getting my DSlite to be more functional (DSO, mp3, etc.)

[Derek]

It seems almost certain that I'll be getting my assistance from Mooney, but I decided to post an open topic as opposed to PM'ing him because others with similar questions may benefit from the exchange.

 

That said...

 

 

I just got a nice new black DSlite. I already have a few games that I enjoy (NSMB, Trace Memory, Metroid Pinball) and I have a few I'm planning to get soon (Brain Age, SM64, MarioKart, Hotel Dusk). If you feel the urge to recommend a certain game (or games) that will be exceptionally wonderful insofar as long distance WiFi playing is concerned, go ahead.

 

But, what I would really like to do is make my DSlite multifunctional. I would like to use it as my MP3 player and PDA-type device, specifically (writing notes, keeping a calendar and contacts list, storing TXT to read later, etc.). The ability to play movie files and NES/Coleco emulators would be a bonus.

 

Now, I'm aware that DSOrganize will allow me to do most of what I want -- PDA functions, MP3 player, TXT support. So I could just get a one-time slot-1 solution (like an M3simply or an R4 or a DS-X) for that, and be done.

 

But in addition to further functionality, like GBAhomebrew and emulation, I would really like to use slot-2. Specifically, I would love it if I could have my DSOrganize/MP3 player located in slot-2 -- why? Because I wouldn't always have to switch out NDScards when I want to play normal NDS games. If I had a slot-2 solution, I would almost NEVER have to remove it, while if I had a slot-1 solution I would always have to take it out to play, and put it back in to use the PDA/MP3 functions.

 

Does that make sense?

 

Now, if my research has led me to some correct conclusions, here's what I think I've figured out so far. First, the one-step slot-1 solutions are super easy and work great, except for the caveat of not running non-DS code and taking up my slot-1 when I don't want them to. Second, accessories like the EZ-Flash line of products may do what I want in slot-2, with the added benefit of fitting in perfectly and looking just like the normal slot-2 cover, which would be excellent. Third, I can't expect DS coded software such as DSOrganize to just run off of a slot-2 solution, because the DSlite will expect GBA code to be there.

 

Am I correct so far?

 

If so, here's my questions...

 

Is my desire to run DSOrganize in slot-2 even possible? I'm thinking I'd have to mess with my firmware, which I'm nervous about doing -- but my research seems to indicate that I could use FlashMe to get my DSlite firmware to recognize DS code in slot-2. So, would using FlashMe and a slot-2 solution such as the EZ-Flash products allow me to run DSOrganize without keeping a slot-1 card in my DSlite?

 

If I can convince myself to try FlashMe, will I still be able to get my DSlite to go to the normal firmware menu that lets me choose between DS cards, options, GBA, and PictoChat? I don't want to lose access to that menu by changing my firmware.

 

Ideally, I would like to end up with a DSlite in its case that has a copy of New Super Mario Bros in slot-1, a stealth slot-2 card in that allows me PDA/MP3 functions (such as DSO), and the ability to turn it on and use either slot's contents without having to remove either one.

 

I've read both of your FAQ's, Mooney, and they are quite helpful. But I still ended up with the above questions/concerns, so any further help is greatly appreciated.

 

Oh, one more thing: it would appear that the "EZ-Flash V Bundle" would, for just sixty bucks or so, get me a one-step slot-1 solution that would double as a FlashMe device, and the slot-2 solution that I want with the added bonus of looking just like the normal slot-2 cover AND browser memory expansion AND adjustable rumble functionality. This seems like a pretty tempting way to go, especially considering the rumble pack that I have sticks out all ugly and is too loud.

 

What say you?

[Mooney]

Alright, let's tackle these one at a time... (Please excuse any of my answers that don't make sense, I'm battling a massive cold right now and can't be trusted to think straight for more than 5 minutes )

 

For a list of DS games that our members would recommend, please see this thread.

 

I understand why you would prefer a slot-2 device, and yes, it makes perfect sense.

 

Now, if my research has led me to some correct conclusions, here's what I think I've figured out so far. First, the one-step slot-1 solutions are super easy and work great, except for the caveat of not running non-DS code and taking up my slot-1 when I don't want them to. Second, accessories like the EZ-Flash line of products may do what I want in slot-2, with the added benefit of fitting in perfectly and looking just like the normal slot-2 cover, which would be excellent. Third, I can't expect DS coded software such as DSOrganize to just run off of a slot-2 solution, because the DSlite will expect GBA code to be there.

First, you seem to understand slot-1 pretty well, but there's something else you should know: It has rather low compatibility with homebrew that does not support DLDI, which means most homebrew made before December of '06 (roughly) will not work on a slot-1 card. Second, an EZ-Flash IV Lite would fit perfectly into the DS Lite's GBA slot, but I would not recommend it. I'd say go with an M3 Lite or a SuperCard Lite; they do what the EZ-Flash does, only better. Third, in order for you to run NDS homebrew off of a slot-2 device, all you need is a pass device. Read more about pass devices here (scroll to just about the bottom of the first post).

