1. Introduction
The 8Bitdo Bluetooth Retro Receiver is designed to enhance your classic NES gaming experience by enabling wireless controller connectivity. This receiver plugs directly into your original NES console, allowing you to use a variety of modern Bluetooth controllers for gameplay. It supports all original NES models, the Analogue Nt, and other aftermarket NES systems.
Image 1.1: The 8Bitdo Bluetooth Retro Receiver, a compact device for wireless NES gaming.
2. Features
- Wireless Connectivity: Play your original NES wirelessly with compatible Bluetooth controllers.
- Broad Controller Compatibility: Supports DualShock 3, DualShock 4, DualShock 4 Pro, Switch Pro, Switch Joy-con, Wii Mote, Wii U Pro, and most 8Bitdo Bluetooth controllers and arcade sticks.
- Virtually Lag-Free: Designed for responsive gameplay with minimal input delay.
- Multiplayer Support: Connect two Retro Receivers for two-player games.
- Turbo Button Mapping: Offers additional features like turbo button functionality.
- Note: Xbox Bluetooth controllers on the latest firmware (released Sep, 2021) are not supported due to changes from Classic Bluetooth to BLE. Not compatible with 8Bitdo NEOGEO Controller and Arcade Stick for XBOX.
Image 2.1: The Retro Receiver enabling wireless gameplay on an NES console.
3. Setup Instructions
3.1 Connecting the Receiver to your NES
- Ensure your NES console is powered off.
- Locate an available controller port on your NES console.
- Carefully insert the 8Bitdo Bluetooth Retro Receiver into the NES controller port. Ensure it is fully seated.
Image 3.1: Rear view of the receiver, highlighting the NES connector.
3.2 Pairing a Bluetooth Controller
- Power on your NES console. The LED on the Retro Receiver will begin to blink, indicating it is in pairing mode.
- Put your Bluetooth controller into pairing mode. (Refer to your controller's manual for specific instructions on how to enter pairing mode).
- Wait for the LED on the Retro Receiver to become solid, indicating a successful connection with your controller.
- If pairing fails, ensure the receiver and controller are close to each other and try again.
Image 3.2: Side view of the receiver, showing the micro USB port for firmware updates and the pairing button.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Basic Gameplay
Once your controller is successfully paired, you can begin playing your NES games wirelessly. The receiver translates your controller inputs to the NES, providing a seamless gaming experience.
4.2 Turbo Functionality
The Retro Receiver supports turbo button mapping. Specific button combinations or settings on your paired controller may activate turbo functions. Refer to the 8Bitdo support website for detailed instructions on turbo mapping for specific controllers.
4.3 Multiplayer Gaming
For two-player games, you will need a second 8Bitdo Bluetooth Retro Receiver. Connect each receiver to a separate controller port on your NES and pair a controller to each receiver independently. This allows for simultaneous wireless multiplayer gameplay.
Image 4.1: Demonstrating two-player wireless gaming with the Retro Receiver.
5. Compatibility
5.1 System Compatibility
- Original NES (all models)
- Analogue Nt
- All systems with an NES-style controller port
5.2 Controller Compatibility
- 8Bitdo controllers and arcade sticks (excluding 2.4G controllers)
- DualShock 3, DualShock 4, DualSense
- Wiimote, Wii U Pro
- Switch Joy-Cons, Switch Pro
- Note: Xbox Bluetooth controllers on the latest firmware (released Sep, 2021) are NOT supported. Not compatible with 8Bitdo NEOGEO Controller and Arcade Stick for XBOX.
Image 5.1: Visual representation of various controllers compatible with the Retro Receiver.
6. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
6.1 Firmware Updates
It is recommended to regularly check for and install firmware updates for your 8Bitdo Bluetooth Retro Receiver. Firmware updates can improve compatibility, add new features, and resolve potential issues. Visit the official 8Bitdo support website for the latest firmware and update instructions.
6.2 Pairing Issues
- Ensure both the receiver and controller are in pairing mode.
- Keep the controller close to the receiver during the pairing process.
- If issues persist, try resetting both the receiver and the controller to their factory settings (refer to their respective manuals).
6.3 Input Lag
While the receiver is designed to be virtually lag-free, external factors can sometimes affect performance. Ensure there are no significant wireless interferences (e.g., other strong Wi-Fi signals, Bluetooth devices) near your gaming setup. Updating the receiver's firmware can also help optimize performance.
7. Specifications
- Model Number: RETRO RECEIVER
- Product Dimensions: 5.91 x 4.69 x 0.91 inches
- Item Weight: 1.12 ounces
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 2.1, Class 2 (2.402GHz~2.48GHz)
- Release Date: April 25, 2016
8. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, technical support, and additional resources, please visit the official 8Bitdo website. Product support and firmware updates are regularly provided by the manufacturer.
