features is that you can connect the console retro receivers to your PC to use your 8bitdo controllers as xbox 360 controllers. I just spent an hour or so playing Ducktales Remastered on Steam with the 6 button genesis controller loaded with the DIY wireless PCB. I could see having several of the receivers for different original console controllers. Then, when you want to switch emulators, just turn off whatever controller was already on and activate the next controller that you want to use. This should eliminate the problem of Windows reordering controllers each time you unplug anything or reboot the computer, since all your controllers will be seen as 360 controllers that are always numbered in the order that you activate them.

Previously, I used usb converters for my wired original controllers and had issues with controller order and emulators having to be remapped all the time.

I also tested my NES retro receiver with a 4 score on an original NES front loader. It works flawlessly, as expected. I'm just sharing because I hadn't heard anything yet and I was curious if the functionality of the multi-tap might not play nice with the receiver.

One other thing to report is that this DIY kit won't fix bad diagonals on old NES controllers, at least for the two that I tried, even after cleaning the rubber contacts with alcohol. Anyone got any suggestions?

Also, I had to update the firmware on the receivers to get PC connectivity with the controllers, despite ordering direct from 8bitdo just last week.

Short story, these things seem to be all that they're cracked up to be. All I need now is a retro receiver for Genesis, if only 8bitdo would just make one already.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on December 12, 2018, 08:53:22 am
Thanks for the feedback KenToad. I am planning on ordering these kits soon. Do they ship from Asia? If so, how long did it take to get them?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 12, 2018, 09:45:48 am
It took 6 days from the moment of ordering to being delivered by DHL, not bad for China to Wisconsin.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on December 12, 2018, 10:44:07 am
It took 6 days from the moment of ordering to being delivered by DHL, not bad for China to Wisconsin.

Wow! That's not bad at all. I live in Kansas, so I assume the ship time is similar. It would be nice to get these before Christmas. I've got family coming out to visit and I suspect they will want to do some gaming while they are here...
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 12, 2018, 11:47:12 am
Yeah, shipping wasn't cheap, but it was fast. I imagine that they sent it out that day.

*Editing to add that I bought two Snes/Nes classic retro receivers off Amazon. They're cheap at only $13 shipped. I don't have the classic units, but I plan to connect them to my PC so that I can use my original modified controllers and the WiiU pro controller with emulators. I'll have NES, SNES, 6-button Genesis and a WiiU pro connected. That and a Mayflash PS3 adaptor should cover pretty much all retro gaming and they can all be used at the same time for multiplayer.

I wonder if there's a limit on how many 360 controllers I can attach to my Win10 computer at one time?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on December 12, 2018, 01:44:00 pm
PSA:  I found out the hard way, but the SNES Retro Receivers apparently do not support the multitap.  The 8bitdo product page says it is supposed to be "compatible with two-four Retro Receivers for multiplayer player games":
(https://i.imgur.com/EyBSv9g.jpg)

I've contacted 8bitdo, and they told me that they didn't know it doesn't work with the multitap. They said never tested it.  :o
How can you state that it works for 2-4 players at a time without testing the multitap?

I hope 8bitdo can fix this with a firmware update.

I've bought multiple pads and retro receivers for this purpose (Super Bomberman tourneys are a ton of fun!), but it seems I have jumped the gun.
(https://i.imgur.com/9ghXSb6.jpg)
(slowly building up my NES 4-player support, as funds permit. Gotta get ready for Micro Mages (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/morphcat-games/micro-mages-a-new-game-for-the-nes) next year!)
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 12, 2018, 02:45:45 pm
Thanks so much for sharing! I haven't tested the NES retro receiver on ports 2, 3, or 4 yet, not to mention up to four of them running at once.

I'm fine with having only the first player be wireless, mainly because the multitaps themselves act as controller extensions.

And I don't have a regular group for 3-5 player retro gaming. We do play a lot of Towerfall, Rocket League, Castle Crashers, and Overcooked, though. Broforce seems like it would be fun for 4 players, but a little too gratuitous for my elementary school aged kids.

The colored stickers are brilliant, by the way.

Man, a fun Bomberman group would be amazing.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on December 12, 2018, 03:54:24 pm
I have a regular group of gamer buddies that I get together with every other week or so for multiplayer games and bourbon. ;)
Each meet-up one person supplies the entertainment or theme of their choice and a bottle of bourbon or whiskey to share. It’s usually consoles but we have had LAN parties in the past too, but those are few due to the hassle and setup.
I normally like to bring my SNES, NES or Saturn, so getting a wireless option for these meet-ups sounded like a great idea. Unfortunate that my attempt with the SNES failed. I haven’t tried the 4-Score on my NES yet, so I’m not sure if it’s the same.

