This document outlines the process for preparing, setting up, and testing a clean "desuicide" method for Capcom CPS2 arcade boards using an Arduino-based programmer. The guide covers the necessary hardware components, software setup, assembly instructions for the programmer, and detailed steps for desuiciding various CPS2 B board revisions.

Function Description:

The primary function of this device is to "desuicide" Capcom CPS2 arcade boards. CPS2 boards are known for a battery-backed security mechanism that, when the battery dies, renders the board inoperable (a state referred to as "suicided"). This guide provides a method to restore these boards to a functional state by reprogramming their security configuration using an Arduino programmer. The process involves connecting the Arduino programmer to specific pins on the CPS2 B board, uploading game configuration data, and then reassembling the board.

Usage Features:

The desuicide process is divided into several key stages:

Hardware Assembly:
- Arduino Programmer: An Arduino Uno is used as the core of the programmer, augmented with an LCD Keypad Shield. A 7-pin strip is soldered to the top-right socket of the LCD Keypad Shield, and the shield is then assembled onto the Arduino Uno.
- Cabling: Dupont cables (female-female and male-male) are used to connect the Arduino to the CPS2 board. Grabbers/clips (or a JST NH 6-pin connector) are utilized for making secure connections to the board's pins.
- Power Cable: A custom power cable is assembled by attaching two female Dupont ends to a female Molex power plug. This cable connects the CPS2 B board to an external 5-volt power supply (e.g., an arcade or ATX PC power supply).
Software Setup:
- The Arduino IDE software must be downloaded and installed on a computer.
- The ArcadeHacker_CPS2.ino Arduino program file is then opened within the Arduino environment.
- The Arduino is connected to the PC via USB, and the sketch is compiled and uploaded to the Arduino. Upon successful upload, the LCD Keypad Shield should display a boot sequence, indicating readiness.
Connecting the Arduino Programmer to the CPS2 B Board:
- Pin Identification: Specific digital pins (2, 3, 11, 12) and GND on the LCD Keypad Shield are identified and, if possible, labeled.
- Dupont Cable Connection: Dupont cables are connected from these identified Arduino pins to corresponding pins on the CPS2 B board's CN2 or CN9 interface, depending on the board revision.
  - For revisions 93646B-3 and 93646B-4, connections are made to CN2 (DATA to CN2 A32, SETUP1 to CN2 A30, CLOCK to CN2 A31, SETUP2 to CN2 A29, and GROUND to CN2 C32).
  - For revisions 93646B-5, 93646B-6, 93646B-7, and 97691A-3, connections are made to CN9 (DATA to CN9 #2, SETUP1 to CN9 #3, CLOCK to CN9 #4, SETUP2 to CN9 #5, and GND to CN9 #6).
- Power Connections: The custom power cable is connected to the CPS2 B board's CN7 power pins (+5V to CN7 A25, GND to CN7 A23, and GND to CN7 B23). For revisions 93646B-6, 93646B-7, and 97691A-3, the +5V connects to CN9 #1, and GND connects to the existing Arduino grabber. For revision 93646B-5, power connects to CN7 A23, B23 (GND) and A25 (+5). The Molex connector is then connected to the external power supply (which should be off initially).
Desuicide Procedure:
- Ensure the CPS2 A and B boards are disconnected from each other.
- Turn on the external power supply connected to the CPS2 B board.
- Power up the Arduino programmer by plugging its USB cable into a USB power source (e.g., a computer).
- Follow the on-screen instructions on the LCD Keypad Shield to select the desired game configuration and upload it. The up/down/right/left buttons on the shield are used to navigate through the game options.
- Once programmed, disconnect power to the Arduino programmer, then switch off the main power supply to the CPS2 B board.
- Disconnect all Arduino and power supply wires from the PCB.
- Reassemble the CPS2 A and B boards together and test for functionality.

Maintenance Features:

Battery Replacement: The guide emphasizes the importance of checking the battery voltage on the CPS2 B board. If needed, the battery should be replaced with a fresh spare, and a battery holder can be fitted for easier future replacements. This is a crucial maintenance step to prevent the board from "suiciding" again.
Troubleshooting: If the desuicide process is unsuccessful, the user is advised to review their setup carefully before attempting a new keyload. This suggests that connections and software configuration are critical and should be re-verified if issues arise.
Board Revision Identification: The document provides visual aids and specific pinout instructions for different CPS2 B board revisions (93646B-3, 93646B-4, 93646B-5, 93646B-6, 93646B-7, and 97691A-3). Correctly identifying the board revision is essential for making the right connections and ensuring the desuicide process is applied appropriately.
Case Opening: For most CPS2 B boards, a Torx Security T20 screwdriver head is required to open the plastic case. However, it notes that this does not apply to the 97961A-3 "all in one black" revision, implying different opening procedures for that specific model.
Component Sourcing: The guide includes links to various components required for the programmer and the CPS2 board itself, such as Arduino Uno, LCD Keypad Shield, pin strips, Dupont cables, grabbers, Torx screwdriver sets, 3.6V batteries, and battery cases. This facilitates the acquisition of necessary parts for both initial setup and potential replacements.

Capcom CPS2 - Page 11

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