How to get a NTSC NES working (in europe)?

2010-02-26 04:00:12 pm

Well I tried searching here and the internet, but couldn't find anything.
And since I have absolutely zero knowledge of all those in and outputs and different cables I was hoping I could get an explanation here.

I know you need a TV that supports NTSC (60hz) and a DVD-recorder that supports it, but I also know that they use a different kind of power cable in America, so I was wondering how that all works.

I got a working (PAL) NES with all cables and all, but I wanted to use an NTCS now for speed running. (just can't stand the fact NTSC get lower times, blame my need for perfecting stuff :() Was hoping to get some good NTSC speed runs.
The main reason I didn't do any more speed runs is because PAL times are just (s)lower then NTSC times and like I said, I don't like it.

Once I've figured out how all that NTSC stuff works you can probably find another post from me in the trading section wanting to buy a NTSC NES (+ some games). Because I also have trouble finding them online (without needing a creditcard (or paypal)).

Oh yeah I live in the netherlands and I think we got the 230volt sockets.

1 final (off topic) question: I heard LCD tv's could give lag to the NES games, any way I know which LCD tv's do this and which don't? (not a high priority to know but just curious)

Thread title:

Well I tried searching here and the internet, but couldn't find anything.
And since I have absolutely zero knowledge of all those in and outputs and different cables I was hoping I could get an explanation here.

I know you need a TV that supports NTSC (60hz) and a DVD-recorder that supports it, but I also know that they use a different kind of power cable in America, so I was wondering how that all works.

I got a working (PAL) NES with all cables and all, but I wanted to use an NTCS now for speed running. (just can't stand the fact NTSC get lower times, blame my need for perfecting stuff :() Was hoping to get some good NTSC speed runs.
The main reason I didn't do any more speed runs is because PAL times are just (s)lower then NTSC times and like I said, I don't like it.

Once I've figured out how all that NTSC stuff works you can probably find another post from me in the trading section wanting to buy a NTSC NES (+ some games). Because I also have trouble finding them online (without needing a creditcard (or paypal)).

Oh yeah I live in the netherlands and I think we got the 230volt sockets.

1 final (off topic) question: I heard LCD tv's could give lag to the NES games, any way I know which LCD tv's do this and which don't? (not a high priority to know but just curious)

Sir VG

2010-02-26 04:35:13 pm

Fucking Weeaboo

The power box will be different, because the US and Europe use different voltages. US is 115V while Europe is 220V I believe. If you stick one in the other, expect to get something fried. You'll need a power converter to handle the voltage change.

Talking to somebody like Freddy who has done NTSC in Europe would be a good thing to do. He can give you some more advice on that.

bmn

Edit history:

bmn: 2010-02-26 05:53:05 pm

2010-02-26 05:31:48 pm

Source: http://www.raphnet.net/electronique/nes_mod/nes_mod_en.php#supply, http://www.assemblergames.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-9614.html

According to these, the NES supports both AC and DC power, and does its own voltage conversion down to 5v, which makes it pretty versatile. I believe that AC wouldn't be an option, what with the difference in AC voltages, so the best choice would be DC. That doe give you a lot of flexibility, because it shouldn't be too hard to find a standard cable type that works - with DC, basically as long as the device supports DC, you get the voltage from the plug right, and the plug fits, it'll work. One that's mentioned is the Megadrive's cable, which is DC 12v IIRC, but personally I'd go for any standard DC 9v or 12v cable with the correct type of plug.

When it comes to different voltages between regions, those are AC voltages. AC is what I would call "raw" power, it doesn't actually work to power stuff as it is. It needs to be converted to DC to do that, and generally anything that takes AC power will have an AC-to-DC converter inside it. It's at this point that feeding it too much or too little will break stuff. As the NES apparently supports DC power directly, using a DC plug will get past that issue.

Almost (there's the odd very expensive monitor designed specifically not to) all HDTVs introduce display lag when given a non-HD or interlaced picture. The NES picture is both. How much lag depends on the TV, but expect it to be around 0.1 seconds at minimum.

