New Style Neo Geo Controllers vs Original Question

[Blaine]

As is my understanding, the newer Neo Geo controller as well as the CD pad both require +5 volts to work. Since, as we all know, the Neo doesn't use an encoder (and I don't have either joystick to check for myself)... what exactly is it doing with the voltage?

[NFG]

They have some transistors in there, I have no idea why.  Perhaps a signal amp, buffer or enhanced switching mechanism?  I dunno, but if they're not powered they won't work.

[albino_vulpix]

So could a new Neo pad be modded to bypass these transistors and work without the 5v?

[NFG]

You betcha.