The MiSTer FPGA project is once again pushing the boundaries of retro hardware accuracy. Soon, it will be possible for MiSTer to output RGB, S-Video, and composite video (CVBS) at the same time, just like an original console could. This advancement builds on the excellent YC video code originally developed by MikeS, with further contributions from Porkshop Express and final refinements by MiSTer’s maintainer, Sorgelig.
Traditionally, users needed external converters to generate S-Video or composite video from MiSTer. While this worked, composite suffered from familiar issues such as dot crawl. The new update solves that by sending a “chroma subcarrier” signal over the Vsync pin into RGB-to-NTSC converters, effectively eliminating dot crawl and providing cleaner output. Even better, MiSTer will now be able to handle both RGB and YC video at the same time, a first for the platform. Previous implementations only allowed for one or the other. This update moves the heavy lifting of YC generation from the FPGA itself to external converters, offering more flexibility and a closer experience to original hardware.
New I/O Board
This new feature requires new IO boards and external converters currently in development, so it won’t work with existing setups. Sorgelig has already integrated the code into MiSTer’s framework, but every core needs to be updated to support it, meaning it will take some time before the feature becomes widespread. For those preparing to test the feature in the future, here’s a sample of what the mister.ini settings will look like:
composite_sync=1
vga_mode=rgb
subcarrier=1
forced_scandoubler=0
direct_video=0Accurate analog video output is an essential part of preserving the feel of retro consoles. By offering simultaneous RGB, S-Video, and composite, MiSTer takes another step closer to matching original hardware, giving enthusiasts multiple authentic display options without needing to swap cables or adapters.