Source: [url=http://www.raphnet.net/electronique/nes_mod/nes_mod_en.php#supply]http://www.raphnet.net/electronique/nes_mod/nes_mod_en.php#supply[/url], [url=http://www.assemblergames.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-9614.html]http://www.assemblergames.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-9614.html[/url]

According to these, the NES supports both AC and DC power, and does its own voltage conversion down to 5v, which makes it pretty versatile. I believe that AC wouldn't be an option, what with the difference in AC voltages, so the best choice would be DC. That doe give you a lot of flexibility, because it shouldn't be too hard to find a standard cable type that works - with DC, basically as long as the device supports DC, you get the voltage from the plug right, and the plug fits, it'll work. One that's mentioned is the Megadrive's cable, which is DC 12v IIRC, but personally I'd go for any standard DC 9v or 12v cable with the correct type of plug.

When it comes to different voltages between regions, those are AC voltages. AC is what I would call "raw" power, it doesn't actually work to power stuff as it is. It needs to be converted to DC to do that, and generally anything that takes AC power will have an AC-to-DC converter inside it. It's at this point that feeding it too much or too little will break stuff. As the NES apparently supports DC power directly, using a DC plug will get past that issue.

Almost (there's the odd very expensive monitor designed specifically not to) all HDTVs introduce display lag when given a non-HD or interlaced picture. The NES picture is both. How much lag depends on the TV, but expect it to be around 0.1 seconds at minimum.

Bablo

2010-02-27 09:50:09 am

I'm a flippin' ninja

I've just gone through all the work myself in order to record NTSC games in Europe (I live in Finland, thus have PAL normally). So maybe I can be of help.

What you need is:

1) NTSC console
2) NTSC game(s)
3) NTSC DVD-recorder
4) A splitter to eliminate lag

Finding a DVD-recorder for the purpose of recording NTSC speedruns was the hardest part for me. Most of the european DVD-recorders don't have the NTSC option listed in details. And even if they support NTSC they won't necessarily record it properly. I use a Panasonic EX-77, but it's an old model and probably isn't sold anymore. But a Panasonic EX-769 was released not long time ago, and should be just as good, if not better. I know Frezy_man bought the Panasonic EX-769.

Then you need either a powered Scart splitter or RCA splitter to eliminate the lag. This is needed because all DVD-recorders have at least a little lag. However, you could test your DVD-recorder if it has too much lag, and if it doesn't, you won't need a splitter at all. See SDA knowledge base's DVD page for more information.

As far as I know all TVs should display NTSC just fine. The only difference is that NTSC resolution is slimmer, so you won't see all the pixels showed at the top or bottom of the screen. But this hardly affects your gaming, unless you absolutely need to see the very bottom or top of the screen.

You need a 220V to 110V (or something like that) voltage converter for the console's power box. Not that expensive, and easy to get from eBay. Just remember to see it has a correct plug.

If you're recording on VHS it's much easier, but I'd say it's worth the trouble to get DVD-recorder for better quality.

I've just gone through all the work myself in order to record NTSC games in Europe (I live in Finland, thus have PAL normally). So maybe I can be of help.

What you need is:

1) NTSC console
2) NTSC game(s)
3) NTSC DVD-recorder
4) A splitter to eliminate lag

Finding a DVD-recorder for the purpose of recording NTSC speedruns was the hardest part for me. Most of the european DVD-recorders don't have the NTSC option listed in details. And even if they support NTSC they won't necessarily record it properly. I use a Panasonic EX-77, but it's an old model and probably isn't sold anymore. But a Panasonic EX-769 was released not long time ago, and should be just as good, if not better. I know Frezy_man bought the Panasonic EX-769.

Then you need either a powered Scart splitter or RCA splitter to eliminate the lag. This is needed because all DVD-recorders have at least a little lag. However, you could test your DVD-recorder if it has too much lag, and if it doesn't, you won't need a splitter at all. [url=http://speeddemosarchive.com/kb/DVD#Reducing_Lag]See SDA knowledge base's DVD page for more information.[/url]

As far as I know all TVs should display NTSC just fine. The only difference is that NTSC resolution is slimmer, so you won't see all the pixels showed at the top or bottom of the screen. But this hardly affects your gaming, unless you absolutely need to see the very bottom or top of the screen.

You need a 220V to 110V (or something like that) voltage converter for the console's power box. Not that expensive, and easy to get from eBay. Just remember to see it has a correct plug.

