D.I.Y. Retro D9 Switch Interface
This guide explains how to create a switch interface for retro computers and games consoles that used D9 controllers (those which have connectors with 9 pins in a D shape). With an additional "Stelladaptor" (see below) you can connect this interface to your PC or Mac.
If you're an absolute beginner, we strongly recommend that you follow "The Basic Soldering Guide" - by Alan Winstanley. You may then like to look at the "How Things Work" guide to Joysticks.
SAFETY: Always use home-made equipment under supervision, and disconnect power when not in use. These adaptations are at your own risk. Good luck!
Almost all of the following components are commonly available from Electronics stores such as Maplin Electronics, apart from D9 joystick extension leads. These are available from www.stack.co.uk - who will make up a 1.8metre D9 joystick extension cable (male to female) for £2.50. Sales@stack.co.uk.
Click here for other console/computer D9 pin-out guides.
Buy pre-made: You can buy complete and ready to go retro D9 switch interfaces from the OneSwitch shop.
1. What you will need:
- 1x T3 small box (75x51x25mm)
- 5x 3.5mm mono sockets
- 1x D9 plug (solder type)
- 1x D9 socket (solder type)
- 1x D9 extension lead
- 4x small nuts and bolts for D9 sockets.
- Soldering iron (15 to 30 Watt power); thin solder; soldering flux; desoldering braid; thin wire (e.g 7strand 0.2mm).
- Cordless drill with drill bit 6 (1/4"); knife or wire strippers; small screwdriver set.
2. Make 7 holes:
Drill 5 x 1/4" holes on the top for the 3.5mm sockets (main picture).
Make 2 holes for the D9 sockets (inset picture). Use a combination of drill, soldering iron, knife and files to make fairly neat D shaped holes.
3. Test your sockets
As not all sockets are connected alike, you will need to find which 2 of the 3 contacts you need to solder to.
Attach a test lamp or multimeter to any 2 contacts. Plug in your switch, then press it. If the lamp comes on when pressed you have the right connections, otherwise try a different combination. There's only 3 possibilities.
4. Ground Loom
Connect a ground loom. Leave a trailing wire sticking out of both D9 socket holes.
Ensure that you make a continuous connection through all the sockets - using the SAME connector for each socket.
N.B.I recommend using the left most solder point of each socket (as pictured).
5. Solder the 5 sockets
1. UP, 2. DOWN, 3. LEFT, 4. RIGHT and 6. FIRE:
Solder 2 wires to each 3.5mm socket - one to connect to the female D9 and one to connect to the male D9.
6. Solder D9 sockets
Use the following pin-out:
- 1.UP
- 2.DOWN
- 3.LEFT
- 4.RIGHT
- 6.FIRE
7.(+5V) - 8.GROUND
9.(Mouse Right-click)
7. Reassemble
Screw everything back together firmly - ideally, use nuts and bolts to secure the D9 connectors.
8. Full Test
Find a game that uses all functions of the joystick. Plug the interface into your games machine or computer. Connect a joystick to the interface, and test that the joystick still functions correctly.
Now use a switch to test all five sockets are functioning correctly. Any problems - disconnect, and restudy the quality of your soldering. Use the soldering iron and soldering braid to remove, then resolder any poor joints.
Stelladaptor
With an AtariAge.com "Stelladaptor" you can connect this retro switch interface to your PC or Apple Mac.
D.I.Y. Text and images PUBLIC DOMAIN 2003 - www.OneSwitch.org.uk
D9 Switch interface PUBLIC DOMAIN - 1995, 2003 - Barrie Ellis
Stelladaptor (c) 2004 - AtariAge & Pixels Past