 

Is my desire to run DSOrganize in slot-2 even possible? I'm thinking I'd have to mess with my firmware, which I'm nervous about doing -- but my research seems to indicate that I could use FlashMe to get my DSlite firmware to recognize DS code in slot-2. So, would using FlashMe and a slot-2 solution such as the EZ-Flash products allow me to run DSOrganize without keeping a slot-1 card in my DSlite?

Yes, it is possible. See my previous answer (regarding pass devices). This is actually how DSO was meant to be run in the first place, since it came out before slot-1 cards even existed and only got DLDI support recently. FlashMe is not required to run anything, it is just meant to make life easier; so you don't have to have a pass device in slot-1 every time you want to run NDS homebrew from a slot-2 device. Also remember: installation of FlashMe requires a pass device to get started.

 

If I can convince myself to try FlashMe, will I still be able to get my DSlite to go to the normal firmware menu that lets me choose between DS cards, options, GBA, and PictoChat? I don't want to lose access to that menu by changing my firmware.

Yes, just hold "Select" as you boot up.

 

 

Ideally, I would like to end up with a DSlite in its case that has a copy of New Super Mario Bros in slot-1, a stealth slot-2 card in that allows me PDA/MP3 functions (such as DSO), and the ability to turn it on and use either slot's contents without having to remove either one.

The setup you describe would be a DS with FlashMe installed. Of course, you could also: get a slot-1 device, dump your NSMB game card to your computer and put the ROM image on the slot-1 flashcard (Not that we support that kind of thing here ). I'm just saying, you could.

 

Oh, one more thing: it would appear that the "EZ-Flash V Bundle" would, for just sixty bucks or so, get me a one-step slot-1 solution that would double as a FlashMe device, and the slot-2 solution that I want with the added bonus of looking just like the normal slot-2 cover AND browser memory expansion AND adjustable rumble functionality. This seems like a pretty tempting way to go, especially considering the rumble pack that I have sticks out all ugly and is too loud.

This might be a good deal to some, but not if you want to run DSO/MP3s off of the slot-2 device. Remember: 256 Mbit = 32MB. This means you would only be able to put 32MB of songs /apps (including DSO) onto it. Also, you'll have to buy a microSD card if you want to run anything off of the slot-1 part of the bundle.

 

My final recommendation: Go with slot-1. You can patch DSO with DLDI so it will work on your flashcard, and it would be no trouble at all to put NSMB on it, either (Google is your friend!).

 

Again, sorry if I misunderstood or forgot to answer something. Just give me a heads up if I did.

[Derek]

Alright, let's tackle these one at a time... (Please excuse any of my answers that don't make sense)...

Oh, you were quite coherant. Thanks very much for helping me!

 

 

(The EZ-F V Bundle) seems like a pretty tempting way to go, especially considering the rumble pack that I have sticks out all ugly and is too loud.

This might be a good deal to some, but not if you want to run DSO/MP3s off of the slot-2 device. Remember: 256 Mbit = 32MB. This means you would only be able to put 32MB of songs /apps (including DSO) onto it. Also, you'll have to buy a microSD card if you want to run anything off of the slot-1 part of the bundle.

Yeah, that's like three or four songs. Thanks for the heads-up.

 

 

I understand why you would prefer a slot-2 device, and yes, it makes perfect sense.

Yeah, I'm pretty determined to do it that way. I'm not so much into having ROMS on a slot-1 device. My normal habit is to only do the ROM or emulation thing for dead platforms.

 

 

First, you seem to understand slot-1 pretty well, but there's something else you should know: It has rather low compatibility with homebrew that does not support DLDI, which means most homebrew made before December of '06 (roughly) will not work on a slot-1 card.

Thanks. This was actually one more reason I had for wanting to find a slot-2 solution.

 

 

Second, an EZ-Flash IV Lite would fit perfectly into the DS Lite's GBA slot, but I would not recommend it. I'd say go with an M3 Lite or a SuperCard Lite; they do what the EZ-Flash does, only better.

Do both the M3 Lite and the SC Lite fit into the DSlite perfectly, not hanging out even a little bit? I'm going to look at each and see if either is bundled with a PassMe or slot-1 card. I'm almost certainly going to have to do the FlashMe thing, because having to use a PassMe card upon every boot will completely defeat the purpose of using a slot-2 solution to keep slot-1 open.

 

 

FlashMe is not required to run anything, it is just meant to make life easier; so you don't have to have a pass device in slot-1 every time you want to run NDS homebrew from a slot-2 device. Also remember: installation of FlashMe requires a pass device to get started.

Exactly.

