Retro GEM PS1 Installation Instructions
Disclaimer: This kit is for advanced installers only. Install at your own risk. We cannot be held responsible for damage to your console and/or kit. Each kit is individually tested and confirmed working before being shipped.
Before you begin:
The kit is compatible with PU-18 (SCPH-550X) and PU-20 (SCPH-700X) motherboards. PU-22 and PSOne support will likely added in the future.
Kit includes:
- PS1 Flex Panel
- PS1 Intermediate Board
- Mini HDMI Adapter
- Solder Lug
- Plastic Mount
- M2 4m Screw (1x)
- M1.6 Screw (2x)
- M1.6 Nut (2x)
- 220uf tantalum capacitor (3x)
- 10uf tantalum capacitor
Items required
- Temperature Controlled Soldering Iron
- Leaded Solder
- Non Corrosive, No Clean Flux (Amtech 559 / Kester 959T)
- 99% Isopropyl Alcohol
- Multi Meter
- Solder Braid / Desolerding Tools
- Small screw phillips screw drivers
Step 0 - Clock Control and GEM Jumpers.
The Retro GEM PS1 can either run from the original console clock or use a generated clock that is identical to the consoles. Using the generated clock allows the console to run both PAL and NTSC frequencies. It is difficult to remove (required for clock mod) a resistor once the main flex has been installed. The installation steps assume you want to do the clock mod as it is recommened.
If you do not want to do the clock mod
- Do NOT remove the resistor from the PS1 main board. (Step 1 on main board prep)
- Do NOT close Jumper A on the Retro GEM.
- Do NOT close the CLK jumper on the intermedate board.
Set the Retro GEM jumpers using this page:
https://docs.pixelfx.co/fxdigital-config.html
Step 1 - Motherboard Prep
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Remove the metal shield that is soldered to the PS1 Motherboard. This will not be used and can be tossed. An easy way to remove is to just cut the legs off.
Remove the serial port. Use hot air / quick chip / desoldering braid / Desoldering gun etc.
Select your model:
PU-18
Remove the 5 components highlighted in yellow
Install the 3 220uf tantalum capacitor and the 1 10uf tantalum capacitor. Pay close attention to the orientation in the picture below.
PU-20
Remove the 7 components highlighted in yellow
Install the 2 220uf tantalum capacitors. Pay close attention to the orientation in the picture below.
Step 2 - Installing the flexes
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Install the Controller Flex:
Install the Audio Flex (Your audio IC might have 2 less pins, this is fine):
Install the main flex. I do not recommened drag soldering on this as its easy to move pins and bridge.
Step 3 - Installing the GEM
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Insert the nuts into the plastic holder
Insert the male hdmi adapter and slide the plastic holder together with the GEM together. Secure with the M1.6 screws. Do not overtighten.
Plug in the IPEX antenna.
Step 4 - Installing the intermediate board.
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Screw the solder lug into place on the intermediate board.
Apply a small amount of solder to the bottom of the lug. Do not solder the screw to the lug. You must be able to unscrew it.
Install the Retro GEM with the OEM screws and Connect all the FFC cables exepect the controller. This is the placement of the intermediate board.
While holding down the intermediate board with your hand, remove the screw from the solder lug and unplug all flexes. Carefully remove the intermediate board while all the same time not moving the solder lug.
Hold the solder lug with tweezers and apply heat to the top of the lug. This solder you applied earlier will melt and fuse the lug to the main board. Feel free to add more solder if needed. Just make sure the placement does not move.
Install the intermediate flex back on and plug in all flex cables.
If you have a PAL console please close the PAL jumper found on the intermediate board.
Close the CLK jumper on the intermedate board if you chose to do the clock mod.
Step 5 - Testing the installation
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Now that everything is connected you should test the installation to make sure everything works as expected.
IF YOU ARE USING AN X-STATION it must be connected and hooked up, otherwise you will get a black screen.
Verify you have no DIRECT shorts on the 3.3V to GND and 5V to GND. If you have a direct short and power on you will blow fuses on the PS1 that will have to be replaced.
MISSING
If no shorts are found do a quick power test. And verify you get video via the HDMI, if you do not go back and verify the installation of the main flex and audio flex.
Confirm audio works and also the controller OSD by hitting L1 + R1 + DPAD Right + Circle all at the same time.
Step 6 - Finishing up
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Once the installation is confirmed good, install the thermal pad on the FPGA and route the antenna as shown.
Congratulations! Enjoy the Retro GEM and we appreciate your support.