GameCube

Identifying your model

Before choosing an entry point, you need to know exactly which GameCube you own. The differences are invisible from the top but decide which adapters and outputs are available.

Flip the console over
Look at the label on the underside. The model number begins with DOL, such as DOL-001 or DOL-101.
Check for Serial Port 2
On the bottom, near the front, look for a small covered port labeled SERIAL PORT 2. Most DOL-001 boards have it; DOL-101 does not.
Inspect the back for digital AV
A DOL-001 has both an analog and a separate digital AV OUT port. A DOL-101 has only the analog port.

Why it matters

The DOL number plus the presence of SP2 and the digital port tells you everything: whether you can use SD2SP2, and whether clean digital video output is possible.

Be aware of one wrinkle: a small number of later DOL-001 units (sometimes called revision 1.1) shipped without the Serial Port 2 connector populated, even though the model number is unchanged. Always confirm the physical port rather than trusting the label alone.

Once you have your model pinned down, head to the dedicated DOL-001 or DOL-101 page for specifics, or straight to choosing an entry point.