R4i-SDHC released new kernel V1.43b for R4i SDHC 3DS

Please you choose to download the R4i SDHC 3DS language version of the kernel. Latest version: V1.43b. Updated Date:[2011-08-03]
R4i SDHC 3DS V1.43b Update:
1. Firmware upgrade to support DSi 1.4.3 (for products R4i SDHC V1.41,R4i SDHC V1.42, R4i SDHC 3DS).
2. Integrate firmware upgrade features. Goto config menu for firmware upgrading.
3. Fix display bug of Korean language.
4. Solved games:
 
5804 - Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (EU)
5798 - Brainstorm Series Treasure Chase (US)
5797 - The Sims 3 (US)
5796 - Kung Fu Panda 2 (US)
5795 - Devil Survivor 2 (JP)
5786 - Red Stone DS: Akaki Ishi ni Michibikareshi Monotachi (JP)
5785 - The Smurfs (US)
5782 - Nora to Koku no Koubou: Kiri no Mori no Majo (JP)
5780 - Petz Bunnyz Bunch (US)
5776 - Camp Rock: The Final Jam (US)
5769 - ATV Wild Ride (US)
5225 - Imagine: Resort Owner (EU)

English V1.43b 2011-08-03	Japanese V1.43b 2011-08-03	French V1.43b 2011-08-03
German V1.43b 2011-08-03	Italian V1.43b 2011-08-03	Spanish V1.43b 2011-08-03
Dutch V1.43b 2011-08-03	Korean V1.43b 2011-08-03	Portugese V1.43b 2011-08-03
Chinese Simplify V1.43b 2011-08-03	Chinese Traditional V1.43b 2011-08-03

Wood R4 V1.36 Is Released For R4i Gold

WOOD R4 Kernel V1.36 is available now, please download for your R4i gold card. (Aug 23, 2011)


WOOD R4 V1.36 is Released, please download the latest kernel for your R4i GOLD card (for Both R4i Gold 3DS and R4i gold Non-3DS cards).
Latest Version:V1.36 Updated Date:[Aug 23, 2011]
Download: [Click here]


The R4i Cartridge is the current top-of-the-line in SLOT-1 carts
It is just an amazing little device like original cart size,it is acomplete solution with on need to purchase any additional components or deal with any messy software and truly the easiest media enhancer you have ever done;To simplyy put it, this is a must have peripheral for any regular lite/i host.(Limited to back up your copyright related copyright related content. Not used for illegal purposes.The resulting dispute has nothing to do with the company)

How To Make R4i Gold 3DS Work On DSi 1.4.3

Question:
I have purchased an R4i Gold 3DS card, but it's not working on my NDSi (V 1.4.3).  When I click on the card Icon on my ndsi it goes and shows "LOADING ......" and doesn't come back. Can you please tell me whether this needs any UPGRADE?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
R4shops Team Reply:
You might need to do a V1.43 patch (ftp://r4idsdown:r4idsdown@www.r4ids.co.cc/V143_Patch_R4iGold_3DS.rar) first for your card, see details here:


You should get a NDSL console (borrow one from others if you don't have one) and one any other flashcard(called "A" -like R4, TT, AK2, M3 or SupperDS two..)), which works properly on NDSL.


1.Download the latest WOOD R4 firmware from www.r4ids.cn and unzip it to the root directory of your tf card;
2.Copy V143_Patch_R4iGold3DS_NDSL.nds to your tf card;
3.You should get a NDSL;
4.Just power your NDSL on and boot up V143_Patch_R4iGold3DS_NDSL.nds with "A" card;
5.Take "A" card out of the NDSL;
6.Reinsert your broken R4i Gold 3DS card into the NDSL;
7.Press KEY_A and the updating process will begin;
8.You should keep your NDSL powered on during the updating process;
9.IF the result shows SUCCESS, it means you have updated your R4i Gold 3DS successfully and this card can work on DSi V1.4.3 and 3DS 2.1.0-4;


You can also take a look at:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upbgDFoz14A

Nintendo 3DS System Update 2.1.0-3E now available

Having tried to access the Nintendo eShop this morning, I’ve received a prompt to download the latest Nintendo 3DS system update which has seemingly gone live overnight.

This is a mandatory update for those wishing to continue using online services such as the Nintendo eShop in any case, and addresses the screen freezing issues in Ridge Racer 3D caused by last week’s update.

