The ultimate controller box has begun AKA Bliss-Box [Archive]

ulaoulao

October 15th, 2007, 00:28

NOTE: After doing some searching on the name Bliss-Box, I may be forced to change it. But I must state I'm not in cooperation or affiliation with any of the lesbo or sexual products out there that have this name.... LOL

Ok some of you know of my previous design
http:///spawnlinux.ddns.net/controler/oldsmall.jpg
or larger images at..http:///spawnlinux.ddns.net/controler/old.jpg

and others know of the new design that I have been pondering. In short this project of mine is to create a controller switch box for all possible types of controllers in one box.

Please: I know we all have different opinions and such, as we each are entitled to ore own. I ask kindly, let’s keep this post for the people that are interested. There really is no need for “Oh that’s stupid, just do this”, Or “Oh that will never happen, because of this” .. Really that is severing little of no purpose.

For those of you that are interested, new to, or aware of this project. I’m happy to let you know do to Genome’s inquires I have decided to commit to this. At first this project seemed quite pricey. But do to a bit of research I found some attracted deals and an open source project out there that will make this quite affordable. Keep in mind as most of you know, if you bought all that was required as separate converters and attempted an all in one with USB switch boxes you would be over 500$ easy. My plan is to stay under 100$. Now, depending on my new friends I ran in to , it may even be possible to get it under 75$. If I had the connection ends (console female plugs) supplied I could build one for under 50$. Now this is all hypothetical but dam attractive, huh?
Ok enough talk here is the project.

This is OPEN SOURCE!!! So if you have any thoughts or would like blueprints they are welcome.

Idea one.. beta dawning.
http:///spawnlinux.ddns.net/controler/blissbox4.png
All of the adapters are do-able, but not cheap yet. I hope to fix that… This is a 4 pull 4 throw box. That means 4 players coming in and 1 usb out with 4 usb's internal via a hub. The only usb you will see is the end of the HUB since it’s in the box. Theoretically, you will be able to change joysticks on the fly.. Like playing Mario with any of the following, and no need to pause or close the EMU. This is possible because I have the schematic for the chips. This is under that assumption all chips have the same firmware. This would not work with some of the joysticks if my buddies can’t create a chip for that. This feature may not be implemented in the final design do to programming limitation (will just have to wait and see). The down fall to this design is Moe and Curly can use nes but Lary can’t use his snes He must also use the nes. It’s a 4 player all or none. My second thought is to make a one box controller to usb.
http:///spawnlinux.ddns.net/controler/blissbox1.png
This way everyone is independent of each other. Only down fall here is you won’t know who player one is, that is dependent on the USB bus. And it will change on you… Personally I hate this..

Other notes: :
Most chips come with a 1 year warranty so if something goes nutty you could have it checked out. Only problem here is you may not know what to look for . you could always ask me on the board here if you needed help. This is not to say these chips are faulty, warranties show good design not bad.

What can you do to help::
One thing that always helps is price watching. There are some tricky ways to find good deals. Like the multi taps for controller ends.. So If you know where to find cheep parts, by all means post that here..

Can you fabricate? Heck maybe some of you can make parts. Like sticker decals or actual plastic controller fittings. It’s not impossible… Just not my expertise.

So please for those that are interested what would make this project better? This is the best emulation board out there IMO, and you are the ones that made it so. So let it be a part of us all, I’ll just do all the hard work ;)

Info:

UPDATE: new 4-play page up http://4-play.bliss-box.net/

the open source project I speak of for chips is here. http://shop.raphnet.net/products/4nes4snes/index.php?category=Kits

A nice list of controller projects out there..
http://www.1emulation.com/forums/lofiversion/index.php/t13925.html

The electronic parts total is. $20 This is for the 4 player box.
the plastic box is around $8
the controller ends are unknown for now.
USB hub $5 or so.
The kicker right now are the chips at 6.99 a piece. I did however find the un programmed chips for 3.66 and the programmer for $25 this could help a bit.

Ryanfaescotland

October 16th, 2007, 19:04

ulaoulao

October 16th, 2007, 19:23

That's the first I've heard about a project like this and I'm definitly interested as far as I'd like to know if you ever make such a device but I can't say I'd ever buy one or make my own. Maybe I'm not as 'hardcore' an emulator fan as others but I find my generic PC control pad which is similar in shape to the PS1 pad does all I want and although the thought of using the original controller is pretty cool it really wouldn't last and I'd soon find I end up just using the same controller for everything anyways. - Yes to each there own indeed. I'm just the type that loves to emulate and experiences as close to the original with out actually using it.

I know you didn't really want comments like the one above but I thought I'd get across my thought on the matter so that you can see my stance before I comment on anything else. That way you can dismiss my further comments easier - No I'm referring to the rude unwanted comments, you are fine. I do appriciate constructive criticisms as well, just not the over opinionated a$$'s that just want to put there view as they see them.. I'm interested in comments to help or condone this project not oppose it. It's not a money project its a hobby, and its for those that want to sue it. Although I welcome advice like yours...

I was going to ask if there were many computers that could run 2 emulators simutaneously but I think I may have misunderstood what you meant. So when Nes controllers are 'on' only Nes controllers can be used yeah? - Yes as in, if a Nes emu is running you would be stuck with all the same controller of a kind. Every one is forced to use nes unless it is switched to snes, and in that case every one is on snes.. .

Are there any Atari games that would warrent having 4 controllers in? Might cut costs a little if you get rid of 2 of the atari ports. - Again great point. but I figure what the heck.. I may have a section of old controllers that are two way only, good .. Ill keep that in mind...

Also instead of having the led next to the name of the system currently active why not have it undernieth so that the whole name lights up? A small matter but I reckons it would look more professional. - Not sure I follow. do you mean the name lights up? Like a cut out of the logo as the LED, that could be cool..

Also the selector button above the leds instead of below would make it easier to press. - Do you just mean to have it up top, I would tend to agree here also....

Thx Ryanfaescotland I applicate it..

Ryanfaescotland

October 16th, 2007, 22:03

- Yes as in, if a Nes emu is running you would be stuck with all the same controller of a kind. Every one is forced to use nes unless it is switched to snes, and in that case every one is on snes..

Well I doubt there would be many situations where this was an issue but I guess it counts as a flaw, an extreamly minor one in my mind.

- Again great point. but I figure what the heck.. I may have a section of old controllers that are two way only, good .. Ill keep that in mind...
Yeah I'd reckon what the heck as well just thought I'd raise the point. Cosmeticly it may look better with the four but if 2 of them are unusable then why bother having them there?

- Not sure I follow. do you mean the name lights up? Like a cut out of the logo as the LED, that could be cool..

Yeah like a bit of plastic with the logo written on it in clear plastic so that when the LED behind lights up it shines through, it's kinda hard to explain

- Do you just mean to have it up top, I would tend to agree here also....

yeah either on top or on the front on the top right hand corner as apposed to bottem right. I just think this would make it a bit easier to press if it is sitting ontop of something (a desk or so on)

Here's a wee pic of my thoughts
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u241/Null_n_V01d/blissbox4.png

As you can see it's all cosmetic changes so it really makes little difference to the actual working of the box. Plus this is just my thoughts obviously everyone you ask will have little cosmetic changes they'd make.

insanemaniak

October 16th, 2007, 23:03

ulaoulao

October 17th, 2007, 01:36

Ryanfaescotland, Ya thats what I was thinking. Thx for the input.

ulaoulao

October 17th, 2007, 01:38

Well, since i have like 1 minute left this is just a little idea from me, i'll give more tomorrow but eh, to be honest arn't you forgetting size? Not many people would want say a 20 cm box connected to their laptop or computer to use one or two controllers, and these days i don't know many people who play 4 player on one computer? (Play button = Selector, since gimp wouldn't open i just used paint so it won't be very detailed sorry.)

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/3541/ideawu3.png (http://imageshack.us)

Otherwise it's a great project from what i'm hearing, keep up the good work!

No I took sizes in to consideration, but I also want it to look appealing. I see where you're going but the staggered look it too much, Let me know what else you have in mind and it is only beta.

I wanted to make a box that would allow up to four players. That being one of the goals. Yes its going to be a bit big.. But I'm working on that. This is why I also opted for the single box. that way you could have four boxes if needed.. I may make the connectible and just do like an add on type of deal. Not really sure what way its going to go, and this is why I need the feed back I'm getting so far.. Keep em coming..

Also recent investigation shows I MAY not sure yet, but may be able to build custom boxes with little ease.

Oh, and if any one knows of a nice looking project box let me know. I personally would like a trapezoid type of box. ( BUT I CANT FIND ONE!! GRR ) . With newer controllers on the front and older on the sides..

here is a list of boxes, but I don't see one that hits me.
http://www.hammondmfg.com/scpgPL.htm

ulaoulao

October 17th, 2007, 14:35

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/6026/newzo1.png - here is a new thought I had, ( I missed an LED for the center, and I meant for the size to be 4 sets of 2 for those systems that only use two anyways. ) . the big circle is the switcher. Ill fix this up when i get home.

Another note some controllers can use the same switch position. For example. XBOX 1 and 2 will use the same switch position but different connectors(I think they are different ). Same with n64 and game cube and snes nes. They are all the same chip for the converter, So i could group them. Also most of the old consoles atari sega... use the serial db9 So I could just group all of those in on section. May do that and just have the LED change. And I think for compatibility ill mount 4 usb connectors on there as well along the bottom as one of the switch options. Would take no extra hardware or cost.

insanemaniak

October 17th, 2007, 22:24

You could always get rid of the leds and select botton and insert switches or something, you know like the one on the back of a PS2/3?

http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/563/switchcz1.png (http://imageshack.us)

ulaoulao

October 18th, 2007, 00:59

you are full of suggestions my friend keep 'em coming..

but!

You could always get rid of the leds and select botton and insert switches or something, you know like the one on the back of a PS2/3?
- This is a 12 pull/trow switch.. Meaning..

12 lines in , 12 lines out and that is to say 12 lines get switch simultaneously as it switches. In other words you would need 6 or 12 switches for each switch, unless there was a 12 pull/trow push switch .. and if there was it would not be cheep..

swtich

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BTW: not looking for charity here , but if any one wants to donate junk please do.

junk list..Ya its junk.. But very valuable to this project. All the items can be totally busted, I mean to the point of being ran over, seriously If I can salvage oscillators from it I'm doing great.

Any USB device. Including hubs, (mice are rare treats I used 10 of my junk mice already)
Any joystick pc or console.
Any console connectors (female)

Or if you have skills here are the components.

1.5k resistors
68 ohm resistors.
led's
3.6 volts zener diodes. (hard to find)
330 ohm resistor
12 Mhz crystal. or 6 mz, nice finds ;)
27 pf capacitors.
10uf capacitor.
lm317 regulator ( common , but a nice find)

For those that ask, yes I know they are mega cheep on line i.e mouser.com, but I'm looking for 100's of them so I can make lot of them. For example its 20 bucks just to make two, when you add up all the zeros is not cheep any more... So If you have anything you want to get ride of PM me. Hope this is not a forum rule I'm braking? No money just junk...;)

Here is the new trapezoid design.

http://bliss-box.net/controler/blissbox5.png

Genome

October 19th, 2007, 04:42

ulalalo you know i have a dire need of this device. my project...which im nervous to speak of outload here... requires such a device and belive it or not 100 clams is pretty cheap compared to rest of the stuff im buying.

2 500 gb hdd, a $200 arcade stick, etc.

this is really going to be the heart of the beast though as the main focus was to achive exactly what this device offers. i can personally send you 2 female nes plugs, i know thats not much right now but its a start right? i will obviously gather alot more before i spend the $$$ for shipping. i will look around flea markets, yard sales, salvation army. whatever it takes to get you as many plugs as i can then i will send them all to you at once. i suggest you do the same too to save time.love the led idea i was thinking something similar as well :)

it will be later next week before i can send you my project log, my pc is currently at a co-workers for torrenting. i shall scan what i have written down, make a photoshop projection of the finished item, and tell you (in pm of course) what i have in mind. if you like i can give you everything you need to duplicate it for yourself:D

im going out of town for the weekend so i will have to gather it all next week. i think you will be very impressed. i know that i am with what you put up here. i really hope this all pans out. you have no idea how many hundreds of hours ( and dollars )this could save me:happy:

as for mine a face plate is really a must, as this is going to be built into something. perhaps fitting it with a couple of places for screws on the ends. obviously we will have lots of time to decide all of this stuff.

just thought of something. im going to go to the local classic gaming store, and ask if they have any parts or busted systems they are junking, never know if they could have some useful items to grab for free.

ulaoulao

October 19th, 2007, 12:37

ulalalo you know i have a dire need of this device. my project...which im nervous to speak of outload here... requires such a device and belive it or not 100 clams is pretty cheap compared to rest of the stuff im buying.

