|
Virtual Boy FlashBoy+ F.A.Q.
What is the FlashBoy (FB) or FlashBoy + (FB+)
A Virtual Boy game card that loads games-backups or homebrew to play, use, or test.
Basically, a re-writable gamecard for the Nintendo Virtual Boy.
Wario Land can play in FB+ & save game progress.
Basically, a re-writable gamecard for the Nintendo Virtual Boy.
- FlashBoy (FB) has no game save chip (older model).
- FlashBoy+ (FB+) has game save chip (current model).
Wario Land can play in FB+ & save game progress.
Why make/sell something like this? We have the HyperBoy+ from RetroOnyx.
Many missed the FlashBoy+ when came out of production; even with neat alternative like the HyperFlash32 & HyperBoy being available from RetroOnyx. Rather than re-create the wheel in inventing another budget Flashcard we reach out to Richard who allowed us to make, distribute, and update his FlashBoy+ design.
The FlashBoy+:
The FlashBoy+:
- Has a rich history behind it.
- Its proven by many VB players.
- Its simple and reliable.
- Its made from common parts.
- It’s well priced for anyone on a tight budget.
I was googling and looking for a GameBoy Flash Cart?
Sorry, this for the Virtual Boy only. Yet, see the fine people at stoneagegamer.com.
I noticed some high profile prototype VB games that may come to your website.
Can I buy a FlashBoy+ with this prototype game pre-load?
Yes, when that day comes, we'll pre-load your FB+ purchase with 1X prototype of your request.
You may also order more than one FB+. Since FB+ are auto-manufactured it saves us time & you get access to this prototype gaming content.
You may also order more than one FB+. Since FB+ are auto-manufactured it saves us time & you get access to this prototype gaming content.
Is it hard to use the FlashBoy+? I am not the best with computers.
Very easy to use. Once get the knack it will be easy.
Option A is a new WebFlasher program. That makes it even simpler.
Option B is past windows software, see fb_manual_b.pdf and "video testimonials" page which have some step-by-step support.
Option A is a new WebFlasher program. That makes it even simpler.
Option B is past windows software, see fb_manual_b.pdf and "video testimonials" page which have some step-by-step support.
Do you offer a CIB version (Official Box Packaging) or Deluxe version?
We don’t plan to make CIB or boxes. Yet CID or deluxe edition could become available from stone-age-gamer or other sources in future.
FB+ cases are available from www.customgamecases.com. They have two types available and of good quality.
We also gave this fine group all our raw image files, so if like different label/artwork, just let them know!
FB+ cases are available from www.customgamecases.com. They have two types available and of good quality.
We also gave this fine group all our raw image files, so if like different label/artwork, just let them know!
|
|
Are your reproduction VB games re-programable? Can I use the FlashBoy+ software to re-program your reproduction VB games?
100% of the time, we use our true VB reproduction designs. They are not re-programable. They are designed as true cartridges.
As we keep FlashBoy+ parts for FlashBoy+ builds/sales. They are two different animals. You don't put a Metroid in a Raptor pen or vise versa.
As we keep FlashBoy+ parts for FlashBoy+ builds/sales. They are two different animals. You don't put a Metroid in a Raptor pen or vise versa.
Do you offer the FB+ to programmers/developers at discount?
For sure, we just request you cover shipping. Make an order for $1. Many original VB homebrews or mods came from developers using the FlashBoy+.
This device started the full VB homebrew scene.
This device started the full VB homebrew scene.
Do modern VB Program Developers support the FB+?
|
They do, for example, the modern VUE Engine Studio (a very powerful programmer tool) has full FlashBoy+ support. It includes built in pre-padding. You can also download and install to try some of the homebrew template games.
|
|
|
|
|
What type of USB Cable is it? Can I use my modern cell phone cable?
One end is regular USB. The other end, that goes into the FlashBoy+, is "USB Mini-B Cable". Its an older standard found in digital cameras and other portal electronics from around 200X era. Its same size port that charges the PlayStation 3 Controller.
|
|
|
Why keep using this older cable standard?
Agree “USB Mini-B” is old school, but we find it best to keep all FlashBoy standard. This large size gives more surface area that helps it be more robust.
Why do you offer a no USB Cable option? Since your cable bit expensive how do I find it for better price?
We only sell the 3-feet high quality cable and cost reflects that. Yet, you can find one at your location & save some money.
Local pawn, older electronics, cell/camera stores, or crazy store full of stuff. Just be familiar with the “USB Mini-B” type or have example device; like a PlayStation 3 controller. Aim for the best quality or beefy cable you can find, get a spare, and ideally keep length short if using lower quality cable.
Local pawn, older electronics, cell/camera stores, or crazy store full of stuff. Just be familiar with the “USB Mini-B” type or have example device; like a PlayStation 3 controller. Aim for the best quality or beefy cable you can find, get a spare, and ideally keep length short if using lower quality cable.
Do you test each FlashBoy + before shipping? What happens if I get a defective unit? What happens if a few year it stops working?
