Tag: 8BitMods

  • 8BitMods BitLink DC: Wireless Dreamcast Controller Upgrade

    8BitMods BitLink DC: Wireless Dreamcast Controller Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Wireless Capability: The BitLink DC allows Sega Dreamcast controllers to be used wirelessly on Mac and PC, enhancing the gaming experience.

    2. Easy Installation: The installation process involves minimal modifications, fitting into the second VMU port and connecting via a provided cable.

    3. Enhanced Features: The adapter includes a built-in rumble motor, motion controls (accelerometer and gyroscope), and supports multiple virtual memory cards.

    4. Versatile Connectivity: The dongle can connect up to four Bluetooth LE devices, including controllers, keyboards, and mice, with a web interface for customization.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The complete kit is priced at £69.98, with pre-orders available, though shipping dates are yet to be announced.

    Even after Sega left the home console market with its final product, the Sega Dreamcast, fans, modders, and various companies continue to breathe new life into this cherished console with useful enhancements. The newest addition comes from 8BitMods, which has introduced the BitLink DC, enabling retro enthusiasts to use their Sega Dreamcast controllers wirelessly on both Mac and PC.

    Successor to the VMU Pro

    The BitLink DC Kit follows the company’s previous triumph with the VMU Pro memory card upgrade. This kit features an adapter that fits into the second VMU port after a little modification, while the dongle serves as the receiver. Now, nostalgic gamers can relish classic Dreamcast games like Crazy Taxi, Sonic Adventure, and Shenmue from the comfort of their sofas.

    Installation Made Simple

    So, what’s the deal with the BitLink DC Kit? The BitLink DC Adapter fits snugly into the second VMU port of the Dreamcast controller, much like an old rumble pack. Users will need to take out a few screws and connect a provided cable to the internal JST port, and that’s pretty much all there is to it.

    After the installation of the BitLink Adapter, your Dreamcast controller is transformed into a wireless device. It operates on a 2.4 GHz connection through the provided dongle and connects to PCs and MacBooks via Bluetooth LE when using an emulator.

    Enhanced Features

    To make it even more exciting, 8BitMods has packed some additional features into the BitLink DC Adapter. It comes with a built-in rumble motor for better haptic feedback, an accelerometer and gyroscope for motion controls, and supports up to four virtual memory cards.

    The BitLink DC Adapter also includes a robust 2,200 mAh battery that can recharge a connected VMU Pro and has a USB-C port for charging itself or for linking to a wired gaming setup.

    Versatile Controller Support

    The BitLink DC dongle fits into the Dreamcast’s controller port and functions as a hub, allowing for up to four Bluetooth LE controllers, keyboards, and even mice, perfect for playing homebrew games or emulating other titles.

    In addition to these capabilities, it features a built-in web interface that allows users to remap buttons, manage memory cards, customize LED colors, and update firmware directly from their browser.

    The BitLink DC Adapter and dongle will be offered in both white and smoke black and will support original Dreamcast controllers, the Arcade Stick, and third-party controllers such as Retro Fighters’ StrikerDC. The dongle alone is priced at £26.99, while the complete BitLink DC Adapter and dongle kit is available for £69.98.

    Pre-orders have begun on the 8BitMods website, although the company has yet to announce when shipping will start.

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  • Sega Dreamcast VMU Pro Accessory Launches with Upgrades & Emulation

    Sega Dreamcast VMU Pro Accessory Launches with Upgrades & Emulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitMods has announced pre-orders for the VMU Pro, a new accessory for the Sega Dreamcast.
    2. The VMU Pro features a 16-bit color IPS screen and supports microSD cards up to 2 TB for expanded storage.
    3. It offers a battery life of up to 6 hours and includes USB Type-C for charging and data transfer.
    4. The VMU Pro can emulate 8-bit consoles, supports Bluetooth LE and Wi-Fi, allowing for multi-unit pairing in games.
    5. Pre-orders are available for $81.23, with shipping expected in November 2025, and it comes in seven color options.

    8BitMods has started taking pre-orders for the VMU Pro, which they just revealed a few days ago as a new accessory for the Sega Dreamcast. To give some background, the VM2 developed by Dreamware Enterprises is already available as a modern Visual Memory Unit (VMU). However, the VMU Pro builds on the features of both the original VMU and the VM2 in various ways.

    Improved Display and Storage

    For example, the VMU Pro features a 16-bit color IPS screen instead of the monochrome displays seen in its predecessors. Additionally, this new device allows for the use of microSD cards up to 2 TB, which 8BitMods refers to as “endless storage for [the] Dreamcast.” Furthermore, the VMU Pro offers a battery life of up to 6 hours and includes support for USB Type-C for both charging and data transfer.

    Emulation and Connectivity

    Moreover, the VMU Pro has the capability to emulate other consoles from the 8-bit generation, including the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). It also supports Bluetooth LE and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing multiple VMU Pro units to be paired for certain Dreamcast games. Currently, you can pre-order the VMU Pro from 8BitMods for $81.23, and it comes in seven different color choices, with shipping expected in November 2025. For further information, check out 8BitMods’ website.

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  • MCP Update Transforms PS1 Memory Card into Bluetooth Receiver

    MCP Update Transforms PS1 Memory Card into Bluetooth Receiver

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitMods has released a firmware update for its Memory Card Pro (MCP002) and Memory Card Pro 2, enabling Bluetooth receiver capabilities for PS1.
    2. Currently compatible controllers include the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C BT/2.4G and Xbox wireless controller, with most Xbox variations expected to work.
    3. Users must ensure no wired controller is connected to the same port as the Memory Card to avoid potential damage to the PS1.
    4. The original Memory Card Pro (MCP002) also supports Bluetooth, while the first revision (MCP001) will not receive updates; a 40% discount is available for upgrades.
    5. 8BitMods plans to expand the compatibility list for additional controllers, though specific models remain unconfirmed.

    8BitMods has rolled out a firmware update for its Memory Card Pro (MCP002) and Memory Card Pro 2. These memory cards designed for the original PlayStation, or PS1, can now function as Bluetooth receivers, as noted in the relevant Wiki page.

    Compatible Controllers

    Currently, only two controllers that support Bluetooth LE are officially compatible with this receiver. The first is the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C BT/2.4G, and the second is the popular Xbox wireless controller from Microsoft, which can be found on Amazon starting at $45. There are many variations of the Xbox controller, and most of them should work with the 8BitMods setup, according to their information.

    To connect a controller to a PS one, users must switch both the controller and Memory Card Pro into pairing mode, which remains active for 60 seconds. The Memcard Pro is designed to remember previously paired controllers by default, although users can turn off this feature if they prefer.

    Important Limitations

    That being said, there is a notable restriction. A wired controller must not be connected to the same port as the Memory Card under any circumstances. 8BitMods warns that this could potentially lead to damage to the PlayStation 1 console, so caution is advised.

    Interestingly, this new Bluetooth receiver capability is also partially available on the original Memory Card Pro (model number MCP002). However, the first revision (MCP001) will not receive a software update. For retro gamers who bought the first revision from select retailers, there is a chance to obtain a new Memory Card Pro or Pro 2 at a 40% discount. Unfortunately, these memory cards are currently out of stock and can only be pre-ordered.

    Future Expansions

    Finally, the range of supported controllers is expected to increase. 8BitMods has already indicated plans to expand the official compatibility list, but it remains unclear which specific gamepads will be added in the future.

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