2 500 gb hdd, a $200 arcade stick, etc.
- Ya you and me both ;).. Oh dont you know it. 100 is a dream for any one like us, :confused: Are there any others?? What can we say we just love are emu boxes... I rememebr my old plan to build a stand up arcade emu box. .. Never did find a broken arcade box cheep enough.

i can personally send you 2 female nes plugs, i know thats not much right now but its a start right? - I have 2 and I'm getting a 4 score , so yes its a big save since I want to build two of these at once, (yours and mine). Just get with my on hotmail.

i suggest you do the same too to save time. - as we type.. Well not literally.

it will be later next week before i can send you my project log, my pc is currently at a co-workers for torrenting. i shall scan what i have written down, make a photoshop projection of the finished item, and tell you (in pm of course) what i have in mind. if you like i can give you everything you need to duplicate it for yourself - Ya, Still waiting to see whats this is,,,,

as for mine a face plate is really a must, as this is going to be built into something. perhaps fitting it with a couple of places for screws on the ends. obviously we will have lots of time to decide all of this stuff.just thought of something. im going to go to the local classic gaming store, and ask if they have any parts or busted systems they are junking, never know if they could have some useful items to grab for free. - Ya I'm thinking of a few graphic designing as well.. And yes it never hurts to ask...

ulaoulao

October 19th, 2007, 12:39

BTW Tera byte drives are really coming down in price...

Didn't mean the double post..

haunter=best

October 27th, 2007, 21:53

Desert Drifter

October 28th, 2007, 07:12

ulaoulao: Looks great, something I would be into, even got an Atari stick input. Maybe when ya release it, you should open a market here, you got a knack for a wiring man. ;)

ulaoulao

October 28th, 2007, 16:11

Hey DD.. Er I mean Desert Drifter DD doesn't sound right. Ya I'm thinking of making a vintage port instead of a buch of db9's. Just one with a db9 that supports all of the old stuff. They used to use that connector for every thing back then. The adapter circuit I have supports all of them.

Also a bit of an update on the project:

After much searching and talking. The best price I could find for controller connectors (extension cables) was 1.75 per. So I decided to look in to making them. Turns out its possible with a moulding kit I found. So I guess Ill be in the casting business also. And Looks like custom boxes will not be a problem. So I can build any type of box.

I'm still not sure if I should make a 4 in one (2 for vintage) , or just a 1 style box. I guess I need to take a vote. If any one would like to cast a vote for what they think would be better or would like let me know. that is the 4 player version or one player version switch box.

Desert Drifter

October 28th, 2007, 16:29

ulaoulao

October 28th, 2007, 16:31

Fine with me, not like their really in demand these days anyhow. - True, just adding them for kicks and to make it more of a compete controller box.

Desert Drifter

October 28th, 2007, 16:33

- True, just adding them for kicks and to make it more of a compete controller box.

Couldn't agree of ya more. It's fun to re-live an era that is not possible of these days. ;)

ulaoulao

October 28th, 2007, 20:31

Another thing that would be really helpful from anyone, is to list what connectors you would like.

So far my though is to break it up in to these sections.

- NES -

nes
snes
n64
gc

- sega -

ms/gen/mm all use db9 (aka serial mouse )
Saturn
dc

- psx -
ps1/2 the same
3 I think its wireless now.

- xbox -

xbox 1 / 2 - same
xbox 3 wireless WIP

- vintage -

intellivision - db9 i think?

colecovision- no idea?

Atari STe, Atari Falcon030, Atari Jaguar - used vga style I think?

tg16 - WIP

I may make one universal wireless adapter , not sure how much luck ill have here.

Desert Drifter

October 28th, 2007, 20:53

Another thing that would be really helpful from anyone, is to list what connectors you would like.

- vintage -

intellivision - db9 i think?

colecovision- no idea?

Atari STe, Atari Falcon030, Atari Jaguar - used vga style I think?

tg16 - WIP

I may make one universal wireless adapter , not sure how much luck ill have here.

Atari:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_2600#Console_hardware (A friend had)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST (The one I had)

Yeah, both had that 9 pin slot. Brings back memories...

Hope this helps. ;)

Genome

October 29th, 2007, 22:56

you have my list of systems, though add colecovision and atari 5600 to though. hope everything is still going okay. when do you think that mine will be ready, i have a list of things that all need to be bought immideatly and sadly i have limited cash resources. i have to pick and choose how i buy things. if the box is ready soon i will go ahead and give you the $$ for it first.

ulaoulao

October 30th, 2007, 05:09

Hey Genome, I just got word that the chips are as follows..

vintage col - sega 3 button

sega set all sega pads

Nintendo set a nes snes

gc/n64 set

Each is going to cost about 15, so I need at lease 3 to get all of those. So far no chip for dream cast or 15 pin Atari. Its a good thing I can make my own connectors though....

Original estimated cost.. $300

Wishful estimated cost.. $25

current estimates cost.. $50

I still hope to get it down a bit.. and I would like the get the 25 pin Atari working. I'm not sure if the 5600 used that or not, I dont think so.. So that should be good. I still dont have controllers to test with..

what I have

n64
psx
xbox
snes
nes
atari

what I need

any wireless
turbo G16 duo and regular
sega all kinds.
dream cast
game cube
col. int. jaguar and any vintage stuff..

Genome

November 2nd, 2007, 01:00

thats great news, i assume it will still be a little bit. sorry i cant give you more info on how the specific controllers work. i dont own most of them myself either.:(

you could always try wikipedia,i have no idea if it would have the info you need but it does have very specific hardware specs for the consoles themselves.

50 bucks sounds great. is that total cost or just materials cost?

the ones i need most are:

atari 2600
colecovision
atari 5200
nes
snes
sega saturn
turbo graphix 16
3d0
neo geo
n64
psx
dc (if it can be done of course)

i understand that all probably wont be possible but these are just my list :)

so what parts do you have left you need to get?
did you already get the molding kit??

can you give me an estimate on when it will be done;)

im so exstatic about this;):D:D:):D
cant wait to hear back from you.

this weekend i sort out gamex, an operating system, hard drives, and my mobo/cpu

hope your weekend is just as progressive;)

Zach

November 2nd, 2007, 02:00

Hey guys, can we keep the cash talk in PM if you're gonna be exchanging goods for services?

I don't think we have any real provisions or rules to deal with this either way, but it's been a custom of many forums to either have strict rules about this, or not allow it in public at all.

Thanks for understanding. If the situation changes I'll let you know.

ulaoulao

November 2nd, 2007, 02:04

Ya wiki always helps.. ;)

atari 2600 --Got it..
colecovision --90% sure I got it
atari 5200 -- ify but not impossible
nes -- got it
snes -- got it
sega saturn --got it
turbo graphix 16 -- not sure yet
3d0 -- same
neo geo -- could be fun.. Get me a joy stick and ill try...
n64 -- got it.
psx -- got it
dc -- got it..

still working out costs for some of those..

the mould/molding is good to go, 100% success. check out the new site (link at bottom)

est on completion is very tentative, but I would guess 1-2 months I hope by xmas for sure. The more controllers I get the faster ill get it done. I only have so much r&d costs...

Good luck on gamex!!

ok To Genome and others.. The casting was 100% success.. and the site is up..
site http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/

pics...

http://bliss-box.net/controler/n64-back-=next-to-original.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/controler/n64-close-up2.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/controler/n64-close-up.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/controler/n64-front.JPG

Hey guys, can we keep the cash talk in PM if you're gonna be exchanging goods for services?

I don't think we have any real provisions or rules to deal with this either way, but it's been a custom of many forums to either have strict rules about this, or not allow it in public at all.

Thanks for understanding. If the situation changes I'll let you know. - no problem..

Genome

November 4th, 2007, 22:28

Hey guys, can we keep the cash talk in PM if you're gonna be exchanging goods for services?

sorry zach my fault;)

AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THIS IS REAL PROGRESS!!!! i think i pooped a little.
great to hear back from you ulaoulao. i may have had a setback as far as my savings go :(
We had a car wreck over the weekend on the way to buy my 1tb hard drives. we are figuring out if it will be better to go through the insurance company or to pay out of pocket. im hoping the insurance company comes through because if not my entire projects savings are going out the window:(:( its okay as far as the joypad box goes though, i will make sure to have the money needed for it. the rest of my project may be in limbo for a while though. hopefully everything will smooth out.

let you know as more develops. i would send you any controllers i had if it would help but right now i cant afford to go buy anymore. if you just need the information though, i can research it and send you that. if you need the hardware im afraid i cant help there though.

let me know how things go;)

ulaoulao

November 16th, 2007, 03:09

I know about savings, I 'mlucky I had the money to get the molding going, speaking of!! WE HAvE PSX!! And damn it was a hard one. Had to do a two part mold for this one... This particular mold had a some errors but working 100% So I'm using this one..

http://bliss-box.net/controler/pictures/psx-front.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/controler/pictures/psx-top.JPG

Also the power supply is ready, this is only the test supply the next in production version will be smaller and a lot cleaner.

http://bliss-box.net/controler/pictures/powersupply-far.JPG

http://bliss-box.net/controler/pictures/powersupply-close.JPG

Genome

November 21st, 2007, 06:32

Brilliant!!!

this is great, do you need me to send you nes parts to make molds or do you have those?

keep up the good work. so is the eta still sometime around christmas/newyear?

Genome

December 1st, 2007, 16:43

any more progress?

ulaoulao

December 4th, 2007, 04:58

Brilliant!!!

this is great, do you need me to send you nes parts to make molds or do you have those?

keep up the good work. so is the eta still sometime around christmas/newyear?

LOL ya Genome It's still hacking away.. No need to double post ;) Ok so the latest images are xbox molds..

http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/xbox-mold.jpg

Nothing fancy here, but in good news,. WE HAVE RUMBLE on the way!! Turns out rumble is not going to be hard for any sticks that support it. Also in the works and I dont think in time for this year is mem pack support. It is a WIP and I mean a WIP... but looking promising.

Ok so enough with the good news there is a down note. The Dream Cast is not easy.. They wrote their own protocol for usb-ish communication and its not easy to emulate. The alternative is to pop for the adapters that are out there and I can just add them in mine. So its not a stopper but makes for a bit of a price bump.

Oh and Genome If you have a molded casing you want to ship me for your "project" send it to me. I'm ready to start your build. Unless you just want to wait till I get one done and rip it apart your self. You choice, I'm game either way. To answer you question "christmas/newyear?" I would say its close. but all the parts are ready minus some fine tuning.

So first) send me your face plate/mold - or pass on this and accept my undecided design.

and second) decided if you want a cheep price (No talk in this topic about price, I respect this board too much) But if you need it cheep you will not get it by 2008. If the price is flexible then I can just add the adapters that are not ready but purchasable off ebay, and add them in. (( lets keep this part to PM's though ) ))

Genome

December 7th, 2007, 01:17

great to hear an update sorry about the double post i just have become really excited about my project again (my arcade parts came!!!)

i dont have any specific idea for case or molding. my entire project has taken a facelift so now i need to decide how much space the blissbox will take before i could say what a kind of a faceplate. i will probably just go with what you provide.

i will pm you to figure out more details.

btw very nice:bow::bow::bow::bow:

ulaoulao

December 8th, 2007, 03:36

Well If I were you I would use just a face plate, but if you want a box so be it..

Ok BlissBox news:

Here is my test design. You can mouse over the icons to simulate the lights. I may improve on the flash over time, but for now its up for criticizing... I would love all of any feed back on this good or bad, even down right mean... I looked far and wide for a trapezoid and found nothing.. so it's going to be a box.

http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/blissbox4.swf (http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/blissbox4.swf)

and btw: I have no friggen clue what intelevision connectors look like, I'm hopping db9. If any one knows please tell me...

also custom boxes are a go. I can fit up to four in a psx adapter, in most cases, just depends. So if anyone has a requests hit me up with a PM..

