Overview

The Super 8 is a new 8 bit video game console PCB that plays NES games. It is the only aftermarket system to play games with 100% accuracy while improving the video and audio capabilities well beyond the original system. It uses a new design circuit board with original Nintendo CPU and PPU chips combined with new components.

v2.0 is the newest version NES Super 8 PCB. Has integrated power and A/V output jacks on the main board and includes controller ports and power/reset buttons mounted on a separate PCB for easy installation. This front PCB can be mounted in a variety of ways and connected using wire or included header pins.

Why play NES games on a Super 8?

The Super 8 delivers authentic NES gameplay with vastly improved picture and sound quality. The Super 8 PCB is designed for easy modification (and looks like 1980's technology) by using through hole components where possible.

The common $20-$80 NES clone systems use a "Nintendo on a chip" and do not work with many popular games. They have problems accurately displaying the video and many of the sound effects are incorrect. The original Nintendo NES front loader has problems with the security chip and cartridge connector. The top loader NES only outputs poor quality RF video and sound. The only licensed Nintendo system to produce high quality RGB is the Famicom Titler, which cost upward of $1,000 and is incredibly rare.

Features include:

Uses the original CPU and PPU chips at the factory clock speed for 100% accurate game play.

99.9% compatibility with NES games (Famicom games work with adapter.) I have not yet encountered a game that did not work with the Super 8, but I have to assume maybe one or two don't.

Amplified and sync cleaned RGB video output ready to connect to monitor or converter.

Adjustable stereo sound with support for auxiliary audio input from cartridge. This can also be configured as mono, or adjustable separation by adding a potentiometer.

The included front panel PCB greatly simplifies installation into your choice of case. Now includes 3d printed button caps.

Reliable card edge 72 pin cartridge connector.

Compatible with most accessories like the PowerPak, Everdrive, Zapper and ROB.

Compact PCB can be mounted in a variety of cases.

PCB is designed for easy modifications like over clocking, 15p Famicom expansion port, and audio/video output options.

Efficient switching voltage regulator provides up to 2A stable 5v power while generating no heat.

Details

The video output is amplified (and sync cleaned) RGB. A Genesis 1 compatible 8 pin DIN to SCART cable will work (not included) as well as the included connector. The pinout of this connector has been modified slightly to allow powering a 5v video converter. This RGB signal can be externally converted to VGA, component, s-video, or composite video that looks amazing. The best possible picture from original Nintendo hardware.

Stereo audio is output to on-board RCA jacks.

Wire and some basic soldering is required for power, reset, and controller connections.

What's included?

Assembled NES Super 8 v2.0 motherboard

Assembled front panel PCB

3d printed button caps for power and reset buttons

AC-DC power adapter 12v @1.5A w/ center pin positive 2.5 x 5.5mm plug.

8 pin DIN plug for RGB video

header pins and sockets for controller port connection

instructions for installation

What's required?

CPU: RP2A03G, RP2A03H or RP2A03 Can be found in NTSC Nintendo NES, Famicom, and various Nintendo arcade circuit boards. The CPU is soldered in the consoles. The Nintendo Vs. arcade PCBs and Playchoice 10 have these chips in sockets.

PPU: RC2C03B or RC2C93C Can be found in Playchoice 10 or VS. Nintendo arcade system PCBs. Compatible Vs. games are Duck Hunt, Tennis, Vs. Battle City, Vs. Mahjong, and Vs. Star Luster.

A RGB monitor or video converter is required. Component, composite, s-video, and/or VGA converters are available. I recommend a WEIYA CV-04 or similar RGB to s-video / composite converter.

Recommended Case

The NES Super 8 PCB measures 6-1/2" x 4-5/16" and has been designed to fit in a Polycase AG-85. Mounting the PCB in a case is strongly recommended to avoid ESD damage.