Bob

RetroTINK-Ultimate EOL Update

Posted on by Bob

Mike Chi has just announced that his “TINKUltimate” Raspberry Pi hat is approaching it’s end of life (EOL).

Update – CastleMania is now carrying them:  https://bit.ly/2QTc5IG

I have mixed feelings about this.  First and foremost, the Ultimate offered a way for people to get RGB, VGA, Component Video, S-Video and composite from their Pi, making it by far the most versatile solution for Pi users.  Luckily, there are alternatives out there.

For RGB SCART users, the RGB-Pi is an excellent solution and one that I’ve been praising since I first tested the original prototype!  Their software is also some of the best I’ve tested and overall is a great solution for people who choose to emulate their games (I emulate arcade boards, but game on real consoles…to each their own!).

Next, there has been quite a lot of progress in manipulating the Pi’s HDMI output.  We’re now able to output CRT-compatible 240p right from the HDMI port, meaning you can use a cheap HDMI to Component or HDMI to VGA box (plus sync combiner) to convert this HDMI signal into something your RGB monitor or consumer-grade TV will accept.  I’ve personally tested some of these boxes (links below) and while I’d prefer a direct “HDMI to SCART” cable, these boxes seem to work well and don’t add any measurable lag to the signal.

So if you’re looking for a multi-outputting Raspberry Pi hat, make sure to get an Ultimate while they’re still available:  RetroTINK Ultimate

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avedio links HDMI to YPbPr Converter (Green)

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🟠 8K DP Switch Bi-Direction: This display port switcher allows connect two DP sources to one DP display or connect one DP source to two DP displays. Which means it’s a two-way displayport switch, one button toggle, without any delay or flicker. Our D... read more
(as of September 21, 2023 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
The lightweight and portable HDMI to VGA adapter connects an HDMI compatible device to a monitor or projector with VGA port; A VGA cable (sold separately) is required Built-in active IC chip improves compatibility. Included Micro-USB cable provides a...
Rankie 1080P Active HDTV HDMI to VGA Adapter (Male to Female) Converter with Audio for PC, Monitor, Projector, HDTV, Xbox and more

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$8.99
The lightweight and portable HDMI to VGA adapter connects an HDMI compatible device to a monitor or projector with VGA port; A VGA cable (sold separately) is required Built-in active IC chip improves compatibility. Included Micro-USB cable provides a... read more
(as of September 21, 2023 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

 

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