Genome

December 8th, 2007, 05:30

eerrr yeah a face plate. sorry that is what i need. i will design something this weekend and send it to ya. (i confused myself my fault:confused: )

love the idea, will leds increase the cost though? i could go without if it saves $$. if it doesnt affect cost though nvm.

preferably for mine i dont like the box idea. as you said a face plate is what i need.

i will photoshop something for up.

anyway great start, im happy.

i searched for intellivision nothing yet will update if i find more.

ulaoulao

December 8th, 2007, 17:49

love the idea, will leds increase the cost though? - LED's are free.. You just desolder them out of old stuff LOL. and other wise you just buy them for 0.01 cents at mouser.com...

Make sure to include measurements in photoshop... hight and width.

Here is the new power supply..

Top view with USB wire connected.
http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/top.JPG

Bottom view with USB wire connected.
http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/bottom.JPG

Here is the stack of boards ready for production YAY !!
http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/stack.JPG

This is the board I used found at Radio Shack
http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/RD_part.JPG

Here is the color coordination layout.
http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/layout.JPG

This is the schematic
http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/ps_sc.JPG

bliss box Power Supply v 1.0
The power supply is operated from a USB 1 or 2.0 source. A regulator is installed only for N64 joysticks. This gives a solid 3.3 volts witch contrary to popular belief is how they want to operate. This helps prevents the jumpy button madness and other undesired results.

so we have:

a 3.3 output for N64

a 5 volt untouched output

a usb data +

a usb data -

a ground.

and a shield

The regulator is still not decided I'm experimenting with the LP2950 3.3V for now..

V2.0 will include rumble not sure how to achieve that yet may just use a big all capacitor and a transformer of sorts.

I decided to use a usb cable instead of the jack so that it will save money. I can make the cables for 40 cents that beats a 15 dollar cable any day.. plus I can make them any length...

Genome

December 13th, 2007, 01:05

wow i didnt know they were that cheap anywhere. at radio shack here they are $3 each. lol nvm then:happy:

looks really great! my project is coming together very well (despite all the setbacks). the box is god, it completes it so well. my project wouldnt have a leg to stand on without it.

ulaoulao

December 13th, 2007, 05:39

this seems like a pretty good project, and if it where for sale, i'd definitely buy it! still, here's a suggestion:
would you be able to make it like, attach, to all consoles? like instead of just pc, it works in gamecube, PS2, Dreamcast etc. so that if you only have a gamecube controller you could plug it into a PS2 and use it on that? you know, i think this sounded better in my head but what the heck.
__________________
I have started reading the Honka-Bali-Woo-Woo at: 22:00 at GMT on the 27th of October 2007
I finished on: 2:55 at GMT on the 28th of October 2007. That took me 5 hours and 55 minutes!!!(+ one hour for daylight savings time - dude haunter=best, I never saw that post. strange?? Turns out I just had this conversation with a buddy from work. I was thinking of having a special 12 pin output that would connect to one of many pigtail adapter so that you could play any controller on any system. It may not be available up front but I'm considering it. Since XBOX is usb that one is already done like that.

Ya Genome, they are cheep. RadioShack is the worst place for electronics. They are one of the only places left that sell them for such outrageous prices. And are the demise to Alide electronics.. Glad to here you project is coming along.

Ok I scratched the 4 player version. It will be available upon request only. My focus is changed to the one player box for way too many reasons. You can always make 4 ;)

I ordered a box, here is a sketch up..

http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/blissbox1.swf

Its about 5(in length) x 3 (tall) x 2(wide) Depending how it sits..

It will have a battery or 9 volt plug for rumble
a usb out (posible others cables for systems)
and the switch on top.

Yes Genome, Ill still make the four player for you. Also I was thinking for your project you could get a cheep rectifier or use the power from the monitor to shake the crap out of it with a big ac motor. All you need is the rumble signal from my box. That or a 24 volt DC motor . Imagine that mega rumble support...

Genome

December 15th, 2007, 02:58

i sent the email with the dimensions to ya.

know anywhere i can buy usb 2.0 connectors real cheap? i still have to convert my xbox controllers to usb.

looking great. i will have everything by 2008 except a 1tb hdd, all the controllers i need, and the blissbox. i am very patient though and they are all worth the wait:happy::happy::happy::happy::happy::happy:

haunter=best

January 4th, 2008, 23:21

Genome

January 5th, 2008, 01:14

if im right there is already support. and if there is you can use any controller with any emulator. the controllers arent hard wired into the emulator. its fully customizable. in fact i often use my usb nes controller to play mario 64.

ulaoulao

January 5th, 2008, 04:50

i dont know if its a bit late for suggestions, but would it be possible to like, use a gamecube controller on say, a dreamcast emulator? or would you have to go out and buy the controllers for each port?
- Yup Like Genome said I commented on that. back 5 posts (counting this one) up. I'm planning on implementing that as well. Not quite as easy to go usb to Xcontroler, but its my goal.

and if there is you can use any controller with any emulator. the controllers arent hard wired into the emulator. its fully customizable. in fact i often use my usb nes controller to play mario 64. - I think he means to use a nes on a n64 console for example.

Genome

January 14th, 2008, 02:34

counting the days still

so what is currently working?

ulaoulao

January 14th, 2008, 23:26

so what is currently working? When I get the chip issues from my guy sorted out, ill post that status. I hate snags....

willyham

January 15th, 2008, 18:21

this is the awsomei-est thing ive ever read about :) it actually is a sweet idea...hope u get it working and make a huge how-to tutorial for us lazy ass's to lazy to do it ourselves...once again this is awsome, almost as awsome as the err ther BlissBox lol:p

ulaoulao

January 15th, 2008, 18:27

this is the awsomei-est thing ive ever read about it actually is a sweet idea...hope u get it working and make a huge how-to tutorial for us lazy ass's to lazy to do it ourselves...once again this is awsome, almost as awsome as the err ther BlissBox lol - Yes the tut's are here, and I wont miss a step. http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/

Please anything you wish to comment or add do so. I don't believe one person has all the answers or ideas. To me it is about co-op. Aside from a little glitch things have been moving nicely.

Oh Genome, here is a quick check list so far.

psx, n64, GC, sega 3-6 button and master-system, Atari, nes, snes. And posibly more, but I have not tested them since I done own the controllers.

Genome

January 20th, 2008, 19:36

great to hear ulaoulao.

cant wait till i have one of my own. i'll send you those nes plugs sometimes this coming week.

ulaoulao

January 26th, 2008, 19:25

Ok update:
I put the info about burning on my site so refer to http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/
under the walkthru section for detail.

I talk to the guy that made all this possible about adding a few controllers and that I was going to try to make Saturn work, he said this.

Sega Saturn? I'm planning to support them too. Right now,
I'm waiting for a pair of controllers to arrive. I will soon
start coding and testing. I think the code will be similar to the
one needed for Genesis, but without support for older non-genesis
controllers and 3/6 button auto-detection hell.

He also goes on to mention the psx code.

So I'm gong to start on DC

ps, if any one has a Saturn 3d controller they are willing to send to me for testing please PM me. I want to support the analog also.

ulaoulao

February 8th, 2008, 00:57

just a quick update on the progress.

most cable ends are moving along, few snags on the hard ones.

working controllers
xbox
usb
nes
sens
psx
n64
gc
atari
sega 3-6 button (saturn looking promising)

Looks like tg-16 and duo will work fine. but I dont have the controllers to test with yet. Also the 3d sega should work, that one is on its way. coleco controllers are on there way and I dont have intely yet.

trouble with DC and sega saturn ends, may use ext cables (makes over all cost hight)

Also note I can make a costum adapter with any of the know working above, just PM me if interested....

also here is a look at the front half of the adapter..

http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/front1.jpg
http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/front2.jpg

Genome

February 21st, 2008, 00:52

http://img54.imageshack.us/img54/6949/tumbleweedgq7.gif (http://imageshack.us)

*ahem*

ulaoulao

June 4th, 2008, 15:35

I think I just found gold..

For now, the project is continuing, and soon ill post Genome panel pics.

I just wound a way to get any controller to work on any system. A project a guy has been working on. His design was to use an arcade stick on any system, well I'm able to piggy back on his device. So.. this means any controller on any system.

If you want to use a snes on n64, you could (granted missing a few buttons) or dream cast on nes (if you wanted to ).. Or so is would seem.. Also he says he can configure buttons on the fly, how i dont know yet..

ulaoulao

June 8th, 2008, 03:47

I hate to double post but since the edit feature expires I can add to my lost post..:mad:

Wanted to add that turbo grafic is making promising progress. I dont have a duo to test with but rg16 may be working soon.

ulaoulao

June 21st, 2008, 19:51

Ok bliss panel pics..

Full view
http://bliss-box.net/controler/pictures/S4021481.JPG

front view
http://bliss-box.net/controler/pictures/S4021482.JPG

http://bliss-box.net/controler/pictures/S4021483.JPG

http://bliss-box.net/controler/pictures/S4021485.JPG

back view
http://bliss-box.net/controler/pictures/S4021484.JPG

The panel is non finalized yet, needs some design and color. I'll let gnome take care of that. The serial (db9, sega) Are not attached yet do to the wiring I need to do on the tg16.

Also tg16/duo 3 buttons are done.

Genome

June 22nd, 2008, 23:58

wow its beautiful. its better than i had ever pictured. i cant wait to plug that baby in.

man i just bought the resident evil movie double feature dvd last night and i was thinking about how bad i want to finish my files on nemesis up.

great work man very well done. im sure you will be able to move some of those bad boys.

ulaoulao

July 4th, 2008, 18:52

Ya, I'm creating quite the interest over in underground gamer. Here is the entire panel un-assembled. Just a matter of wiring up the interface and finishing the programmeing.

http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/blisspanel.JPG

For upgrading you have 3 options.

Buy a burner from me and do it your self.

Disconnect the panel interface and ship it to me.

Remove the chips and send them to me. ( removal instructions available)

Ryanfaescotland

July 18th, 2008, 20:01

That's looking sic!!

ulaoulao

July 29th, 2008, 04:23

thanx Ryanfaescotland.

NEWS: I had a request for a dual sega, Took one day to make..

http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/bm2.jpg
http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/bm3.jpg
http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/bm4.jpg
No it does not fly.. but it does support

Simultaneous 2 player sega master system.
Simultaneous 2 player sega gen 3/6 button
Simultaneous 2 player atari and vintage ( i.e intellivision )
Via an upgrade ( currently WIP ) Simultaneous 2 player 3do
If I missed a 9 pin (db9) controller let me know.

Also Bliss-panel is just about finished. More news on that later, waiting on parts..

ulaoulao

August 21st, 2008, 02:39

Sorry for the double post, had to add some info.

First, I'm now a master at making the fittings. I have perfected the art of molding parts. I can now toss them on the cement floor and they bounce. *** Please note: the same experiment can not be used for hard hardheadedness*** ;)

Second, The code is being merged.. I also learned, contrary to popular belief, that the coleo' and inti' are not ATARI STICKS!! Those number pads are part of the over all design and the calculations for those pads are not easy. Though.. inteli's ready.

So far I have snes,nes,atari,inteli',sega 3/6, tg16,ne6/cg, saturn ( around the corner ), xbox all on one board. WOW talk about a price drop.... More to come...

aevans0001

November 25th, 2008, 01:50

Any update on this?

So i read through most of this and I viewed your website, but I have some questions...

What prototypes do you have right now. Do you have the Box idea completed? The arcade box for Gen is this done I see that it costs about $300, did this include Intellivision and Coleco and all of that... It would be nice to see what all systems are currently supported. Maybe on the website. Teh website is great and all but it is hard to tell what the current progress ison the project.. I am very interested in ordering one of these great devices but I would want a "finished" panel. I am very excited about this as now I just use my xbox 360 controllers.

ulaoulao

November 25th, 2008, 16:50

an update is coming thing have been slow. and here come the holidays..

What prototypes do you have right now. all of my prototypes are on the site. Mainly custom builds for people.

Do you have the Box idea completed? My target is not met, still programming protocols.

The arcade box for Gen is this done I see that it costs about $300, did this include Intellivision and Coleco and all of that... No he wanted it before those where finished. Coleco is only theory I dont have that controller. intilli is now finished.

please price talk in PM email only, EZ staff does not like that ;)

It would be nice to see what all systems are currently supported. Maybe on the website. Teh website is great and all but it is hard to tell what the current progress ison the project.. The supported items are marked at the bottom marquee. Thx for the tip, i'll work on a progress tab!

