project_B is an ongoing effort to create and share methodology for creating B0XX like controllers/firmware in a “do-it-yourself” manner.

I post build logs of my DIYB0XXes on this GitHub repository.

I post firmware for digital controllers on this GitHub repository.

My first DIYB0XX was my first time soldering, first time building a case, and first time using an Arduino. Looking back on it, it’s very amateurish, and there is a lot that I would do differently now, but it was a good starting point for what was to come. It was also one of the first documented DIYB0XX builds, which you can find here.

Shortly after making my first DIYB0XX, I wanted to improve upon many aspects of it. The permanently attached GameCube cable bothered me, I didn’t like how the case felt due to my lack of wood finishing skills, and it was too thick; just to name a few.

I found a prefabricated aluminum chassis that was much thinner, and used CAD software and a laser cutting service to get a top panel with a nice finish and clean button holes. I then figured out how to utilize Neutrik RJ45 connectors to make a custom detachable GameCube controller cable, and explained the process in this guide.

For fun, I decided to put a GameCube to USB adapter in the controller so that the controller could be more easily used on the Nintendo Switch, and I cut holes in the side of the case to allow other controllers to plug into the remaining 3 ports of the adapter.

This controller became a test bench for my project_C RJ45 variant which can be seen above.

A Build Log can be found here.

I found the more cramped layout of my 2nd DIYB0XX to be a bit uncomfortable, so I decided to go all out making the best controller I could.

I returned to a wood case, but this time I made it from laser cut layers to give me a more fine control over the thickness. I also did research on finishing wood and came across a method that resulted in a very smooth finish after many hours of sanding, prepping, staining, and sealing.

I decided to try doing art beneath the top panel and buttons for the first time as well, and it came out better than I had expected.

Internally, I used my newest PCB at the time, project_C, and I had to work out just the right places for all the parts so everything would fit.

This controller remains one of my favorites among all of my controllers shown on this website. The only change I’d like to make which I probably will in the future is to upgrade the switches from Sanwa SW68 to a keyboard switch, and to swap my newer project_S circuit board into it.

A Build Log can be found here.