If you're recording on VHS it's much easier, but I'd say it's worth the trouble to get DVD-recorder for better quality.

nate

2010-02-27 11:18:46 am

can't you just plug a european power brick into an american nes? isn't that what bmn was saying?

disclaimer: definitely confirm this is possible with someone who knows before doing this or you will not have a nes any more.

bmn

Edit history:

bmn: 2010-02-27 11:47:17 am

2010-02-27 11:36:06 am

That's what I'm thinking. The NES itself says it takes AC power (which would require a voltage converter as Bablo mentioned), but from what I've read (links above) it can take DC power instead. If that's correct, then, as nate says, you can just find a European DC cable with a suitable voltage/plug and use that. You may even have one in your home already.

http://www.sega-16.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9345 says similarly - basically a device that takes AC power will let DC power through without doing the AC-to-DC conversion.

nate

2010-03-01 09:44:59 pm

i had no idea the nes took ac. i've never seen anyone use one without a brick.

Zealie

2010-03-02 04:22:24 am

Well, thanks for all the info! (didn't get all of it but I think I've got the big picture :P)

I (of course) already got an European NES adapter, so I guess I'll just start looking for a NTSC NES then.

bmn

2010-03-02 05:27:12 am

Make sure the Eu adaptor outputs DC and not AC (should be written somewhere on it) and you'll be gravy.

Zealie

2010-03-05 01:51:41 am

Hmmm, well I guess I'll have to find another adaptor in some store then.

My NES adaptor says
input AC 220/230V ~ 50Hz 17W
output AC 9/9.4V 1.3A

So if I get it I should fin one with a similar input (should not be that had here since they probably all have that) and an DC output of 9 or 12 V or something near that.
Also like Bablo posted a voltage converter would do the trick? (not even sure what they are yet but I'll just keep looking and update as soon as I find anything :))

As for a DVD-recorder I just noticed it can't record NTSC so that's going to be a pain in the ass then. I thought it did, but it can only display NTSC and not record it apparently. I got a 3305DVDR Philips. It's fine so far (no input lag etc.), but I guess I also need a new DVD recorder for the job... I guess I'll have to wait till I have more money :(.

Thanks for all the help btw, atleast I know what to get now when I'm rich enough ^^'

bmn

2010-03-05 07:44:57 am

Actually forget what I said last time, the AC output is fine >_> I was thinking if it sent the whole 220-230 volts in (as an AC plug without a brick would do), but 9v is absolutely fine.

DJS

Edit history:

DJS: 2011-06-19 01:40:04 pm

DJS: 2011-06-19 01:39:34 pm

DJS: 2011-06-19 06:37:04 am

2011-06-19 05:16:11 am

torch slug since 2006

Gonna bump here since its about the same thing i am wondering.

I have a common-power-adapter that i use for my PAL nes, its specifications are: INPUT: AC 230V 50HZ. And output : DC 9V 600mA.

And looking on the older posts in this thread, i guess it should be "1.3A". But my pal nes works fine with this power adapter.. so im wondering, will it work fine in a NTSC NES too?

EDIT: I found another "VERIDATA" ac adapter, that also works for my PAL nes (yay). Its specs are: Input : Hz 60/50, V 100-240~, A 1.0... and MAX output is V 15 and A 2.0.
And since it says "MAX" im assuming its variable so it can change itself to what it needs, this adapter should be perfect for an NTSC NES right?

I actually have another option, I have a stepdown converter that converts 230VAC 50hz to 110-120VAC 50hz, and with my NTSC NES i will get the power supply, would this work, hooking up the US power supply to my stepdown? I think the power supply wants 60hz Shocked

Mystery

2011-06-20 02:56:22 am

I have my doubts about that adapter of yours. In worst case scenario, you can fry that NES with that adapter. Be careful. I'd double check with whomever manufactured it or use another one.

DJS

2011-06-20 04:08:37 am

torch slug since 2006

The US Power supply + 230VAC -> 110VAC stepdown should be a better choice, or?

Mystery

Edit history:

Mystery: 2011-06-20 04:41:58 am

2011-06-20 04:40:01 am

Transformers are big, clunky, leak a lot of current and somewhat expensive (well, okay, maybe not that expensive; it's probably around the same price as an adapter for the system, +/- some difference). I haven't seen any switched adapter for 230V -> 110V, but that might be preferable if it exists. Not an expert in the field, though, so I can't say if it exists or is feasible.
I'd get a EU power adapter if it exists and could be attained, unless the adapter you have works. So long as the system has an external power brick, you should be able to just substitute it with an european one. Nintendo may not recommend it, but it did work fine. I tried it on the GC a long time ago.

