Tools & software
Tools and Software Reference
This page lists the kinds of tools you will encounter across the wiki, named in plain text. Use it as a quick reference when a guide mentions a category of software or hardware.
Software
- Flashcart firmware and kernels, the menu software that boots games from your card.
- nds-bootstrap, the loader that runs titles as if from a real cartridge for better compatibility.
- Front-end launchers, the menus that list games with box art and call nds-bootstrap behind the scenes.
- DSTwo plugins, the emulator modules for GBA, SNES, and PlayStation on that cart.
- DLDI patchers, which teach older homebrew how to read your specific card.
- Cheat databases, the Action Replay code lists your loader reads.
- Diagnostic homebrew, for testing screens, buttons, touch, and sound.
SD Card Tools
A reliable FAT32 formatting tool and a card-capacity tester are essential. The tester exposes counterfeit cards before they corrupt your saves, which is the single best preventive habit.
Hardware
- Precision screwdrivers, including Phillips and tri-wing sizes.
- Plastic spudgers and tweezers for safe disassembly.
- Isopropyl alcohol and microfiber cloths for cleaning contacts and screens.
- A soldering iron, only for advanced repairs like screen mods or shoulder buttons.
- A genuine, fast microSD card, the foundation of a stable setup.