Details are as follows:

Nintendo 3DS Menu 2.1.0-3U
If you currently have update version 2.0.0-2U, this update provides:
* Further improvements to overall system stability and other minor adjustments to enhance user experience,
* A correction for the screen freeze symptom experienced in the Ridge Racer 3D game,
* You can receive automatic updates when a wireless internet connection is available. When the download is complete, you will receive a dialog on the HOME Menu detailing the steps to install the update.

If you have not completed the update released on June 6, version 2.0.0-2U, this update will add the following new features:
* Nintendo eShop,
* Internet Browser,
* Transfer functionality to move DSiWare™ from Nintendo DSi™/Nintendo DSi XL™ systems to the Nintendo 3DS™ system,
* Automatic system updates,
* Improved stability and performance of the overall system.

Resource:  http://www.nintendo-universe.co.uk/2011/06/16/nintendo-3ds-system-update-2-1-0-3e-now-available/

Get R4 3DS, please visit: R4shops.com

DSTWO & DSONEi released new kernel for 3DS V2.0.0

DSONEi Unlimited Upgrade&Support 1.4.2&1.43c DSi & 3DS

2011-06-10
Upgrade fireware to support NDSi ver1.42/ver1.41,iDSI V1.43c and 3DS ver1.1.0-1 ver2.0.

Firmware v1.12 support for 3ds v2.0

Update: 2011-6-9
1.12 firmware upgrade support for the 3ds v2.0 system
Important: Please make sure the power is enough! And don't do anything unnecessary!
p.s. We are working on new version fireware of DSONEi, please wait.

How to use:
copy the dstwoupdate.dat file to the root of microsd card, then upgrade it.
We suggest you to upgrade it on a DS console or never upgraded console.

Download：
http://down.supercard.sc/download/dstwo/Firmware/Firmware_v1.12_eng.zip
Firmware v1.12 support for 3ds v2.0(06-10) Download
1.12 firmware upgrade support for the 3ds v2.0 system
Important: Please make sure the power is enough! And don't do anything unnecessary!

How to use: copy the dstwoupdate.dat file to the root of microsd card, then upgrade it. We suggest you to upgrade it on a DS console or never upgraded console.

How to Update R4i SDHC 3DS to work on V2.0.0-2(U, E,J,A)

Does R4i-sdhc work on new nintendo 3ds software v.2.0?

YES.  Lastet R4i SDHC 3DS Kernel Version v1.40b   Support N3DS V2.0.0 firmware upgrade ,so now R4i sdhc 3ds flashcart Support for 3DS 2.0.0-2.here are news from www.r4i-sdhc.com that R4i-SDHC 3DS card supports Nintendo 3DS system V2.0.0-2U, V2.0.0-2E, V2.0.0-2J and V2.0.0-2A.  

New R4i 3DS Software Kernel and Firmware Update released,This update will make your R4i 3DS card compatible with the latest Nintendo v2.0.0.-2E firmware release.How to Update R4i-SDHC 3DS flash card for N3DS V2.0.0 ?pls follow r4i 3ds blog(blog.eobags.com) guide to update r4i sdhc 3ds.
Before you begin this Update we would recommend that you backed up any files from your micro SD card to ensure you do not lose them during the update process.
You will require following to begin -

• · A DS Console which is running firmware v1.1.0-1E or earlier – You can use any DS or DS lite OR a DSi or DSi XL

 o Please note  - as far as we understand  the R4i 3DS upgrade cannot be made on a DSi/DSi XL console that has been upgraded to the new Nintendo firmware v1.4.2 or a 3DS console that has been upgraded to the new Nintendo firmware  v2.0.0.-2E (we will be investigating this further with the manufacturer to confirm this)