But yeah, Bomberman tourneys are fantastic! Or as we’ve dubbed it, Bourbonman Tourneys because by the end of the night we’re usually pretty tipsy  :timebomb:
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: pbj on December 12, 2018, 04:51:51 pm
I had parties like that, too, but we ran the numbers and they were costing me nearly $1,000/month.  Between booze, food, fresh games to play.  It was amazing what ravenous and bitchy pigs your friends and their families can transform into.  Amazingly, none of them have stepped up to the plate after I pulled the plug, either. 
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 13, 2018, 02:32:58 pm
Whoah, pbj, sounds like you threw some rockin' parties. I would tend to agree that it's no fun if you feel like you're the only person who is interested in hosting.

I tested my SNES retro receiver and it works with my super multitap. I tested playing Super Bomberman 2 with a WiiU pro controller synched up since I haven't done the DIY kit for my SNES controller yet. Keep in mind that this is with all other controllers being wired, so that might make a difference, but I tested it on ports 2 and 3 with no issues.

What games have you tested, opt2not? Are you up to date with your firmware? Mine is 1.33.

I'm really curious because I'm starting to think that I might want more retro receivers.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on December 13, 2018, 03:31:54 pm
I tested my SNES retro receiver and it works with my super multitap. I tested playing Super Bomberman 2 with a WiiU pro controller synched up since I haven't done the DIY kit for my SNES controller yet. Keep in mind that this is with all other controllers being wired, so that might make a difference, but I tested it on ports 2 and 3 with no issues.

hmm, i wonder if it's a power issue through the multitap. With all 4 receivers plugged in, I can't get P3 and P4 to work.

The product pages states:
Code: [Select]
DC Power supply 5V, 100mA (powers directly from the NES controller port)So I'm wondering if the multitap isn't allowing enough power to come through to the ports.  I'll have to test just having 1 connected to P3, but I'm for certain that having all 4 plugged in doesn't allow P3 and P4 to function.


What games have you tested, opt2not? Are you up to date with your firmware? Mine is 1.33.

I'm really curious because I'm starting to think that I might want more retro receivers.
I tried Super Bomberman to no avail. 

I have Firmware v1.31 installed, I just noticed they updated the firmware last month, so i can give that a try too. They don't list any fixes for this in the release notes, but perhaps they fixed it incognito since they've been claiming it works with multiplayers already.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 13, 2018, 03:53:04 pm
Okay, I just tested Super Bomberman with the retro receiver in port 4. It worked.

Hopefully, 8bitdo fixed the problem with the latest firmware. Yeah, I would imagine that they might conveniently neglect to mention fixing something that was already listed as a feature.

Assuming this works, I wonder if you can use 5 SNES retro receivers at once? The Super Multitap isn't as good of a controller extension as the Four Score.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 13, 2018, 04:05:29 pm
Hmm, I have another sort of difficult decision to make. I have 8 SNES controllers. Of those, 4 are flawless. 2 are nearly perfect, just slightly mushy d-pads, 1 with a non-functioning start button and another that has a wonky d-pad (right doesn't register unless you press firmly).

What would you guys do? I was leaning toward harvesting the best of the lot, but now I'm thinking I might as well open up the 2 defective controllers, just might need a bit of cleaning.

Has anyone had any luck with fixing SNES controllers? Was it just a matter of cleaning the contact surfaces with rubbing alcohol?

I'm a bit less enthusiastic about messing with the defective ones, both because I have so many working controllers and because my recent attempt to resurrect some of my NES controllers by opening them up and cleaning them was unsuccessful.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on December 13, 2018, 05:57:38 pm
Okay, I just tested Super Bomberman with the retro receiver in port 4. It worked.

Hopefully, 8bitdo fixed the problem with the latest firmware. Yeah, I would imagine that they might conveniently neglect to mention fixing something that was already listed as a feature.

Assuming this works, I wonder if you can use 5 SNES retro receivers at once? The Super Multitap isn't as good of a controller extension as the Four Score.
Yeah, if they fixed it this firmware, I'd be a happy puppy.

Testing it with one retro receiver is kinda disingenuous to come to a conclusion, though. I'll get my receivers updated to the latest firmware this weekend and try all 4 at once again.


Hmm, I have another sort of difficult decision to make. I have 8 SNES controllers. Of those, 4 are flawless. 2 are nearly perfect, just slightly mushy d-pads, 1 with a non-functioning start button and another that has a wonky d-pad (right doesn't register unless you press firmly).

What would you guys do? I was leaning toward harvesting the best of the lot, but now I'm thinking I might as well open up the 2 defective controllers, just might need a bit of cleaning.
I would first try to clean the contacts on the PCB's, it could have dirt/grime buildup and not making a closed circuit when activated.  Second, order replacement silicone pads for your mushy pads. I like going to Console5  (https://console5.com)for my replacement parts, but they can be found elsewhere.

Or, you could convert your non-working controllers with the 8bitdo's bluetooth boards. That's if you were going to buy more anyway.  But I'd definitely get the replacement silicon pads regardless.


Has anyone had any luck with fixing SNES controllers? Was it just a matter of cleaning the contact surfaces with rubbing alcohol?

