How to Make an Atari Joystick USB Adapter

The standard Atari-style joystick became the defacto game controller of the eight-bit computing era. Playing these games on personal computers has been simple and easy on parallel ports, but as more and more computers are being built with USB ports instead of parallel ports the need for new adapters has arisen. Here are a few steps to show you how to make an Atari Joystick Adapter.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Atmega8 micro controller
• Atari joystick
• Soldering gun
• Screwdriver
• Hand saw
• Box
• Glue
• 9-pin male D-sub connector

1. Download the schematics and HEX files for the micro controller from any number of websites offered by electronics hobbyists and gurus like raphnet.net.

2. Remove the screws from the base of the controller.

3. Detach the circuit-board inside the controller and turn face it up on your work surface so that the button connectors are visible.

4. Trace the connection between the input switches and pins of the IC with a circuit tester.

5. Use your soldering gun to solder connections needed for the controller to the 9-pin male D-sub connector.

6. Saw off and remove the left over portions of the new circuit board. The majority of the buttons and connectors are no longer needed.

7. Open your plastic box and place the unit inside. You may either glue it in place or just set it inside. Seal the box with the new adapter inside.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep plastic bags handy to store loose parts.
• Depending upon the box you choose to house your adapter, you may need to use your saw to carve out a hole in order to plug the 9-pin male D-sub connector in so it is usable.
• To make things easier on yourself use a pair of tweezers to hold the wires in place while you solder.
• Be careful to not get carried away when making your board smaller. Just saw off enough to fit inside your black box.
• When using a soldering gun it is always best to wear a thick of gloves if possible.

Resources

• A website with a number of resources for rewiring game controllers
• The personal website of an electronics enthusiast
• News for nerds