• · R4i 3DS card
• · Micro SD card
• · Micro SD USB Card Reader

1. Download the software and firmware patch
The latest Software Kernel and Firmware Update is now available for you via the download link in your order history within your account.
Login to your eobags.com account using your login details
Download the latest version of software from the eobags.com website by logging into your account and selecting your Order History, click the Order Details button on the order that contains your DS card and click on the Software link. This will download a zip file onto your PC, extract the contents of the zip file onto your PC in a memorable place.
Insert your Micro SD card into your Card Reader and make sure that your Micro SD card is blank. If your Micro SD card has data on it please delete the data or Format the card (with FAT32 file system).
Please use the SD association card formatter rather than a windows format, please see the following link for this: http://www.sdcard.org/consumers/formatter/ (please make sure to set “Format Size Adjustment” to ON in the OPTION menu) If you do use the windows formatter ensure it is set to “FAT32″ and use the default size allocation. Ensure a FULL Format is completed and not a QUICK Format.
From the extracted files in step 1, copy all of the files/folders onto the root of your Micro SD card.
Remove the Micro SD from your PC and make sure all terminals on the micro SD and R4i card are clean and free from dust (gently blow into the slot of the R4i card where the micro SD is inserted to clear any possible dust from this opening).
Insert the micro SD card into the R4i card and make sure that it is seated correctly.

r4i sdhc kernel 1.40b Download(English)
V2.0 upgrading programs
2. Flashing your R4i 3DS card
Using a console which is running on software version v1.1.0-1E or earlier complete the next step of the update process
**It is IMPORTANT that you plug your console into your mains charger before commencing this update**
Powering off during this process could damage your R4i card permanently.
Insert your R4i 3DS card into your DS with the latest version of R4i OS software installed only.
Using a DSi or DSi XL please select the “Disney/Pixar Finding Nemo Escape to the Big Blue THQ” icon to enter your R4i home screen.

Select the GAME or MULTIMEDIA icon on the R4i Home Screen


Select the fwupv20a.nds file –


This will open the file to enable you to begin “Flashing” your R4i 3DS card
(the flashing process updates the software programmed on the R4i itself and is separate to the kernel update)

Press “A” to begin the update –


This update will take a few minutes. You will be able to track the progress on the bottom section of the screen.
Once the update has completed you will be able to power off your console –


3. Finally check that the update has been successfull
Now that your R4i card has been successfully updated you will be able to use it in a DSi or DSi Xl console that is running the latest firmware v.2.0.0.-2E
To check this select the Spanner icon on the home screen –


The software version currently installed on your concole can be seen on the top screen in the bottom right hand corner -


You will be able to see instantly if the “flashing” has been successful, the “Disney/Pixar Finding Nemo Escape to the Big Blue THQ” icon will have changed to “Chessmaster Ubisoft Entertainment” –

CONGRATULATIONS!!!
You can now start putting all of your own personal files back onto the root directory of your micro SD card!

If after following this update/flashing guide you are still having problems, please login to your eobags.com account and contact us describing the process you have followed and the error messages/ issues you are having.

How to update AK2i to 3DS 2.0.0-2 and DSi 1.4.2?

Two days ago, Nintendo 3DS released the new firmware 2.0.0-2 , and Ak2i team has released the update patch for it at the same time , the new update also make the ak2i work for DSi V1.4.2 ,How to update ak2i for 3DS 2.0.0-2 and DSi 1.4.2, R4shops.com guide How to update Acekard 2i for 3DS V2.0?
AK2i update for 3DS V2.0 and DSi V1.4.2
This update support 3DS2.0 and DSi1.4.2. Please refer to readme file in the package. AK2i of HWID44 can be updated this time too. But AK2i of HWID44 can’t be recognized after using power button to reset console. You need power off console and turn it on again.
Please [download it here].
And here is the Read me file
This update support 3DS 2.0 and DSi1.4.2. Please refer to readme file in the package. AK2i of HWID44 can be updated this time too. But AK2i of HWID44 can’t be recognized after using power button to reset console. You need power off console and turn it on again.
Please choose update file according to your console. If you’re using DSi or DSXL please use ak2ifw_update_3ds_v2_DSi. nds to update. I f you’re using DSL or DSPhat please use ak2ifw_update_3ds_v2_DSL. nds to update.
Just follow the instructions after you run the update file.
This is a good news for acekard users, especially for the DSI V1.4.2 users because they are waiting for long…
Notice: If your 3DS has updated to V2.0.0-2 , you must borrow a DS/DSi to update it,do not use V2.0 3DS console do the update.
1.Download the AK2i kernel and ak2ifw_update_3ds_v2_DSi1 42.zip patch
2.Put the files in your SD card (TF card ). Notice : choose the appropriate file for your DS or DSi
3.Insert the Ak2i and SD card into your DS console and power on!
4.When the screen shows AK2i UI , just follow the update steps and finish it .
5 Done!

