Dreamcast:BIOS Replacement Mod

If you want region-free game loading, to load burned game backups on a model VA2 Dreamcast, to force all games to boot with VGA output, or your BIOS chip is simply corrupt; you can replace the Dreamcast BIOS chip with a new one.

Installation

A video detailing this process can be found on ModzvilleUSA's YouTube channel.

1. Disassemble the Dreamcast and locate the BIOS chip (labelled SEGA MPR-21931-X2).
2. Turn the Dreamcast on and use a multimeter to measure pin 23.
   • If it measures around 3.3V, you will need a 3.3V BIOS chip.
   • If it measures around 5V, you will need a 5V BIOS chip.
3. Remove the existing BIOS chip. You may find the Replacing ICs page helpful.
4. Solder in the new BIOS chip.
5. Solder a wire from pin 1 of the new BIOS to pin 23.
6. To write-enable the BIOS (to be able to update the BIOS via software in the future), solder a wire from pin 44 on the new BIOS to pin B14 of the GD-ROM connector.
7. Plug in the fan and GD-ROM (or GD-EMU) and test to make sure that it boots. Ensure that you prop up the GD-ROM or GD-EMU so that it is flat and level, as it will otherwise not make a proper connection.