Setting up the openFPGA side of the Analogue Pocket (the easy way). There are different ways to go but in this guide we want to look at the easiest way possible.
Introduction
This document provides a comprehensive, step-by-step procedure for the initial setup and configuration of the Analogue Pocket handheld gaming device. The guide focuses on firmware updates, the installation of openFPGA cores, and the integration of game files to ensure full functionality. Adherence to these instructions will facilitate a seamless and efficient setup process.
Section 1: Prerequisites
Before commencing the setup process, ensure the following components are available:
A High-Quality Micro SD Card: It is imperative to use a Micro SD card from a reputable manufacturer (e.g., Samsung, SanDisk). The use of unreliable media may result in data corruption or operational failure. A minimum capacity of 64GB is advised, with larger card being the recommended capacity for extensive game libraries (especially if you want lots of PC-Engine CD games).
A Personal Computer: The procedures outlined utilize the Windows operating system. However, some of the specified tools are also available for macOS and Linux.
A Micro SD Card Reader: A device for interfacing the Micro SD card with the personal computer is required.
It is possible to complete most of these preparatory steps without physical access to the Analogue Pocket itself.
Section 2: Firmware and Core Installation Procedure
The recommended method for updating the device firmware and installing openFPGA cores is using a dedicated updater tool. This guide specifies the use of “Pupdate” by Matt Panella for its reliability and feature set.
Format the Micro SD Card: The Micro SD card must be formatted to the exFAT file system. This format is critical for accommodating large files, such as those required for the Amiga core (AmigaVision) and certain CD-based game systems.
Download Pupdate: Procure the latest version of the Pupdate application from its official repository, ensuring you select the correct version for your operating system. Extract the contents of the downloaded archive and transfer the pupdate.exe to the root directory of the Micro SD card.
Link to Pupdate
https://github.com/mattpannella/pupdate
Other updaters
https://github.com/neil-morrison44/pocket-sync
https://github.com/RetroDriven/Pocket_Updater
Execute Pupdate: Run the Pupdate executable file from the Micro SD card.
Install openFPGA Cores: When prompted by the application, select to install new cores. It is recommended to select the option to “Update All” (typically option 0). This action will download and install all available openFPGA cores. Please be advised this is a time-intensive process, the first time you do it.
(Optional) Jotego Beta Access: For Patreon subscribers of the developer Jotego, the JT beta.zip file may be placed on the root of the Micro SD card to enable access to pre-release beta cores.
Section 3: Game File (ROM) Integration
Following the installation of the cores, user-provided game files may be added.
Navigate to the Asset Directory: On the Micro SD card, locate the assets directory.
Locate Core-Specific Folders: Within the assets directory, there are subdirectories corresponding to each installed system (e.g., SNES, NG, PCE).
Transfer Game Files: Within each system-specific folder is a common subdirectory. Game files (ROMs) must be placed within this common folder.
Decompress Files: It is essential that all game files are unzipped. The Analogue Pocket operating system does not possess the functionality to read compressed files (e.g., .zip, .7z). The required file extensions are specific to each system (e.g., .sfc for SNES, .pce for PC Engine).
Neo Geo Exception: For the Neo Geo system, the use of the “Darksoft” ROM set is required for compatibility.
Amiga Core Setup: The Amiga core requires a specific disk image. Download the “Amiga Vision” image file and place it within the assets/Amiga/common directory.
More information https://amiga.vision/
Section 4: System Customization and Enhancements
The Pupdate utility provides numerous options for system customization. By running the application and navigating to the “Pocket Setup” and “Pocket Extras” menus, users can perform the following actions:
Install Additional Assets: Download alternative core versions and unofficial game modifications (ROM hacks).
Enable PC Engine CD Functionality: Utilize the designated function to generate the necessary instance JSON files required for PC Engine CD game compatibility.
Install Platform Image Packs: Download artwork and branding for the openFPGA core menus to enhance the user interface.
Activate Additional Display Modes and Palettes: Download and enable a variety of visual filters, display modes, and Game Boy color palettes.
Convert GB Studio Games: Utilize the built-in tool to convert games created with GB Studio into the .pocket format. These converted files should then be moved to the GB Studio folder on the root of the Micro SD card.
Convert to .pocket here https://retropatcher.jonabrams.com/
Manual ROM File Generation for Arcade Cores
This advanced procedure is for users who wish to utilize arcade cores that are not yet supported by automated updaters.
Prerequisites: Download the mra.exe utility and the desired arcade core files.
https://github.com/sebdel/mra-tools-c/tree/master/release/windows
Identify ROM Name: Within the downloaded core’s folder structure, locate the .mra file. Open this file with a text editor and find the “set name” parameter to identify the exact filename of the required MAME ROM.
File Collation: Place the .mra file, the mra.exe utility, and the corresponding MAME ROM file (in .zip format) into a single directory.
Execution: Drag the .mra file and drop it onto the mra.exe executable. This action will generate a new .rom file.
Deployment: Transfer the newly created .rom file to the assets/[CoreName]/common directory on the Micro SD card. Copy the entire core folder structure to the root of the Micro SD card.
Community and Support Resources
Further assistance and information can be obtained from community-run platforms. The FPGA Gaming and Pixel Cherry Ninja Discord servers are notable for their active user bases and knowledgeable members. For development-specific inquiries, the Jotego JT FPGA server is recommended. A comprehensive list of all available openFPGA cores can be found at the OpenFPGA Core Inventory website.
OpenFPGA Core List
https://openfpga-library.github.io/analogue-pocket
Discord servers invite links
FPGAming
Pixel Cherry Ninja
Jotego
If you prefer a video guide, then please see the below from Pixel Cherry Ninja
images courtesy Analogue