Features:
- Transform a damaged DS Lite into a single‑screen Game Boy Macro.
- Pre‑fitted resistor means no fiddly micro‑soldering is required.
- Rigid PCB is heat‑tolerant and blends with the DS Lite motherboard.
- Choose mono or stereo audio and fit your preferred speaker.
- Fits original, 3D printed or metal faceplates for custom builds.
Description:
Give your broken or disused DS Lite a second life. The Game Boy Macro enabler is a purpose‑built PCB that lets you repurpose a damaged DS Lite into a bright, single‑screen handheld for Game Boy Advance cartridges. By removing the top screen and installing this board, you turn an otherwise unusable console into a comfortable, backlit “macro” that plays your favourite GBA games on a bigger screen. With many modern Game Boy mods already offering brighter displays, the real magic here is saving a console from the scrap heap and enjoying a fresh form factor.
Conventional macro mods require delicately soldering a 330 Ω resistor across two tiny pads to trick the DS into thinking the top screen is still connected. This thin, rigid PCB comes pre‑populated with that resistor and features large solder pads, eliminating the most frustrating step and making the mod more accessible to beginners. The board sits flush against the motherboard and aligns around the D‑pad, while its green solder mask blends seamlessly with the original board – perfect for transparent or clear shells. Once fitted, you can choose a mono speaker for classic handheld audio or install two speakers for stereo sound, and you’re free to use the original DS plastics, a 3D‑printed lens or a machined metal faceplate.
Further info:
This macro enabler uses a built‑in 330 Ω resistor to simulate the presence of the top screen, ensuring the DS Lite boots correctly. The board mounts with seven solder points (or nine if you add the stereo speaker option) and includes oversized pads for easy wire attachment. Installation requires opening the console, removing the top screen and Wi‑Fi/BIOS module, and soldering the board into place. Use a fine‑tip soldering iron and flux for best results. Because the resistor is pre‑soldered, you only need to bridge the mounting pads and attach your chosen speaker wires. The PCB is more forgiving of heat than a flex cable and blends with the original motherboard, making the mod discreet enough for clear and translucent shells.
Although the board offers mono or stereo configurations, it is not an amplifier. If you require louder audio, pair this mod with a dedicated amplifier board. Compatible with original DS Lite shells, Boxy Pixel faceplates and many 3D‑printed or metal options, the macro enabler makes it easy to customise your build to your style.
FAQ:
Q: What is a Game Boy Macro and why would I convert my DS Lite into one?
A: A Game Boy Macro is a DS Lite modified to run without its top screen. By removing the top half and installing a small conversion board, you can turn a broken or unwanted DS Lite into a comfortable handheld that plays Game Boy Advance games on a larger, backlit display. Many retro enthusiasts prefer this form factor because it gives a second life to consoles with cracked hinges or dead screens and offers a bright screen compared with original Game Boy Advance models.
Q: Do I need to solder a 330 Ω resistor for the DS Lite macro mod?
A: Without our enabler board, you’d have to solder a tiny 330 Ω surface‑mount resistor between the LEDA2 and LEDC2 pads to make the DS Lite boot with only the bottom screen. This board has that resistor pre‑installed and provides large solder pads, so you simply mount the PCB and attach the speaker wires, no microscopic resistor work required.
Q: Can a Game Boy Macro play DS games or only Game Boy Advance games?
A: In standard form, a Game Boy Macro is intended for Game Boy Advance cartridges. Removing the top screen disables DS mode because most DS games rely on dual screens and the touch interface. There are advanced “screen swap” mods that allow you to toggle the lower screen between GBA and DS positions, but this enabler board is designed for GBA play only.
Q: Which speaker and faceplate should I use with the Game Boy Macro enabler?
A: The board supports both mono and stereo speaker setups. For best results, many builders use high‑quality Nintendo Switch speakers – we stock these in our store , and pair them with the Humble Bazooka 3D‑printed faceplate, which we also sell. You can reuse the DS Lite’s original speaker or install two for stereo sound. The enabler works with stock DS Lite plastics, Boxy Pixel machined faceplates and other 3D‑printed plates, so you can customise the look to your taste.
Q: Does this mod amplify the sound of my DS Lite?
A: No. The macro enabler is not an amplifier, the sound volume will be the same as the original DS Lite. If you want louder audio, consider adding a dedicated amplifier board alongside this mod.
Q: How difficult is the installation? Do I need special tools?
A: Installation is straightforward compared with traditional resistor mods but still requires opening the DS Lite and soldering. A tri‑wing screwdriver, a fine‑tip soldering iron, flux and a bit of patience are recommended. Beginners should take their time and practice on scrap boards if possible. Our board’s large solder pads and pre‑installed resistor make the process much easier than soldering a tiny SMD resistor by hand.
