Atari THE400 Mini Quick Start Guide
Welcome to the Atari THE400 Mini. This guide will help you set up and start using your new retro gaming console.
Unpacking the THE400 Mini
Before connecting any cables, please check the contents of the packaging:
- THE400 Mini console
- THECXSTICK (USB joystick)
- HDMI cable
- USB power cable
- THE400 Mini Quick Start Guide (this document)
You will also need the following items (not included):
- A TV capable of 720p resolution with an HDMI port
- A 5V/1A power adapter with a USB-A port
Setting Up the THE400 Mini
- Make sure your TV is switched off before you connect the THE400 Mini.
- Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the THE400 Mini, and then connect the other end to the HDMI port on your TV.
- Connect the THECXSTICK to the leftmost USB port on the front of the THE400 Mini. This is the port for Player one. Optionally, connect additional THECXSTICKs, THEGAMEPADs, or THEJOYSTICKs to the ports for Players two to four.
- Connect the USB power cable between the small USB-C power port on the THE400 Mini and the large USB-A port on your power adapter. Ensure the power adapter is switched on and providing power.
- Switch on your TV and choose the appropriate HDMI input source.
- Press and release the power button [power-button].
- The Power LED will glow red to confirm the THE400 Mini is now on. On the TV, you should see the THE400 Mini greeting screen and hear the accompanying tune.
Using the THECXSTICK Controller
All of the THE400 Mini's functions can be performed with the THECXSTICK.
Prompts for which buttons to press to perform functions are listed at the bottom of the screen on the Games Carousel and the THE400 Mini's various menus.
In the Games Carousel, press the [help-button] button to view a help screen showing which buttons to press in the currently selected game.
While playing a game, pressing the H [home-button] button will take you back to the Games Carousel.
Special In-Game Functions
While playing a game, the THECXSTICK can be used to access some special in-game functions:
- Button combination: H [home-button] + L [rewind-button]
Function: Activate Rewind Mode, allowing gameplay to be rewound by up to 30 seconds. - Button combination: H [home-button] + M [menu-button]
Function: Activate or deactivate the Virtual Keyboard.
Controller Modes
The THECXSTICK can operate in either right-handed or left-handed mode. To switch the joystick into left-handed mode (fire button at the top right), press M [menu-button] + S [shoulder-button] + L [left-mode-button]. To switch back into right-handed mode (fire button at the top left), press M [menu-button] + S [shoulder-button] + R [right-mode-button].
Support and More Information
For more information, full instructions for the 25 built-in games, and to download the THE400 Mini User Manual, please visit:
Important Safety Information
Please read the following warnings and advice before setting up or using the THE400 Mini.
General Advice
- Only connect the following devices to the USB ports: keyboards, controllers, memory sticks, hubs.
- Ensure all cables are connected only to the correct ports and hold plugs straight when inserting.
- Keep the THE400 Mini, all cables, and peripherals out of the reach of young children.
- Do not position the THE400 Mini or its cables where they could cause someone to trip or stumble.
- Do not power off the THE400 Mini while data is being loaded or saved.
- Do not drop, hit, or otherwise abuse the THE400 Mini, its cables, or peripherals.
- Place the THE400 Mini on a flat, even surface and allow plenty of airflow through the grilles on the top and bottom. Do not cover the device.
Seizures
Some people (about 1 in 4000) may experience seizures or blackouts triggered by flashing lights or specific color patterns, even if they have no prior history. Video games, with effects like color-cycling or screen-flashing, may trigger these symptoms.
- Anyone who has had a seizure, blackout, loss of awareness, or any symptom related to an epileptic condition should consult a doctor before using the THE400 Mini.
- Stop using the THE400 Mini immediately and consult a doctor if you or anyone using or viewing the device experiences dizziness, eye or muscle twitches, disorientation, affected vision, involuntary movements, convulsions, or seizures. Resume use only after consulting a doctor.
To reduce the chances of a seizure while using the THE400 Mini:
- Use the THE400 Mini in a well-lit area.
- Ensure the TV screen does not dominate your field of vision; maintain a sensible distance or use a smaller screen.
- Do not use the THE400 Mini if you are tired or need sleep.
- Take a 15-minute break every hour, even if you don't feel you need it.
Electric Shock
To avoid electric shock:
- Do not expose the THE400 Mini to liquids, high temperatures, high humidity, steam, direct sunlight, excessive dust, or smoke.
- Do not allow small particles or foreign objects to enter the THE400 Mini.
- Do not touch the THE400 Mini or connected cables during an electrical storm.
- Do not touch metal parts of connectors.
- Do not use power cables, HDMI cables, or peripherals if they are split, frayed, or damaged.
Repetitive Motion Injuries
To reduce the risk of injury from repetitive motion:
- Avoid excessive play.
- Take a 15-minute break every hour, even if you don't feel you need it.
- If your hands, wrists, or arms become sore, or if you experience tingling, numbness, burning, or stiffness, stop immediately and rest for several hours before playing again.
- If symptoms persist during or after use, consult a doctor.
Eyestrain and Motion Sickness
Continuous play can cause eye strain, and some games may induce motion sickness. If you or others experience these symptoms, stop immediately and rest. Do not drive or engage in demanding activities until symptoms subside.
To reduce the chances of these symptoms:
- Take a 15-minute break every hour, even if you don't feel you need it.
- If prone to motion sickness, identify games that trigger symptoms and avoid them.