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Repair & Schematics
Dreamcast

Region Change (Dreamcast)

4min

The region information of a Dreamcast is stored in the Flash Mask ROM (IC502).

Dreamcast BIOS and ROM
Dreamcast BIOS and ROM
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In order to reprogram the Flash ROM you need to burn a disc with the Dreamcast Region Changer image (using ImgBurn with the Dreamcast Drivers), or place the image on a GDEmu to run it.

Dreamcast Region Changer (dcrc1.5).cdi
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imgburn.zip
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Allowing Flash Write

In order to enable writing of the Flash Mask ROM, you need to pull R512 resistor to the 12V rail.

Dreamcast Flash Enable Resistor
Dreamcast Flash Enable Resistor
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Dreamcast Flash Enable Resistor
Dreamcast Flash Enable Resistor
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Changing Region

Insert the Dreamcast Region Changer CD (or run the image from GDEmu).

It is as simple as selecting the region, format and language, then selecting Write.

Dreamcast Region Changer
Dreamcast Region Changer
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To confirm it worked, click Read and check it does not update back to the old region.

Once done, click Restart, then turn off the console and the remove the R512 wire. Leaving this on could accidentally re-write the Flash ROM, or overheat it according to some reports.

Auto 50/60Hz Fix (R422)

On top of a region free BIOS, you also need to locate the test pad labelled R422 and bridge it. This tells the Dreamcast to listen to the games region (50/60Hz) and switch to that frequency.

If you do not bridge this, some games will run shifted down on the screen or black and white.

The pad is located near the AV port on the back.

Document image
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Updated 24 Oct 2023
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Allowing Flash Write
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Auto 50/60Hz Fix (R422)
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