asciiPad controller with Thrust+

[Sydtech]

I've been using a Sega Genesis-compatible asciiPad joypad with my Atari 2600 for years...I originally got these to replace the Atari PainLine controllers that shipped with the Atari 7800. These things work really well on the 2600, for the most part, but a couple of games don't like the asciiPad. I just got a copy of Thrust+, and unfortunately it doesn't work with the asciiPad controller.

 

Does anyone happen to know how to re-wire an asciiPad so it's 100% Atari joystick-compatible?

[Sydtech]

Anyone? Anyone?

[Armonigann]

Though, I have no idea why you would want to use the Ascii for the 2600, I'm sure someone here could direct you to the correct mod.

[+SpiceWare]

Button C of genesis compatible game pads can be read by the Atari.

 

Thrust+ supports the Booster Grip that came with Omega Race.

 

However, Button C works the opposite of the buttons on the Booster Grip so Thrust+ thinks you're constantly holding down the button when you are not.

 

While you can modify the gamepad, I'd suggest not as other games are available that can use the second button such as these hacks. Use a Harmony to play those.

Edited October 30, 2012 by SpiceWare

[Sydtech]

Actually, I like the gamepad-style controllers on the 2600 simply because they're a lot more comfortable. I specifically like the asciiPad vs. the stock Sega Genesis controller because it's thinner; the SG controller feels "fat".

 

This controller works for the majority of 2600 games, but certain games (Thrust+, for example) don't work with it.

 

Some my next question: can anyone recommend some sort of easy-to-do / simple hardware hack that will disable all the extra stuff on the SG/asciiPad controller and make it functionally equivalent to a standard 2600 joystick controller?

 

Or better yet, make it the functional equivalent of the Atari CX78 two-button joypad (the one that came with the 7800 in Europe)? That seems to work well with Thrust+ (and everything else), but I find it too small for my hands.

 

Thanks.

Edited October 30, 2012 by Sydtech

[Sydtech]

Nevermind! You just need to disconnect pin 5 in the Sega-compatible controller and "Bob's your uncle":

 

http://www.atariage....ost__p__2058974

 

Just did this, and it works like a champ - no need to hold down the middle button when firing up my Harmony cartridge, and Thrust+ works like a champ with the asciiPad now.

Edited October 30, 2012 by Sydtech

[Thomas Jentzsch]

Glad it worked for you.