Add USB-C charging to your Nintendo 3DS XL

This mod requires some case trimming, and I would recommend abandoning your charging dock contacts. More information available in the instructions page.

The truly universal USB-C dream is finally realized for your Nintendo 3DS XL!

Charge your Nintendo 3DS XL with USB-C, using any USB-C cable and charger! If it fits, it’ll charge! Finally you can stop carrying around that extra proprietary cable!

My design is inspired by this existing PCB that only works with USB-A -> USB-C cables. In my opinion, if you’re gonna future-proof your 3DS XL, you shouldn’t remain reliant on Type-A!

My PCB works with USB-C <-> USB-C cables as well, so you can use ANY USB-C cable/charger to charge it! I’ve also verified it works with USB-A -> USB-C cables, Quick Charge, and USB-PD! That means if your charger or USB battery pack offers 5V/9V/12V/etc., it will recognize the 3DS XL can only accept 5V and charge accordingly.

No 3D-printed part is included, but the file is available for you to print yourself, if you want.

Where to Buy

USA: Buy on Amazon - (Why Amazon?)
Any other Country: Buy on Tindie - (I will restock occasionally!)

Compatibility

This is designed for installation in any Nintendo 3DS XL (SPR-001).

This mod is not compatible with: 2DS, New 2DS XL, New 3DS, New 3DS XL.

This mod is not compatible with the original Nintendo 3DS. For the original 3DS, I recommend this mod by makho: makhowastaken/3DS_C

Charge Speed

This console’s original charger (WAP-002) outputs up to 900mA at 4.6V. According to the USB-C spec, this mod will allow charging at up to 500mA at 5V. This is, on paper, 40% slower charging than with the WAP-002.

However, in my testing, my console consumed 800mA at 5.1V, charging just as fast as the WAP-002. So please keep in mind that your mileage may vary, based on what USB charger you use and how precisely that charger follows the USB specification. Just be aware in the worst case, your console might charge a little slower.

Disclaimer

Modify your console at your own risk! This product is provided “as is”, with no warranty - express or implied. That said, if you have any issues or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Installation

Instructions for assembly/installation can be found in INSTALLATION.md

License

If you have improvements, please modify these design files and share any improvements openly/freely with the community (via a pull request or another public repository)!

You are not permitted to profit off of this design or use it in any commercial venture.

Full license information.

Thanks

Thank you to makho and BlindEye/Hidarite for the original PCB inspiration!

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Mods - Game Boy Subreddit Wiki

My Other Gameboy Mods

Post Tags: # Hardware # PCB # Mods # Gameboy # USB-C