I am very interested in ordering one of these great devices but I would want a "finished" panel. I am very excited about this as now I just use my xbox 360 controllers. I got your email, lets work it out there!

Zach

November 29th, 2008, 17:53

If you ever have this up to a finished state or whatever you'd consider retail viable... I'd love to get my hands on a review model.. And you'd get some interview press via OSG as well.

I need a good project like this to get me motivated to complete and publish another issue..

I likely couldn't afford to buy one from you, but I'd consider myself a fairly reputable man, and would certainly return it if it came as a loan-out.

ulaoulao

November 30th, 2008, 22:45

Hey Zach, I have a similar request from Underground Gamer. As I told him, I'd be happy to donate a model to you for an article in your e-magazine. The article would only help me ;) I may have a prototype very soon.

ulaoulao

December 7th, 2008, 20:17

Smaller LOL. The current size of this is 4 inches wide, 4 inches tall and 7 inches deep. Any smaller then that and you can fit all of the connectors in it.

current progress

http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/bb-beta1.jpg

Zach

December 8th, 2008, 22:59

Lookin good man, keep us posted and let us know when it's ready :)

ulaoulao

January 19th, 2009, 06:10

Had a request for a 4 player n64/game cube with an option for 2 player sega. came out nice..

http://bliss-box.net/blissbox/pictures/bliss-4pack_2.JPG

special t

March 31st, 2009, 01:02

ulaoulao

March 31st, 2009, 02:05

Hello ulaoulao, I was wondering if your email is working, I have emailed you a couple of times at your yahoo account however it keeps comming back to me as undeliverable?

I was wondering if I could buy one of your products?

Wow never heard that before, where did you get the email, from here or at my site? If you are Thomas, I just received an email to day. If not try again, or PM me here.

BTW: I added a link on my page instead of the no copyable text ;)

going to post a bit of an update here for anyone that is actually try to follow this project.

I moved to the atmega168 chip. This allows twice the flash size. I ran out of room on the at about 10 devices. So I should get about 30 on the atmega168. As most of the core code is done ;) I think 30 controller types will suffice.. I'm still working out the usb timing as its not play right with the mega 168 yet. Hope to have the new chip ready soon. The good news is no hardware changes are need. So people like Genome will not need to replace the board if they upgrade. Where ever that guy is??

special t

March 31st, 2009, 05:03

Thanks for your reply, I received your email and will respond shortly

ulaoulao

April 10th, 2009, 19:36

Ok not sure anyone would need this but jaguar it now officially supported! That means I can adapt your jaq to a PC via usb ;)

I know its not the most ergonomic controller out there but my plan is do do them all ;)

Also the new atmega chip is still putting up a fight. I do know its going to work ( as others have used this on other usb projects ) but have not resolved all of the bugs ( specific to this project ) yet.

Hopes are high!!

BloodyBandage

May 20th, 2009, 01:03

Should give some love to to really oldschool controllers. Maybe be able to fit a joystick from Commodore 64 on there, or original Atari. Very cool project though.

ulaoulao

May 20th, 2009, 03:08

The original atari and all db9 Atari clones have been tested and work.

http://www.allpinouts.org/images/0/01/Conn_dsub9m.gif
includes :
colecovision
sega 2 3 and 6 button
atari all that I have came across.
including ( Commodore, Gemini, Odyssey, and most anything from that era )
intellivision ( theory only, but should work, waiting a a controller to test with )

and I'm sure more that I can't think of yet.

The db9 Atari controller was sort of a mark in first and second gen consoles. These controllers were very simple. Each button and direction had its own line to comm with.
1 - UP
2 - DOWN
3 - LEFT
4 - RIGHT
5 ( sometimes button B )
6 BUTTON A
7 +5V
8 GND
9 extra
So there was not much reason for game manufactures to change the paradigm. By in large if you have a controller like this thats has 1 or 2 maybe 3 buttons it will work. Anything more has trickier circuit logic ( i.e sega 6 button ).

Thx for the shout out!! IF you think of any in particular let me know, I plan to test everything i can.

Zach

May 22nd, 2009, 18:06

ulaoulao

June 7th, 2009, 22:22

Chances are C64 joysticks will work on the genesis port (I'm guessing it has a genesis port already) as when I was a kid I remember jacking my Genesis controller into my C64's joystick port to play Archon, and it worked flawlessly.

I never did test a 6-button Sega controller, but the standard 3 button definitely worked. Your right Zack, that is the case. the 6 button would not work as its a bit of a different beast.

UPDATE!! I have made the avenue pad 6 work!!! All 6 buttons select run directional and turbo are working..

I also attempted the pc-fx but its a bit different. There is no info on that net that is helpful. If anyone has electronic skills and this system and would not mind assisting let me know!

Status

n64 - WORKING
nes - WORKING
snes- WORKING
gc - WORKING

psx - not implemented yet

sega ms - WORKING
sega gen - WORKING
sega saturn- WIP

atari - WORKING ( most any 9 pin controllers from this time work )
atari 5600 - WIP
atari paddle - WIP
jaguar - WORKING

colico - un tested
intellivision - WORKING

tg16 / dou - WORKING
pc-fx - WIP

dream cast - not implemented yet

3d0 - not implemented yet

neo geo - WORKING

ulaoulao

August 12th, 2009, 17:53

I have complete psx and Dream cast. Stay tune for a full update.

Mupen64 Man

August 12th, 2009, 18:03

One question about the N64 Adapter, what input plugin would I need to use? This project is beginning to interest me.

ulaoulao

August 12th, 2009, 18:11

One question about the N64 Adapter, what input plugin would I need to use? This project is beginning to interest me. Well short answer is any.

long answer is that it uses directX ( HID ) So any DX based plugin will work, and has. I use my adapter with just about all of them I come across. With xpadder you can fill in the gaps where the pluggins give you trouble. Also this is part of beta'ing it. I want to know what does not work as I personally feel it will work with everything. I choose not to use a driver thus using HID and HID is a generic driver windows understands. So its trouble free. Works great with the dolphin plugins btw ;)

NOTE: keep in mind this adapter is made for the person that wants many adapters in one. If you want a single version I make those, so contact me. I plan to re-create that adaptiod but dont have time just yet.

__________________________________________________ ___________________________________

Ok So here it is, the goal is reached and only a few bugs exist.

Whats new:

I was able to write a full auto detection system. No need for that clunky switch... You plug in the adapter and then plug it in to the computer and it will find what is attached. No alteration to the controller is needed.

There is only one switch left and that is to switch from normal ( sega ) to collico/inteli. Since collico and inteli wanted to change the power pins around I had to switch them on the db9 jack its self. Fortunately most people will never use these cumbersome controllers, but the support is there if desired.

Here is a list of what works with the adapter so far. and my notes for bugs. in works means possible just have not fully completed it.

n64 ( some computers make buttons jump for a split second here and there )
nes( vboy in works )
snes
gc ( some computers make buttons jump for a split second here and there )
psx 1,2,dual shock( pressure buttons are in the works )
sega ms/gen/saturn
C64 (working as a sega 6 button , see note below )
attari
jaguar
collico
intellivision
tg16 / dou / fx-pad
dream cast(has jumpy issues here and there, wont work on 3rd party yet)
3do
neo geo

No support for atari 5600 yet, not sure how to get it working on the db15 as neo geo uses this one. Another switch maybe? Why do they changes power pins ARRR

atari paddle are in works. They just move the mouse when moved, leave it be when not. The mouse moves from up/left to bottom/right to allow vertical and horizontal games.

The jumpy issues for the nintendo's seem to be usb driver/port dependent. I may need to gather info from beta users to get down to the problem. The DC jumping is a timing issue and I think fixable. Both are playable as they dont happen that often.

c64 has 4 buttons sega 6, I just dont know what happens to the other button states. they may always pressed ( hoping not )

My adapter is tested to work with many 3rd party controllers. All but DreamCast anyways. DC seems not to work with 3rd party, as the protocol is so complex. I think I may manage once I get my Logic Analyzer in.

Here are some example layouts, please vote for one!!

These are listed form most like to least

http://www.quickplayfrontend.com/uploads/monthly_07_2009/post-12-1248268184_thumb.jpg

http://bliss-box.net/tmp/BBB.JPG

http://www.quickplayfrontend.com/uploads/monthly_07_2009/post-12-1247745606.jpg

http://bliss-box.net/tmp/BBB2.JPG

want to help: I'm always happy to receive help. Donating controllers, posting, and I'm in need of a new web site.

Beta testers: This adapter takes a long time to make and I dont have time to make them for anyone that wants to test them for me. I need to do this before mass production as you can imagine. I will list all beta testers on here and I'm not sure how many yet, but dont think I will go very high.

Beta testing will start this year and soon , I hope. So if you want to beta test it get to me asap. Since I cant edit my post after x amount of days I will just re post the list as it grows. The list so far..

Zack ( I think his need is more so for a review )
me ( duhh)

If your name is above and you dont want to beta it just let me know and I will remove it.

__ v2.0 notes.

I have made some plans to go back the other way, controller to->usb then back to controller. The idea here is you get any adapter on any console. (i.e snes->upb->jaguar ) Obviously there will be some button mapping troubles and in some cases not enough buttons. Not sure how to handle this yet, but have some ideas.This concept will be in v 2.0

Rumble, in works for version 2.0. Still working on the HID side of it..

Mem card reading for n64 and DC is possible, so that in the works.

Other devices, I plan to support a few others, for example I have made the Guitar Hero work and may be in version 1.0. I plan on doing things like guns and what not for v 2.0

Want to see something? now is the time to let me know.

___ Not to be supported.

Mice/keyboard, multi taps, wireless. These are stupid .. ( multi taps)If you want more then one buy another. The amount of time and size of the chip to support all of these would double the price. Not to mention kill the auto detection. (wireless) this is a corded adapter. If you want wireless get a wireless usb, same thing.. (Mice) whats wrong with a pc mouse? Mice are so standard anyways. Same with keyboards. DC-keyboard is just silly to add in the code and a big waste.

I removed the dance pad also, not sure I will exclude it but for now its not in 1.0 to save room.

Mupen64 Man

August 12th, 2009, 18:16

Well short answer is any.

long answer is that it uses directX ( HID ) So any DX based plugin will work, and has. I use my adapter with just about all of them I come across. With xpadder you can fill in the gaps where the pluggins give you trouble. Also this is part of beta'ing it. I want to know what does not work as I personal feel it will work with everything. I choose not to use a driver thus using HID and HID is a generic driver windows understands. So its trouble free. Works great with the dolphin plugins btw ;)

NOTE: keep in mind this adapter is made for the person that wants many adapters in one. If you want a single version I make those, so contact me. I plan to re-create that adaptiod but dont have time just yet.
Oh, very clever! I would never have thought to use the default driver, usually things like that apply a driver when it's plugged in. Yeah, I have many different types of controllers, so the regular bliss box will be fine. Good luck man!

ulaoulao

August 15th, 2009, 22:34

Eureka! I just finished PSX and with pressure!

No being I only have two extra analogs on my HID I got to thinking.
http://bliss-box.net/tmp/hid.JPG

Only two buttons can be pressure active at once. the default is [] and X, if you want to change the button do this...

Press start hold it down ( this should pause the game ), then press select hold it down, and final Analog button Left ( button config 1) or analog button right ( button button config 1). So you will have one of the two.

start+select+analog left
or
start+select+analog right

Now while that combo is press ( almost impossible with one had when holding the controller , being the idea ) press the button you'd like.

If you want L2 to have pressure for the extra HID analog 1 slot You would do:

start+select+analog left+ L2 ( left go an any order )

If you want Up to have pressure for the extra HID analog 2 slot You would do:

start+select+analog right+ up( left go an any order )

I tested this out and it works great for me.. The down fall is you only get two active at once.

Thoughts, anyone??

Desert Drifter

September 17th, 2009, 22:53

Here are some example layouts, please vote for one!!

I'm taking you didn't like my rough draft on ND.. ;)

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/3383/blissboxinsides.png
taking shape of the third layout..

ulaoulao

September 18th, 2009, 01:31

haha, no buddy. I played with a few designs and end up with these.

http://bliss-box.net/DoCz/down_s/blissbox/images/beta%201/ANGLE1.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/DoCz/down_s/blissbox/images/beta%201/ANGLE2.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/DoCz/down_s/blissbox/images/beta%201/BOTTOM.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/DoCz/down_s/blissbox/images/beta%201/front.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/DoCz/down_s/blissbox/images/beta%201/left.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/DoCz/down_s/blissbox/images/beta%201/top.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/DoCz/down_s/blissbox/images/beta%201/right.JPG

Going to move the nes( turn to the right 90 deg) down and GC up, though fits better..