I'm a bit less enthusiastic about messing with the defective ones, both because I have so many working controllers and because my recent attempt to resurrect some of my NES controllers by opening them up and cleaning them was unsuccessful.
Contact cleaning is the easiest attempt.

If it's a problem with any of the components, it depends on how you value your time. It might not be worth tracking down the failed parts and replacing/soldering components (the boards have fairly simple circuitry) if time=money. But if you wanted to have a little repair-work fun, and already have components to swap in, go for it.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 13, 2018, 06:43:28 pm
Thanks for the link and the advice!

I'll look forward to hearing about your results with multiple receivers.

I fixed my controller that had a broken start button by swapping in the mod kit. I also cleaned it, but it wasn't very dirty.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on December 13, 2018, 10:40:34 pm
I placed an order yesterday for the DIY kits to modify the Genesis, NES Classic, and SNES Classic controllers. Hopefully the shipping isn't delayed too much. The Genesis kit had been out of stock when I first tried to place my order. The time I tried before that, one of the other kits was out. I guess these things must be selling fairly well. I'm not sure why Amazon doesn't stock them. Would be way more convenient...
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 13, 2018, 11:45:44 pm
Yeah, I want at least one more SNES kit. If it was Amazon, I would already have placed an order, but the $18 "Delivery Fee" kills my enthusiasm.

I guess it's at least better than having shipping take a month on the slow boat.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on December 14, 2018, 11:41:57 am
Yeah, I want at least one more SNES kit. If it was Amazon, I would already have placed an order, but the $18 "Delivery Fee" kills my enthusiasm.

I guess it's at least better than having shipping take a month on the slow boat.

The shipping is pretty steep. That's definitely the reason I wanted to order all three kits at the same time. DHL global is pretty reliable and fast, so I suppose it is better than snail mail. It would suck to lose such an expensive package.  :(
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 14, 2018, 03:37:33 pm
Well, my plan to have a unified way to play emulated games with a variety of controllers has suffered a setback. Retroarch, at least, sees each Retro Receiver as it's own numbered entity, based upon the order that they were plugged in, which will undoubtedly randomize with every reboot of the PC.

I was really hoping that Xbox 360 controller #1 would always be seen as such in a generic way by Windows.

My dream was to have all the controllers attached via usb as 360 controllers. That way, whatever controller I activated first would be seen as controller #1 by the emulator/Retroarch and Windows. Then, it would be a snap to use any controller with any system, as they would all have the same mapping. Has anyone dealt with this problem before and maybe found a better solution?

Another issue is that the retro receivers sometimes treat directional pads as analog Joysticks and other times as POV hats (depending upon whether the controller has an analog joystick), which makes mapping an additional chore. According to the instructions for the diy PCB kits, you can switch button mappings to make the d-pads act like joysticks or d-pads, but, so far, it doesn't work. The NES DIY kit states that the remapping must be done "before anything is connected," but again, not true.

I haven't seen firmware updates for these DIY kits, but I probably need to crack them open again to connect them properly to the PC and use the 8bitdo firmware updater. Of course, I have no idea whether or not there is an update that will fix the problem. What a pain.

Any updates on functionality with your 3-4 player receivers, opt2not?

*Edit* The d-pad/joystick mode switching only works in wired mode, at least for the genesis controller kit. And, I have the correct firmware.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on December 14, 2018, 05:04:49 pm
Any updates on functionality with your 3-4 player receivers, opt2not?

I've been swamped at work all week, having to put in OT. I'll have a chance to check out the new firmware this weekend and post results.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 15, 2018, 03:03:04 pm
Those of you that have 8bitdo branded controllers: Have you had any issues with the d-pads?

I've seen several YouTube videos from people, for instance the guys at My Life in Gaming, stating that the PCB's need to be modified (partially covered with tape) in order to prevent unwanted diagonals.

You can find video demonstrations of this with people holding right and having Mario or whatever duck unintentionally.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on December 16, 2018, 01:58:44 pm
Tried updating to the latest firmware, didn’t work in the 3rd or forth slot.

@KenToad

What multitap are you using? The long one? Or the one that looks like bomberman’s head?

Are you playing on an original SNES, SNES Jr., or SuperNT?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 16, 2018, 07:49:59 pm
Bummer, I'm playing with the long multitap on an original Snes with SD2Snes.

Even just a single receiver won't work in position 3 or 4?

Thanks so much for checking
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on December 17, 2018, 03:56:44 pm
Bummer, I'm playing with the long multitap on an original Snes with SD2Snes.

Even just a single receiver won't work in position 3 or 4?

Thanks so much for checking

Yeah, single doesn't work. Hmm, I'm using the long multitap with a SuperNT, but I'm going to dig out my original SNES and test it as well. I wonder if it's actually the SuperNT not giving out enough juice on controller lines to support the Multitap...
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 17, 2018, 09:52:48 pm
That's cool to know that the SuperNT at least works with the multitap with wired controllers. Does a single receiver work in any port on the multitap with the SuperNT, or at least player 2 in 2 player mode?

