NDS/FlashME (NDS Guide)
From Dev-Scene
[edit] Nintendo DS firmware replacement (a.k.a. FlashME)
What is FlashME?
FlashME is a replacement modified firmware for the Nintendo DS. Designed by Loopy and Firefly.
This new passthrough method allows for the execution of unofficially developed homebrew programs without the use of a PassME-based passthrough.
- V5 : The firmware is recompressed to leave space for WiFi reserved data. (Make sure you upgrade before running WIFI enabled games or it will temporary brick your DS)
- The button combination A+B+X+Y, gamecode "PASS" or title "DSBooter" on the GBA cartridge automatically starts program from GBA cartridge (starting from offset 0xC0).
- Fail-safe feature: The first part of firmware is write-protected with the SL1 contact. In case malware erases the rest, you can still reinstall FlashMe from GBA cartridge by holding START+SELECT+A+B keys.
- Backlight fades in at startup.
- Effectively removes the health screen, making it less annoying to boot.
- Remove RSA signature check for Wireless MultiBooting (WMB) homebrew NDS files.
New Release: NDS-FW-V6. No SL1 shorting is needed if you have V5. Changes: Shows your old firmware version & fixed booting problems with with Darkain's MultiNDS and NeoFlash loaders (MK2/3).
In order to overwrite the first 512 bytes of the firmware, you must short circuit the write enable contacts (SL1). The SL1 contacts are located next to the battery under the square red and white sticker, which voids warranty if removed.
The DS card must be kept in the DS port in order to have the automatic pause system (when the console is closed) to work.
What is FlashME stealth?
After you installed FlashME, the DS will have no health screen, so you can see if the DS is flashed or not. If you don't want this, you can use FlashME stealth. This version of FlashME will let you boot homebrew etc. but it keeps the health screen.
Can I use FlashME on my DS lite?
Sure, but be carefull while shortening SL1: there is a screw near the SL1, if you touch that screw, the DS will turn off (and perhaps burn a fuse). If you're lucky, you can reflash the DS with the fail-save feature, if not, you made a brick. You should use a FlashME for the lite, because only with this you can change the screen lightness level.