This is a customizable order form for the Dreamcast and the various services offered. Please note that all costs listed are for service only, requiring you to ship not only the console but the mod/upgrade parts you have purchased yourself (with exception to the Full Recap Service as I will provide new capacitors from Console5)
PixelFX HDMI Install
While there are several great stock output options such as a VGA adapter or RGB via SCART, the absolute best image quality from a Dreamcast can only be achieved with the RetroGEM HDMI kit. This custom PCB and flex cable assembly will output native digital video and audio right from the system in various resolutions from 480P all the way up to 1080P. There are additional features you can take advantage of as well from scanline overlays to a handy in game reset feature. The kit also comes with built in WiFi to make firmware updates a breeze without requiring the Dreamcast to be taken apart. A small cutout will be placed in the back of the system and you will need to provide a mini HDMI cable or adapter when you use this mod.
The RetroGEM HDMI kit can be purchased from the following website:
PixelFX Co
PLEASE NOTE: This kit is compatible with Dreamcast models VA0 and VA1 across all regions. If you have a VA2 this mod kit will not work. Luckily its easy to verify without having to open the console, simply look at the bottom manufacturer label and next to the region code you should see a circled number. If you see a 0 or 1 you are good to go, if you see a 2 then don’t order the kit or send to me for install. If I receive a model VA2 I will have to return to you and charge you for return shipment even though the service cannot be performed
Japanese CAKE BIOS Install
Looking to play discs from any region? This BIOS upgrade can do that as well as provides bypassing VGA cable check, VMU Copy protection and customizing the color and style of bootup animation (2d or 3d swirl, different colors, etc).
The Japanese CAKE Bios chips cane be purchased from the following website:
ModzVilleUSA
Please note: Different revision Dreamcasts require different chips. If you have a VA0 system you need a 5V chip and if you have a VA1 or VA2 you need a 3.3V chip. The system can be identified by looking for the marking on the bottom of the shell, though if the internals were swapped to a new shell that could be inaccurate. A Foolproof way to know is to open the system and measure voltage on pin 23 of the current BIOS. If you do not feel comfortable doing this you can send me the console and I will verify correct BIOS needed
Controller Fuse Replacement
One common issue found with the Dreamcast is a blown controller port fuse. This can occur when you unplug or plug a controller into the system while it is running and is meant as a safety feature to prevent damage to the system. If you have a Dreamcast that will not accept any controller input this is the likely culprit. This service will replace the stock fuse (F1) with a 390mA PolySwitch fuse, provided by me (from Digi-Key) and included in the service cost. The benefit of the PolySwitch fuse is its resettable, so in the event it blows, you will simply need to power down the Dreamcast and turn back on which will avoid needing to open the Dreamcast up in the future.
Swappable Battery Mod
Do you have a Dreamcast that prompts you for the date and time upon powering up the system? Then your ML2032 battery has lost its ability to hold a charge and should be replaced. While this certainly doesn’t impact usability of the system, it can be extremely annoying to deal with and a replacement will avoid the headache. Unfortunately Sega made the decision to solder the battery directly to the controller board which makes swapping more difficult. This service will remove the ML2032 and in its place install a coin cell battery holder provided by me (from Digi-Key) and included in the service cost. I will also install a brand new ML2032 in the holder, also included in the cost.
PLEASE NOTE: After receiving this service, any and all battery swaps in the future NEED to be ML2032 rechargeable coin cell batteries, NOT the more standard CR2032
Full System Recap
Electrolytic Capacitors have an estimated shelf life of about 15 years and many of these old retro gaming systems are long past that time. Prevent unwanted power, video or audio issues by proactively replacing these in your Dreamcast system. If your Dreamcast is already exhibiting issues a failed capacitor could be the culprit and is usually a good first step in the diagnosis and repair. All capacitors will be replaced on the system motherboard with a cap kit from Console5 which I will provide for this service, included in the cost
Full Service Cleaning
After years of heavy use many consoles will exhibit accumulation of dirt, dust and debris and this can not only impact the aesthetic appearance of the system but dirty system components can impact component life and performance. Your console will be completely disassembled and cleaned from the inside out. All PCB and internal electrical components will have dust and debris removed via an electronic air compressor and then be cleaned with 99% isopropyl alcohol and brushed clean. Outer shell and other non-electronic components will be taken apart and soaked in a soap/water mixture and carefully scrubbed to remove stains and debris buildup. Any light markings, scuffs or other blemishes will be safely removed to the best of my ability. This service also includes new thermal pads on the two main chips. Once the console is re-assembled the outer shell will be given a coat of plastic UV protectant to restore shine and prevent UV damage