I ordered a second SNES retro receiver from Amazon. It should get here Wednesday and I'll report whether or not it works with the multitap. If it does, I think I'll be ordering some more DIY kits soon.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on December 17, 2018, 10:02:19 pm
Does a single receiver work in any port on the multitap with the SuperNT, or at least player 2 in 2 player mode?
The receivers seem to only work in the 2P slot, in either multiplayer switch setting on the multitap.  P3, P4 and P5 doesn't work. The receivers just rapidly flash white when it's powered up, and won't go into paring mode (regular blue flashing LED).

I've got an original SNES and SNES jr that will host my next test. Stay tuned  :cheers:
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 17, 2018, 10:38:30 pm
Can't wait to read the results!

I'm actually checking Craigslist for CRT's and scheming how I might get one into the house without causing the wife to have a fit.

I'm outputting composite into a 40" flatscreen, which really sucks for the SNES. The NES actually isn't quite as bad, although you see all the overscan garbage.

But a big ass tube TV and Bluetooth receivers for original controllers? Just heaven. And once in a while I'd like to play some Duck Hunt properly.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on December 19, 2018, 01:07:03 pm
I just tested two SNES retro receivers simultaneously in ports 4 and 5 of the super multitap and they work perfectly.

Any updates on your end, opt2not?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on December 19, 2018, 02:40:53 pm
Gonna dig into my storage in the next couple days to test it out. I can barely get anything done during the week with my schedule around this time of year, but I'll update you guys on my findings sometime later this week.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: Arroyo on January 01, 2019, 10:58:02 pm
Well, my plan to have a unified way to play emulated games with a variety of controllers has suffered a setback. Retroarch, at least, sees each Retro Receiver as it's own numbered entity, based upon the order that they were plugged in, which will undoubtedly randomize with every reboot of the PC.

I was really hoping that Xbox 360 controller #1 would always be seen as such in a generic way by Windows.

My dream was to have all the controllers attached via usb as 360 controllers. That way, whatever controller I activated first would be seen as controller #1 by the emulator/Retroarch and Windows. Then, it would be a snap to use any controller with any system, as they would all have the same mapping. Has anyone dealt with this problem before and maybe found a better solution?

Based on everything posted here I was pretty fired up and bought 2 NES and SNES controllers and as everyone has stated they work awesome, especially on a CRT ;-).

I was also troubled buy the Windows device ID issue but stumbled upon this:

 https://www.reddit.com/r/RetroArch/comments/8wj03s/usb_device_id_change_on_reboot_breaking/ (https://www.reddit.com/r/RetroArch/comments/8wj03s/usb_device_id_change_on_reboot_breaking/)

Been testing it today and so far after a number of restarts and re-plugs it’s working brilliantly.  Hopefully this means no more device mapping again!

Only issue I have now is I can’t seem to have all 4 controllers connected to my Bluetooth dongle at once.....only the NES or the SNES.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 02, 2019, 09:48:34 pm
Cool, Arroyo!

I might order one or two more SNES kits and one more NES kit. Right now I'm waiting for my Retrotink 2x to ship and planning to install several floating shelves to hold my consoles w/flashcarts. The wireless options are perfect, but I still haven't decided how to handle N64's pathetic 7 ft. cord or whether I want to try a wireless 3rd party Genesis controller.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 07, 2019, 02:59:17 am
I finally made up my mind to order enough goodies to have a set of 4 SNES pads and receivers, as well as 2 NES pads and receivers.

Just messing around with the pads and rediscovered that the SNES are by far my favorite controllers, especially without the wires, so I'll be happy to use them on the PC.

Even if all 4 don't work simultaneously through the multitap, it will still be excellent to have two hooked up to each system.

I haven't tested it yet, but the software link that Arroyo posted seems like it will be a perfect fit. Thanks!
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on January 07, 2019, 09:13:59 pm
Shoot, I didn't get back to you with my tests.  I did pull my SNES JR out of storage to test it during the holidays, but I completely forgot about it through the haze of Bourbon and Glogg. 
 :dizzy:

I'll fire it up tonight if the missus doesn't have me pull down all our Christmas decorations.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on January 08, 2019, 03:15:11 am
http://youtu.be/DCjy659arRk (http://youtu.be/DCjy659arRk)

Nope. Doesn't work on my original SNES Jr console. Same results. I've tried connecting just one receiver to ports 3, 4 or 5th and I still can't get it to work.  So something is going on with how the multitap handles those ports, perhaps less voltage output?  I'm not sure. 

@KenToad  when you get your set, let us know if your multitap works with all 4 retro receivers. I'd actually be happy if it does, then I'd know it's my multitap not functioning properly.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 08, 2019, 12:23:53 pm
I wonder how similar your 8bitdo controllers are to the DIY kits I'm using? I was able to hook up a WiiU pro controller to ports 3-5, though, so I doubt that is the issue.