Ok I guess its time for an update..
I worked out most of the bugs above. and the cd32 ( c64) is good to go. It was not what most people though..

vn64
nes( vboy in works )
snes
gc ( some computers make buttons jump for a split second here and there )
psx 1,2,dual shock, presure
sega ms/gen/saturn
C64 (cd3)
attari
jaguar
collico
intellivision
tg16 / dou / fx-pad
dream cast(has jumpy issues here and there, wont work on 3rd party)
3do
neo geo

Beta testers: This adapter takes a long time to make and I dont have time to make them for anyone that wants to test them for me. I need to do this before mass production as you can imagine. I will list all beta testers on here and I'm not sure how many yet, but dont think I will go very high.

Zack ( I think his need is more so for a review )
me ( duhh)
TommyS

Mupen64 Man

September 19th, 2009, 15:48

It looks like its coming along nicely! I am teaching my self coding, maybe someday I can help you out. XD I can only do simple games like Pong though. =[

Zach

September 19th, 2009, 15:57

Personally I would consider increasin the dimensions enough so that all controller ports sit flush with the body. But that's more of an aesthetic choice I guess. Although it probably would give a little more room for wiring if its a bit cramped already.

Also.. have you considered the possibility of putting them all on the face side? Like length-wise.. I'm guessing the internal layout may have made that impossible.

I may have to scour a store for a decent number of controllers to test this with too, when it comes time to get my review copy.

ulaoulao

September 19th, 2009, 16:10

It looks like its coming along nicely! I am teaching my self coding, maybe someday I can help you out. XD I can only do simple games like Pong though. =[ -Ways to go, but programming is fun.

Personally I would consider increasin the dimensions enough so that all controller ports sit flush with the body. But that's more of an aesthetic choice I guess. - sorta came to that conclusion myself Zack, I started setting the controllers a bit deep in the box. The extrusion did look a bit cheep. Yes the wires were to problem but I think its manageable.

Also.. have you considered the possibility of putting them all on the face side? Like length-wise.. I'm guessing the internal layout may have made that impossible.
- Yes, if you look back it should be talked about. It didnt really fit nor look right..

I may have to scour a store for a decent number of controllers to test this with too, when it comes time to get my review copy. -- Would help a lot!, should have one ready for you soon here.

Thx for the feed back.

Zach

September 19th, 2009, 18:14

Cool :)

charlimit:mad:

ulaoulao

October 2nd, 2009, 14:34

Hi! Its one of the nice post which I really like a lot,Its very informative as well as innovative one,its the post which written well which is very easy to understand,I must say your write is of top notch and i will surely frequent your site.It having one of the fabulous tips which is very useful for the newbies.Managed Services its the site which contain an outstanding informations which is very useful and those informations on business and technologies is just hilarious one so its the site which I appreciate a lot,Let's look on dat and thanks. - ::confused::- is this a complement or spam?

In other news...
the compatibility (http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=tGD-U_eW1Rc7rNyqkpgJuIg&output=html)list is up..big thx to my number one beta tester Tommy!

and a new site (http://spawnlinux.dyndns.org/Bliss-Box)in the works

FatTrucker

October 2nd, 2009, 14:43

- ::confused::- is this a complement or spam?

In other news...
the compatibility (http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=tGD-U_eW1Rc7rNyqkpgJuIg&output=html)list is up..big thx to my number one beta tester Tommy!

Its spam mate. Have reported it.

ulaoulao

October 8th, 2009, 16:10

Success!!

I have complete them all. for a Full list see the compatibility list. (http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=tGD-U_eW1Rc7rNyqkpgJuIg&output=html)

new site (http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box) is up.

Preview pic
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/box%20types/beta1_new_labeled.png
1 PC_FX
2 atari jaguar ( vga )
3 Saturn
4 Xbox
5 snes
6 DB9 ( sega/atari/etc.. )
7 game cube
8 n64
9 nes
10 psx
11 dream cast
12 neogeo
13 tg16/pce

My beta tester'... Is doing great. Thx to him for such a large list. And I thought I had a lot of controllers...Thx Tommy..

I will from this point on be working on tweaks and bugs. I also plan to make the atari paddle work. After a few months I will start production. ( Zack, this is when you get yours )

Features to mention.

* Auto Pause, most controllers have an auto pause when the controller is unplugged. When you are in the middle of a game and your fried, wife, or otherwise clueless parter trips over your cord resulting in NO GAME CONTROLE, the game will pause ;)

* Auto Detect, no switches needed. The Bliss-Box will detect the controller. The Bliss-Box is Out of the Box ready. Nothing need, no drivers, wiring, or setup. Plug in the controller, then the Bliss-Box, and you are done.

* Upgrades. The chip is designed to be upgraded via the neogeo connector. If you know how to use an avr-isp you can do this on your own, otherwise it requires shipping to be upgraded. For avr info see the technical page.

* Full emulation, each controller is fully emulated unless otherwise stated. For example psx2 pressure sensitive buttons work! Version 1.0 of the Bliss-Box did not intended to support rumble or mem pack reading. This is planned in 2.0 (see 2.0 notes in "what is new new" section on the web site)

Beta testers: This adapter takes a long time to make and I dont have time to make them for anyone that wants to test them for me. I need to do this before mass production as you can imagine. I will list all beta testers on here and I'm not sure how many yet, but dont think I will go very high.

Zack ( I think his need is more so for a review )
me ( duhh)
TommyS

Zach

October 11th, 2009, 23:28

I had a nice critical reply all typed out, but I don't want to get into that now... Visited the site, it looks nice enough, but I'm not sure how you intend to get actual beta testers from your target market audience.

However, this "$150 beta-testing privilege" is news to me, and I sincerely hope you were not expecting to drop that on me last minute without expecting a negative reaction:excl:

On the whole, assuming this all blows over I might be able to help out, with some copy-editing and that kind of stuff, or involve myself more in the creation of general documentation and other literature/FAQ's to be included with production models.

I really do need to break out and dust off my Adobe CS2/3 skills though.. I think a slight redesign of OSG is in order too, or perhaps changing the way it is presented (those new "flip it like a real mag. sites are nice) but I always wanted to do customized crap for each section, but suck at graphics.. alas poor me.. It will give me something to work on, and I guess when the PReview/Review of the Beta goes down, should fall in place with a new issue coming out.

ulaoulao

October 12th, 2009, 01:19

Zach, anyone ever tell you, you complain to much...?

If you paid a bit more attention to the posts you would know that your listed a bit different. I never asked to pay any amount :confused:. I though I made it clear that since your version was for a review ( helpful to me ) and not so much as to wanting one, that I had no intentioned of asking for money from you. So sorry for the confusion. Also people dont get select to be a beta tester then get told to pay up? They become beta testers out of freewill. Also the reason you are waiting, is that I want you to review the top end version. not the hand made version.

the 150 is simply for people that want it all in one. and is 35 + ( how many 10's you want to test ). The cost is not inflated, its actually a deal considering the time that goes in to it. And you will not find a pc-fx adapter, or a 3d0 adapter, to mention a few... Nor a way to get it all for better then this price. If anyone got off the lazy ass and tried to do it them selves, its friggen free????????. Of course you need to buy the parts, like I do... Not to mention, and as stated on the page, you can try the DIY version. All you need to do is twist wires.... So yeah, I'm asking 150 for my time, sue me?

but I'm not sure how you intend to get actual beta testers from your target market audience. - To be honest I cant keep up with orders...And now there is even more of a demand since I can make it work on an XBOX. I only list the people that give feedback. Most people don't care about beta testing it and just want it. If I did give them away or at most, cheaply, I would have a bunch of kids beta testing for me.

On the whole, assuming this all blows over I might be able to help out, with some copy-editing and that kind of stuff, or involve myself more in the creation of general documentation and other literature/FAQ's to be included with production models. Any help would be appreciated. As it stands I never had much help from day one. But that is mainly attributed to the fact its not an easing thing to do. Even things like building a web site i had to do. The biggest help thus far is Tommy ( beta man ) and Drifter for the logo.

I here you on cs skills, been out the loop for a bit.. programming does that to you.

I'm not sure what type of impression you planned to cast here, nor do I understand the exact intent. But here is what I gathered..

a) You dont care how much it costs as long you you dont have to pay it?
b) You think I'm ridicules for asking beta testers to pay such an amount.

If so I hope I cleared that up for you...

Oh an just to clear the air, nothing against you, as I always, you just see, like a very opinionated guy.

__hmm lest do this for fun__
(Costs are from what I found on the net )
15 MayFlash 3 in 1 PC Joy Box Sega Saturn DreamCast PS2 to USB
10 n64 adapter

from Ralphs site
20 cheapest atari / sega adapter I could find.
20 cheapest snes/ nesadapter/tg16 I could find.
20 cheapest game cube I could find.
20 cheapest jaguar I could find.
20 cheapest intelivion I could find.
20 cheapest neo geo I could find.
__
145, and that is nowhere near what I support..Plus you have a lot of junk laying around.

Ok another way to do this./.
35 my bare board with one port ( db9 ).
__ pc-fx nowhere to be found..
2 n64 extension cable.
2 dc extension cable.
4 gc extension cable.
2 db25 extension cable.
2 vga extension cable.
15 tg16 extension cable.
4 xbox extension cable.
2 saturn extension cable.
6 snes extension cable.
3 psx extension cable.
80 takes me about 8 hours to solder it up. You would be amazing how time flies.. So lets say 10 an hour..
__
157

So its sorta' on the money ( no pun intended ).. Again, $35 is not a lot of money for a board.. but the rest is up to you, and you wont save much. If time is not money to you, then by all means.. However I dont plan on having some one beta test a box I didnt make? there is a lot of room for error. I test all the boxes before they go out and that is an all night affair.

in other news..______________

As stated above, I have found a way to make the device show up on an xbox. So for it wont work with the 360, as m$ changed a few things to make it hard to be done. But XBOX I is working. I may make an XBOX version in stead of cramming that in to version 1.0.

I have also confirmed the Atari racer paddle works. And was able to make the touch pad work( not sure this is much of a demand for this)

Zach

October 12th, 2009, 21:43

I don't know shit about business, so my opinion comes more from the consumer standpoint, flawed though it may be.

However, I am not insinuating the price is inflated and I tried to stay away from anything about production model costs because I don't know what those costs are. My reaction was simply the price of a beta model.

I am just a black and white guy. I never expected you would drop any kind of cost on me, however not having seen the site before, I rightly had to ask. Sometimes people just forget to mention stuff or assume something is known. You are free to charge what you want for your time of course. I'm not attacking you for trying to make a buck, but I also believe in the old saying "you gotta spend money to make money" with regards to R&D costs on a product. I'm sure we've all seen people complain about the fee for Microsofts beta testing program, for instance..

It's just another end of the spectrum. But think of it this way.
It's perfectly legit to say "Hey everyone if you want an all-in-one controller, you gotta pay big dollars because that is not my aim for production models"

I think the confusion comes mostly with the way information on your site is laid out. I'm a skimmer - a lot of people are skimmers. So yes I admit I missed the "free production model" benefit, all the same.

I think the issue here is, a little information re-structuring may be in order. I may be able to help with that.. Don't know if you have a web guy, or are doing it yourself, or anything like that.. But I might be able to help there (though my technical skills are limited, I'm more of a designer than a scripter/coder which is ironic cause I can't do graphics for shit, OSG not withstanding).

I am more than happy to review a beta, or production model, or whatever else. Although I am curious, since you offer so many configurations and prices.. Are you testing them all? I know this project is very expensive as you are launching a business. Yes, I do complain, but only because I want to see you succeed.

I can see that this is a stressful time for you also.. But given the scope of the project, and your end-goal. Maybe it would be wise for you to simply start telling people they can't order one yet.. Or to start a pre-order list, and fill a few at a time if the money is helpful enough to keep things going until then. As a procrastinator I can tell you, if you keep worrying about orders, you'll never get done.

ulaoulao

October 12th, 2009, 22:40

but I also believe in the old saying "you gotta spend money to make money" with regards to R&D costs on a product. - Valid point, but I never really planed on making money on it. Plus it has always been an open project. I only have charge for my time. It does look like its worth selling though..

