If you have any NES controllers lying around and enjoy a little gaming, you might be interested in this new hack that has been created by Paul Rickards. Rickards has taken a standard NES controller and modified it to work on the iCade games on the iPad.
Rickards admits the hack happened as an accident while playing around with iMAME on his iPad together with his homebrew Commodore 64 keyboard. The keyboard is connected to his iPad via a modded USB connection. During his experimentation, he accidentally struck a key, which then prompted iMAME to say “enabling iCade mode.”
Discovering the Hack
After this accidental discovery, Rickards delved deeper into the iPad’s capabilities and found that it could recognize USB-connected controllers. This revelation opened up new possibilities for retro gaming enthusiasts. To make the NES controller work with the iPad, Rickards decided to manufacture another USB keyboard using Arduino. However, instead of using a traditional keyboard matrix, he opted to use the NES gamepad.
Arduino, an open-source electronics platform, is known for its ease of use and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for such hacks. By leveraging Arduino, Rickards was able to map the NES controller’s buttons to the corresponding keys recognized by the iPad in iCade mode. This ingenious solution allowed the NES controller to function seamlessly with iCade-compatible games on the iPad.
Building the Final Product
To finish the hack off professionally, Rickards created a LEGO case for the board and ports. This not only provided a neat and organized housing for the electronics but also added a touch of creativity and nostalgia, reminiscent of the LEGO bricks many of us played with as kids. One of the ports in the LEGO case is connected to the iPad’s Camera Connection Kit, which serves as the interface between the NES controller and the iPad.
Rickards has detailed instructions on this neat hack for iCade games over on his website Bios Rhythm. The step-by-step guide includes everything from the initial setup to the final assembly, making it accessible even for those who may not have extensive experience with electronics or programming. So, if you have a few hours to spare this weekend and have a spare NES controller, why not adapt your iPad to enjoy a little retro gaming?
This hack not only breathes new life into old NES controllers but also showcases the endless possibilities of DIY electronics projects. It serves as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the gaming community, where enthusiasts continually find new ways to enhance their gaming experiences.
Moreover, this project highlights the versatility of Arduino and its applications in various fields, from simple hobby projects to more complex innovations. By combining retro gaming hardware with modern technology, Rickards has created a unique and enjoyable gaming experience that bridges the gap between past and present.
In conclusion, Paul Rickards’ NES controller hack for iCade games on the iPad is a brilliant example of how a simple accident can lead to a groundbreaking discovery. With a bit of creativity, technical know-how, and a passion for gaming, you too can transform your old NES controller into a functional gamepad for your iPad. So, dust off that old controller, gather your tools, and dive into the world of retro gaming with a modern twist.
Source: Cult of Mac : Bios Rhythm
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