WIP: Universal Wireless Retro Controller v2

[kreats]

Love these wireless controllers! I would like to order at least 1 saturn controller, providing it comes with a genesis receiver also.  It's a shame you're only doing limited runs of these as I'd love a snes kit also.

Some other comments:

I think you should stick to black or white for the controllers .. the grey and blue ones are a bit ugly - blergh!

I think the interest in a non original (manufactured) controller shell would be pretty low - the whole point to my mind is an original controller, but wireless. 

I wish I have the option of getting an entire set of controllers, rather than having to order them one at a time (and potentially missing out each time if you are doing a limited run).  So long as they are all compatible with the same receivers a full set of snes/nes/saturn/neogeo/etc controllers would be worth the wait!  Plus it would save a huge amount on postage.

[micro]

Well if you're ever interested in teaming up in any way shape or form, then just hit me up via our website contact form

In that case, I will.

Love these wireless controllers! I would like to order at least 1 saturn controller, providing it comes with a genesis receiver also.  It's a shame you're only doing limited runs of these as I'd love a snes kit also.

Some other comments:

I think you should stick to black or white for the controllers .. the grey and blue ones are a bit ugly - blergh!

I think the interest in a non original (manufactured) controller shell would be pretty low - the whole point to my mind is an original controller, but wireless. 

I wish I have the option of getting an entire set of controllers, rather than having to order them one at a time (and potentially missing out each time if you are doing a limited run).  So long as they are all compatible with the same receivers a full set of snes/nes/saturn/neogeo/etc controllers would be worth the wait!  Plus it would save a huge amount on postage.

As I said this is still under development. It's not final and I don't hoard big supplies of the assembled PCB's.

Regarding the color of the saturn controller: These are just some standard grey japanese Saturn controllers. Some of them even got scuffs or scratches. But they work and the rubber membrans are also ok as far as I've seen. Think of them as cheap cases for the controller PCB's. You can swap the cases if you got a white or black controller. Only very little work has to be done to fit the PCB's (in contrast to the SNES controller on which you have to cut out a hole for the USB socket!).

If I had used black or white Saturn controllers, the price would even be higher!

[micro]

Good news, everyone! I got the Genesis receiver working. It was a very hard and long struggle to get it working, expecially the 6 button mode. But with the help of Raphaël Assénat it was possible to resolve the issues. BIG THANKS!

I ordered receiver PCB's for the Genesis receiver today as well as more parts. I guess in 2 weeks or so I can assemble the Genesis receivers. I ordered parts for 5 receivers, price for one Genesis receiver will be 20€.

With the Genesis 6 button controller protocol demystified I'll also release instructions soon on how to build a Saturn->Genesis controller. Stay tuned! 

[public-pervert]

This is great news! Raphael have really great projects. I can't even imagine what you both can do together 
Thanks for you hard and yet amazing work, Micro!

[Grambo]

Sign me up for two!

[cheema201]

Great work

Do you still have the Saturn controllers for sale?

I'll love to get one - with both the genesis and saturn receiver

I'd be happy for you to PM me with the details if any are still available

[kreats]

actually me too!

if you're really never going to do another run - think I might have to somehow stretch for 2 (2 controllers, 2 genesis receivers)!

[Zoel]

I made a video to show Micro's Saturn V2 in action. Take a look.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSrOOUzi0ns

[micro]

Well, well... Look who decided to join the party: 





As you can see, the receivers for the Megadrive/Genesis are finally ready. And they seem to work too
If anyone still wants a Saturn controller with or without an additional Megadrive receiver, just send me a PM. Only 3 of the 5 controllers are left, you can see the remaining ones here: http://imgur.com/a/XzRap

As announced I will post instructions to build a neat Saturn->Megadrive controller adaptor soon.

[public-pervert]

That's awesome news! 

Do you plan the n64 to be on the list of the UWRT v2?

[micro]

Thanks! 

Yes, a UWRC v2 PCB for the N64 controller would be great. But there are some obstacles. For example: One feature of UWRC v2 is the low power consumption (about 1 mA) and the extreme battery life of several hundreds of hours. Unfortunately the original Nintendo analog stick has a very high current consumption (10 mA) so the max. battery life would be slashed down to 20 - 30h maybe? Not exciting...

[public-pervert]

30h of battery life is great considering that my PS3 needs a charge every 15h aproximatelly.

It isn't possible to also replace the original joystick with a less power hungry pot based joystick? Then maybe tweak your FW for the stick replacement to try to consume less power?

[micro]

Yes, using a pot-based analog stick would decrease the power consumption significantly. But I also want to get decent battery life when using a original analog stick. Well, we'll see, maybe there's space for a bigger battery...