DSTWO & DSONEi released new kernel for 3DS V2.0

DSONEi Unlimited Upgrade&Support 1.4.2&1.43c DSi & 3DS

2011-06-10
Upgrade fireware to support NDSi ver1.42/ver1.41,iDSI V1.43c and 3DS ver1.1.0-1 ver2.0.

Firmware v1.12 support for 3ds v2.0

Update: 2011-6-9
1.12 firmware upgrade support for the 3ds v2.0 system
Important: Please make sure the power is enough! And don't do anything unnecessary!
p.s. We are working on new version fireware of DSONEi, please wait.

How to use:
copy the dstwoupdate.dat file to the root of microsd card, then upgrade it.
We suggest you to upgrade it on a DS console or never upgraded console.

Download：
http://down.supercard.sc/download/dstwo/Firmware/Firmware_v1.12_eng.zip
Firmware v1.12 support for 3ds v2.0(06-10) Download
1.12 firmware upgrade support for the 3ds v2.0 system
Important: Please make sure the power is enough! And don't do anything unnecessary!

How to use: copy the dstwoupdate.dat file to the root of microsd card, then upgrade it. We suggest you to upgrade it on a DS console or never upgraded console.

M3i Zero released new firmware for Nintendo 3DS V2.0.0

M3i Zero works fine on JAP, US & EU 3DS console with the new released version has been confirmed. 10-6-2011
Please be sure to update the M3i Zero to Core 2.0.2 to support 3DS new firmware Ver. 2.0.0-2U/E/J
If you have SD card compatibility issue on 3DS, try to use M3GUpdaterPlus_142.nds to upgrade with compatible SD card or on NDS/NDSi to complete.
Core for M3i Zero only:(10-6-2011)

M3i Zero Core data file V1.8.2 ( download it )

1.Support M3i Zero Model:GMP-Z003 & old Models;

2.Support 3DS Japanese firmware Ver. 2.0.0-2J;

Support 3DS USA firmware Ver. 2.0.0-2U;

Support 3DS European firmware Ver. 2.0.0-2E;
Support iDSi Chinese firmware V1.4.3C;

Support NDSi/NDSi LL Japanese firmware V1.4.2J;

Support NDSi/NDSi XL American firmware V1.4.2U;

Support NDSi/NDSi XL European firmware V1.4.2E.

1. All machines are upgradable: even your machine has already been in firmware 1.4.2. And no need to find another bootable machine to perform the upgrading process.
2. risk-free: flash card will not be damaged even the upgrading process is not successfully.
3. fast and easy to update
just plug in the "programming cable" and wait for about 30sec.
For details please read the PDF file below.

M3i Zero firmware Upgrade Manual(*.pdf file) ( click to view )

If you have SD card compatibility issue on 3DS, try to use M3GUpdaterPlus_142.nds to upgrade with compatible SD card or on NDS/NDSi to complete.

(For M3i Zero GMP-Z003 only) (Download and Details)

AK2i updated for Nintendo 3DS V2.0 and DSi V1.4.2

AK2i update for 3DS2.0 and DSI1.4.2

This kernel support Nintendo 3DS V2.0 and DSi V1.4.2. Please refer to readme file in the package. AK2i of HWID44 can be updated this time too. But AK2i of HWID44 can't be recognized after using power button to reset console. You need power off console and turn it on again.

Please refer to the Readme file in the download zip files.

Please chick here to download the latest AK2i kernel (Jun 10, 2011):

Firmware Update of AK2i for 3DS2.0 and DSi1.4.2

R4i Gold 3DS released new kernel

R4i Gold 3DS v2.0.0-2 Patch Released 2011-06-11
Note:This patch is for R4i GOLD 3DS flash card. Please read readme.txt attached in detail before updating. Just download the 3DS v2.0.0-2 Patch for R4i GOLD 3DS card and update your flashcard.After updating with success, R4i GOLD 3DS flashcard can support 3DS 2.0.0-2 and NDSi V1.4.2


R4i Gold Non-3DS v 2.0.0-2 Patch Released 2011-06-11
Note: This patch is for R4i gold(Non-3DS version) released before 3DS. Please read readme.txt attached in detail before updating. Just download the 3DS v2.0.0-2 Patch for R4i gold(Non-3DS) card and update your flashcard.After updating with success, R4i gold(Non-3DS version) can support 3DS 2.0.0-2 and NDSi V1.4

