Maximum Retro console

I am an engineering student and maker seeking sponsorship from PCBWay for my latest project: a custom retro gaming console. The device, built around a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, is designed for high-performance emulation of systems like PSP, PSX, and Nintendo DS. This project is a testament to meticulous design and engineering, and I believe a professionally fabricated PCB from PCBWay is the crucial next step to bring it to life

This project is a culmination of over 50 hrs of work. I've focused on meticulous design, from the physical button layout to the custom audio solution, to ensure a premium user experience.

What Makes This Project Unique?

My retro console stands out from other DIY projects due to several key design innovations:

• Cost-Effective Audio Solution: I've implemented a simple, sub-$1 PAM8403 amplifier instead of an expensive audio HAT. This provides excellent audio quality without adding significant cost or bulk, a major improvement over many budget-friendly retro consoles.
• PSP-Inspired Ergonomics: The console’s design and button layout are a direct tribute to the Sony PSP. It features 18-20 buttons, including essential L1/L2 and R1/R2 shoulder buttons placed on the top of the console. This configuration is optimized for precise emulation of PSP and other games.
• Integrated Touch Screen: The design incorporates a 3.5-inch touch screen LCD, which is essential for emulating the dual-screen gameplay of the Nintendo DS, greatly expanding the console's capabilities.

Design and Fabrication Process

My design process was carefully planned and executed using professional tools.

Schematic and PCB Design: The entire schematic and PCB layout were meticulously designed in EasyEDA. I iterated through multiple versions to achieve a compact and efficient layout that perfectly matches the ergonomic "PSP-like" form factor. This attention to detail ensures a clean, professional, and durable build.

PCB design

2D and 3D

Case Design: The custom enclosure was designed in Onshape. By modeling the case around the finished PCB, I was able to optimize the internal space for a perfect fit for all components. This iterative process allowed me to refine the case’s shape and button placement, ensuring the console is both functional and comfortable to hold.

Bill of Materials (BOM)

Components Needed:

1. High Quality Aluminium Heat Sink (x1) - $0.49
2. HP MicroSD U1 TF Card 64GB (x1) - $5.62
3. Raspberry Pi Zero 2W (x1) - $18.70
4. Tactile Push Button Switch Assorted Kit (x1) - $1.78
5. 3.5in Touch Screen LCD Display (x1) - $10.87
6. 4-Pins DIP Momentary Square Push Button (x1) - $0.21
7. 3.7V LiPo Batteries - BIS High Quality (x2) - $10.74
8. 2 Pin JST XH Male Right Angle Connector (x1) - $0.43
9. TP4056 Battery Charger C-Type Module (x1) - $0.23
10. MT3608 DC-DC Boost Module (x1) - $0.53
11. PAM8403 Digital Power Amplifier (x1) - $0.41
12. 2030 Cavity Speaker, 8Ω 2W (x1) - $3.59
13. Solder Wire 50gm (1mm) (x1) - $1.20
14. PCB Fabrication (pcbway) (x1) - $54.00
15. 3D Printing Services (x1) - $7.00
16. UNI-T UT33D+ Digital Multi-meter (x1) - $10.47
17. M3 10mm SS Screws (x1) - $1.00
18. M3 Nuts SS (x1) - $0.42
19. Hookup Wire (Stranded Assortment) (x1) - $1.79
20. 0.1mm Copper Soldering Wire (x1) - $0.30
21. 40x2 Female Berg Strip (x3) - $0.61
22. 40x2 Pin Male Berg Strip (x3) - $0.32
23. Desoldering Wick (x2) - $0.33
24. Noel Soldering Flux Paste 10gm (x1) - $0.26
25. Buffer for Price Increase/Stockout (x1) - $8.00
26. Shipping Fees (x1) - $3.00

Pre-owned Components (No Cost):

1. Heat Shrink Tubing (x1)
2. Desoldering Tool (Pump) (x1)
3. Soldering Iron (x1)
4. USB Cables (x1)
5. Precision Screwdrivers (x1)
6. Multi-screwdriver (x1)
7. Hot Glue Gun/Glue Sticks (x1)

Total Estimated Project Cost

Total (USD): $144.27

Why PCBWay?

I am requesting sponsorship from PCBWay because your reputation for quality, reliability, and support for the maker community is exactly what my project requires. While designing the PCB, I have been impressed by your seamless integration and the consistent, high-quality results showcased by your sponsored projects.

Sponsoring my project would be a perfect fit, as it highlights your services' ability to support detailed, complex designs for ambitious projects. My PSP-inspired retro console is more than just a hobby build; it is an optimized and refined piece of engineering. With your support, I can transform my meticulous design work into a professional, functional device that I will proudly showcase as a product of our collaboration. I am confident that a PCB fabricated by PCBWay is the crucial final piece to ensure this project’s success.

What You Get in Return

Your sponsorship is a partnership that will be prominently featured throughout my project's development and documentation. As a sponsor, you will receive:

• Prominent Brand Exposure: I will feature the PCBWay logo directly on my custom PCB and in all project documentation, including the final README and any build logs.
• High-Quality Visuals: I will provide you with high-resolution photos and videos of the completed console, which you can use for your own marketing and community showcases.