Getting a Sega Master System controller / gamepad to work via USB

[smalltownguy]

I will use this thread to document my efforts to get my SMS gamepads working using a cheap hacked USB gamepad controller. Here's what I've got so far:



One OEM Sega Master System controller. Uses a connector similar to the 9 pin serial ports you see today.



One super cheap USB gamepad from the 'bay. I think I got this one for like $3.

NOTE: Before opening the gamepad and getting all crazy with my soldering iron and such, I tested it on my cab. It works.

Here's a  few shots of the disassembly:







Based on my last pic, it shouldn't be too hard to tie into the 7 points I need for my SMS controller: up, down, left, right, A, B, and ground.

More to follow once I get my hands on a scrap DB9 cable.

[Hunk_4TH]

Sorry for bumping this old thread. But did you ever do anything with this? I'm in the same boat and want to convert one of my SMS pads to usb. I was thinking of just getting this http://www.raphnet-tech.com/products/atari2usb/index.php?category=Adapters though it's a little pricey imo.

[Dazz]

Just  get these and wire your own DB9.

http://www.raphnet-tech.com/products/nes2usb/index.php?category=Kits

I've used these for several of my controls including Master System, Genesis, NES, SNES and a couple others.

[Hunk_4TH]

Just  get these and wire your own DB9.

http://www.raphnet-tech.com/products/nes2usb/index.php?category=Kits

I've used these for several of my controls including Master System, Genesis, NES, SNES and a couple others.

Cool thanks Dazz! Is there an howto on the site for the Master System controller? I just see the pdf for Nes.Snes and Atari though since Atari uses the same serial port I assume that guide will work for Master System?

[smalltownguy]

I have still continued with this, but I went a different direction. Since I'm only interested in getting the SMS gamepad to work, I'm going to wire it directly to my P1 joystick microswitches. I will tap into the switches on my CP, running them to a panel mounted DB9 connector. Then I can just plug in my SMS controller and go.

Since the SMS controller is basically just 6 inputs plus ground, it'll be easy.

FYI - my super cheap USB controller did not have a common ground, so hacking it would have required more work than what was worth it.

[Hunk_4TH]

I have still continued with this, but I went a different direction. Since I'm only interested in getting the SMS gamepad to work, I'm going to wire it directly to my P1 joystick microswitches. I will tap into the switches on my CP, running them to a panel mounted DB9 connector. Then I can just plug in my SMS controller and go.

Since the SMS controller is basically just 6 inputs plus ground, it'll be easy.

FYI - my super cheap USB controller did not have a common ground, so hacking it would have required more work than what was worth it.

Ah ok that's good to hear! Please keep us posted as I'm very interested in this project. If worse comes to worse I'll just end up ordering that chip Dazz posted or the serial to usb Genesis adapter. Sucks about the cheap USB gamepad. If possible please post pictures of your project progress