Each FlashBoy is tested before ships. When your FB+ arrives suggest you load it into your VB for quick test. This confirms no damage during shipping.
When first boot your FB+ will show homebrew testing screen with sound. Just give it a few seconds.
Things can happen. Give the “FB+ Manual Rev B” a try. Then let us know & we’ll ship you a replacement. So far we had only 3 recall units in the wild.
When first boot your FB+ will show homebrew testing screen with sound. Just give it a few seconds.
- Double success sound: Successful read/write test and previous value could be read
- Single success sound: Successful read/write test, but no previous value could be read
- Failure sound: Read/write test failed.
Things can happen. Give the “FB+ Manual Rev B” a try. Then let us know & we’ll ship you a replacement. So far we had only 3 recall units in the wild.
I want to download the FlashBoy+ test Program? And what the story behind this?
Download at: github.com/VUEngine/Flash-Cart-Test-Program/releases/tag/v1.1
Suggest download the Flash.Cart.Test.Program.FlashBoy.Plus.Padded.vb.zip file. The first one.
We had the idea for fast testing, SAG requested no IP pre-loaded to FB+, and way for customers to test after shipping. "KR155E" (who runs the Plant Virtual Boy website), made it a reality. Please express your thanks to "KR155E" if chatting with him in PVB forms & note any ideas you may have to improve this tool.
Suggest download the Flash.Cart.Test.Program.FlashBoy.Plus.Padded.vb.zip file. The first one.
We had the idea for fast testing, SAG requested no IP pre-loaded to FB+, and way for customers to test after shipping. "KR155E" (who runs the Plant Virtual Boy website), made it a reality. Please express your thanks to "KR155E" if chatting with him in PVB forms & note any ideas you may have to improve this tool.
FB+ test screen. Note how SRAM is fully working via check-marks.
|
My original (non-Vintex 64 FlashBoy) stopped working? Can you help me?
For sure! Just try using our “FB Manual Rev B”. As instructions are same for all models. You can also try the test program above.
If obviously sill not working; don’t overspend time on it. You can ship it to us for discount on a new unit. Your old unit will go into research/improving future models.
If obviously sill not working; don’t overspend time on it. You can ship it to us for discount on a new unit. Your old unit will go into research/improving future models.
What is the difference between the Vintex 64 FlashBoy+ & the prior FlashBoy+?
What changes did you guys make? How can I tell which one I have?
The original design was fine, but we did improvements. Tripling the copper layer, adding Vintex 64 markings, gold plating, replaced parts with better/updated versions, and few other tweaks. Then in mid 2024 a Vintex 64 Generation 2 FB+ was released. The functions are same, but PCB design was updated for better reliably and easy assembly.
Our FB+ has green PCB solder mask with Vintex 64 markings.
First generation was "Vintex64-27A-01".
Next/Current generation is "Vintex64-53A-01"
The majority of original FlashBoy releases have red solder mask. Note Richard did sell a few different types as well in his day.
Our FB+ has green PCB solder mask with Vintex 64 markings.
First generation was "Vintex64-27A-01".
Next/Current generation is "Vintex64-53A-01"
The majority of original FlashBoy releases have red solder mask. Note Richard did sell a few different types as well in his day.
Latest Vintex 64 model
|
Richard past model
|
Your Flash Boy+ use Flash or SRAM save feature?
We just use the SRAM with little battery inside. All FB+ we made to these type. We decided to stick with SRAM as its cost effective.
How long does little coin battery last? When do I need to change it? Does it need be re-soldered?
We use quality Energizer or Duracell BR1225 or BR1220 batteries. The BR means this type meant for electronics with lower self-discharge rate such as PC Motherboards. So recommend get BR type if can.
You can also use CR1225 or CR1220 batteries.
If possible go for the 1225 as its little bigger than the 1220. Both will fit in cage fine.
All these batteries are found on Amazon, eBay, or any electronics store.
All FB+ have what called a battery cage. Which holds battery inside an open-end pocket. Your simple slide the battery in and out. You just may need a strong pick to help push it out; it could be little tight. No soldering required.
You can also use CR1225 or CR1220 batteries.
If possible go for the 1225 as its little bigger than the 1220. Both will fit in cage fine.
All these batteries are found on Amazon, eBay, or any electronics store.
All FB+ have what called a battery cage. Which holds battery inside an open-end pocket. Your simple slide the battery in and out. You just may need a strong pick to help push it out; it could be little tight. No soldering required.
|
Left image shows battery cage. If use small 1220 battery you'll may need to push the top 2 spring pins down all the way down to help get better battery contact. See 2 yellow arrows to the left.
|
We suggest every 5 years; could go 10 years easy. As battery start to decay or corrode or leak. We also recommend a quality brand name; like Duracell or Energizer. If buying old eBay stock maybe do quick multimeter test; make sure actually has power.
|
|
You remember him!
|
See more!
|
What with the white shell?