WOOD R4i V1.31 Released 2011-06-10
#5729_treasure report - kikai jikake no isan (japan)
#5728_meitantei conan - aoki houseki no rondo (japan)
#5722_yu-gi-oh! 5d's - world championship 2011 - over the nexus (usa)
#5715_kimi ni todoke - tsutaeru kimochi (japan)
#5702_'tangled (usa)
#5698_yu-gi-oh! 5d's - world championship 2011 - over the nexus (europe)
#5700_fairy tail gekitotsu! kardia daiseidou (Japan)

R4i SDHC 3DS Can Work on Nintendo 3DS V2.0.0

Note: R4i SDHC labeled “3DS” full support Nintendo 3DS version 2.0.0 console, please download the Firmware Update of R4I-SDHC 3DS and be used with V1.40b kernel.
R4i SDHC 3DS full support all version Nintendo 3DS console (include European version), please download V1.40b kernel.
R4i-SDHC kernel updated to V1.40b on June 08,2011
The updating patch for N3DS V2.0.0 has been released on June 08,2011
R4i V1.40b Update:
1.Support N3DS V2.0.0 firmware upgrade
2.Support R4I 3DS
3.Solved following issues of games:
5702 – Tangled (US)
5700 – Original Story from Fairy Tail: Gekitotsu! Kardia Daiseidou (JP)
5698 – Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D’s World Championship 2011: Over the Nexus (EU)
5694 – Dragon Quest VI: Realms of Reverie (EU)
5691 – Pucca Power Up (EU)
5690 – Murder in Venice (EU)
5688 – Sports Collection (US)
5682 – Minna to Kimi no Piramekino! (JP)
5678 – Petz Catz Playground (US)
5657 – Rio (US)
5653 – Wizards of Waverly Place Spellbound (US)
5636 – Lost Identities (EU)

How to upgrade products labeled “3DS” for Nintendo 3DS V2.0.0?

Please refer to the readme file in the package.
R4i SDHC 3DS full support all version Nintendo 3DS console (include European version), please download V1.40b kernel.

R4i GOLD 3DS can work on Nintendo 3DS Ver 2.0.0-2

R4i Gold 3DS can support Nintendo 3DS Ver 2.0.0-2（J,E,U）successfully without any updating, anyway please download The Patch V1.4.2c if you don’t get a “Spongebob Squarepants” Icon after loading your 3DS  card…  (2011-06-07)
R4i GOLD 3DS can work on Nintendo 3DS Ver 2.0.0-2(Japanese,English)successfully at June 7th, 2011
Notice:This V1.4.2c patch is for Nintendo 3DS Ver 2.0.0-2（J,E,U.), if you get a “Spongebob Squarepants” Icon after loading your card then you don’t need to do this patch updating, can run 3DS Ver2.0.0-2（J,E,U）directly, otherwise if get a “Miami Nights 3D” Icon then you need download it and update your 3DS card, also you need another NDSi or NDSL to do this updating, please see the instructions carefully in readme.txt…

Nintendo 3DS Update 2.0.0 Live & Gives Free Game

The first major update for the Nintendo 3DS is now live and ready to be downloaded. When you turn on your 3DS you will get a prompt and a notification. You can download via the notification.
Below is the following additions to the 3DS via the update. Also everyone will be treated with a free download of the ’3D Classic’ Excitebike for limited time until July 7th.
-Nintendo eShop
-Internet Browser
-Transfer functionality to move DSiWare from DSi/DSi XL to the Nintendo 3DS System
-Automatic System Updates
-Improved stability and overall performance of the overall system
It is nice to note the features but also some players have been having issues with Ridge Racer after the new update. If you are having these issues, do not fret. They are known by Nintendo and will be addressed in an upcoming Update.
Check out all of our coverage tomorrow starting at 12:00pm EST/9:00 Pacific of Nintendo’s E3 Press Conference.
Nintendo has just announced that the software to transfer DSi data to 3DS will launch on June 7. Nintendo also revealed complete details about the complete procedure.
According to the details, apart from the games, DSi owners will also be able to transfer photo and sound data from DSi Camera and DSi Sound, Wi-Fi user details including Wi-Fi connection ID.
Nintendo also confirmed that after the transfer, DSi games and Wi-Fi connection ID will be deleted from DSi/XL, however the copies of phots and sound data will be retained in original handheld.
Other important details below:

