Model 2 Sanyo Board Saturn Modchip Installation Guide

This model is not very difficult to work on. The technique is the same as other model 2 Saturns with an extra step or two. The main problem with the system will be getting it to work. For whatever reason some people have been successful while others have not. This is probably the most unlikely Saturn version to work with the current Mods available.

This guide assumes that you have already opened up your Saturn and know which model you have. If one or both of these is not true for you and you do not know how to proceed please read the Introduction

Tools needed:

  • Philips head screw driver
  • Solder and Soldering Iron
  • File
  • Cutting tool
Sega Saturn Modchip Step 1: Identifying the Modchip

Your first step should be to identify key points on your Modchip You also need to decide what method you would like to use.

You can use the A+B method or optionally try soldering signal wire A to a solder pad on the BOTTOM of the CD board. The pad has a lead that goes to pin 7 on a nearby Sanyo Chip. This method seems to definitly work on Japanese Saturns but not much progress has been made on US consoles.

 

 

 

 

 

Sega Saturn Modchip A+B method Step 2: A+B method.

If you have a Japanese Saturn you cannot use this method, move onto step 3 for instructions. To do the A+B method you simply solder signal wire A to point B on the Modchip. Alternativly you can completely remove the signal wire and create a solder bridge between the two points. The solder bridge is probably a better way to go because it just eliminates possible future problems. Its important to note that on Sanyo Saturns the A+B method does not always work. I recommend trying this method first though, read step 3 for more information.

Solder Bridge (Image courtesy of Mike G at Sega Xtreme)

Step 3: Alternative to A+B method.

If you have done the A+B method, then you can skip over this step however it may not be possible to use the A+B method with all Sanyo Saturns. The following method is to my knowledge fairly untested on US and Euro consoles. It will not damage your system but there is not a guarantee it will work. You need to remove the CD drive from the console (simply disconnect any power inputs and slide it off the posts) and turn it upside down. Locate the Sanyo chip and trace pin 7 to a place that has easy access to solder Signal wire A to.

Again this method is not documented well, and I currently do not have any pictures to help you out. Its worth a try if the A+B method doesnt work.

PC Trap Board (Image courtesy of Mike G at Sega Xtreme) Step 4: Installing the chip. (Part 1 of 2)

You first need to identify the PC Trap Board

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now unscrew the PC trap board and cut the bracket that is holding it in place as indicated by the image. This is neccessary to make room to allow the chip to fit into the Saturn Motherboard without interference from the bracket.

 

 

Chip Installed / 5v Power. (Image courtesy of Mike G at Sega Xtreme) Step 4: Installing the chip. (Part 2 of 2)

Now that the chip has been prepared, unplug the 21 pin ribbon cable from the Saturn motherboard and plug it into the Modchip, then firmly push the modchip into the slot on the saturn motherboard (with component side facing toward the CD Board). As indicated by the red arrow, points on the chip are very close to coming into contact with the metal shielding of the Saturn. For this reason it may be neccessary to to cut away some of the shielding to prevent any shorts on your chip.

If your chip refuses to go in you can file down the edges of connector to get a better fit. In some instances this is the only way to get the chip to make correct contact in the slot for a successful mod.

 

Then take the 5v power wire and insert it into the second from the last point on your power board as shown. (Put in the second regaurdless of how many pins your board has)

Step 5: Finalizing Installation

Just check over everything and insure you have everything connected properly. Examine your installation against the image to see if everything visually checks out. Put the top back on the saturn (dont put the screws back in) and hook everything back up and try out a burned game. If everything works correctly then you can put the 5 screws back in the bottom and go on enjoying your saturn! If its not working right, see the troubleshooting section.

Installation Complete. (Image courtesy of Mike G at Sega Xtreme)

Credits: All images courtesy of Mike G at Sega Xtreme and his original Sanyo Guide. The point (A) to point (B) (A+B) connection was discovered by Mal at the Sega Xtreme forums.

Disclaimer:I take no responsibility for any damages or harm that you may bring to yourself or your Sega Saturn Console by making the above modifications. All laws concerning the use of these chips and the back-up games they allow you to play are to be followed and I take no responsibility for any trouble you could bring upon yourself.