8Bitdo Arcade Stick User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your 8Bitdo Arcade Stick. Designed for compatibility with Nintendo Switch and Windows, this arcade stick offers versatile connection options and customizable controls to enhance your gaming experience.

2. Package Contents

• 8Bitdo Arcade Stick
• 2.4G Wireless Adapter
• USB-C to USB-A Cable (for wired connection and charging)
• User Manual (this document)

3. Product Overview

The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick features a classic design with modern functionality, providing a robust and customizable platform for arcade and fighting games.

Figure 3.1: Top-down view of the 8Bitdo Arcade Stick, showcasing its main controls and layout.

3.1. Controls and Buttons

• 8-Way Joystick: A precise ball-top joystick for directional input.
• 8 Action Buttons: Standard arcade button layout for primary game actions.
• P1/P2 Macro Buttons: Two dedicated, customizable macro buttons.
• Mode Switch (S/OFF/X): Selects between Switch mode (S), Off, and X-Input mode (X) for Windows.
• Control Stick Switch (LS/DP/RS): Toggles joystick input between Left Stick, D-Pad, and Right Stick modes.
• Pair Button: For initiating Bluetooth or 2.4G pairing.
• Turbo Button: Activates turbo function for rapid button presses.
• Home Button: Returns to the system home screen.
• Select/View Button: Functions as Select or View button depending on the mode.
• Start/Menu Button: Functions as Start or Menu button depending on the mode.
• Connection Switch (BT/2.4G): Toggles between Bluetooth and 2.4G wireless modes.

Figure 3.2: Close-up view of the P1 and P2 macro buttons, located at the top right of the stick.

Figure 3.3: Detailed view of the 8-way joystick, designed for precise control.

4. Setup

4.1. Initial Charge

Before first use, fully charge the arcade stick using the provided USB-C cable. Connect the USB-C end to the stick and the USB-A end to a power source (e.g., computer USB port, USB wall adapter).

4.2. Connection Modes

The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick supports three connection methods:

• Bluetooth: For wireless connection to Nintendo Switch or Windows devices with Bluetooth.
• 2.4G Wireless: Utilizes the included 2.4G USB adapter for a dedicated low-latency wireless connection. The adapter is conveniently stored in a hidden compartment on the stick.
• Wired USB-C: Connect directly to your device using the USB-C cable for a stable, zero-latency connection.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Connecting to Nintendo Switch

1. Set the Mode Switch to 'S' (Switch mode).
2. For Bluetooth: Set the Connection Switch to 'BT'. Go to your Switch's HOME Menu > System Settings > Controllers and Sensors > Disconnect Controllers. Then, on the Arcade Stick, press and hold the Pair button until the LED indicators start flashing. Once paired, the LED will become solid.
3. For 2.4G Wireless: Retrieve the 2.4G adapter from its compartment. Plug the adapter into a free USB port on your Switch dock. Set the Connection Switch to '2.4G'. The stick should automatically connect.
4. For Wired: Connect the USB-C cable from the stick to a USB port on your Switch dock.

Figure 5.1: The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick in use with a Nintendo Switch, demonstrating portable gaming setup.

5.2. Connecting to Windows

1. Set the Mode Switch to 'X' (X-Input mode).
2. For Bluetooth: Set the Connection Switch to 'BT'. On your Windows PC, go to Bluetooth & other devices settings and add a new Bluetooth device. Select 'Bluetooth' and choose '8Bitdo Arcade Stick'.
3. For 2.4G Wireless: Retrieve the 2.4G adapter. Plug the adapter into a free USB port on your PC. Set the Connection Switch to '2.4G'. The stick should automatically connect.
4. For Wired: Connect the USB-C cable from the stick to a USB port on your PC.

Figure 5.2: The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick connected to a laptop, showcasing its compatibility with Windows.

5.3. Customizing Controls with Ultimate Software

The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick supports the 8Bitdo Ultimate Software, allowing for extensive customization:

• Button Mapping: Remap any button to your preferred layout.
• Macros: Create complex sequences of button presses and assign them to the P1 and P2 macro buttons.
• Dynamic Button Layout: The stick features a dynamic button layout that visually changes based on the selected mode (Switch or X-Input), ensuring correct button prompts.

Download the 8Bitdo Ultimate Software from the official 8Bitdo website for full customization options.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the arcade stick. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the stick in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Moddability: The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick is designed to be ultra-moddable. It features a universal mounting plate that supports Sanwa arcade sticks and allows for easy swapping of 30mm/24mm arcade buttons. This enables advanced users to upgrade components to their liking.

Figure 6.1: Internal view of the arcade stick, highlighting its moddable design for custom button and joystick upgrades.

7. Troubleshooting

• Connection Issues: Ensure the correct mode (Switch/X-Input) and connection type (BT/2.4G/Wired) are selected. Try re-pairing or reconnecting the cable/adapter.
• Input Lag: For optimal performance, especially in competitive gaming, use the 2.4G wireless adapter or a wired USB-C connection. Ensure your device's Bluetooth is not experiencing interference.
• Buttons/Joystick Unresponsive: Check for physical obstructions. If modded, ensure all connections are secure. Consider updating the firmware via the 8Bitdo Ultimate Software.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check the official 8Bitdo website for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, technical support, and the latest firmware updates, please visit the official 8Bitdo website. You can also find additional resources and FAQs there.

Official Website: www.8bitdo.com