In other news, all the Saturn controllers and Megadrive receivers are gone. I hope to get some feedback soon. 
Also, I've compiled a little manual for the Saturn controller and Megadrive receiver: http://www.mediafire.com/view/6me60bmgtfje16l/Universal_Wireless_Retro_Controller__v2_for_Sega_Saturn.pdf

[public-pervert]

Yes, using a pot-based analog stick would decrease the power consumption significantly. But I also want to get decent battery life when using a original analog stick. Well, we'll see, maybe there's space for a bigger battery...

That's really nice that the N64 will receive such a gift 
Are you planning on use the original Nintendo IC for the controller or will some AVR replace it?

Regarding the Saturn controller manual, it's very well writen as always. I love it 

[Zoel]

Thanks! 

Yes, a UWRC v2 PCB for the N64 controller would be great. But there are some obstacles. For example: One feature of UWRC v2 is the low power consumption (about 1 mA) and the extreme battery life of several hundreds of hours. Unfortunately the original Nintendo analog stick has a very high current consumption (10 mA) so the max. battery life would be slashed down to 20 - 30h maybe? Not exciting...

That's pretty good actually. I heard PS4 controllers last from 4 to 10 hours.  But anyways I was gonna ask is a Dreamcast wireless controller possible?

[micro]

@pervert: I intent on using a microcontroller in the receiver to keep it small. Yes, that probably means no memory pak support.

@Zoel: I'd love to make a wireless Dreamcast controller, too. But right now I don't know how to... The microcontroller I'm using now is most certainly too slow. We'll see...

The next console I'll be working on won't be N64 or Dreamcast, but rather NES or PSX. (I haven't decided yet)

[kreats]

well for PSX there are a number of solutions already. I use the katana wireless controllers myself.

[Zoel]

@pervert: I intent on using a microcontroller in the receiver to keep it small. Yes, that probably means no memory pak support.

@Zoel: I'd love to make a wireless Dreamcast controller, too. But right now I don't know how to... The microcontroller I'm using now is most certainly too slow. We'll see...

The next console I'll be working on won't be N64 or Dreamcast, but rather NES or PSX. (I haven't decided yet)

I think it's better to go for the NES, there's a more larger audience for it. Though I don't really got a working NES as of the moment, so I don't think I'll be buying any of the NES controllers. The PSX has a lot of solutions available, there is quite a lot of 2.4 Ghz controller out in the market though most of them use AAA or AA batteries, I prefer having a rechargeable battery inside then using AA or AAA. The main problem with it is simply none of the wireless controllers are made by Sony themselves and nothing have the original design.  I think the best solution for the PSX would be making a PS3 or PS4 to a PS2 adapter, there's a lot of PS2 to PS3 adapters out there but not vice versa.

[cheema201]

Are ps1 and ps2 controllers compatible? I don't remember - I'm pretty sure the connection is the same... Can you use a ps2 controller on ps1 - and vice versa. The ps1 controller would probably have to be dual shock.

But if they were compatible then you could use your wireless ps1 (or ps2) controller make 2 receivers to have a wireless controller for both consoles (or is that ridiculous?)

Anyways - looking forward to whatever comes next

[kreats]

yes you can use a ps2 controller on ps1 - haven't tried the other way around but I don't see why not

[Grambo]

The next console I'll be working on won't be N64 or Dreamcast, but rather NES or PSX. (I haven't decided yet)

Awesome! My vote is definitely for NES, PSX gets my 2nd vote.

[alamone]

NES should be trivial if SNES is already supported, it's the same protocol.
You can for example splice a NES plug onto a SNES pad and use it on a NES.

[xDezor]

Very cool, micro!

I just finished reading this thread and it's predecessor. The progress you've made is great! Just the idea of using an original game controller - wirelessly - is amazingly awesome. Coupling that with the potential to sync one console's controller to another system just blows my mind. I love your attention to detail too; you're really developing a grade-A device!

I think I speak for everyone when I say that I hope you finish your project, and potentially release it to the public in one form or another. If these kits do eventually go on sale (or PCB released to the public domain) I'll be sure to get a couple! I'm dying to get my hands on a well designed wireless SNES and PSX controller.

[keropi]

is it possible to buy the saturn pcb/battery as a kit? I have a couple nos saturn controllers that I could install the wireless kits..
also is there a place to see what is available and how much it costs?
am I right to assume that a saturn modded controller could also work with the snes/md/famicom as well?

[micro]

Theoretically I could offer you a Saturn PCB kit. (1 or 2 kits at most; I don't have many batteries left.) But right now I'm lacking many parts neccessary to assemble the PCBs.

And yes, the Saturn controller works with the SNES/Megadrive/Famicom if you got the appropriate receiver too.

[Grambo]

Got my Genesis PCBs mounted. I did have to desolder the Genesis' DB9 connectors and the receiver's channel select buttons, but everything is working great!
Thanks again micro.

[duo_r]

Hey Micro, ive been away for a while. I can't believe this is available now.

I am interested in a Saturn controller PCB and receiver, and receivers for most systems.

What else is available? I think a PSX adapter would be great as I do have Logitech wireless controllers but the dpad blows.