Isn't the SNES Jr. different in several ways from the original model SNES that I'm using? Maybe just video output? I don't remember.

Thanks so much for checking and for posting that video. My DHL delivery is supposed to happen Thursday. Maybe I'll be able to assemble and test before the weekend.

I've been looking into the new wireless genesis controllers from 8bitdo. They are 2.4g rather than bluetooth. I tend to avoid 3rd party controllers, but they look decent quality and are a pretty good deal at $24 each shipped from Amazon. And they include the receivers. I ordered a pair of extension cords, but the wires are just irritating by now. Guess I'm getting spoiled.

It's all over YouTube that 8bitdo controllers notoriously have bad d-pads. Diagonals are far too easy to hit because the contacts on the pcb's are too large. People make them smaller with bits of tape and stickers. That hasn't been a problem at all with the DIY kits. Have you noticed any issues with accidentally hitting diagonals with your SN30 pads?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on January 08, 2019, 01:56:28 pm
I wonder how similar your 8bitdo controllers are to the DIY kits I'm using? I was able to hook up a WiiU pro controller to ports 3-5, though, so I doubt that is the issue.
They shouldn't be any different.

Isn't the SNES Jr. different in several ways from the original model SNES that I'm using? Maybe just video output? I don't remember.
Yeah, just video. The Jr should support all the peripherals that the regular SNES supports.

It's all over YouTube that 8bitdo controllers notoriously have bad d-pads. Diagonals are far too easy to hit because the contacts on the pcb's are too large. People make them smaller with bits of tape and stickers. That hasn't been a problem at all with the DIY kits. Have you noticed any issues with accidentally hitting diagonals with your SN30 pads?
All of them have great d-pads, after a bit of breaking-in. 100% playable in Contra 3, SF2T, platformers. You name it. I’m very fickle with d-pad quality, and these have not disappointed me.

The d-pad complaints are either vastly exaggerated, or perhaps the quality of the later batches have went down.  I’m really wondering if the later batches had quality issues. Mine are from the initial opening sales, first batch.



Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: Osirus23 on January 09, 2019, 06:12:34 pm
I have several 8bito SN30s and have had zero complaints about the d-pads or anything else. Closest thing to OEM I've ever used in regards to third-party Nintendo controllers.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 10, 2019, 12:27:03 pm
That's great to hear that the 8bitdo controllers have worked well. YouTuber's can be oddly finicky. Look up videos comparing 1 vs. 2 chip SNES's for example.

What do you guys think about 2.4g wireless vs. Bluetooth? That's what the 8bitdo genesis controllers are using and what the upcoming wireless N64 controllers will use. Didn't the old Wavebirds also use 2.4g?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on January 10, 2019, 02:05:37 pm
They did and they were fantastic!

I dunno about the 8bitdo 2.4g controllers, but if it's different than the bluetooth, I'd be interested in hearing why.  Though it wouldn't matter in the long run since I already committed to the BT version.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 11, 2019, 01:01:17 am
All 4 SNES Bluetooth controllers work through my multitap with retro receivers.

Now I just need a group of buddies that want to play Super Bomberman.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on January 11, 2019, 01:12:11 am
All 4 SNES Bluetooth controllers work through my multitap with retro receivers.

Now I just need a group of buddies that want to play Super Bomberman.

Really?? Dammit. My multitap must be faulty then.  :angry:
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 11, 2019, 04:53:40 pm
So it works with wired controllers, but not the retro receivers in ports 3-5? It still seems worth investigating hooking it up to an original SNES, rather than the Jr. version, if you haven't already done that.

To be fair, I'm going to have the 3rd and 4th SNES controllers hooked up to the PC for emulators 99% of the time.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 14, 2019, 10:14:47 am
I was playing Chip and Dale's Rescue Rangers 2 with my son yesterday and had my first issues with the NES bluetooth pads running through the 4 score in 2 player mode. Sometimes my character wouldn't stop moving after I stopped pressing a direction. Some inputs were delayed. My son didn't seem to have any issues. I haven't had any issues running only one retro receiver through any port in the 4 score.

I moved the retro receivers to the standard controller ports and that seems to have resolved it.  :dunno
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on January 16, 2019, 08:31:53 pm
All 4 SNES Bluetooth controllers work through my multitap with retro receivers.

Now I just need a group of buddies that want to play Super Bomberman.

Hey, could you record a video of this working with all 4 receivers?  Because I just got a reply back from 8bitdo stating that "Multitap does not provide power for four receivers.".

I don't know why they couldn't have come clean from the beginning. Shady business practices, I guess.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 17, 2019, 10:54:20 am
Maybe they don't have a multitap setup with an OG SNES?

https://youtu.be/ydng8108XAo

*Edit* I should add that I haven't been able to test this setup yet with 3 other players. However, just trying it out myself, I can't detect any lag or other issues.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on January 17, 2019, 02:11:46 pm
Thanks for the upload.  I've forwarded it and asked them to test on an OG SNES.

