For those not familiar with Unijoysticle 2, it is a device that allows you to use modern Bluetooth gamepads like Sony DualSense or Nintendo Switch controllers (to name just a few) on old computers like the Commodore 64 or Amiga.
What’s new in version 2+:
- Case friendly: lower profile, LEDs & buttons are close the border and has mounting holes.
- Looks nicer: Uses SMD components for almost everything
- Supports buttons 2 & 3 in port #2. Some Amiga games might use them.
- Cheaper to manufacture. I reduced the price from $60 to $35
Comparison between the two
| Feature | Unijoysticle 2 | Unijoysticle 2+ |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Case friendly | No (1) | Yes |
| Size | 63 x 66 x 17 mm | 64 x 64 x 12 mm |
| Weight | 35 grams | 24 grams |
| Current | ~95 mA (2) | ~100 mA (2) |
| Amiga / Atari ST 2nd & 3rd buttons | No | Yes (3) |
| Filter noise in C128 ( bug) | No | Yes |
| Self-powered | Yes, can be turned on/off with switch | Yes, always on |
| External power | Both USB and Barrel Jack | 5V+USB only |
| Easy to solder | Yes | No |
| Price | $60 (assembled) / $35 (kit) | $35 (assembled) |
Notes:
- 1: Work-around: turn off the “self power” switch.
- 2: Tested with only one gamepad connected in “Basic” mode. In “Enhanced” mode, both draw ~102 mA.
- 3: Requires firmware update. Work in progress.
The rationale behind the changes
Barrel Jack removed: It was no longer needed. It was added in the first revision of Unijoysticle 2 because “self-power” was not supported back then. But I added “self-power” in Rev. D, and the Barrel Jack was no longer needed. In case a user needs to power the device from an external source, the USB port can be used.
Self-power switch removed: I originally added this feature as a “just in case”. And in fact, it fixes the “C128 noise” when the switch is off. In any case, a capacitor was added in Unijoysticle 2+ to prevent to noise, so the switch was no longer needed.
Case friendly: Many users requested a case for the Unijoysticle 2. I tried to design one, but it was not easy and I gave up. But it should be easier to design one for the 2+. BTW, I haven’t designed one yet… but I should have one ready soon™.
Kit vs assembled unit: I’m only offering the Unijoysticle 2+ as an assembled unit. Doesn’t make sense to offer a kit where most of the components are SMD.
Price : The new price for the assembled unit is $35 (from $60), and I’m no longer offering the Kit (which was $35). This is two-fold:
- Time (main reason): I’m using JLCPCB for manufacturing + assembly. This reduces the time that I have to spend on each unit.
- Components price: SMD components are slightly cheaper than through-hole ones. But on the other hand I’m using a 4-layer PCB which increases the price a little bit.
Tindie: To further reduce my time, I’m using Tindie as the store-front. Better for the users (don’t have to send me an email), better for me (spend less time).
This that hasn’t changed
Open source / open hardware
- Firmware source code: http://github.com/ricardoquesada/bluepad32
- Hardware schematic + layout: https://github.com/ricardoquesada/unijoysticle2
Not only I’m making everything open source & open hardware so that you can create your own device, but I also welcome “competition”. If you want to sell your own devices, please go ahead. All the profit is for you. Just let me know so that I can add your product in the “3rd party devices” section.
Available for trade
I trade a Unijoysticle 2+ unit for one of your own retro inventions / creations. It works like this:
- I send you a Unijoysticle 2+ device (I pay the shipping)
- You send me one of your retro inventions/creations (you pay the shipping)
- It could be a magazine, video game, device, etc… (must be retro-related)