DJS

2011-06-20 04:55:12 am

torch slug since 2006

Quote from Mystery:

Transformers are big, clunky, leak a lot of current and somewhat expensive (well, okay, maybe not that expensive; it's probably around the same price as an adapter for the system, +/- some difference). I haven't seen any switched adapter for 230V -> 110V, but that might be preferable if it exists. Not an expert in the field, though, so I can't say if it exists or is feasible.
I'd get a EU power adapter if it exists and could be attained, unless the adapter you have works. So long as the system has an external power brick, you should be able to just substitute it with an european one. Nintendo may not recommend it, but it did work fine. I tried it on the GC a long time ago.

Since I live in sweden (we have 230v), i should be able to just use an power brick that works for my PAL NES? I know frezy_man, and some other swedes did this, I just wanna be sure that i dont fry the damn thing ^^

Mystery

Edit history:

Mystery: 2011-06-20 05:11:27 am

Mystery: 2011-06-20 05:09:58 am

2011-06-20 05:09:40 am

Yeah, I tried a Swedish GC adapter on my American GC. It worked fine.
I can't guarantee it will work on a NES, but I am thinking it will probably work.

Theoretically it should be safe, since all systems (will typically) take a fixed DC voltage and amperage. What is different is simply the outlet power. So the power brick will simply have different input voltage, but the same output voltage + current.

If you look at the power brick, it will list an output voltage + current. All you need to do is get a power brick rated for the correct input voltage that gives the correct output voltage and current listed on the adapter. Then it will be safe. A local power brick will usually do the trick.

Mercury.Com

Edit history:

Mercury.Com: 2011-06-20 05:14:05 am

2011-06-20 05:13:17 am

Sea of Green

Quote from Mystery:

I haven't seen any switched adapter for 230V -> 110V, but that might be preferable if it exists. Not an expert in the field, though, so I can't say if it exists or is feasible.

They do exist; I have one. Here it is. Not too expensive, does work, and didn't fry any of my electronics. Of course, you can't use one of that power for something like a hair dryer, but it's just fine for game consoles and the like. (In case you have the different European plug--I'm not sure which one Sweden uses--there's also this one which is just about identical.)

That said, using the European Nintendo-official power brick will work just fine, too, since it transforms the outlet power into a much smaller voltage that the console can handle on its own. Smiley

I guess it just comes down to which ends up being cheaper.

Mystery

2011-06-20 05:16:47 am

Cool. That second one will fit a Swedish outlet. I'm not sure it can power an Xbox 360 or PS3, though Tongue

But for a NES, I think it should work.

DJS

2011-06-20 05:17:03 am

torch slug since 2006

well if i have a not-nintendo power supply, that works with my pal nes, it should work with a ntsc one too? And yeah i have one of those that mercuryzelda linked, it converts 230VAC to 110VAC 50hz, the thing that worries me is the 50hz bit, but im not sure. I am getting a power supply with my US NES so I guess I can try that setup first, and if that dosent work i try the "not-nintendo power supply" method Wink

I dont think the nintendo official ones differs alot from my non-nintendo...

YamiHoshi.nl

2011-06-20 07:35:58 am

Visit us!

I have that same problem with any Japanese and American product.
I do have plug converters, but they don't work.

As for the other people around here, European chargers do work fine, and if you use an American or Japanese device in an European wall, nothing will blow up, they'll simply won't turn on.

DJS

Edit history:

DJS: 2011-07-01 03:02:44 pm

DJS: 2011-06-20 07:47:28 am

DJS: 2011-06-20 07:47:11 am

2011-06-20 07:42:20 am

torch slug since 2006

Oh, I guess i should use the ac adapter I had then, hopefully it will work fine Wink

As far as i understand it (as it is a ac adapter/power brick/whatever you wanna call it), aslong as it outputs the same power, it should work with anything that wants that power, and if the plug fits.

EDIT: Thought i let you guys know, now that i got my NTSC NES, I just used my max 15V adapter and it works perfectly.

Mystery

2011-07-04 01:40:06 pm

Quote from YamiHoshi.nl:

...

As for the other people around here, European chargers do work fine, and if you use an American or Japanese device in an European wall, nothing will blow up, they'll simply won't turn on.

o_O
If you manage to plug an American/Japanese device directly into your European wall outlet, it will definitely not be a good thing. It might fry the device most likely!