I think the confusion comes mostly with the way information on your site is laid out. I'm a skimmer - a lot of people are skimmers. So yes I admit I missed the "free production model" benefit, all the same.
I will take that in to consideration.

I think the issue here is, a little information re-structuring may be in order. I may be able to help with that.. Don't know if you have a web guy, or are doing it yourself, or anything like that.. But I might be able to help there (though my technical skills are limited, I'm more of a designer than a scripter/coder which is ironic cause I can't do graphics for shit, OSG not withstanding). I'd love the help, this page was a quick effort to eliminate the flash site. I just dont have time to make it perfect. I would hope that people would help me on some of this stuff, so if your up for it I thank you.

Are you testing them all? - Not sure what you mean? As of now there is no production I make them one at a time, and this includes testing each controller. There are on average 130 wires that need to be connect. As you can imagine there is a high margin for error. Sometimes, no oftin I get " hey this does not work" It mainly is do to shipping and I have gotten better at it. It wont happen in the production as much. But there will be options for RMA's.

I can see that this is a stressful time for you also.. - Not quite sure I understand the evidence that leads you to think that? Only thing in relation to topic is te lack of help I get. But that is to be expected, this is not an easy thing to do.

But given the scope of the project, and your end-goal. Maybe it would be wise for you to simply start telling people they can't order one yet.. - Well the orders help with the product. I'm not planning on being a business here at all. But I do want to sell this thing as it seem like lots of people want one. If it was not for the buyers I'd be way behind. So far everyone that bought a box has a good understanding of what they get. Never had a return, but I have made errors and fixed them. This is fundamental. It may work for me, but not you.. So it helps that people buy them. And as stated, the project is done. So now its beat the hell out of them time. The device works for me 100%, its shown a few compatibility issues thx to the buyers, and I have fixed them. So this is all working out well.

Or to start a pre-order list, and fill a few at a time if the money is helpful enough to keep things going until then.
- Na I'm not the high strung.. When I get an order I tell them I will email when your up next, and go on to explain this is the beta stage. Once I finish one I go to the next and line, and the know that. By in large I find people to be extremely understanding with this. So far..

Zach

October 12th, 2009, 23:12

Well I think it is kind of confusing though. On the one hand, you don't really do this to make money as much as its just a project. But on the other hand, you have plans for production models (which I assume to mean, produced at a factory in batches, in a more polished form?), but again you say the projects pretty much done, but its the beta phase and you are just cranking them out as fast as you can make them?

I mean its all fine and good, to make it clear its just a hobby you are doing and the money is nice.. But I guess the idea I got, from my point of view was you were going to start a serious business effort or something? I mean I guess it would only make sense to me, to go through all this trouble, and have a nice shiny production model at the end of things, etc. Run it like a business, have a stock on hand, take orders and ship them out.

At least to me it seems like you having conflicting opinions on what to call it? I dunno. It can be both, but it -sounds- like a business to me.

What I meant by "do you test them?" was the different options you offer, I guess.. Do you have a standard wiring plan for each model (that you know works), etc. based on the number of ports and stuff.

I might be able to throw a nice mockup site together in any case. Though I may need some resources from you, in the way of high-quality pictures of the various models (random pics of completed stuff, glamor shots, etc).. Don't know much about tying it into an e-store if thats something you wanted to do in the future (I know my host offers shopping carts and stuff) but I can definitely get a general site put together that looks pretty nice.

Last site I built was pretty basic, for a lawyer friend tho.. that was a while ago, but he payed good!
( http://www.neuman-law.com/ )

ulaoulao

October 13th, 2009, 00:00

Well I think it is kind of confusing though. On the one hand, you don't really do this to make money as much as its just a project. But on the other hand, you have plans for production models (which I assume to mean, produced at a factory in batches, in a more polished form?), but again you say the projects pretty much done, but its the beta phase and you are just cranking them out as fast as you can make them?- I think the main trouble in understanding this for you is to not think of it so professorially. I dont strive to fit the profile of a full in/ out business. When I started this I tried to find some one to do it for me, it was so overwhelming. I then learned I could do it and kept on. Now I have a perfect solution. It works for me I'm happy. I did it, the end. But wait there is more... People want to buy this thing, and I'm not equip for that.. Nor do I have the know how.. Its just me. More I see the pot of gold and , why not? If it does not sell, what do I care? but if it does.... SO no, Im not going to invest in this but I see away to do it without investing and I'm going to try.

I cant explain it better.

The other problem I see you have is the lack of why.. Why build an emulator.. PJ64 is the same thing is this, they had a good idea and they see money in it.. I love this stuff, its fun, it may seem like trouble to you but its not really all that bad. When I design a box for someone I learn a bit more. And according to the going rate, electrical designers are in demand. Not that my current occupation needs help, but heck why not have another trade.

Do you have a standard wiring plan for each model (that you know works) - Yup , I guess being a skimmer you did t read that part.

I might be able to throw a nice mockup site together in any case. Though I may need some resources from you, in the way of high-quality pictures of the various models (random pics of completed stuff, glamor shots, etc).. Don't know much about tying it into an e-store if thats something you wanted to do in the future (I know my host offers shopping carts and stuff) but I can definitely get a general site put together that looks pretty nice. - Would be open to give you what you need. Would you be open to keeping my design and helping, or woudl you rather re-do it? I received two compliments and 4 negatives on my old page. So far 5 thumbs up for the new one, and I kinda like it so far..

Zach

October 13th, 2009, 15:31

I like the basis for your design, but I think I would like to try and streamline it a bit, clean it up, that kind of thing. But overall I want to try and keep the original idea intact, just giving it a nice polished look.

Could be some color changes, font changes, that kind of thing in there, as well as some potentially better looking graphics (but keeping the same idea of the current graphics, i.e your PCB / Logo, the controller, etc )

Maybe in the future, get you a proper forum setup, if you want. Though that would depend on how you want to host the site (seems like you got a home server right now)

ulaoulao

October 13th, 2009, 17:05

Ah you dont like Drifters logo? I dont have the psd file, btw.

Yes I do have it on my own linux box, but dont want to run a forum on it. So if you have options for hosting and such let me know, but I planned on running things like a shopping cart, forums, etc... That is if I go that far. Still would be nice if its not to costly.

Zach

October 13th, 2009, 18:34

I am an affiliate with my web host, they have VERY good deals and are fairly reliable. They are a shared hosting service of course, so if your site ever gets to be -too- popular and places too high a load on the server, you may have to move to a dedicated or semi-dedicated plan.

However I don't foresee that being an issue. I will drop you a PM with more details but I can tell you I have been a customer for a couple years now, and I am very happy. I went through 3 or 4 other web hosts before trying them out (I originally stayed away because it looked to good to be true) and was never happy and often had issues with random downtimes.

These guys are real professionals though. They always add new servers when they need them, offer retroactive upgrades to all plans, when the plan changes (so you get free storage and bandwidth increases for the same price you always pay) etc. Very decent control panel, with several options for forum software and shopping carts (setting up a merchant site is going to cost money for the SSL certificate and such however)..

Just an example of a recent experience.. They changed their pricing plan by a few dollars and I was billed at the new rate, but wasn't aware of the increase (I couldn't find any saved e-mails at the time, but it truly was my fault as I did get a notice) however they went so far as to issue a $2.99 refund on my renewal even though I hadn't asked for it, and was simply providing feedback. I now pay the new rate on future renewals, but it was a nice gesture on their part and reminded me why I liked them so much. I have almost never had to open a support ticket, and mostly it was for billing issues on my end.

Anyway I will drop you a PM. As far as the logo goes, I like it mostly except for the colors. I think you might like what I have in mind... will take me a while to work on it though.

By the way, the link in your sig, goes to that Donkey-Kong preloader, as opposed to the direct link you posted a short while back.. It's really kind of shoddy imho, is there any reason you use it, or is it some kind of redirect ?

ulaoulao

October 13th, 2009, 19:32

By the way, the link in your sig, goes to that Donkey-Kong preloader, as opposed to the direct link you posted a short while back.. It's really kind of shoddy imho, is there any reason you use it, or is it some kind of redirect ? - Works for me? if there is a - ( i.e bliss-box ) its correct. old site is blissbox. The old site had not been updated and was a shoddy attempt to make a site. So in that sense your correct. Not sure why you get the old site?

Thx for the info.. Will check PM in a bit.

Zach

October 13th, 2009, 20:38

Your banner has a separate hyperlink than the text link below it. It's going to the old site

In fact, both the image and the hyperlink for the banner go to the old URL.. I fixed the URL as the logo doesn't exist on the new site.. But I'll soon get you a nice shiny new one ;)

ulaoulao

October 13th, 2009, 20:58

Oh you meant the image goes to the old site? and I guess you meant you fixed it up for me , because its looks ok as of now.

either way thx.

Zach

October 14th, 2009, 15:14

Yeah, the image is linked from the old URL, doesn't seem exist on your new site. But also the hyperlink attached to the image was to the old URL - which I corrected. :thumb_up:

ulaoulao

October 17th, 2009, 17:26

Two major announcements.

1) I added an upgrade option. Now you can upgrade the firmware via usb and a bat file. So there is no more needing of hardware to do it. Note:currently to gain room for the upgrade option the coleco and intellivision code is removed. I may get it down sized and squeeze it in yet. So as of now its an option.

2) the Dream cast bug has been caught. No more pressing of random buttons here and there.

ulaoulao

December 19th, 2009, 21:30

The boards have arrived and aren't they sexy.

the board its self
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/board/SDC11741.JPG

and the wired board
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/guide.JPGthis is the color wiring for the do it your selfers.

Also I have a painted box frame, looks nice!
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/empty%20black%20box/SDC11749.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/empty%20black%20box/SDC11748.JPG

Zach

December 19th, 2009, 23:33

Board looks nice.

The box frame has a weird texture though, is that cause its styrofoam ?

ulaoulao

December 20th, 2009, 00:21

Wow that is the second person that said that.. LOL, well no it would never work that way. Its a plastic box, and it does have a texture. I sort of like it, as I hate plane, but it can be filed down.

I could not think of a cool design, was thing of a few Nintendo characters but everything I though of seemed to tacky, so I left it all black. Ideas welcome.

Leerz

December 20th, 2009, 13:00

wow, this is the only thread that made me login back
man, I want this, but I feel it's too pricey for me (but I do understand for how it turned out that way)

I'm currently using boards posted at emulatronia, handcrafted with love and works wall(directpad and through the parallel port).

I might get this, will have to check garage sales for those old controllers.

Zach

December 22nd, 2009, 16:01

I think texture is OK, just not that texture ;)

Smooth black would suck and get real dirty easily... But something textured, more like the general plastic you get with Speakers, keyboards, mice, etc might be the way to go.

As for art.. Why not hire someone to do a bliss box logo for the top of the unit, and money permitting, have it printed silk screen onto the top of the unit covers.

That would look sweet.

aevans0001

January 26th, 2010, 04:25

Well I ordered my controller and am so anxious to get it...... Sounds like things are going pretty good with version 1..... Can't wait for Version 2 and Rumble support and everything else...

aevans0001

February 23rd, 2010, 07:14

Well I recieved my Blissbox today and let me tell you so far this board is As Advertised. I figured it would work about 80% but so far it has worked 99%, the only hiccup I have seen so far is the Atari Paddles, which is more than likely just me not knowing how to set them up...

I have tested SNES, N64, Sega, Atari Joysticks, Atari Driving controllers, and Commodore 64

ulaoulao

February 23rd, 2010, 16:28

My fault on the paddles...

First I have to admit I forgot you wanted them. but for readers consider this.

1) paddles are not part of bliss-box, they are add ons. And beta.
2) most emulators dont support them for example see stella link (http://www.atariage.com/forums/tracker/issue-167-analogs/?)
3) most paddles are worn down to nothing and hard to clean.
4) you need to request this upon design, or use my paddle add-on adapter ( plugs in to neo-geo or psx)
5) I have 2 beta testers so far, hope to improve this.

--------------- ok in the news...

a bit of a change in analog design. Turns out a fully filled bar in the game controller app means 0... Yeah? What sort of crack is m$ smoking? See picture for illustration. So if the trigger / button / slider is fully pressed the bar is empty.. Call my crazy, but that just seem backwards.
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/fully.JPG

also - Guitar Hero is officially supported

aevans0001

February 24th, 2010, 08:13

ulaoulao

March 4th, 2010, 05:36

Hey aevans0001, always good to here reviews.