Also can I send you a PC Engine so you can figure out how to make that.

PC engine controllers are pretty simple in design, i have built them using just a couple chips.

[thriftypickle]

Joined just to ask Micro for some of these fine products. Would love a set for Saturn, SNES, and Genesis (Saturn most importantly). Would gladly support his efforts. Let me know! PM sent.

[omardrox]

Joined just to ask Micro for some of these fine products. Would love a set for Saturn, SNES, and Genesis (Saturn most importantly). Would gladly support his efforts. Let me know! PM sent.

Same Here!! Micro I just finished to read the hole thread and I would love to get a set for the SNES too just tell me how much and how can I pay for them and if one day you make them possible for the dreamcast too it would be awesome !! but for now please let me know , I really want them!

[allegrosurf]

Hi.. I also want it.. for my snes, nes, gen too.. how do I order it.. I really want to buy it.. thanks

[thriftypickle]

The Saturn controller works great. Looking forward to hearing back to get a second (most important). Then a set of dongles for Genesis. Finally a SNES / NES solution when you get the time. Thanks so much for your solid work. These are a dream come true.

[micro]

@thriftypickle: Good to hear. Would it be possible to show us some pics (front & back) of your finished controller please? ^^ IIRC you wanted to install the PCB inside a transparent Skeleton controller? I'd love to see how the controller looks like.

Well, I've spent the weekend assembling and testing 6 more wireless Saturn controller PCB sets. A set contains everything to build a wireless Saturn Model 2 controller and receiver except for a Model 2 controller itself. The price is quite steep (95€/each set), so I guess at the moment these wireless controllers appealing to wireless enthusiasts. ^^



Just send me a message, if you're interested.

[Zoel]

Mirco, did you made any more Megadrive / Genesis receivers?

I would love to get my hands on those, anyways I let people know you got more Saturn PCB on stock on other forums.

[originalself]

I got my complete Saturn controller today. I thought I would drop in a quick thought and picture.  I am very please with the construction quality. With the flush led and the lag free communication it really feels like a Sega built solution. I love being able to relax in my recliner playing Dragon Force without cords getting in the way. Great job!

[allegrosurf]

finally done mine.. thanks micro..

[SnoopKatt]

Looks great!! I've recently started learning some PCB board design, so this might be a dumb question, but just out of curiosity, why did you opt to use a separate board for the transceiver on the controller? Could the circuitry be implemented on one board, or is there an advantage to using two?

[KillingBeans]

A one-board solution would be possible, but the NRF24L01+ is not easy to solder and premade boards with all the required external components are very cheap on eBay.

[B-Man]

I just ordered the last two Sega Saturn PCB sets, thanks micro! Micro have you ever thought about making just the Dreamcast receivers out of extension cables with a short VMU cable attached? It's always boggled my mind how Sega can make such a perfect fighting controller for the Sega Saturn, yet such an awful controller for the Dreamcast, which is an amazing console for fighting games. I plan on using my new wireless Saga Saturn controllers exclusively on my Dreamcast via two Total Control 3 boxes. It'd be nice if I could get wireless Dreamcast receivers with a short VMU cable attached. It'd make the set up a lot cleaner and less cluttered, not to mention a direct wireless path from controller to console. I'd pay good money for this.

[SnoopKatt]

A one-board solution would be possible, but the NRF24L01+ is not easy to solder and premade boards with all the required external components are very cheap on eBay.

Gotcha... I remember those being pretty expensive when they first came out, but yeah less than $1 per board right now makes it a no-brainer.

[micro]

Killingbeans is right, using pre-made NRF transceiver boards makes the assembly of the easier. But the particular NRF board I'm using isn't cheap at all, usually it costs about 4$. There are other boiards with different pinouts that are cheaper. But cheaper isn't always better. If a whole NRF transceiver board is much, much less than a single NRF24L01+, then chances are the NRF24L01+ is a counterfeit. There are also boards available that can be clearly identified as counterfeits: http://www.ebay.com/itm/181566959487

I just ordered the last two Sega Saturn PCB sets, thanks micro! Micro have you ever thought about making just the Dreamcast receivers out of extension cables with a short VMU cable attached? It's always boggled my mind how Sega can make such a perfect fighting controller for the Sega Saturn, yet such an awful controller for the Dreamcast, which is an amazing console for fighting games. I plan on using my new wireless Saga Saturn controllers exclusively on my Dreamcast via two Total Control 3 boxes. It'd be nice if I could get wireless Dreamcast receivers with a short VMU cable attached. It'd make the set up a lot cleaner and less cluttered, not to mention a direct wireless path from controller to console. I'd pay good money for this.

Ouch, I'm afraid the Saturn receiver won't work with the Total Control 3 adaptor! (At least another board member had no luck with his Saturn receiver + Total Control 3) I don't have such an adaptor. Does the Total Control 3 adaptor work with the Saturn 3D controller (in digital mode)?