Custom build question

ZombieMedia

So, this may be in the wrong place.

Is it possible to use an old DSi XL case to make a custom retropie build? I've kind of become obsessed with the idea of a handheld retropie based on the old Game and Watch machines.

Would it work? Or is the case too small?

obsidianspider

Anything is possible with enough time and money, but that said, I don't think it'd be likely without some custom PCBs. Right now I'm struggling with trying to cram things into a Gameboy Advance, and even that is tight.

ZombieMedia

@obsidianspider said in Custom build question:

Anything is possible with enough time and money, but that said, I don't think it'd be likely without some custom PCBs. Right now I'm struggling with trying to cram things into a Gameboy Advance, and even that is tight.

Ah cool - thank you

I'm technically inept, so I'm looking for projects I can cut my teeth on...

Maybe stepping too far with a DS then?

Also @obsidianspider - I spent my lunch break drooling over your famicom build. Incredible stuff!

One more thing...with the folk that put a Pi in NES cart, is that possible with a Megadrive or Atari VCS cart?

obsidianspider

@ZombieMedia Those cartridges are a lot smaller, but it might not be impossible. You'd have to measure. The Zero is small, but once you start adding hubs and adapters and cables inside it gets tight in a hurry.

I started with the Super Famicom build because I knew I had a lot to learn and it was a big enough case that I wouldn't have to worry too much about squeezing things in. Adding the screen to the cartridge (or as they call it in Japan, cassette) was already tight (it doesn't close as nicely as I would like, it bulges at the top) but it's been a fun learning experience.

In the end, the Pi will be the cheapest part of your build. My Super Famicom build is well over $400, plus tools, and my Gameboy Advance build is around $125, and it's not done yet. That's not to try to scare you off, but don't worry about breaking something, it's going to happen. That's really what the Pi was intended for, to learn with.

obsidianspider

Then again, people make portables inside an Altoids tin, so a Zero in a MegaDrive or Atari cartridge should work, it just depends on your goals for the build.