• 3DS owners first need to update the handheld to version 2.0.002
• 3DS owners then need to download free transfer app, details of application is HERE.
• Transfer of items can be done individually or everything at once.
• Transfer from multiple DSi/XL systems on to one 3DS is allowed.
• Few DSi games cannot be transfered, details HERE.
• Data transfer is unidirectional, once tranfer of data

The 3DS eShop: What You Need to Know

While it was conspicuously absent from the system’s debut, the Nintendo 3DS eShop is finally scheduled to launch next Monday, June 6. Users will be able to access the eShop by downloading it over a Wi-Fi Internet connection. We’ve compiled a list of questions and answers to help 3DS owners get a better understanding of what the eShop service is all about and what they can expect in its early days.
Q: When will the eShop be available, and how long will it take me to download?
A: The eShop will be available late in the day on June 6. The size of the file to download is just about 50MB, so it shouldn’t take more than a few minutes on a fairly decent Internet connection.
Q: Is Excitebike being given out as a free downloadable gift in North America, or is that a Japan-only thing?
A: The good news is yes, Nintendo is letting people download Excitebike for free after downloading the eShop software to the 3DS and accessing the store. Excitebike is the first in a series of games called 3D Classics where classic Nintendo games get a 3D update to take advantage of the system’s 3D display capabilities. Additionally, while the game remains largely unchanged (aside from the 3D), some changes have been made to the track editor, and there will be opportunities to share tracks with other users. Otherwise, it’s pretty much just Excitebike, but with a slight 3D effect.
Q: Will Excitebike always be free?
A: So here is the bad news: Excitebike is free for only 30 days from release. After that, the price shoots up to $5.99.
Q: What’s the eShop going to look like, and how will it be different from similar things Nintendo has attempted?
A: Nintendo basically describes the eShop as one long shelf that goes side to side on the bottom screen of the 3DS (the top screen is used to display images in 3D where applicable). This shelf is stuffed with different categories that you can then tap on to reveal a sub-shelf of items within that category. For example, if Nintendo makes one of the items on the eShop shelf Mario-themed, you can click on the icon and presumably see every piece of Mario software available for download on the 3DS.
These customizable categories are important from Nintendo’s standpoint because the company believes it will make it easier to show you the best content the 3DS has to offer and not just the most recent stuff. Future categories may display games based on holiday themes, or games that are easy to pick up and play for a few minutes before turning off the system. There’s even a Staff Pick category that features a specific game–in this case, the first Staff Pick on the eShop will be Cave Story. Nintendo has made everything quite flexible, so at the very least, there should be plenty of variety for the categories.
Q: Will I be able to search for and keep track of certain games on the eShop?
A: Yes. The search functionality on the eShop is surprisingly robust. Not only will you be able to use standard searches, but you will also be able to search for games based on popular search phrases that other users have inputted into the system. Additionally, you can modify searches to retrieve more granular results by searching for game characters and genres, like puzzle games featuring Mario. As for keeping track of certain games, you can actually bookmark upcoming games by adding them to a wishlist. That makes it easier to jump right back to that spot in the store in case you aren’t able to make a purchase right away.
Q: What about charts? Everyone loves charts.
A: Yes. Yes they do. The eShop will be able to display charts that highlight the most popular games, the most downloaded games, the most watched videos, and other similarly user-driven trends. Think of it as another easy way to discover content.
Q: Aside from Excitebike and Cave Story, what software is going to be available on launch day? How much will it cost?
A: Let’s start with the Virtual Console. Much like the Wii, the 3DS eShop features a Virtual Console section where you can download classic games. The first three games available will be original Game Boy games, including Super Mario Land, Alleyway, and Radar Mission. Super Mario Land will cost $3.99, while Alley Way and Radar Mission are $2.99, so it appears that there will be a premium for high-profile games.
Outside of the Virtual Console stuff, nearly all of the DSiWare software should be available. Moreover, Nintendo will release a separate piece of software called Pokedex 3D–a comprehensive guide to the 150 or so new Pokemon introduced in Pokemon Black and Pokemon White. The Pokedex not only features individual stats like height and weight, but also displays more intricate information, such as what a Pokemon will evolve into and when, as well as when they receive certain abilities. Moreover, you can find out things like which Pokemon use a certain skill. There’s a ton of information.
Q: How much is the Pokedex, and are all of the Pokemon included? Do you have to catch them all?
A: The Pokedex is completely free. You will have access to only 16 Pokemon initially, but you can retrieve more via the 3DS SpotPass service, which will generate three random Pokemon data sets to add to the collection. You can also trade data with other Pokedex users, or you can increase your chances of receiving a certain type of Pokemon by retrieving an AR card (augmented reality card), which–when viewed with the 3DS camera–displays the Pokemon on top of it.
Q: Cool story. How will I be able to pay for the stuff that isn’t free?
A: Nintendo has switched its commerce model over to actual dollars, so there’s no more weird guessing work involved in how points translate into actual money. You can either use prepaid cards that come in increments of $20 or use credit cards to add increments of $5, $10, $20, or $50. You will be able to have only $200 in the virtual wallet at any given time, and you will be able to spend only $1,000 per month. While that seems kind of odd, Nintendo reassures us that this amount is more than enough for the content that will be available. And sadly, game gifting is not yet an option.
Q: How often can we expect new content on the eShop?
A: Nintendo plans to roll out new eShop content every Thursday and will provide the appropriate messaging through the eShop and not through SpotPass, because it wants to avoid spamming people. However, it sounds like the company hasn’t ruled out the possibility of tailoring its messaging based on individual activity logs and games played.
Q: Will we be able to download full retail games? What about demos?
A: No, at least not yet. Still, it’s worth mentioning that the eShop features a retail channel where you can check out 3D screenshots and videos of upcoming games. This section is also where you can give games ratings as long as you’ve played the game in question for at least an hour.
Q: Isn’t the 3DS’s Web browser going to be available in this update?
A: Yes, you will be able to browse the Internet on your 3DS by downloading the Web browser. What makes the browser especially cool is that it can view designated images in 3D, making it easier to get an idea of what a 3DS game will look like on the system. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean it’s compatible with all 3D display technology on the Web. It won’t work with YouTube’s 3D movies, for example.
Q: What about Netflix?
A: Netflix is still coming as a separate download later this summer.
Q: And we’ll be able to transfer our DSiWare games to the 3DS with this update?
A: Indeed! By going to the DSiWare store with your DSi or DSi XL, you can download a tool that will let you transfer most (a small amount of software is non-transferable) DSiWare products to the 3DS, which has the transfer tool built-in. Once its transferred, the software will no longer be available on your DSi or DSi XL.
Know more about R4 3DS, please visit: R4shops.com

