A custom dual-system handheld that combines original Nintendo DS Lite hardware with a modern computer mode.
- Capture DS Lite top-screen RGB signal video and output to an OLED via FPGA.
- Utilize original bottom resistive touch screen to retain original touch “feel”.
- Use as mouse for emulation mode? Tap into analog X/Y signals from original hardware and convert into USB HID (would need a touch controller).
- Maybe include a screen on the bottom as well so it is clear exactly where you are clicking? Or just use it as a trackpad?
- Perhaps it can have different modes, such as a telemetry/stats mode.
- Provide a second "PC/emulation" mode.
- Use Raspberry Pi or Mini PC for initial testing of switching.
- Switch to a custom board with an open SoC later.
- Physically switch between modes.
- Maybe make it a software choice in the future (similar to Nvidia dGPU/iGPU switching)? Doing that on the DS side might require custom firmware.
- Custom power system: USB-C PD charging + Li-ion battery with safe switching.
- Compact, ergonomic enclosure and user interface.
- DS Mode — DS Lite board runs natively; FPGA samples top-screen RGB + sync and repackages to the OLED. Thumbstick input is translated into four discrete directions (eight when diagonals are detected).
- Computer Mode — SBC boots Linux/Windows and drives the OLED directly. Controls are routed via microcontroller (USB HID). Original DS resistive touch panel is routed as a mouse.
- Power — Li-ion with USB-C PD charge controller. MOSFET switching isolates the inactive system.
10/15/25 Week 1: Planning and parts research. Focus: DS signal capture and FPGA pipeline.
- Top OLED 5.5" (HDMI driver board)
- FPGA dev board (TBD)
- As of 10/16: Tang Nano 9K, which eliminates a good amount of other components
Logic analyzer (to help convert DS Lite signals to a modern display)Switches for display, audio, input, etc.- Raspberry Pi 5 (for initial testing)
- USB-C PD module + voltage regulator, 2×21700 cells (?), MOSFET for switching
RP2040 (?), for buttons, switches, power telemetry- Small speakers, fan, buttons, 3D print for shell
- Maybe use original speakers and buttons?
- Add analog thumbsticks (from 3DS?)
Would require translation to function directly with DS hardware as the original never included analog thumbstick support.