SNES:50/60 Hz Switch
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The SNES, without modifications, will adhere to the video standards of the region the console is sold in. PAL models will output 50 Hz by default, NTSC models 60 Hz. The SNES determines which video mode to use depending on the logic level on the PPU chips. Using a simple modification on the 2/3-chip models (i.e. SHVC-CPU-01, SNSP-CPU-01/02, etc.), an SNES system can be enabled to output either 50 or 60 Hz.
Note that this will not convert a PAL SNES to be a full NTSC system and vice versa.
Materials and Tools
- 4.5 mm gamebit screwdriver
- JIS/Phillips head screwdriver
- Soldering iron (preferably temperature-controlled, with a fine tip)
- Flux (strongly recommended)
- Razor blade or small hook
- Leaded solder
- Hookup wire, preferably 28 or 30 AWG
- SPDT switch
- Cordless drill with step bit
Procedure
- Flip over the SNES and unscrew the six 4.5 mm gamebit screws holding the case together. Remove the top shell and set it aside.
- Remove the motherboard from the bottom case. Locate the two chips labeled S-PPU near the connector for the controller PCB ribbon cable. The pin numbering is silkscreened next to it, use this to locate pin 24 of PPU1 and pin 30 of PPU2.
- With the correct pins identified, use the tip of your soldering iron to heat the pins. Using flux at this stage is highly recommended. Use a tool such as the tip of a razor blade or a hook to gain leverage underneath it.
- Gently lift up PPU1 pin 24 and PPU2 pin 30 until they are clear of the board. Be extremely careful as these pins are very delicate.
- Connect PPU1 pin 24 and PPU2 pin 30 to each other with a wire, then run a wire from PPU2 pin 30 to the center pin of an SPDT switch.
- Connect one of the outer pins of the switch to 5V and the other pin to GND (i.e. the ground and output pins of the 5V regulator). Pulling the PPU pins to 5V will set the signal to 50 Hz, pulling them to GND will set it to 60 Hz.
- Find a spot to mount the switch and drill a hole in the shell where you want to mount it. Drill a pilot hole using a small bit, then use a step bit to gradually enlarge the hole until the switch fits. The SNES has a lot of unused space, meaning the switch can fit in a lot of spaces. An ideal area is at the rear, where the switch will be largely out of sight.