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How to Convert Gamepad to Arcade Joystick

"Padhacking" allows users to convert their standard console gamepads into arcade joysticks that can be used with their home system. The process involves removing the printed circuit board (PCB) from the standard controller and soldering the arcade connections to the PCB board. This process is not without risks, as improper handling of the PCB could damage it and render it useless.

Things You'll Need

Standard gamepad controller
Phillips-head screwdriver
Non-conductive towel
Wire
Soldering gun
Arcade hook up wires
Quick connect crimp connectors
Crimper
Joystick connection harness
Joystick case
Fastening screws
Arcade buttons
Arcade joystick

Instructions

- 1
  Unscrew the screws on the back of the gamepad to remove the casing from the PCB.
- 2
  Set the PCB down on the non-conductive towel and plug it into the system you are building the arcade stick for. Turn on the system and tap the various paths on the PCB with the wire. Write a note of what commands occur when each path is tapped.
- 3
  Solder a hook-up wire to each of the paths on the PCB for the face buttons of the controller.
- 4
  Use the crimper to crimp a quick connect crimp connector to the loose end of each of the hook-up wires.
- 5
  Solder the joystick harness to the directional pad paths on the PCB.
- 6
  Secure the PCB to the joystick case with the fastening screws. Feed the wire that connects the PCB to the console out of the case via the connection cable hole in the front of the case.
- 7
  Insert the arcade buttons into the button holes on the arcade stick case.
- 8
  Connect the hook-up wires to the various arcade buttons to achieve the desired button layout for the arcade stick.
- 9
  Insert the joystick into the joystick hole on the arcade stick case. Secure it with fastening screws.
- 10
  Plug the joystick wiring harness into the joystick harness connector on the joystick.
- 11
  Place the back panel on the arcade stick.

Video Game Accessories