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Dreamcast SD Card Readers - Questions/Thoughts?

Posted: Mon May 09, 2016 2:46 pm
by Jagosaurus
So I have't looked at these in a couple/few years. They seem more readily available these days. A few question for those of you using them.

- Which model are you using?
- How do the different models stack up? Are some more compatible with ROMs, etc?
- The DC games/ROMs have to be specifically formatted in SD, correct?
- If so, how much of the library is available in this SD format?
- Any homebrew available in SD format?
- Do the adapters require a specific boot disc? Do any of the models come with the disc? Not into burning CDRs.
- Have you been happy/worth exploring?

Just curious about the general scene. I'm sure it has changed some over the past couple/few years. I'm seeing them as low as $15 :shock:

Re: Dreamcast SD Card Readers - Questions/Thoughts?

Posted: Mon May 09, 2016 4:43 pm
by nightrnr
From what I have read, compatibility is pretty terrible with the SD adapter, like less than 50% (plugs into the serial port, so slow speed). Many games have lag or music issues, and do have to be in a specific iso format.

Some sites have a special dreamcast section for "sd isos".

I haven't used it. I still want one, as I suspect it would handle emulation well enough. It would be convenient for that purpose, and cheap. It does require a boot disc (although I think there are ways of modifying the bios to use without disc, not something the typical gamer could do).

I do have a GDEMU, which is pretty awesome, plays pretty much anything (and no boot disc required, as it literally replaces the disc drive).
I really have no regrets buying one and has given new life to my Dreamcast.

USB-GDROM is very good too, from what I understand (in some ways better, more storage options).

As many already know, they are both pricey and hard to get a hold of.
The old adage is true enough, "you get what you pay for".

Re: Dreamcast SD Card Readers - Questions/Thoughts?

Posted: Mon May 09, 2016 6:53 pm
by Jagosaurus
Ahhh nice. I remember seeing those & a similar product for the 3do. Guess I'll wait until they're more readily available.

Will look up some reviews & videos.