3dapter (formerly Triple Controller to USB)

This project combines the NES, SNES and Genesis DaemonBite Retro Controllers projects together with a custom PCB to support 3 different controllers with a single socketed Arduino Pro Micro. PCB (KiCad + Gerbers), 3D Cases, and muliple firmware versions (Arduino code) all available in this repository.

PCB Kits + Fully Assembled units (with firmware of your choice) available on Tindie

3 different firmware versions are available in this repo:

• Default: Optimized for MiSTer, PC, Raspberry Pi, etc. - reports as 3 separate controllers, supports multiplayer from a single unit.
• Analogue Pocket: Optimized for Pocket Dock - reports as a single wired XInput device.
• Nintendo Switch: Optimized for Nintendo Switch Online NES, SNES, and Genesis collections - reports as a single wired switch controller.

Looking for a version with a N64 port? Check out the 4dapter

Resources Used

• DaemonBite Retro Controllers
• https://github.com/esden/pretty-kicad-libs
• https://github.com/ddribin/nes-port-breadboard
• https://github.com/Biacco42/ProMicroKiCad
• http://www.neshq.com/hardgen/powerpad.txt

3D Case Files

3D Case files were designed by Dinierto Designs and are available on Thingiverse

3D Case Size Reference:

• 33mm - Most Micro USB Pro Micro / Sparkfun USB-C Pro Micro boards
• 35-36mm - Most AliExpress USB-C Pro Micro boards
• 36-37mm - Some AliExpress USB-C Pro Micro boards (typically with empty hole next to USB-C port)

Wiring Diagram

Current Draw Readings from DIO Pin 16 (used for 5v supply for DB9 port):

• Krikzz Joyzz: 38mA
• 8BitDo M30 2.4G: 29mA
• OEM SEGA 3-Button Wired: 3mA
• OEM SEGA 6-Button Wired: 3mA
• Retrobit 6-Button Wired: 2mA (Arduino DIO Max Rated Current: 40mA)

Tested Controllers

The following controllers have been personally tested and are supported with the Triple Controller. All listed devices also fit when using the 3D Case as well.

NES:

• OEM NES Controller
• OEM NES PowerPad (Default FW Only)
• 8BitDo N30 2.4G Receiver
• 8BitDo NES Retro Receiver

SEGA / Genesis:

• OEM SEGA Master System 2-Button Controller
• OEM Genesis 3-Button Controller
• OEM Genesis 6-Button Controller
• 8BitDo M30 2.4G Receiver
• 8BitDo Genesis Retro Receiver
• Krikzz Joyzz

SNES:

• OEM SNES Controller
• OEM SFC Controller
• OEM SNES NTT Controller (Default FW Only)
• 8BitDo SN30 2.4G Receiver
• 8BitDo SNES Retro Receiver

Bill of Materials

• 3dapter / Triple Controller PCB

• 1x SNES Socket (90 deg): AliExpress - Gamers Zone Store

• 1x NES Socket: AliExpress - Gamers Zone Store

• 1x Genesis Socket: AliExpress - Gamers Zone Store

• Micro USB Arduino Pro Micro (reinforced USB port): Amazon (Pack of 3)

• 1x Arduino Pro Micro (USB-C 3-15V Version): AliExpress

• 2x 1x12 Female Header: Digi-Key

PCB + Assembled Examples