A step back, need instruction...

[killroyoneal]

Here's my issues---

I am attempting to make my first hand-held as a project for my high school computer class.
I have no clue what I am doing.
I have a Genesis 2, but the controller ports are wonky and I can't figure out how to clean them properly (I have blown then out and swabbed the ports).
I plan on using a six-button controller, but the one I had is now broken.
I do not have a screen.


What I ask of anyone on here---

Where can I find some good instructions on making my hand-held?
What controller, screen and casing should I use?


If anyone can help, please do!

[rikitheshadow]

Well this site, err forums, has plenty of reference information you could use to build your handheld.
To obtain certain parts I would suggest searching ebay...
Like search for "PSone screen" (That is the best screen known so far for making a handheld)
or search for "Pocket TV"
And for a controller I'd just search for "6 Button Sega Genesis Controller"
If not ebay check your local game stores for older consoles and controllers.
I know some states are lucky to at least house one or more special game shops, unlike Gamestop that will no longer carry old gen consoles.

You may also need to search the internet or a local Radioshack for some rechargeable batteries.
You can use either NiCAD, NiMH, Li-Ion, or Li-Po.........i wouldn't suggest any normal batteries like AAs or what not. Alkalines suck for this type of projects.
*****Warning***** if you do obtain a Li-Ion or Li-Po, make sure you obtain a protection circuit for those types or they will EXPLODE!

One of the biggest hurdles that I know so far is a Case. There are so many options for a case, some may settle for something easy but less pretty to look at. OR some may work hard to make a beautiful sleek looking case for their portable.

On a side note.......people love catchy names......try to come up with a catchy name for your Genesis portable or GENp!

[killroyoneal]

Thanks for the screen and battery detail, although I still need to know how to clean the ports, or if I even need them.
As far as a name, I was gonna be goofy and call it the EXO-Genesis!

[hackmodford]

Forget the ports this is the jist of what you're going to do.

Take apart the Genesis Case. Desolder the A/V Power and Controller Ports. and then directly wire the stuff to the ports.

For reference I suggest buying Ben's book. It'll teach you everything you need to know. You can find it on his site benheck.com

[rikitheshadow]

Hehe, yeah i bought the book as well.......but you may be surprised theres always links to his book online...was it worth it buying it? I haven't a clue if those sites have the right to, or if they have full articles.

Here some more references or help.

Grab a sample case from http://www.polycase.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
See if any of them fit your design, or you can have them custom design you one.

A large selection of rechargeables here http://www.all-battery.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
They sell chargers and protection circuits as well.

If you intend to customize the case besides just cutting holes, like fusing or molding plastic, grab some bondo from a local hardware store.

You could vaccum form a case from some plastic sheets. Look up info in the sticky in the Case Construction forum.