Hacker 0TheRain0 has taken a SNES controller and adapted it to work with the new Dell Streak Android tablet.
The hack uses a spare Streak connector and a Teensy USB Microcontroller board to make the connection, with the Streak recognizing the SNES controller as a USB keyboard. Check out the video after the jump to see the controller in action.
Once the controller is connected, it is able to navigate the Streak’s menus with ease and even work with all the emulators available in the Market with no additional configuration. This is a fantastic job that showcases the versatility and adaptability of both the SNES controller and the Dell Streak tablet. Have a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
The Technical Details
The process of adapting the SNES controller to work with the Dell Streak involves some intricate technical steps. The Teensy USB Microcontroller board plays a crucial role in this setup. This small yet powerful board is programmed to interpret the signals from the SNES controller and convert them into a format that the Dell Streak can understand. Essentially, the Teensy board acts as a bridge between the old-school gaming hardware and the modern Android tablet.
The spare Streak connector is another vital component. This connector is used to physically link the SNES controller to the Dell Streak. By utilizing the USB interface, the setup ensures that the tablet recognizes the controller as a standard USB keyboard. This clever workaround allows the SNES controller to interact seamlessly with the tablet’s operating system and applications.
Practical Applications and Future Possibilities
The successful adaptation of the SNES controller opens up a world of possibilities for retro gaming enthusiasts and tech hobbyists alike. With this setup, users can enjoy classic SNES games on their modern devices without compromising on the authentic gaming experience. The tactile feedback and familiar button layout of the SNES controller provide a nostalgic touch that enhances the overall gameplay.
Moreover, this hack demonstrates the potential for integrating other vintage gaming controllers with contemporary devices. Imagine using an original NES controller with your smartphone or a Sega Genesis controller with your tablet. The principles applied in this project can be extended to various other combinations, paving the way for innovative and exciting tech experiments.
In addition to gaming, the ability to use different types of controllers with modern devices can have practical applications in other fields. For instance, specialized controllers could be adapted for use in educational tools, accessibility devices, or even custom remote controls for smart home systems. The flexibility and creativity showcased in this project highlight the endless possibilities that arise when old and new technologies are combined.
Via Slashgear Via
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