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Polprzewodnikowy/SummerCart64

Free

SummerCart64 - a fully open source N64 flashcart

FreeFree tier
Type
Open Source

About Polprzewodnikowy/SummerCart64

SummerCart64 is a fully open-source Nintendo 64 flash cartridge that allows playing ROMs and homebrew on original N64 hardware. It features 64 MiB SDRAM for game and save data (supporting all retail games without compromise), 16 MiB FLASH memory for bootloader and extended game data, and automatic save type detection with writeback to SD card (EEPROM 4k/16k, SRAM, FlashRAM). Additional features include 64DD add-on emulation, battery-backed real-time clock, a dedicated open-source menu (N64FlashcartMenu), USB interface for data transfer and debugging, UNFLoader support, IS-Viewer 64 debug interface, UltraCIC_C emulation with automatic region switching, and N64 bootloader with IPL3 spoofing. The cartridge is programmable via UART or JTAG/SWD and comes with a 3D-printable shell design. Development resources include a PC app, build guide, memory map, and active community support through the N64brew Discord.

Key Features

On-board 64 MiB SDRAM memory for game and save data (supports every retail game without compromise)
16 MiB FLASH memory for bootloader and extended game data (supports ROMs up to 78 MiB)
Automatic save writeback to SD card for EEPROM 4k/16k, SRAM, and FlashRAM (no reset button required)
64DD add-on emulation
Battery backed real time clock (RTC)
Dedicated open source menu (N64FlashcartMenu)
~23.8 MiB/s peak transfer rate SD card interface
USB interface for data upload/download and debug functionality
PC app for game/save upload/download, feature enable control, debug terminal, SD access, and firmware update
UNFLoader support

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Fully open-source (both hardware and software) allowing customization and modification
  • Supports all retail N64 games without compromise due to large memory
  • Comprehensive save type support with automatic and seamless writeback
  • Includes advanced debugging features (UNFLoader, IS-Viewer, USB debug terminal)
  • Active community support via N64brew Discord
  • 3D-printable shell design for easy enclosure
Cons
  • Requires advanced electronics knowledge for assembly and initial programming
  • Not a plug-and-play product; boards come unprogrammed and require separate component sourcing
  • Price of components not included in initial PCB order; additional costs may apply
  • Documentation assumes familiarity with electronics and N64 hardware

Best For

Playing N64 game ROMs and homebrew on original hardwareGame development and debugging with USB interface and debug toolsN64 hardware preservation and reverse engineeringRunning custom software and N64 homebrew projectsLearning about N64 flashcart design and embedded systems

FAQ

How do I get a SummerCart64?
The most up-to-date information about purchasing/manufacturing options is available on the summercart64.dev website. You can also order PCBs directly from PCBWay using the shared project link, but be aware that boards come unprogrammed and require initial programming.
What is the memory capacity?
The SummerCart64 has 64 MiB of SDRAM for game and save data, plus 16 MiB of FLASH memory for bootloader and extended data. With extended memory, it can support game ROMs up to 78 MiB.
What save types are supported?
EEPPROM 4k/16k, SRAM, and FlashRAM save types are supported with automatic writeback to the SD card—no reset button press required.
Is there a menu or user interface?
Yes, there is a dedicated open-source menu called N64FlashcartMenu written specifically for this flashcart.
Can I use it for game development?
Yes, the USB interface provides data upload/download, a debug terminal, and UNFLoader support, making it suitable for N64 game development and debugging.