VMU Power Supply Mod

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Revision as of 20:17, 18 June 2013 by ITEM-3 (talk | contribs)
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THIS IS A WORK IN PROGRESS

The VMU for the Sega Dreamcast can be modified to accept as a power source an alternative to the pair of CR2032 batteries the VMU is designed for such as AA batteries or an AC adapter that supplies 6V of direct current. The new power source can be soldered directly to the VMU, or a common connector can be soldered to the VMU to enable you to detach the new power supply.

Basically all we'll be doing is soldering the positive and negative ends of our new power source to the corresponding terminals of the VMU. Now, there are two ways to go about this: one is invasive and involves drilling and soldering directly to the VMU's board, and the other involves soldering directly to the battery terminals, which doesn't even require you to open the VMU. The former method will result in a better looking VMU, but the latter is easier, less risky, and entirely reversible. This guide will cover the second, easier method.

Tools needed:

  • Small phllips head screwdriver
  • Soldering iron
  • 6VDC power source
  • Voltmeter (optional but recommended for troubleshooting)

Selecting a Power Source

Batteries

Standard alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, etc.) can be used to power the VMU if 4 of them are used together. Since each alkaline battery generates 1.5V, putting 4 in series will generate 4*1.5V = 6V of DC current. It would be easiest to do this mod for AA or AAA batteries since it is not dificult to obtain an enclosure which holds 4 of one of those types.

Rechareable Ni-MH AA or AAA batteries may not be able to power a VMU unless 5 are used in series since a typical rechargeable battery only generates 1.2V. This information needs to be verified.

AC Adapter

You may be able to power your VMU using a generic AC adapter if it meets the following criteria:

  • It must output 6V of direct current (DC)
  • It should be capable of outputing up to at least ~340mA of current  It may require less current than that, but that is the lowest amount I've been able to experiment with.