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-chip models (i.e. SNSP-CPU-01/02), a PAL SNES system can be enabled to output a 60 Hz video signal.
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
- Solder (leaded solder preferred)
- Hookup wire, preferably 28 or 30 AWG
- SPDT switch
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 2 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 it is clear of the board.
- 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 the other pins of the SPDT switch to 5V and 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 make a cut in the shell where you want to mount it. The SNES has a lot of unused space, meaning the switch can fit in a lot of spaces.