-- update time --

I was doing a bit of thinking and thought hmmmmm. how nice would that be to switch controllers during game play. Of course this will work just fine if I install a reset button, but what about the controller button to HID assignments. This would mess things up a bit since start on the n64 is not start on the snes and so on. Then I decided to work out a universal layout that would match up most of the common buttons. Like start(nes) is to pause(3d0) is to run(tg16) and etc..

notes: I left some blank HID assignments to match things up better, and its ok to skip hid assignments like that, but I try not to. Also there may be some missing layouts, and if you spot them let me know. For example I did not include jaguar pro, mainly because I dont have one.

So, How did I do? what do you suggest?

https://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0ArBG6DmpiFU3dG5UN0xaakxEaFVFYjBzOGlyOXJyT nc&hl=en

For example and another way of putting this would be to say, if you were playing sega, and wanted to use an nes controller, whats the preferred button to button matching.

Also.. a way to change players..

here is a big problem for me.. but here is the answer.

http://www.wingmanteam.com/latest_software/gadgets.htm#JoyIDs_Utility:

Go to this link and download JoyID It will allow you to change HID joystick HID ID's So if you have a 2 player box and cant just change controllers with the guy next to you and would like the left side of the box to be player 1 and the right side to be player 2, you can ;) Its not a hard app to use, just follow the help that comes with it.

ulaoulao

March 9th, 2010, 15:35

From aevans0001

This looks like a better way of doing things. problem you will run into with that though is like Intellivision with 16 directions..... So this would take away the reset button on mine or the unplugging and plugging back in issue? - in response to the global button idea.

No this wont take your rest button away, this is the reset button, so you in affect have it already. Now explain a bit , how would this hurt the 16 directions? The directions wont change any. Up on intelivision will be up on atari, will be up on n64, etc.... So in theory you could use the inteli to play n64, or n64 to play intelevision( with out the #pad). And you could even use a coleco on intelevision but only have 8 directions in that case. Although that is a limitation to the controller.

Thx for the comments and insisting on the intelivsion controller. You are the only one that really did so. I think in the end this will be very helpful to the project. Mainly since I have had no one test it for me. If I ever get the change to have a version 1 for testing I maybe able to crunch the code down and officially add it. I know your sending one, but dont want to keep it on you for any longer then needed.

____update, Again do to Evens inquire I added the atari keypad officially. Do to a resistor ( pull up ) I was able to detect it, so there is no need to hold down buttons and force detection.

AlsoI added vectrex to the list. its does require a db9 adapter do to the choice of pinout it uses. The adapter is simple to make will be drawing it up on my page soon.

And 2.0 has officially started, I have decided to move the global buttons to 2.0 since there are a lot of hid assignment changes and some may not want this. So 1.0 will not have this feature. Also I'm staring to make controllers use FFB, started with psx, the easy one... Stay tuned going to be slow and coming.. Going to work on n64 ruble and mempacks next.

aevans0001

April 3rd, 2010, 05:49

Any updates on V2.0?

ulaoulao

May 12th, 2010, 14:47

Yeah, 2.0 is moving along. Getting closer to FFB working and So far the 2.0 will work as an XBOX but there is a snag in there as well. I also added the ability to now change the controller without needing a reset. When you unplug a controller, it goes in to auto pause mode, then you just plug in the new controller and it will re detect it. With the new button mapping code I added, this would allow you to play with snes, for example, then change it out for an nes in the game.

I have my own forums (http://blissbox.freeforums.org/index.php?sid=81110bb2e7b677747a707b265a4538e6)now , still building it but its ready for posting. Also toying with a Zelda addition finish.
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/gold-zelda.JPGthe idea here was to go for a Zelda gold addition. Could not think of a way to put a Zelda logo on there that would not get me in to trouble. Figure it would be hard to claim this is trade marked. If the tri's were gold, than may be.

Also, though it'd be cool to see how one does on ebay (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170483624052&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT) Not bad so far..

ulaoulao

February 1st, 2011, 14:32

Just going to update some need info on this thread and unless I get any reply to it, i'll put this one to rest.

2.0 is complete but I'm going to keep it in beta for some time.
FFB is done and working great ( I need a linux user to test it yet )
The XBOX version needed to be on its own platform so there is no switching, either XBOX, 1.0, or 2.0.
Added support for a lot more controllers.

Manny many more changes.
paddles are now back on the menu. I found a way to do this in ave so I dont need to make fag boys boards. INFO (http://spawnlinux.dyndns.org/Bliss-Box/technical.html)
7800 and 5200 are now added. INFO (http://blissbox.freeforums.org/atari-5200-and-paddles-t83.html)
Saturn is completely refined. Now even supports the wheel.

M.afaqanjum228

April 6th, 2011, 22:17

I know we all have different opinions and such, as we each are entitled to ore own. I ask kindly, let?s keep this post for the people that are interested. There really is no need for ?Oh that?s stupid, just do this?, Or ?Oh that will never happen,

ulaoulao

April 7th, 2011, 01:58

Hi M.afaqanjum228, I'm not sure what reply's you are referring to but I do appreciate the confidence. Of course it is quite a success and certainly does work. That or people like sending me lots of money for nothing ;p

ulaoulao

May 27th, 2011, 03:01

So the day has come.

An old buddy of mine (Raphael Assena) has contacted me about my rumble code. He has set plans to implement this and memory pack reading. The plan is a trade of efforts. In exchange for the rumble code he hopes to work out the mempack reading with me. His idea is a bit different then I originally planned. His idea is to enter a mode at which the data can be read form computer to pack or visa versa. The downfall here is that you need to do this before you use the data. For example before you start the emulators. It would be much like saving you data to a disk and going to a friends house. You then put the data on his system and play... Though the plus is that is can be done via vender requests and no need for mass storage. Also you would be able to use saved data from the n64 this way as well and of course emulator data to n64.

Elven

December 27th, 2011, 13:34

As I said in my P.M I would be more than happy to help out with Website design/Layout. Also I wish to add that this project is awesome, but you already know that. If there is anything I can do to help please let me know (I have to much time).

ulaoulao

October 4th, 2012, 22:54

Had to post these babies.

These are the new in computer drive bay mounts.

http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/drivebay/IMG_2573.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/drivebay/IMG_2574.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/drivebay/IMG_2575.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/drivebay/IMG_2577.JPG

Mupen64 Man

October 6th, 2012, 02:44

I would live to have that! What does it plug into, PCI? USB inside the network card?

ulaoulao

January 10th, 2013, 02:23

Look closer at the pictures. There are two options a normal usb and that adapter. The adapter is an internal usb plug.

-------------updates------------

Been working with Dolphin devs a bit, bliss-box now support lots of peripherals including the wheel! The GC racing wheel by logic. This wheel uses real force feed back where the wheel fights you in turns and what not. There are about 10-15 games for GC that use it and its a lot of fun!

Bliss box now has more options for the D.I.Y types. See this write up by Crylen.
http://blissbox.freeforums.org/post455.html#p455
Also the new boards have plugs so no need to solder.

Mupen64 Man

January 11th, 2013, 02:07

That sounds great! isn't the racing wheel 3rd party?

ulaoulao

January 11th, 2013, 04:48

Logitech makes it but Nintendo licensed it.
http://www.logitech.com/en-us/press/press-releases/1557

ulaoulao

June 19th, 2013, 12:20

BLISS-BOX Now supports the long anticipated wii Extension. Currently the classic and pro controller, nun chuck, and the motion plus.

Mupen64 Man

June 19th, 2013, 19:42

Thats great! ;D How long have you been working on it?

ulaoulao

June 20th, 2013, 02:14

I started in 2012 but do to an overwhelming demand in the bliss-box I had to put it on hold. My pal Raphaela was actually working on it as well. A few months back I grabbed is latest work with plans to put it all together this year. I finally freed up this month to do it and there was a lot of work to get it working with Bliss-box. His design was a bit different. So, hard to add that all up but a good 6 months of work for sure.

Mupen64 Man

June 20th, 2013, 11:41

Well this is great, When I finally get a computer capable of running Dolphin 100% speed, I'm gonna have to buy one. :)

Does it also support motion?

ulaoulao

June 20th, 2013, 12:28

Well to be honest is virtually useless in dolphin since dolphin supports the wii mote. Though I get a lot of requests for it, so I did it. Yes the rotations and movements are working. Its a bit choppy and I'm not certain that is by design. I have yet to talk to my buddy and see if he has the same behavior.

Mupen64 Man

June 20th, 2013, 13:14

Haha, even if it isn't worth buying for the wiimote itself, i think it would be great for the Classic Controller, its so adaptable, as far as multiple consoles go.

ulaoulao

June 20th, 2013, 18:00

true but, check this out...

GC / psx / and most others.
shoulder L 256 levels
shoulder R 256 levels
right X 256 levels
right Y 256 levels
Left X 256 levels
Left Y 256 levels

classic
shoulder L 32 levels
shoulder R 32 levels
right X 32 levels
right Y 32 levels
Left X 64 levels
Left Y 64 levels

So as you can see its not much good for precision. Try shooting an arrow with that crap.

Mupen64 Man

June 20th, 2013, 21:33

Oh geez, I never knew it sucked that bad.

ulaoulao

July 10th, 2013, 20:19

Sad day to bliss-box and all its fans…

I was hoping to release the announcement of the new production model but thanks to Tyler from prg-prototyping that is not the case. In working with PRG prototyping (http://prgprototyping.com/ ). Tyler Harrell, president of the company. informed me today that my handmade proto type and parts needed to design the production for bliss-box were thrown away. In 10-6-12 Tyler and I agreed to quote a proto type of the Bliss-box design. Per his request, he asked that I send the individual parts and a working box. He acknowledged they were received and kept me up to speed on the progress for the first month asking general questions to determine if it could be made. There was some question that his engineering team was competent enough to build the design. I asked that his team take the time and see what portion of this box could be mass produced. Tyler indicated he would need to contact a 3rd party team for the cabling and pinning. I had put good faith in Tyler to see what could be achieved. Over the next 7 months it pretty much has been me asking for a status on the quote. He always informed me they have not gotten to my design yet. Turns out somewhere in this 8 months my designed was thrown away. So tell me, how can you give or work on an estimate if you have no product to estimate from? I asked Tyler and he beat around the bush avoiding the question. Apparently there never were any plans to try and get a quote for me but rather to discard my design and hope that I would go away. In questioning this bazar behavior he admitted the entire contents I shipped him were thrown away and did agree to reimburse the parts but not the labor of the box, though that is not the issue here. PRG prototyping has stolen my product offering half of what it’s worth and “our” time. Many of you are involved in making this project better and hoping for it to make production. Tyler Harrell has stolen from us all and shown his blatant disregard for other people’s property.

http://prgprototyping.com/
https://www.facebook.com/PRGprototyping
So what does this mean for Bliss-Box, well it means finding a new company and starting over along with finding the time to remake a box and new parts. With orders in and out monthly this is not going to be easy.

ps looks like we are not alone.

http://www.yelp.com/biz/prg-prototyping-pittsburg
http://www.pissedconsumer.com/reviews-by-company/plastic-resource-group/took-my-money-didnt-finish-portions-worked-on-are-garbage-20101210211005.html
http://www.ripoffreport.com/r/Plastic-Resource-GroupTyler-Harrell/pittsburg-Kansas-66762/Plastic-Resource-GroupTyler-Harrell-lied-about-capablities-missed-timelines-refuses-r-670266

Mupen64 Man

July 11th, 2013, 14:14

That is a damn shame, some fucking company that is.

ulaoulao

August 21st, 2013, 16:08

Well, found a new company to build. Also started a design competition on the the FB page.

Also added the colors and designs available for the current hand built box.
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/colors.png

montpics

August 22nd, 2013, 07:34

Nice design. Reminds me of old games again. :)

Mupen64 Man

August 22nd, 2013, 16:11

This looks brilliant! I might need to buy another one come next paycheck, ;)

ulaoulao

September 15th, 2013, 01:37

well I have a new company to mass produce my box and its already begun. If interested there is a design challenge. Take your shot at designing a new look and if you are voted the best you win a free box once in production. Read more on the face book page.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bliss-Box-The-Ultimate-Controller-Adapter/155460814471374?ref=sgm

also I'm try to clear out stock so all singles are on sale.

nes usb adapter
nintendo 64 usb adapter
snes usb adapter
sega usb adapter ( any button )
saturn usb adapter
game cube ( cg ) usb adapter
pc-fx usb adapter
tg16 usb adapter ( either type )
dream cast usb adapter
psx ( play station ) usb adapter
xbox ( just a pass through ) usb adapter
jaguare usb adapter
neo geo usb adapter
atari ( so far any of then even the 5200 ) usb adapter
wii accessory usb adapter

ulaoulao

October 31st, 2013, 16:48

Hey emu fans, can I borrow a mouse click from you?
http://blissbox.freeforums.org/post642.html#p642

Having some set backs in production and I really need to know what people want.