Richard’s last release had a 3D printed shell. We can make it, but decided to focus on our injection molded shell. Yet, some 3D printed prototypes available for purchase for those interested and its part of the FB+ history. If demand/requests are there we’ll make more & in higher quality.
|
|
|
So you guys replicate the FlashBoy + into a test board with sockets? Can I buy one as collectable?
We wanted to test and experiment with different parts/chips. This test board below became useful to confirm part variations.
Not for sell to the public. Bit expensive to make, have no save feature, & not that practical to use.
Not for sell to the public. Bit expensive to make, have no save feature, & not that practical to use.
|
|
Is there a way to dump/copy my save file from FB+ to PC?
Sadly no, this is a modest Flashcard. When you load a new game that accesses the save feature it will whip your prior save data.
You cannot dump the save by USB. The hardware not capable of that.
You cannot dump the save by USB. The hardware not capable of that.
Do you have a Firmware Update for FB or FB+? And how do you program it?
We use Richards’s latest firmware, which was re-compiled for us with some tweaks, and we don’t foresee any big firmware updates coming to the FlashBoy+. Even prior firmware versions likely have no significant changes.
We made an adapter PCB that use Microchips PICKit. This is the way the Firmware is updated. Its not updated via software or USB. PICKit a very common in-circuit programmer done by many electronics industry. We went this way for better long term support.
We made an adapter PCB that use Microchips PICKit. This is the way the Firmware is updated. Its not updated via software or USB. PICKit a very common in-circuit programmer done by many electronics industry. We went this way for better long term support.
|
|
|
Are some VB games bigger than 2MB? And 2MB is max size of your FB+?
Correct. Yet, 100% of main library and 99 percent of homebrews will work on it. Only three homebrews are bigger than 2MB. Some new homebrews also have 2MB version just for the FlashBoy+ too!
To that end, one idea a talented VB programmer had is to split a big homebrew into multiple 2MB files. So, when play past one part of the homebrew/game simply re-flash next file to continue. Yet, this requires the VB programmer/developer to take extra time to make this idea a reality. Another neat trick to this idea, is you can carry over your save data that remains in the FB+ SRAM.
To that end, one idea a talented VB programmer had is to split a big homebrew into multiple 2MB files. So, when play past one part of the homebrew/game simply re-flash next file to continue. Yet, this requires the VB programmer/developer to take extra time to make this idea a reality. Another neat trick to this idea, is you can carry over your save data that remains in the FB+ SRAM.
Where do I find more details of the FB+ Software?
Type A, the classic Windows based software. Found via download links on our website. More details in our manual & prior YouTube Video reviews.
Type B, the new web based flasher software. That can be used online or local download. See links below.
This web based software has built in padding software; simply pick any VB files.
Yet, many people still use the classic software too.
Type B, the new web based flasher software. That can be used online or local download. See links below.
- https://www.virtual-boy.com/flash/
- https://www.virtual-boy.com/forums/t/webflasher-integration/
- github.com/KR155E/WebFlasher
This web based software has built in padding software; simply pick any VB files.
Yet, many people still use the classic software too.
Is it true you work with a professional PCB factory in making FlashBoys+?
Correct, we been working for years with professionals to get this item made, updated, automated, & improved.
The factory really took to this neat little design & we continue to look for ways to improve/better the manufacturing process.
The factory really took to this neat little design & we continue to look for ways to improve/better the manufacturing process.
|
|
|
Image to left of panelized FB+ with parts placed on by automated machines. |
Do you plan update the FB+ design in the future?
We recently released Generation 2. Nothing too substantial. Adjustment to help lower cost, make it easier to manufacture, & more reliable.
Do you plan to keep making these? Will you run out?
Will these again become super hard or super expensive to get?
We’ll make as many as needed to meet demand for a good price. We aim to keep 50-100 in stock for us and re-sellers.
Parts are active, available, and cost effective, and we purchased extra stock. So, everything should be good for a very, very, long time.
Vintex 64 is a long term company/business for you. Come to our site any year or any day, & we'll have a FlashBoy+ ready for you.
The more FB+ we sell the more support/justification for factory setup, supplier chain sustainability, & longevity. So, every person who: purchase, speaks-up, or gives feedback is contributing to its long-term survival. Its you that makes this happen!
Many other Flashcarts or retro gaming electronics are in the electronics graveyard, but after 15+ years the FlashBoy+ likely to become the longest running Flashcard in video game history. If you throw a stick in the VB world you'll likely hit a FlashBoy+ nearby.
Parts are active, available, and cost effective, and we purchased extra stock. So, everything should be good for a very, very, long time.
Vintex 64 is a long term company/business for you. Come to our site any year or any day, & we'll have a FlashBoy+ ready for you.
The more FB+ we sell the more support/justification for factory setup, supplier chain sustainability, & longevity. So, every person who: purchase, speaks-up, or gives feedback is contributing to its long-term survival. Its you that makes this happen!
Many other Flashcarts or retro gaming electronics are in the electronics graveyard, but after 15+ years the FlashBoy+ likely to become the longest running Flashcard in video game history. If you throw a stick in the VB world you'll likely hit a FlashBoy+ nearby.
|
|
|
|
|
|