Worklog 64p Lite

[d3z0rian]

The 64p Lite is a clamshell N64 portable and a variant of Gman’s N64 SP.

Essentials: a fully functional clamshell N64 portable featuring composite video, an internal flash cartridge (with no cartridge slot), a custom controller board, digital audio, and active cooling.

Initial features:

• Trimmed N64 motherboard
• Scampi audio amp with Switch 2 speakers
• Internal SummerCart64 (no cartridge slot)
• Composite video output (for simplicity)
• Custom controller PCB
• 5-inch display
• Active cooling

Rather than adding optional extras, I may revise some of the initial features as the build progresses—for example, by adding HDMI video output or upgrading the display to a 5.7-inch IPS panel. For now, however, the focus will remain on the core functionality.

 

[MattDTO]

Custom PCB on the roadmap sounds sweet! That will be awesome.

 

[d3z0rian]

For this build, I wanted to test each step whenever possible. The first thing I did was test the unmodified console to make sure it was working properly.

I started with the RDRAM swap mod. I removed both chips but only reinstalled the top one at first. This gave me more room to install the Akira Flex. To test the board with only one RDRAM chip installed, I had to add a temporary jumper between the RAMCHAIN pins.

After confirming the first RDRAM chip was installed correctly, I removed the Expansion Pak connector and scraped away the remaining traces with a hobby knife.

Next, I installed the Akira Flex, tested the board, and then installed the second RDRAM chip.

I then moved on to the PIF relocation. I removed the original components, installed new passives, and tested the board again. I also added mounting holes to the original PCB.

After that, I trimmed the board and installed a custom vertical version of the RCP flex. I'm sharing the KiCad files and the production files from JLCPCB. The board is functional, but I think it could be adjusted to improve alignment with the RCP pins. Use these files at your own risk.

Finally, I restored the 3.3 V connections and installed the PIF board.

After one more test, everything was working. I'm not happy with the video quality. I know it's composite video, but it looked better before the trim. I'll try to figure out what's causing the issue later.