Mupen64 Man

November 1st, 2013, 02:52

Hey there Ulao, It would be great to see a wireless option! But I really don't mind how it is right now, its great the way it is. btw, how would a universal port work and look like? That would look mighty weird, wouldn't it? Also, I can't imagine it would be the easiest to make.

ulaoulao

November 1st, 2013, 13:37

On the contrary. very easy and cheep. I personally vote against it but the basic idea is this. A very small adapter with one 16 pin connector. Then a bag of 16 pin to controller port dongles(patch cables). That is 16 cables laying about. I could sell it for as cheep as 5$ - 10$ I bet but IMO its a mess of cables. On the flip side I could make the box a bit smaller say 2 x 2 x 1/2 inches tall and put 4 16 pin ports on it ( 4 players ) and then ship 64 cables with it. Again quite the mess but you can't beat 4 players at possibly $25. I may have this made anyways but its not what I planned to do with the project in the first place.

aevans0001

March 10th, 2014, 05:41

Any update on production? Havent heard anything for awhile...

ulaoulao

March 10th, 2014, 12:30

They are a bit slow but progressing. Currently the cables are being designed.

ulaoulao

May 1st, 2014, 14:48

Cables are read to build. They feel the cable sample will be ready by xmas. Would be a nice gift this year.

ulaoulao

June 23rd, 2014, 18:53

Just had to announce Bliss-box now works on the xbox. At this time you need to run the flash tool to use on the xbox and flash back for the pc.

ulaoulao

September 22nd, 2014, 23:42

Here we is the first 4-play box ever created! And many more to come ;)

http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/four-play/Four-Play-in.JPG
http://bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/images/four-play/Four-Play.png

Mupen64 Man

September 23rd, 2014, 04:00

That looks wonderful! ;D

ulaoulao

October 23rd, 2014, 15:07

Ok the first beta test boxes arrived, here are a few images.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/t31.0-8/10470816_1074264069257706_7668126502603611233_o.jp g
https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t31.0-8/1926080_1074263959257717_5808095983213193470_o.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/t31.0-8/10462432_1074264025924377_8323316745600856135_o.jp g
https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t31.0-8/10362821_1074264062591040_1802412966909202504_o.jp g
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/t31.0-8/10688067_1074264092591037_3512056261289197906_o.jp g
https://scontent-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/t31.0-8/10547959_1074264009257712_5770403120350565305_o.jp g

Also the art work template is ready. The company name is Bliss-box, product name 4-Play. Players are not definable so no need to label them 1-4. Looking for something catchy simple but certainly showing retro or implying adaptable to many (polymorphic). Art goes in the inner most ring. I really suck at it so If you can help in any way I'd really appreciate it.
https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/1454899_1074718655878914_6731095854397699873_n.png ?oh=4032ccbe04552d7491bf51169e609ce3&oe=54F4E5C9

Mupen64 Man

October 24th, 2014, 04:56

Very very neat! Will you have options to order your old model as well?

ulaoulao

October 24th, 2014, 12:46

Yeah that remains just not production yet.

ulaoulao

November 27th, 2014, 04:05

The kick starter has begun.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/544088930/bliss-box-4-play-one-adapter-for-many-controllers

Mupen64 Man

November 27th, 2014, 06:51

Yesss, lets get this thing on a roll.

ulaoulao

December 4th, 2014, 14:13

Looks like FaceBook is generating %90 of the backers. Like and share! We are now on twitter @blissboxadapter

martiniturbide

December 10th, 2014, 17:15

Hi ulaoulao.

You project looks very interesting. Why don't your post a direct link to the kick starter campaign on your web page. (on the main page).

I had tried a lot of Controller-to-USB adapters on the Windows platforms, and I have some disappointment to see good looking/working hardware with really bad/outdated drivers. Since you project is going to use/generate open source drivers it is very promising.... But I'm sorry I don't have the money to back you up.

Regards
Martin

ulaoulao

December 10th, 2014, 18:42

Its on the news page of my site but not the main page. I guess that is a good point.

"I'm sorry I don't have the money to back you up." - You know what is funny, is if I had a dollar for each person that said that, i'd be funded :D ( just joking )

ulaoulao

December 17th, 2014, 14:06

From another beta tester!

YES! Resounding yes that it works with Android. I tested it with my Nexus 7 and the MD.emu emulator ... it instantly detects all four of the USB devices, numbers them 1-4 in fact (which is smarter than Windows since it doesn't), and instantly began to use the NES pad I had plugged in to navigate menus, no configuration required.
Now I expect most emulators will need some sort of configuration, but know that this is a completely Android-friendly device!

ulaoulao

March 1st, 2015, 04:56

New video, I think this does a better job explaining things.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEkjMpY5GmI

And the KS is live.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/544088930/bliss-box-4-play-one-adapter-for-many-controllers-0

Mupen64 Man

March 9th, 2015, 04:24

If this new kickstarter doesn't pan out, have you considered other crowd funding sites? Is there a specific advantage to using kickstarter?

ulaoulao

March 9th, 2015, 04:34

I think the fundraiser you use is irrelevant. Its all about advertising for your campaign. This time around I have 5 helpers last time I had 3. The help this time around is much more aggressive. I wish I had 10 more like them...

If I do choose to try this again, I may change just for the fun of trying another.

Mupen64 Man

March 10th, 2015, 04:04

It is quite exciting isn't it? Im sure we will do better this time. Who knows what can happen with more than a month to go! :)

ulaoulao

March 10th, 2015, 19:39

Yeah the hard part is keeping the relevant threads alive.

Like these ones.
http://www.reddit.com/r/retrogaming/comments/2yb6fn/the_new_ks_for_the_4_player_retro_adapter_4play/#cp8239n
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,144266.msg1500283.html#msg1500283
http://www.hyperspin-fe.com/forum/showthread.php?37860-Bliss-box-Kickstarter-has-been-launched/page9

but what I really need is more blurbs out there, like slash dot.
http://slashdot.org/submission/4248823/enjoy-emulation-with-an-adapter-for-all-retro-controllers-by-bliss-box#
but it requires up votes.

Mupen64 Man

March 11th, 2015, 03:21

some of these websites I don't have an account with, but I will join reddit and give it an upvote.

ulaoulao

March 27th, 2015, 19:22

I may be able to get play-asia for a distributor. Working on this now.

ulaoulao

April 3rd, 2015, 20:00

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HE2uLkRKsEA

Finlay the video is up. Props to RacketBoy.

Mupen64 Man

April 6th, 2015, 03:21

Great great review

Shared it to my facebook

ulaoulao

April 13th, 2015, 18:35

Got the review in by Lon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JAxu0MZJ3A
now I just need gamesta81

ulaoulao

April 21st, 2015, 18:43

Here is the BB on the Ouya (android android based)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AW2HGPT88P4

ulaoulao

May 7th, 2015, 12:59

Great news - Bliss-Box will be on store shelves soon. The KS didn't quite make its mark but there was enough exposure and contacts made to get things moving forward. Best way to find out when that happens is here. http://www.bliss-box.net/Bliss-Box/KS.php

ulaoulao

September 21st, 2015, 23:41

Form beginning to end.https://scontent-mia1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/12042998_1283918408292270_7109161645197558988_n.jp g?oh=bc1f05620f51de2438825dde4e166bd2&oe=56AB4ED6
https://scontent-mia1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/v/t1.0-9/12036750_1283918441625600_2240298972001698720_n.jp g?oh=0d44c6c2f9966b39df3b14601ea2257f&oe=56A683CD

It has been a long 7+ year road but it's here. I hope it is all development and marking from this point forward.

Mupen64 Man

September 22nd, 2015, 03:16

this looks wonderful ulao, can't wait to get mine! It what a nice box too!

ulaoulao

April 14th, 2016, 22:09

KS announcement - This one will have the additional cables and a really cool stretch goal option.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQ5uQXxLz2g

ulaoulao

April 29th, 2016, 00:36

And its off!
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects...e-controller-a
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuskjCyyrJQ

midomidi2013

June 30th, 2016, 15:39

I just got word that the chips are as follows..

vintage col - sega 3 button

sega set all sega pads

Nintendo set a nes snes

gc/n64 set

Each is going to cost about 15, so I need at lease 3 to get all of those. So far no chip for dream cast or 15 pin Atari. Its a good thing I can make my own connectors though....

Original estimated cost.. $300

Wishful estimated cost.. $25

current estimates cost.. $50

I still hope to get it down a bit.. and I would like the get the 25 pin Atari working. I'm not sure if the 5600 used that or not, I dont think so.. So that should be good. I still dont have controllers to test with..

what I have

n64
psx
xbox
snes
nes
atari

what I need

any wireless
turbo G16 duo and regular
sega all kinds.
dream cast
game cube
col. int. jaguar and any vintage stuff..

ulaoulao

August 8th, 2016, 13:21

midomidi2013, sorry never saw this post. Also I have no idea what you are talking about? There are no "chips" and nothing that goes as "follows". the prices you mentioned have nothing to do with any products Bliss-Box sells.

Are you talking about the cables?

ulaoulao

June 16th, 2017, 18:01

woot woot
showing off the new 2.0 API.

https://www.facebook.com/blissboxadapter/videos/1847349165282522/

https://www.facebook.com/blissboxadapter/videos/1846045078746264/

ulaoulao

November 22nd, 2019, 15:07

I figured it is time to update the longest running Bliss-Box forum post on the net. What a run this has been... From concept to a garage brew to a company.

So a few interesting things to point out.

Bliss-Box cables. These things have made there way in to all types of products over the years. They are still being manufacture and still being used. Very strong and a great fit for many D.I.Y projects.

The 4-Play, now discontinued but maybe ready to make its second appearance. I few things will change but the main idea will still be considered. This was what created the winds for this company. If you have one, you are lucky. They are now selling for $200 plus!

Gamer-Pro, the 4-Plays little brother. It really is the same thing in a single player version. Selling as well as the 4-Play but to many others that just wanted one player.

BliSTer, where did this come from? If you do not know what the MiSTer is, your either not in to pure retro gaming, or just missed the boat. That marvelous invention has done it. It does not emulate everything yet but the MiSTer team is still at it. the interesting thing about the FPGA wonder is the ability to accurately emulate the systems. Some of the fundamental issues with running an OS and then trying to emulate a console is simply out of the way and one of those that has pained us for decades, is the controller polling. In the simplest sense an emulators relies on USB and the core emulation will never have control over when the USB is polling for controller data. That all has changed in a thing a special group of people called low latency api.

https://bliss-box.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/timer-final.png

A funny story about that. Bliss-Box Low level API (LLAPI) is a protocol used to communicate over the existing USB wires without speaking USB. It was invented for an upcoming product called the Bridge. It communicates data from device to device under 1ms. A developer by the name of Rysha saw this and though immediately of its potential and adopted the name for her own needs. So the MiSTer cores that use this "low latency api. " also call it LLAPI. It was some sort of a verbal communication error between the Bliss-Box and LLAPI core teams. Though it is very important to point out the MiSTer cores that use LLAPI is a product of both teams hard work.

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In the end, we have a LLAPI (call it what you will) protocol standard for hardware emulation. This does not mean it will remain a Bliss-Box or MiSTer thing, it could be the start of something much more useful. Read more about it here (https://bliss-box.net/integration/). under Low Level API. There is no reason the retro PI can not jump on the band wagon here and all while using the amazing and robust Bliss-Box cables. Also worth noting is the SNAC interface. That is pure MiSTer code but designed to work with Bliss-Box cables.

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It does pay to take note that the LLAPI was never adopted to the main MiSTer code. Thought the LLAPI team still works on the code and there are update scripts with it.

Also if you have A 4-Play or Gamer-Pro, you do not need to have the BlisSTer to use these cores. Just grab a level shift from Bliss-Box. If you have cables, and a MiSTer and no BlisSTer, your missing out!

Check out this page (https://bliss-box.net/support/)for more info about BliSTer.