8Bitdo Retro Receiver

Contents

8Bitdo Retro Receiver for SNES/SFC

Wireless Adapter for Original Super Nintendo & Super Famicom Consoles

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the 8Bitdo Retro Receiver. This device allows you to connect modern Bluetooth controllers wirelessly to your original Super Nintendo (SNES) or Super Famicom (SFC) console, providing a seamless and lag-free gaming experience. Relive classic games with enhanced comfort and freedom.

8Bitdo Retro Receiver for SNES/SFC
The 8Bitdo Retro Receiver for SNES/SFC.

2. Package Contents

Your 8Bitdo Retro Receiver package should include the following items:

  • 1 x 8Bitdo Retro Receiver for SNES/SFC
  • 1 x USB Cable (for firmware updates and power)
8Bitdo Retro Receiver packaging
Product packaging showing the Retro Receiver and USB cable.

3. Specifications

Input Power RatingDC5V, 500mA
MassApprox. 56g
FCC ID2AH7N-SNESRECEIVER

4. Compatibility

4.1. System Compatibility

  • Original Super Nintendo (all models)
  • Original Super Famicom (all models)
  • All systems with an SNES/SFC-style controller port

4.2. Controller Compatibility

The 8Bitdo Retro Receiver supports a wide range of Bluetooth controllers:

  • 8BitDo Bluetooth Classic controllers and arcade sticks (Bluetooth controllers only)
  • Xbox Bluetooth® controller (including Xbox One S, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2)
  • DualShock 3, DualShock 4, DualShock 4 Pro controllers
  • Wiimote, Wii U Pro controllers
  • Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons, Switch Pro controllers
  • PlayStation 5 (PS5) controllers (confirmed by users)

Note: 8BitDo NEOGEO Wireless Controller is not supported. Motion controls, rumble, adaptive triggers, analog triggers, touch pad, NFC scanning, IR camera, and player indicators may not be supported depending on the controller type.

5. Setup & Pairing

Follow these steps to connect your Bluetooth controller to the 8Bitdo Retro Receiver:

  1. Insert the Receiver: Plug the 8Bitdo Retro Receiver into a controller port on your SNES/SFC console. The blue LED on the receiver will start blinking rapidly, indicating it's in pairing mode.
  2. 8Bitdo Retro Receiver plugged into SNES console
    The Retro Receiver inserted into the SNES console.
  3. Power On Console: Turn on your SNES/SFC console.
  4. Activate Controller Pairing Mode: Put your desired Bluetooth controller into its pairing mode. The method varies by controller type:
    • For 8BitDo Bluetooth Controllers: Power on the controller to enter its pairing mode.
    • For Nintendo Switch Pro Controller / Joy-Cons: Press and hold the SYNC button for 3 seconds.
    • For DualSense (PS5): Press and hold the CREATE + PS button for 3 seconds.
    • For DualShock 4 (PS4): Press and hold the SHARE + PS button for 3 seconds.
    • For Xbox Bluetooth® Controller: Press the Xbox button to turn on the controller, then press and hold the pair button for 3 seconds.
    • For Wii Remote / Wii U Pro Controller: Press the SYNC button to enter its pairing mode.
    • For DualShock 3 (PS3): This may require a PC tool for initial pairing. Visit the 8Bitdo support website for detailed instructions.
  5. Confirm Connection: Once successfully paired, the blue LED on both the Retro Receiver and your controller will become solid, indicating a stable connection. You are now ready to play!
Video demonstrating the setup and pairing process with an 8Bitdo gamepad.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1. LED Indicators

  • Retro Receiver Blue LED:
    • Rapid Blinking: Disconnected / Pairing mode
    • Solid Blue: Connected to a controller
  • Controller Blue LED:
    • Rapid Blinking: Pairing mode
    • Solid Blue: Connected to the receiver
  • Controller Red LED:
    • Solid Red: Low battery
    • Flashing Green: Charging
    • Solid Green: Charging complete
  • No LEDs active: Power off or sleep mode.

6.2. Auto Power-Off (for some controllers)

Some compatible controllers may feature an auto power-off function, turning off after 15 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life. The Retro Receiver itself remains powered on as long as the console is on.

7. Firmware Update

8Bitdo regularly releases firmware updates to improve compatibility, add new features, and fix bugs. It is recommended to keep your Retro Receiver's firmware up-to-date for optimal performance.

To update the firmware:

  1. Visit the official 8Bitdo support website: support.8bitdo.com
  2. Locate the support page for the "Retro Receiver for SNES/SFC".
  3. Download the latest firmware update tool and follow the on-screen instructions. You will typically need to connect the Retro Receiver to your computer via the provided USB cable to perform the update.

8. Troubleshooting

8.1. Connection Issues

  • Controller Disconnects: If your controller disconnects, especially after resetting the console, power off both the console and the controller, then power them back on and re-pair.
  • Difficulty Pairing: Ensure both the Retro Receiver and your controller are in their respective pairing modes. If issues persist, try deleting any previous pairing information on your controller and attempt to pair again.
  • Controller Not Remembering Pairing: Some users have reported that the receiver may not remember previously paired controllers, requiring re-pairing each time it's used. This is an occasional issue; if it occurs, simply re-pair your controller.

8.2. Lag or Input Delay

The 8Bitdo Retro Receiver is designed for virtually lag-free performance. If you experience noticeable lag, ensure your controller's battery is sufficiently charged and that there are no major sources of wireless interference nearby.

8.3. Specific Controller Issues

  • DualShock 3 Pairing: This controller may require a specific PC tool for initial pairing. Refer to the 8Bitdo support website for detailed instructions.
  • 8BitDo NEOGEO Wireless Controller: This controller is explicitly not supported by the Retro Receiver.

9. User Tips

  • Easy Setup: Many users find the setup process to be very straightforward, often connecting their controllers right away without complex configuration.
  • Reliable Performance: The adapter is praised for its stable and reliable wireless connection, with minimal to no lag during gameplay, even with various modern controllers like PS4, PS5, and Switch Pro.
  • Enhanced Gaming: Enjoy the freedom of wireless gaming on your classic SNES/SFC console, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
  • Check for Authenticity: If purchasing from a third-party, verify it's an original 8Bitdo product for guaranteed performance and quality.

10. Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the Retro Receiver. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
  • Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
  • Handling: Handle the receiver with care to avoid physical damage to the connector or casing.

11. Warranty & Support

For warranty information, technical support, or further assistance, please visit the official 8Bitdo support website:

support.8bitdo.com

Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Ask a question about this manual

Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.

After a successful submission, we securely hash the supplied account or form email before sending it to Microsoft Advertising for conversion attribution. Privacy details.