I still haven't gone into my storage for my OG. I guess I'll have to do that soonish. It just sucks because I sealed it in plastic because it CIB and I mainly use the SNES Jr or SuperNT (yeah, I caved and bought one of those Anal-logue devices).   :lol

Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 17, 2019, 06:46:44 pm
The Super NT looks pretty amazing. I will admit that I haven't bought any 3rd party hardware, except these DIY kits, because I'm happy with emulators. It's mainly the novelty of using the original consoles that led me to find a decent solution for hooking them up.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on January 29, 2019, 12:48:26 am
8bitdo is making retro receivers for Genesis/Megadrive, due to release at the end of February. Preorders are up on Amazon for $20.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on February 08, 2019, 02:34:54 pm
When the retro receivers are plugged into the PC, they are always seen as being on, no matter whether your controller is currently powered on or not. What this means is that you cannot reorder your Xinput controllers by turning them on and off. The receivers must be physically unplugged from the usb connections. That basically breaks PC functionality for me. I don't want to have to unplug a retro receiver to use a different xinput controller when I'm playing a steam game, for example.

The Wireless xinput dongle I got from Microsoft supports 4 Xbox controllers and you can change the order at any time by simply turning the controllers off and then on again in the desired order. I also don't want to have to use extra drivers or software to make a fixed order for these retro receivers. I guess it was too much to ask that 8bitdo would design their products with optimal flexibility for PC usage, since that seems to be an afterthought anyway. I suppose that I could ask their support staff if they could possibly update the firmware, but for now I've gone back to using my Microsoft connector and Mayflash PS3 controller connector, both of which have been excellent.

I went ahead and preordered one of the new Genesis / Mega Drive retro receivers through Amazon.

I also ordered a Sega Teamplayer, Sega's multitap, new in box from Amazon Prime for $20. Even though they had a picture of the box and listed it as new, I really didn't expect it to be shrinkwrapped and have all the documentation, stickers, etc.

After smelling the 1994 air, I tested it out and found that it works, but its usage is incredibly convoluted. Rather than being a simple 2p-4p or 5p binary switch like the NES and SNES multitaps, you have a 6 position switch labeled Extra, A, B, C, D, and Multi. It also has two short wires instead of one, labelled as Controller 1 and Controller 2. The crazy thing is that you can't plug both wires in when you have a game that's compatible with the Teamplayer. You only plug both wires in if it's a multiplayer game that doesn't have teamplayer compatibility. And then you use the extra setting instead of multi. You use multi mode when you have a teamplayer compatible game, but you plug the controller 1 wire into port 1 if you have up to four players and leave the other wire hanging, but you have to move the same wire over to port 2 if you have up to 5 players and then plug player 1's controller into port 1. The instructions don't say, but I'm assuming that ABCD switches are for choosing what controller to play as 1st player in single player only games. That's just a guess, though (I'll look it up eventually).

Between this and the 32X released that year, just further proof that, by 1994, Sega had completely lost their minds.

I'll test the retro receiver with the Teamplayer when I get the receiver, hopefully later this month.

*Edit* I looked it up. Apparently, EA is the reason for the complexity, as they made their own multitap adapter called the 4 Way Play, which sounds sexual, and refused to support Sega's peripheral (which initially was more simple and didn't have twin wires to connect to the console). I was also correct about the ABCD switch being for choosing which controller would be used as 1st player, so that you could have other controllers or peripherals, such as the mega mouse, plugged in and switch between them on a per game basis, although that still doesn't seem all that practical.

*Sigh* This will all be worth it if I can get a gang together to play some NHL '94.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: Arroyo on February 08, 2019, 05:21:17 pm
When the retro receivers are plugged into the PC, they are always seen as being on, no matter whether your controller is currently powered on or not. What this means is that you cannot reorder your Xinput controllers by turning them on and off. The receivers must be physically unplugged from the usb connections. That basically breaks PC functionality for me. I don't want to have to unplug a retro receiver to use a different xinput controller when I'm playing a steam game, for example.

I also don't want to have to use extra drivers or software to make a fixed order for these retro receivers. I guess it was too much to ask that 8bitdo would design their products with optimal flexibility for PC usage, since that seems to be an afterthought anyway.

Did you try the link that I posted to the software that maintains the device ID order?  Works really well for me, you can place it in the subfolder of any emulator so that it works across multiple formats.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on February 08, 2019, 11:21:57 pm
Does it work for steam games? I'm also just not sure I want a fixed order for controllers.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: Arroyo on February 09, 2019, 07:14:37 am
Does it work for steam games? I'm also just not sure I want a fixed order for controllers.

It’s worked on every program so far.  Why wouldn’t you want a fixed order for controllers?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on February 11, 2019, 10:58:13 am
Does it work for steam games? I'm also just not sure I want a fixed order for controllers.

It’s worked on every program so far.  Why wouldn’t you want a fixed order for controllers?

