Introduction: SubZero 64 by Raizer04

About: I am a portablizer at heart...and a modder by AWESOMNESS!

So you have an n64? Want to trick out your N64 to make some LEDs pulse to the sound of the game....well...LETS BEGIN!

Step 1: Obtaining Your N64 + PulseVu 2x Chip

First we need to get an n64. If you have one already your good to go! If not, simply search for a cheap (working) used one on ebay and your good.

Same as the pulseVu chip....simply go on ebay and search for one and your on point.

The pulse vu 2x chips is what is being used in this tutorial.

Step 2: Take Apart Your N64

Now its time to take apart your N64:

Use a 4.5mm Gamebit Screwdriver (or look up the pen hack) and take off the the bottom screws.

Now that the inside is exposed, used a phillips screw driver and remove the many...lol....screws to expose the motherboard.

If you have any confusion: View the great step by step here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZjldRekpnM&feature=related

or also here: http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Repairing+Nintendo+64+Motherboard/1608/1

Step 3: Wiring Your PulseVu 2x Chip

The pulsevu 2x chip is thoroughly labeled with everything you need.

Your PulseVU can operate within the range of 3V-5V. You will need to find a suitable power source and connect this to the + pad of your PulseVU. In order for the PulseVU to work when your target device is off, you will need to find a voltage source that is available in standby also. The - pad of the PulseVU connects to ground.

The PO pad of the PulseVU is used to determine when the target device is on and off. This must be a voltage source that toggles between 0V to 3V-5V (not exceeding your + input) when the target device is turned on/off. If you do not wish to use this feature, you can connect PO directly to -. If the modes are acting reversed from the mode list, simply change the mode to "Function Swap" and they will be switched around.

The SW pad connects to a momentary button or switch. This is the button you use to change modes. You can use an existing button by connecting it to the point that toggles between + and - when pressed down. If you want to instead add a button specifically for the PulseVU, you can follow this schematic.

The VU pad is what controls your LEDs. Connect the cathode (negative) side of your LEDs to this pad. The anode (positive) side should connect to a power source capable of handling the current. Use the appropriate resistor(s).

AL & AR connect to the audio left and right pins that connect to the A/V connector or speakers of your target device.

CO on the back of the PulseVU is an output which connects to the Power Extender.

The two pads on the right side of the PulseVU 2 and the resistor between them are only used for the Wii. These may be cut off if you require a smaller PCB for other devices.

The L1, L2, and jumper next to the "2X" text are all only used for the Xbox360. Do not connect anything else here.

5V line: Under the AV line you will see a 5V line (see attached picture)
PO line: Wire this to G (ground line)
SW line: You will need to wire a monetary switch (you can get this easily at radioshack) to this
VU: Connect the "NEGATIVE" side of your LED to this pad. The positive side needs to go to the 5v line for power.
AL/AR Lines: Connect this to L and R (11/12) of the AV connector...this is audio left and audio right.

As for LEDS...i used ones from OZNIUM that are prewired and wont overheat in any way: http://www.oznium.com/prewired-superflux.

Note: If for any reason you need a 12v line just look under the power port and 12v is on #6.

Step 4: Blink Patterns

Once you have everything wired up, turn on your system and use the blink pattern to select which type of blinking you want:

These are the blink patterns:

Blink Pattern Mode Function when console is off Function when console is on
S-S-S-S Mode0 Off Off
S-S-S-L Mode1 Fading PulseVU
S-S-L-S Mode2 Off PulseVU
S-S-L-L Mode3 Dim PulseVU
S-L-S-S Mode4 On PulseVU
S-L-S-L Mode5 Fading Fading
S-L-L-S Mode6 Fading Off
S-L-L-L Mode7 Fading Dim
L-S-S-S Mode8 Fading On
L-S-S-L Mode9 Dim Off
L-S-L-S Mode10 Dim On
L-S-L-L Mode11 On Off
L-L-S-S Mode12 Audio Calibration (Peak)
L-L-S-L Mode13 Audio Calibration (Noise)
L-L-L-S Mode14 Function Swap
L-L-L-L Mode15 Factory Reset

Step 5: Finale

After you are done, turn it on, select your blink pattern and BEHOLD!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=TMOqzXic9mE

Thanks...and remember BEHOLD THE AWESOMNESS OF THE LED!

Make It Glow

Participated in the
Make It Glow