 

 

If I can convince myself to try FlashMe, will I still be able to get my DSlite to go to the normal firmware menu that lets me choose between DS cards, options, GBA, and PictoChat? I don't want to lose access to that menu by changing my firmware.

Yes, just hold "Select" as you boot up.

Excellent.

 

 

My final recommendation: Go with slot-1. You can patch DSO with DLDI so it will work on your flashcard, and it would be no trouble at all to put NSMB on it, either (Google is your friend!).

Yeah, I really want slot-1 to be open for normal NDS game cards. I'm going to have a look at some of the slot-2 things you recommended, and then I'll probly have a few more questions for you...

[Derek]

I'd say go with an M3 Lite or a SuperCard Lite; they do what the EZ-Flash does, only better.

A few questions about this recommendation...

 

Do both the M3 Lite and the SC Lite fit into the DSlite perfectly, not hanging out even a little bit?

 

I'm comparing the M3 Perfect Lite (bundled with the Passcard3), as seen here...

...with the SuperCard Lite Rumble (bundled with the SuperKey), as seen here.

 

Why is the SC so much cheaper? Does its rumble function work just like the official rumble pak, or is it louder?

 

If the prices were the same, which they aren't, I might go with the M3PL because its microSD slot is on the side, not the top. I'd prefer that. But a 80% price hike, without the rumble bonus? What gives?

[Mooney]

Why is the SC so much cheaper? Does its rumble function work just like the official rumble pak, or is it louder?

 

If the prices were the same, which they aren't, I might go with the M3PL because its microSD slot is on the side, not the top. I'd prefer that. But a 80% price hike, without the rumble bonus? What gives?

Yes, they both fit perfectly and do not stick out.

 

The SC Lite Rumble is cheaper for one main reason: It does not support GBA mode.

Features:

 

* No GBA Support

* Nintendo DS Lite ONLY

 

Q: What is the different between regular SC and Rumble SC?

A: Regular SC Can play both NDS & GBA. Rumble SC can play NDS only, but support Rumble function. Both of them can play MOONSHELL.

Therefore, I would either go with the M3 or look at a SuperCard Lite (no rumble).

[Derek]

Why is the SC so much cheaper?.....If the prices were the same, which they aren't, I might go with the M3PL because its microSD slot is on the side, not the top. I'd prefer that. But a 80% price hike, without the rumble bonus? What gives?

Yes, they both fit perfectly and do not stick out.

 

The SC Lite Rumble is cheaper for one main reason: It does not support GBA mode.

 

Therefore, I would either go with the M3 or look at a SuperCard Lite (no rumble).

Oh, duh.

 

For some reason, when I read that note on the SCLR description, I thought it was talking about not coming with a GBA-form-factor shell, like the M3 sometimes does.

 

The M3 Perfect Lite & Passcard 3 is still more expensive than the SuperCard Lite Black & SuperKey, by a 30% increase (about $20), at least at KickTrading.

 

I'll shop around and see what the prices are like at other online shops. Any you'd particuarly recommend for a state-side customer? I really do prefer the M3's side-loading microSD slot, so hopefully I can find a better price somewhere...

 

 

And I have a fairly important question about the M3 Lite, software wise. The reviews of it I'm reading speak highly of all the included software. That's great -- I'm glad it comes with good stuff, including legacy emulators. But what about running DSO? Do I put DSO on the microSD card and then choose to run it from the M3 software's GUI? If I get an M3 and can't get DSO to work on it, I'll be pretty frustrated.

 

P.S. The G6 Lite is pretty tempting, cost wise, because it includes 512MB of space - no need to go buy a microSD card. Other than not being able to stick a 2GB microSD card in it, like I could with an M3, are there any other reasons you'd recommend the M3 over the G6 Lite?

Edited March 17, 2007 by Derek

[Mooney]

After you write the ROM you want to your SD card (Using the M3's PC software), you just pop the SD into the M3, put the M3 in slot-2 and load it up. Everything is easy to find navigation wise, so you should have no problem at all. Also, DSO is DLDI compatible, so all you have to do is patch it with your device's DLDI file and it is almost guaranteed to work. I got it to work on my M3 before DLDI even came out, so again, you should have no trouble at all.

 

I have not heard very much about the G6, but I'd seriously think about its fixed space. If 512MB is truly enough for you (for me, 2GB is barely enough) go right ahead and get it.

[Derek]

You're right, it would be a small amount of space. Maybe 4-8 albums of music, depending on how much room I want left for GBA/NDS code...

 

 

Have you found that the brand of microSD card you use matters?

 

I found a website called HopeBuy that has a sizzling price on a combo. An M3 Lite Perfect, a Passcard3, a 1GB microSD card, and an SD adapter, for under $100.

 

Do you know if HopeBuy is a reputable seller? They sell Sandisk-brand microSD cards in that bundle...

