MiSTer FPGA: console logic rebuilt, not imitated

A software emulator guesses how a machine behaves. An FPGA recreates its circuits, logic gate by logic gate. That is what the open-source MiSTer project does: the chips of an 8- or 16-bit console are redescribed in reconfigurable logic, with the input latency of the original hardware. This kit brings together the Cyclone V board, its 128 MB of SDRAM, the expansion board, the case, the power supply and a 32 GB microSD card prepared with the system.

What it does

• 128 MB of SDRAM on the board: this is the external memory required by the project's most demanding cores. Without it, part of the core catalogue refuses to load.
• SNAC connector: an original controller plugs in directly, without going through a USB adapter and without the latency it adds.
• VGA output at 240p and 480i: the original resolution is sent as is, with no intermediate scaling, to a CRT monitor or a scaler.
• Four USB ports and a real-time clock: controllers, keyboard and mouse plug in without an extra hub.

What it doesn't do

• No games are included. The microSD card contains only the open-source MiSTer system and its cores. Game files are the user's responsibility. Supplied without games, in compliance with the law.
• No HDMI output on this configuration. Video comes out over VGA: you need a monitor that accepts it, or a converter. HDMI output requires a different expansion board, sold separately.
• No controller is included, nor a VGA cable, nor an additional microSD card.
• The CR1220 battery for the clock is not included. Without it, the date resets every time you switch off.
• No PlayStation 2, Dreamcast or Nintendo 64. The logic available on this chip cannot handle these machines: the project stops at the 8-, 16- and 32-bit generations and arcade.
• Updates are done by script, from the system menu. This is not a console that updates itself.

Compatibility

Display: monitor or TV that accepts VGA, including at 240p and 480i, or a VGA-to-HDMI converter. Controllers: USB, or an original controller on the SNAC connector. Audio: 3.5 mm stereo jack output. Power: 5 V power supply included. Real-time clock: CR1220 battery not included, hot-swappable.

Skill level required

Intermediate. No soldering, no mechanical assembly: everything arrives assembled in its case. However, you need to know how to navigate a system menu, organise a file tree on the microSD card and run an update script. Anyone expecting the experience of an off-the-shelf console will be disappointed; a tinkerer will feel right at home.

In the box

• 1 Cyclone V SoC development board with 128 MB SDRAM module and I/O expansion board
• 1 case
• 1 32 GB microSD card prepared with the open-source MiSTer system, without any game files
• 1 Mini-USB cable
• 1 5 V power adapter

No CR1220 battery, controller, VGA cable or games.

Read before ordering: Premium & FPGA Consoles