Tools & software

Tools and Software

This page lists hardware tools and software commonly used when playing, modding, or repairing an NES. Tools are named in plain text so you can search for the current sources yourself.

Hardware tools

• Security bit The proprietary bit needed to open NES cartridges and the console shell.
• Soldering iron A temperature-controlled iron with a fine tip for mods and recapping, plus solder, flux, and desoldering braid.
• Multimeter For checking power supply voltage, continuity, and tracing faults.
• Cotton swabs and isopropyl alcohol The basic kit for cleaning cartridge and console contacts.

Flash cartridges

• EverDrive N8 and N8 Pro The standard flash carts, with the N8 Pro adding expansion audio support via the EXP9-SND setting.

Software

• Mesen An accuracy-focused emulator useful for testing and debugging.
• FamiTracker A tracker for composing NES and Famicom music, including expansion chips.
• cc65 A C compiler toolchain targeting the 6502, widely used for homebrew.