LED mods
Caution: This mod requires opening the console and soldering to the power LED circuit. Use an appropriate resistor for your LED, reversing polarity or omitting the resistor can damage the LED or draw excess current.
LED mods
Swapping or adding LEDs is one of the easiest and most satisfying cosmetic mods. The stock red power LED can be replaced with a different color, a brighter unit, or even an RGB LED that cycles through colors. Some owners add extra LEDs to light the cartridge slot or expansion port.
- Choose your LED. Decide on color and type, a simple single-color LED, a self-cycling RGB LED, or an addressable LED if you want programmable effects. Note the forward voltage so you can pick the right resistor.
- Open the console. Remove the case screws and separate the shell, taking care with the ribbon cables and the power switch assembly.
- Replace the LED. Desolder the original LED, then install the new one with the correct polarity and an appropriate current-limiting resistor in series.
- Reassemble and test. Power on before fully closing the case to confirm the LED lights at a comfortable brightness and the correct color.
Tip
If your new LED is blindingly bright, increase the resistor value to dim it. Modern LEDs are often far more efficient than the original, so the stock resistor may produce an uncomfortably harsh light.