2 layers18.5 × 26 mm
24g2usb rp2350zero
joypad-ai/joypad-os
Universal controller firmware for building adapters, dongles, and custom controllers.
4 parts1.7kApache-2.0
2 layers40.6 × 64.8 mm
This project combines the NES, SNES and Genesis DaemonBite Retro Controllers projects together with a custom PCB to support 3 different controllers with a single socketed Arduino Pro Micro.
- Size
- 40.6 × 64.8 mm
- Copper layers
- 2
- Thickness
- 1.6 mm
- Parts
- 4
- Nets
- 23
- Pads
- 49
- Tracks, vias
- 99, 2
- Pours
- 2
- Routed
- Yes
- KiCad
- KiCad 7 (file 20221018)
- Created
- 18 Aug 2021
- Updated
- 13 Sep 2026
Overview
3dapter is an open-source printed circuit board by timville85, from the timville85/TripleController repository on GitHub, published under the GPL-3.0 licence. It is a 2-layer board of 40.6 × 64.8 mm with 4 parts on 23 nets, routed with 99 tracks and 2 vias.
Its parts include 3 connectors and 1 IC. It belongs with the retro computing and games boards and the AVR (ATmega, ATtiny) boards of this library.
README
README.md3dapter (formerly Triple Controller to USB)
This project combines the NES, SNES and Genesis DaemonBite Retro Controllers projects together with a custom PCB to support 3 different controllers with a single socketed Arduino Pro Micro. PCB (KiCad + Gerbers), 3D Cases, and muliple firmware versions (Arduino code) all available in this repository.
PCB Kits + Fully Assembled units (with firmware of your choice) available on Tindie
3 different firmware versions are available in this repo:
- Default: Optimized for MiSTer, PC, Raspberry Pi, etc. - reports as 3 separate controllers, supports multiplayer from a single unit.
- Analogue Pocket: Optimized for Pocket Dock - reports as a single wired XInput device.
- Nintendo Switch: Optimized for Nintendo Switch Online NES, SNES, and Genesis collections - reports as a single wired switch controller.
Looking for a version with a N64 port? Check out the 4dapter
Resources Used
- DaemonBite Retro Controllers
- https://github.com/esden/pretty-kicad-libs
- https://github.com/ddribin/nes-port-breadboard
- https://github.com/Biacco42/ProMicroKiCad
- http://www.neshq.com/hardgen/powerpad.txt
3D Case Files
3D Case files were designed by Dinierto Designs and are available on Thingiverse
3D Case Size Reference:
- 33mm - Most Micro USB Pro Micro / Sparkfun USB-C Pro Micro boards
- 35-36mm - Most AliExpress USB-C Pro Micro boards
- 36-37mm - Some AliExpress USB-C Pro Micro boards (typically with empty hole next to USB-C port)
Wiring Diagram
Current Draw Readings from DIO Pin 16 (used for 5v supply for DB9 port):
- Krikzz Joyzz: 38mA
- 8BitDo M30 2.4G: 29mA
- OEM SEGA 3-Button Wired: 3mA
- OEM SEGA 6-Button Wired: 3mA
- Retrobit 6-Button Wired: 2mA (Arduino DIO Max Rated Current: 40mA)
Tested Controllers
The following controllers have been personally tested and are supported with the Triple Controller. All listed devices also fit when using the 3D Case as well.
NES:
- OEM NES Controller
- OEM NES PowerPad (Default FW Only)
- 8BitDo N30 2.4G Receiver
- 8BitDo NES Retro Receiver
SEGA / Genesis:
- OEM SEGA Master System 2-Button Controller
- OEM Genesis 3-Button Controller
- OEM Genesis 6-Button Controller
- 8BitDo M30 2.4G Receiver
- 8BitDo Genesis Retro Receiver
- Krikzz Joyzz
SNES:
- OEM SNES Controller
- OEM SFC Controller
- OEM SNES NTT Controller (Default FW Only)
- 8BitDo SN30 2.4G Receiver
- 8BitDo SNES Retro Receiver
Bill of Materials
-
3dapter / Triple Controller PCB
-
1x SNES Socket (90 deg): AliExpress - Gamers Zone Store
-
1x NES Socket: AliExpress - Gamers Zone Store
-
1x Genesis Socket: AliExpress - Gamers Zone Store
-
Micro USB Arduino Pro Micro (reinforced USB port): Amazon (Pack of 3)
-
1x Arduino Pro Micro (USB-C 3-15V Version): AliExpress
-
2x 1x12 Female Header: Digi-Key
PCB + Assembled Examples
Parts
4| Qty | Value | Footprint | References |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis Port (DB9) | Connector_Dsub:DSUB-9_Male_Horizontal_P2.77x2.54mm_EdgePinOffset9.40mm | J3 |
| 1 | NES Port | pkl_connectors:NES | J1 |
| 1 | ProMicro | promicro:ProMicro | U1 |
| 1 | SNES Port | pkl_connectors:SNES | J2 |
Questions
How big is the 3dapter PCB?
It measures 40.6 × 64.8 mm and has 2 copper layers, 1.6 mm thick.
What parts does the 3dapter use?
4 parts. The full list of its parts is on this page, with links to each part's symbol and footprint where PCBKit's library has them.
Where can I download the 3dapter KiCad files?
From the timville85/TripleController repository on GitHub, at the commit this page was made from: the board is 3dapter KiCad/3dapter.kicad_pcb and its schematic 3dapter KiCad/3dapter.kicad_sch. PCBKit opens the board in the browser, with nothing to install.
Can I use the 3dapter design in my own project?
Its repository publishes it under the GPL-3.0 licence: you may reuse it on that licence's terms (keep the author's notice, and for a copyleft licence share your changes alike).
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