A project was recently launched called OpenTendo that’s an open-source hardware recreation of the original 1985 Front-Loading NES motherboard. This allows you to remove the CPU, PPU and lockout chip from your original NES and transfer them to this board that’s made from 100% brand new replacement parts. As the main chips are still from original consoles, performance has the potential to be identical or better than original!: https://github.com/Redherring32/OpenTendo
I have so many questions about this exciting project:
- Which motherboard revision was it based off of, as some NES revisions (NES-CPU-07 & -08) are known to be very high quality, while others (NES-CPU-10 & -11) are known to be noisy.
- Can Tim and Kevtris use this project to integrate their NESRGB / Hi-Def NES and sell complete, drop-in replacement motherboards?
- Since the board is open-source, can we update the audio circuit to provide original Famicom audio accuracy, a better sound amplifier and possibly even on-board “stereo” separation control?
- How is the RF board handled? Can something like Borti’s NES I/O (and The Real Phoenix’s no-cut version of it) be used in place of the RF?
I reached out to the developer and will follow-up if I receive a response. It’s an open-source project though, so feel free to take a look yourself!
AVS Advanced Video System Console, play NES Nintendo Entertainment System cartridges in HD via HDMI
(43)Developed by RetroUSB. Play NES games in 720p HDMI video! NTSC and PAL output NES and Famicom slots Updates through USB No games or controllers included