 

Alternatively, I could piece-meal a set together. I could get a M3 Lite Professional, a Passcard3, a 1GB microSD card (Sandisk, or Toshiba?), and be under $70, before shipping. Then I'd just need to look for a USB microSD reader or something.

 

I'd be giving up the ability to run GBA code, doing it that way... But the DS-coded emulation scene seems to be off to a fast start, with the functionality of programs like NesDS and SnezziDS appearing to be particularly promising.

 

If HopeBuy is a good place to shop, one decision to make is if GBA-code functionality is worth the extra ten to fifteen bucks...

 

Comments?

[Mooney]

Have you found that the brand of microSD card you use matters?

I don't think it matters too much in slot-2 cards, but for slot-1, different card speeds make games work faster/slower and there are minor compatibility issues (ex: A SanDisk microSD card in an R4 will freeze if you try to play Castlevania: PoR). But again, I don't think it matters for slot-2.

 

Do you know if HopeBuy is a reputable seller?

I have never heard of them before, but they do accept PayPal. I wouldn't buy anything from any site unless they accepted PayPal.

 

I'd be giving up the ability to run GBA code, doing it that way...

Why do you think that? Both of the setups you mentioned support GBA code. The M3 Lite Professional (Mentioned in your "piece-meal" setup) just doesn't support GBA ROMs over 32M. So with both of them you could use PocketNES, Goomba, SMSAdvance, Cologne, and/or PCEAdvance, which are in my opinion the best GBA emulators out there (Get them from HERE).

[Derek]

Have you found that the brand of microSD card you use matters?

I don't think it matters too much in slot-2 cards...

Okay, thanks.

 

 

I have never heard of them before, but they do accept PayPal. I wouldn't buy anything from any site unless they accepted PayPal.

I see. I use PayPal on occasion, so I'll hafta see what HopeBuy's shipping fees are like.

 

 

I'd be giving up the ability to run GBA code, doing it that way...

Why do you think that? Both of the setups you mentioned support GBA code. The M3 Lite Professional (Mentioned in your "piece-meal" setup) just doesn't support GBA ROMs over 32M. So with both of them you could use PocketNES, Goomba, SMSAdvance, Cologne, and/or PCEAdvance, which are in my opinion the best GBA emulators out there (Get them from HERE).

Well, depending on which internet retailer site I look at, alot say "no GBA support" or "will not play GBA." Sites like this one (well, I guess this one mentions 32M), and this one, and this one, and this one too. ...Though this review on GBAtemp seems to indicate that "smaller" GBA roms will still work, and this seller/blog mentions a 32Mbit ceiling for GBA functionality.

 

So, if you're sure that, contrary to most retailers, the M3 Pro will play <32Mbit GBA programs, or can suggest further reading to that end, I just might have found my product. Especially since you're saying that even though the GBA functionality, if present, is only 32Mbit or smaller, that such a limit doesn't inhibit the best emulators.

 

Although I'm curious if you watched that YouTube video I linked, where he's running NES/SNES emulators in DS mode, and he can control screen proportions and stuff via touch-screen support. That's pretty rad.

Edited March 19, 2007 by Derek

[Mooney]

I'd be giving up the ability to run GBA code, doing it that way...

Why do you think that? Both of the setups you mentioned support GBA code. The M3 Lite Professional (Mentioned in your "piece-meal" setup) just doesn't support GBA ROMs over 32M. So with both of them you could use PocketNES, Goomba, SMSAdvance, Cologne, and/or PCEAdvance, which are in my opinion the best GBA emulators out there (Get them from HERE).

Well, depending on which internet retailer site I look at, alot say "no GBA support" or "will not play GBA." Sites like this one (well, I guess this one mentions 32M), and this one, and this one, and this one too. ...Though this review on GBAtemp seems to indicate that "smaller" GBA roms will still work, and this seller/blog mentions a 32Mbit ceiling for GBA functionality.

 

So, if you're sure that, contrary to most retailers, the M3 Pro will play <32Mbit GBA programs, or can suggest further reading to that end, I just might have found my product. Especially since you're saying that even though the GBA functionality, if present, is only 32Mbit or smaller, that such a limit doesn't inhibit the best emulators.

 

Although I'm curious if you watched that YouTube video I linked, where he's running NES/SNES emulators in DS mode, and he can control screen proportions and stuff via touch-screen support. That's pretty rad.

Quite strange... on the M3's official site, all it says is it has a size limit on GBA games, which suggests they are supported. I guess a little more research wouldn't hurt.

 

As for the video, NesDS and SNEmulDS are both DS emulators. I ave used them both, but I still prefer the GBA mode emulators (even though I have a slot-1 device now, so I can't use them) for everything except SNES. SNEmulDS v0.4 final is pretty awesome. Oh, and DSMasterPlus v1.1 owns all other SMS/GG emulators for DS or GBA.