I hunted for a while for a solution to this, but found nothing.
So I’m working on an HSS-0130 build, and I’m intending to use it with my Dreamcast, Neo Geo, and retaining the USB for modern consoles.
I’ve got a pair of Madcatz 6 button Dreampads (Or whatever they were called). I’d like to use them because I want to retain memory card support on my setup; I’ve got a bunch of VMUs lying around that I intend to just keep attached and stored inside the stick.
Now, I’m intending to use the direct connections on the rear of the Cthulhu to this pad.
However, I know that my Neo Geo also desires direct connections to the rear, and has no real other options as the buttons connect directly to the cable / system.
Can I connect both systems to the rear button connections of the Cthulhu? Will running both at once risk damage to either system, or will it even work in the first place? I recall seeing someone warn at some point about trying to wire two systems directly from buttons.
Ideally, I’d love to have both systems plugged into the HSS-0130 at the same time, and not have to unplug anything when switching between them.
The Rules for a successful dual mod is
All boards have to be connected to ground
All boards have to be connected to Power (either VCC or +5 volts depending on your system, PS1 and PS2 supplies +3.5 volts).
All boards should be common ground.
Can I connect both systems to the rear button connections of the Cthulhu?
YES. Consider a terminal strip to connect all your button inputs into 1 set of wires going to your Cthulhu.
Will running both at once risk damage to either system, or will it even work in the first place?
No this will not ruin your systems provided everything is wired correctly. Yes it can work.
I recall seeing someone warn at some point about trying to wire two systems directly from buttons.
Most likely its someone from this forum, I seen a this done a few times.
Ideally, I’d love to have both systems plugged into the HSS-0130 at the same time, and not have to unplug anything when switching between them.
This will not work, in a Dual-mod/Multi-mod set up you should only connect 1 system at a time.
You mean, consolidate my Neo Geo and Dreamcast wires into a terminal strip that then connects to the Cthulhu?
Ah, so they can’t both be connected at once; I assume this is because both systems would be sending power at the same time? If the other system is turned off, is it save to leave both plugged in, or is that still a bad idea?
Hmm, this is pretty useful for anyone in my situation. This is the pad I’m going to be using, and it seems pretty easy to solder for these purposes with those nice exposed contacts under the memory card.