Nintendo DS homebrew

Nintendo DS homebrew is software written by hobbyist programmers for the Nintendo DS video game console.

Running DS homebrew software

File:Passme.jpg

The PassMe is one way to run homebrew on a Nintendo DS.

The DS has many methods available to run homebrew software. Although the DS will normally only boot programs digitally signed by Nintendo, the homebrew community soon found different methods of booting unsigned DS programs from the GBA slot. The DS does not need modification to run Game Boy Advance homebrews.

There are five methods available: PassMe, PassMe2, WiFiMe, FlashMe, and NoPass. PassMe and PassMe2 are adapters that plug into the DS game slot. WiFiMe is a special program sent to the DS using Wireless Multi Boot and a compatible WiFi card. FlashMe is an alternative firmware. However, to install FlashMe, you need to use a PassMe/PassMe2 or WiFiMe to launch the flashing program. Finally, NoPass, like PassMe and PassMe2, is a device which plugs into the DS game slot. However, since it directly implements Nintendo's cartridge encryption protocol, it doesn't require an additional game in order to operate.

Comparison of PassMe and other tools

Method	Advantages	Disadvantages
PassMe	Portable Cheaper than PassMe2 Can be converted to a PassMe2 with a software update	Extra piece of hardware Does not fit completely into the cartridge slot Only works on DS versions 1 to 3 Power hungry - cuts battery life in half
PassMe2	Portable Works on all versions	Extra piece of hardware Does not fit completely into the cartridge slot Cumbersome operating procedure Power hungry - cuts battery life in half
FlashMe	No extra hardware needed after installation Includes recovery mode in case firmware is destroyed by a trojan Can run unsigned code over Wireless Multi Boot Works on all versions Optionally remove the Health and Safety screen	Needs PassMe(2) or WiFiMe for installation Accidents when installing may brick the DS Voids the system's warranty
WiFiMe	WiFi card can also be used for normal networking purposes	Only works on DS versions 1 to 3 Needs to be within range of the WiFi card Requires a specific type of WiFi card
NoPass	Works on all DSs. Fits cleanly into DS slot (unlike PassMe and PassMe2).	Extra piece of hardware. Generally more expensive.

DS firmware versions

The firmware version of a DS can be confirmed using the Pictochat Test:

1. Insert a DS cartridge into the DS.
2. Turn on the DS, open Pictochat and enter room A.
3. Remove the cartridge.
4. Both screens should now be filled with a solid color.
5. Additionally, this color is also shown for a brief second before the DS enters Sleep Mode.

• Version 1: The DS will freeze
• Version 2: Grayish Blue
• Version 3: Dark Green
• Version 4: Yellow
• Version 5: Magenta
• Version 6: Blue
• iQue: Dark Green
• DS Lite: Purple
• FlashMe: Dark Green

PassMe and WiFiMe work with firmware versions 1, 2, and 3. PassMe2 works with all firmware versions.

FlashMe, which is used to overcome the requirement of a passthrough device, can be written to any DS using its respective technique for booting homebrew software.

Distinguishing between version 3, iQue and FlashMe

The iQue DS has an iQue sign under the touch screen, is available only in Asia and uses Chinese menus.

If FlashMe is installed, holding A+B+X+Y on startup will cause both screens to turn white.

If none of the above applies, the DS has firmware version 3.

External links

• History of running homebrew
• Current and future homebrew running methods
• Drunken Coders homebrew blog
• DS Lite FlashMe video
• Homebrew on the Nintendo DS - Squidoo lens
• Homebrew How To - Nintendo DS NDS

Notable homebrew applications

• MoonShell media player
• DSLinux
• WiFi chat
• DSOrganize PDA
• NDSMail email and web feed client
• DS2Key using the DS as a joystick
  • Can also be used for wardriving [1]
• PointyRemote remote desktop
• HelloDS walkie talkie interface (non-working)
• Python on the DS
• NitroTracker

Emulators

• ScummVM DS
• snesDS
• nesDS
• StellaDS

See also

• Homebrew (video games)