I don't want a fixed order because it's inconvenient, basically. Right now I have a Microsoft wireless dongle that supports 4 Xbox 360 controllers and a Mayflash PS3 dongle that supports 4 PS3 controllers through Directinput. In both cases, whatever controller I power up first becomes 1st player and displays its order via LED on the controller.

If I do a system-wide fixed controller order, then I might have to label my controllers or change the order for specific games. If I do a program specific fixed order, then it's similar hassles and the work of setting up a bunch of configurations.

I still appreciate the link and I might eventually set it up for Retroarch, but for now just plugging in a retro receiver when I want to use a specific retro controller for a steam game or something seems like the best option.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on February 28, 2019, 09:47:59 pm
I got the mega drive/genesis retro receiver today and it's been great so far plugged directly into my model 1 "High Definition Graphics" Genesis.

I'll test it with the Team Player tomorrow.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on March 01, 2019, 01:01:24 pm
I tested the MegaDrive Retro Receiver with Gauntlet IV and NHL '94 with my Bluetooth modded US 6 button controller Mk-1653 and 3 wired controllers plugged into the Team Player and so far it worked perfectly. The everdrive only seems to recognize inputs when the Team Player is set to "Extra," though. It worked for me to switch to "Multi" after the game booted.

The MegaDrive Retro Receiver seems to be nicely put together. It's sleek and solid.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on March 04, 2019, 10:46:36 am
One of my 4 SNES mod kits has started malfunctioning. The D-pad stopped working. The other buttons work fine.

I'll email customer support, but I'm not hopeful that this will be resolved without a bunch of time and energy expended.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on March 05, 2019, 11:15:33 am
I got a reply from 8bitdo advising me to update the firmware to version 6.10 and reset the controller by holding the start button down for 8 seconds. I did both of those things and of course they didn't fix the problem. However, the firmware update notes mention that they "Fixed input lag with more than 3 players problem." Of course, you can't update the firmware without opening up the Nintendo controllers to access the mini usb ports on the modkits and it seems like I probably should update them all, so it's a bit irritating that they didn't solve this issue before releasing the products.

I'm out of the 30 day return window, but it hasn't even been two months. We'll see what they say, but at least the process is reversible, right?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on March 05, 2019, 07:04:52 pm
Hopefully they will send you a new kit if they can’t fix it with software. Aside from the battery dying, the kit should last for a very long time. Speaking of the battery, you have done a full charge right? These Bluetooth controllers do some funky stuff when the charge is low.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on March 05, 2019, 09:52:28 pm
Yeah, the first thing I did was to charge it up, but I wasn't aware that bluetooth controllers are known for issues when the charge is low. I'll definitely keep it in mind if I run into trouble in the future. Thanks.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on March 07, 2019, 02:14:53 pm
Latest reply from 8bitdo is that they want more details, including a video if possible. So I'm uploading a video now and will email more details.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on March 07, 2019, 05:12:54 pm
At least it sounds like they want to try to find a solution for you. Good luck and please keep us posted.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on March 08, 2019, 10:55:57 am
They are sending me a new kit.

I understand that postage from China or Hong Kong makes this more expensive for them than for a company based in the US, but I appreciate that they had a good customer service representative who followed through.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on March 12, 2019, 07:12:34 am
So I was on Twitter yesterday and a popular YouTuber posted a link to a video review of the Genesis DIY kit and new BT receiver. I started watching it and it turns out that the D-pad on his DIY kit didn't work right out of the box. 8BitDo is sending him a new one, but all this has me wondering if there is some design flaw with these products. I really hope not since I have three of them now (NES, SNES, and Genesis). Thankfully it seems like 8BitDo is standing behind their products and replacing them when this happens. That does give me some piece of mind.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHhRwaafMZY&t=311s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHhRwaafMZY&t=311s)
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on March 12, 2019, 01:08:00 pm
I just read a comment on that video saying that someone else got a replacement from 8bitdo that was sent economy and took about 6 weeks to arrive, so I guess I shouldn't hold my breath checking the mail for a while.

Thanks for the post and video link.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on March 12, 2019, 01:35:49 pm
https://youtu.be/fv30v_-iZ9Y

This is a follow-up video. Apparently, his problem was a firmware update and a faulty solder connection with the battery. He also mentioned that he didn't read the instructions and paired it incorrectly.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: yotsuya on March 12, 2019, 02:14:35 pm
Still relevant
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190312/096d284c0ced266b7c298cf38c6c388d.jpg)
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on March 12, 2019, 04:39:05 pm
This is a follow-up video. Apparently, his problem was a firmware update and a faulty solder connection with the battery. He also mentioned that he didn't read the instructions and paired it incorrectly.

Thanks for the heads-up about the new video. Turns out that my controller needed a slight update to the newest firmware. Just like the YT guy, I didn't think there were any firmware updates because they didn't list anything on the support page. Wonder if the NES/SNES kits need an update? Unfortunately for those, you have to take the controller apart to get to that stupid micro USB connector. Fun times. LOL!

