Nintendo NEVER Used This Expansion Port, So Modders Did

Summary

The NES Hub is a groundbreaking mod that adds wireless Bluetooth controller support and enhanced audio capabilities to the NES. Designed by Teemo, this plug-and-play expansion uses the NES's unused accessory port, offering features like wireless controller pairing, up to four players, and expansion audio for richer sound. The device also includes mini display ports for future accessories, such as an SNES controller adapter. With an easy installation process and an affordable price, the NES Hub represents a significant upgrade for NES enthusiasts, with exciting possibilities for future add-ons, including Famicom Disc System compatibility.

Takeaways

• 😀 The NES Hub is a mod that enhances the NES console by utilizing the expansion port, which was never commercially used by Nintendo.
• 😀 The NES Hub allows for the use of up to four wireless Bluetooth controllers, offering a sleeker appearance by eliminating the need for bulky front ports.
• 😀 The mod also supports expansion audio functionality, providing richer, more detailed audio for games that support it.
• 😀 The connector for the NES Hub was custom-designed by the creator, Teemo, and fits perfectly into the NES expansion port.
• 😀 The hub uses an ESP32 chip, which is responsible for Bluetooth controller support and allows for wireless controller pairing.
• 😀 The NES Hub includes three DIP switches that enable expansion audio and can be customized to route audio signals for different mods.
• 😀 The NES Hub features three mini display ports for connecting additional accessories, enabling future expansion options.
• 😀 A notable accessory for the NES Hub is a Super Nintendo controller adapter, allowing users to use SNES controllers with the NES.
• 😀 The installation of the NES Hub is simple: it involves aligning the connector to the expansion port and connecting the antenna for Bluetooth functionality.
• 😀 The NES Hub is priced at $60, which is considered good value given the additional features like Bluetooth support, expansion audio, and future accessory compatibility.

Q & A

What is the NES Hub and what does it do?

The NES Hub is a plug-and-play mod designed to enhance the functionality of the NES by utilizing its unused expansion port. It supports wireless Bluetooth controllers, expansion audio, and offers future expansion possibilities through additional ports.

Who developed the NES Hub?

The NES Hub was developed by a modder named Teemo, who goes by the online alias 'retro time'. He is from Germany and worked with 8bit Mods for the manufacturing of the product.

How does the NES Hub connect to the NES?

The NES Hub connects to the NES via the expansion port located at the bottom of the console. Once the cover is removed, the Hub is inserted into the port and secured in place.

What are the key features of the NES Hub?

Key features of the NES Hub include wireless Bluetooth controller support (up to four controllers), expansion audio for enhanced sound in certain games, and the potential for future add-ons through mini display ports.

How many controllers can the NES Hub support?

The NES Hub can support up to four wireless Bluetooth controllers simultaneously. By using the Blue Retro menu, users can enable multitap functionality for four-player support.

What is expansion audio and which games benefit from it?

Expansion audio enhances the audio quality of certain NES games by adding more detailed and richer sound. Games like *Castlevania 3* support expansion audio, though most of these games were exclusive to Japan's Famicom Disk System.

What is the function of the three mini display ports on the NES Hub?

The three mini display ports on the NES Hub allow for additional accessories to be connected to the NES, including controller adapters and future expansions. These ports provide access to controller, expansion, and CPU signals.

How is the NES Hub powered?

The NES Hub is powered by the NES console itself, as it is plugged directly into the expansion port, which provides the necessary power for its functions.

What are the potential future upgrades for the NES Hub?

Future upgrades for the NES Hub include support for connecting a Famicom Disk System, enhanced audio with a Yamaha FM synth chip, and additional accessories such as controller adapters for other consoles.

What is the price of the NES Hub, and how does it compare to other similar products?

The NES Hub is priced at $60, which is a great value considering similar products, like the NES Bluetooth adapter from 8bit2, cost $25 each. For $60, the NES Hub offers four-controller support, expansion audio, and future expansion potential.

What is one potential downside of the NES Hub?

A potential downside of the NES Hub is that the electronics on the bottom are exposed. While not a major issue, a protective cover could be useful to prevent damage.