N64:RGB-Compatible Systems

= Intro = All versions of the N64 can be RGB and HDMI modded. The UltraHDMI Board works with all versions of the N64, however there are a few choices for RGB.

= N64 RGB Kits =

Compatible with all versions of the N64
Every N64 can output RGB using a more complicated RGB kit, which are generally more expensive and harder to install, but offer extra features:


 * Tim Worthington sells an excellent kit that's compatible with all N64's and can be purchased directly from his store:


 * Tim's N64RGB:  http://etim.net.au/shop/shop.php?crn=209&rn=548&action=show_detail
 * Installation guide:  http://etim.net.au/n64rgb/instructions-new/


 * Borti has released two designs for an N64RGB solution!:
 * A 'general' RGB-output kit, plus a more advanced kit that can output component video and VGA. - 8BitMods(US)
 * An advanced kit that can also linedouble to 480p...as well as just output standard RGB. - RetroGamerStuff(US) | 8BitMods (US)
 * Open Source Files - GitHub


 * Borti also released custom firmware that allows for "de-blur" options.  This firmware will work on both his and Tim's kits!

Only compatible with early versions of the N64
'''Early versions of the N64 (the first 4 board revisions) can output RGB with a board that offers the same video quality, but are _much_ easier to install and less expensive. There are a few tricks to find compatible N64's, but the only way to be 100% sure is by opening it up.'''

How to find RGB-outputting NTSC N64 Systems

 * If you have a serial number that starts with "NS1" (USA), "NUJ1" (Japan) or French systems with the model number "NUS-001(FRA)", then you most likely have an N64 that's compatible. Supposedly, some early Canadian N64's also contain this chip.
 * Many older Brazilian N64's contain the same chip and can be RGB modded.  Even though Brazil used PAL-M, is was still 60Hz and only compatible with NTSC games:  http://s9.zetaboards.com/Nintendo\_64\_Forever/topic/7405289/1/
 * If you have a serial number that starts with anything else, or is a PAL console, you'll need to use the "advanced" kits described above.
 * For more information on which serial numbers have each motherboard revision, please visit these sites: http://forums.modretro.com/viewtopic.php?f=33&t=1417  /

Confirming the correct chip
'''Regardless of serial number, please open your N64 to double check that it has the correct video chip that's required for RGB-modding (explained below). To open the system, you'll simply need a 4.5MM game tool and a philips screwdriver, as described in the Repair Tools page.'''


 * 1. Remove the memory module, then unbolt the plastic cover using the 4.5mm game tool.
 * 2. Unbolt only the screws that are circled in the picture below:




 * 3. After removing just those, the entire metal heat shielding will lift off as one piece, exposing the motherboard:


 * 4. Once it’s disassembled, look for the following chip.




 * 5. If it says "VDC-NUS" or "VDC-NUS A" (like pictured below), you should be fine and can proceed with the basic RGB mod.
 * If it doesn't have this chip, you'll have to use one of the advanced mods.

Where to purchase?
If your N64 is compatible with a basic mod, you can either make your own RGB amp board, or buy one pre-assembled. The pre-assembled ones are recommended, as they generally use better amp chips (THS7374 vs 7314) and some offer more features like a sync stripper. Links to everything you need are found in the mod instruction pages:


 * [/n64rgbmod.html N64 Pre-assembled Basic RGB Mod Instructions]**


 * [n64rgb.html N64 DIY RGB amp mod]**