Sorry to hear it might take a month and a half to get the new kit. Those must really ship on the "slow boat from China".  :laugh2:
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on March 12, 2019, 09:53:42 pm
Yeah, I went ahead and updated all of mine, not fun. I think I wore out one of the screwdrivers they sent me.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on March 13, 2019, 11:13:32 am
LOL! Well, to be fair those screwdrivers are pretty cheap. I don't think it takes much to wear them out...
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on April 08, 2019, 02:23:11 pm
About 4 weeks later, I received my replacement SNES pcb from 8bitdo and it seems to work perfectly. Hopefully, that was just a fluke and these things will last a good long time.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on April 09, 2019, 07:43:43 am
About 4 weeks later, I received my replacement SNES pcb from 8bitdo and it seems to work perfectly. Hopefully, that was just a fluke and these things will last a good long time.

Nice!  :cheers: I really enjoy the fact that I can use the original controllers wirelessly. I really hope they offer other kits for different controllers at some point.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on April 09, 2019, 10:38:17 am
I think the crux is that they won't do analog controllers. That's probably a good thing, though. I like these PCB's because they don't change the feel of the original controllers. If you had to switch out the analog pots, I can't imagine that they would feel the same as the originals.

Personally, I wish that they would make Bluetooth PCB's for the original 3 button Genesis controllers.

But, yeah, I'm really enjoying playing my old consoles with original controls wirelessly.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on April 16, 2019, 02:52:52 pm
https://youtu.be/_mtJun0LpE4

Looks like the mod kits for the Genesis 6-button controllers fit in the Retro-bit licensed reproductions.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on April 19, 2019, 09:48:42 am
I ordered the Retro-Bit controller from Amazon ($14.99 with free shipping) and am going to put my DIY kit in it. My current 6 button controller is pretty beat up and I’m stoked to be able to have one that will look brand new. I’ve heard pretty good things about the build quality. Looking forward to Retro-Bits wireless Saturn and Dreamcast controllers. My consoles are pretty far from my couch and it’s nice to have wireless controllers for them, especially when they are OEM.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on April 19, 2019, 04:02:24 pm
I'm really curious if the guts of the Retro-bit controller will fit in an original six-button controller, seems like it could be a great way to refurbish old original controllers.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: gamepimp on April 19, 2019, 07:19:24 pm
I'm really curious if the guts of the Retro-bit controller will fit in an original six-button controller, seems like it could be a great way to refurbish old original controllers.

Great idea! I’ll test it out when I get the new controller.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on May 01, 2019, 09:15:01 pm
I'm having a recurring issue where the NES wireless controllers stop functioning properly in 2 player simultaneous games.

Does anyone else have a pair of Retro receivers plugged into an OG NES to confirm whether or not they've had problems?

*Edit* Firmware update, so I'll give that a shot.

*Nope* No change after the update, as far as I can tell. As soon as I unplug the second receiver, everything works well. I first started noticing problems in Rescue Rangers 2, in case anyone else wants to test.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: opt2not on May 02, 2019, 05:28:07 am
Which wireless NES controllers do you have?  The DIY install, or the N30's?
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on May 02, 2019, 08:31:27 am
The DIY install.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on May 03, 2019, 11:28:15 am
Some more research turns up several reviews on the Amazon retro receiver product page describing the same type of behavior with two receivers. One reviewer said that he/she had solved the issue by putting one of the receivers farther away from the other using an extension cable. They believed that the devices are interfering with each other. That sounds a bit unlikely to me, but what do I know.

I also saw a YouTube video (linked below) demonstrating that you could activate diagonals on the new Retrobit 6 button Genesis controllers by pressing on the center of the D-pad. I have tested this using a controller testing program with my official 6-button controllers and you definitely cannot do that. So it looks like the new Retrobit controllers are not exactly the same as the original Sega products, which is disappointing.

https://youtu.be/myUJZ2dKwac
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: pbj on May 03, 2019, 11:57:53 am
I’m terrible at video games, but I got to play with opt2nots nes controllers and these mods are legit.

Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: KenToad on May 03, 2019, 12:25:57 pm
Yeah, they're amazing when they work. I'm just a bit irked that they couldn't beta test these things and advertise them correctly. They've already changed their marketing on both Amazon and their own page to reflect that the receivers only work for up to two players (because they don't want to offer support or refunds when they don't work for 3 or 4 players, as in Opt2Not's case).  Clearly, 8bitdo didn't do proper testing and just rushed to market.
Title: Re: Bluetooth mod kit for original controllers from 8bitdo
Post by: Osirus23 on May 04, 2019, 11:17:01 am
I also saw a YouTube video (linked below) demonstrating that you could activate diagonals on the new Retrobit 6 button Genesis controllers by pressing on the center of the D-pad. I have tested this using a controller testing program with my official 6-button controllers and you definitely cannot do that. So it looks like the new Retrobit controllers are not exactly the same as the original Sega products, which is disappointing.

From what I've gathered these things really aren't any better than RetroBit's previous "non-official" controllers.