TurboExpress / PC Engine GT HuCard Connector Region-Free Board

Description

A direct replacement for the TurboExpress or PC Engine GT HuCard connector board, an option is available for region-free capabilities.

Variant Types:

1. PC Engine GT (Japan): Direct replacement for the PC Engine GT connector board, fixed single JP region only.
2. TurboExpress (North America): Direct replacement for the TurboExpress connector board, fixed single NA region only.
3. Region-Free: The region-free variant of the board allows you to play both PC Engine and TurboExpress games on your handheld, simply hold “SELECT” during power on to switch regions. Power cycle the unit to reset back to the native region. Allow the unit to remained powered off for at least 10 seconds for the region-switch capacitor to discharge.

Notes:

1. Kits are “no-cut”, meaning no shell trimming and the installation is entirely reversible!
2. The HuCard slot is not provided and must be harvested from your factory board.
3. Installation is simple but only for those with advanced soldering experience. Very fine soldering skills are required for approximately 0.3mm gaps. A 0.2mm tip soldering iron or similar recommended. Needle probe DMM is strongly recommended to verify connections.
4. If you are not comfortable performing this work, an installation service is available from iFixRetro.

Each Kit Includes:

1. HuCard Connector board with FFC connector
2. Riser Reverser board with FFC Connector for Main Board
3. FFC Ribbon

Installation Instructions:

1. Ensure you have a working PC Engine GT / TurboExpress before continuing; this generally includes a “recap” service at minimum.
2. Carefully harvest your HuCard slot from the factory board using a desoldering gun or solder sucker.
3. Desolder the factory ribbon from the mainboard and carefully clean the pads with solder wick or a desoldering tool.
4. Solder the harvested HuCard slot to the new HuCard Connector board aligning with the provided footprint outline.
5. Solder the Riser Reverser board to the Main Board as shown in the photo, verify it is square (90°).
6. Region-Free Only: Close default region jumper (J822 for GT / J823 for TE) and install SELECT wire to control input board as shown in the photo.
7. Visually inspect and test all connections with a needle probe DMM, ensure no shorts between connections.
8. Connect the FFC ribbon between the boards as shown.
9. Carefully reinstall.