R4i-SDHC release new kernel V1.39b for R4i SDHC 3DS

R4i-SDHC team released the latest kernel V1.39b for R4i SDHC 3DS, R4i SDHC V1.4.2. 
 
R4i SDHC V1.39b Update:
1.Support NDSi V1.4.2 firmware upgrade
2.Support R4I 3DS and R4I series products:
3.Solved following issues of games:
5702 - Tangled (US)
5700 - Original Story from Fairy Tail: Gekitotsu! Kardia Daiseidou (JP)
5698 - Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's World Championship 2011: Over the Nexus (EU)
5694 - Dragon Quest VI: Realms of Reverie (EU)
5691 - Pucca Power Up (EU)
5690 - Murder in Venice (EU)
5688 - Sports Collection (US)
5682 - Minna to Kimi no Piramekino! (JP)
5678 - Petz Catz Playground (US)
5657 - Rio (US)
5653 - Wizards of Waverly Place Spellbound (US)
5636 - Lost Identities (EU)
To download the new kerne: cleck here.

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 Review

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 Review
The R4i SDHC V1.4.2 card is the latest revolution in flash cartridge technology for the Nintendo DSi, and it also is compatible with Nintendo DS Lite and NDS. The R4i SDHC card is an adapter so you can use a microSDHC memory card with your Nintendo DSi. R4i SDHC V1.4.2 card can store more games, music, movies, pictures, e-Books, and allows you to benefit from all the above features.
Buy it Now

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 Review by GBAtemp

R4i SDHC V1.4.2, or R4i SDHC 1.4.2, is a slot 1 cartridge for Nintendo DSi XL / LL, DSi, DS Lite and DS. This R4i V1.4.2 card supports DSi firmware ver 1.4.2, 1.4.1, 1.4 and 1.3. Like R4i SDHC V1.4.1, this R4i upgrade v1.4.2 will also be popular among European, American, Asian, Australia users.

The R4i SDHC V1.4.2 is a budget flash cart which still intends to deliver high compatibility and a solid product for the low price, with some people suggesting it's DS game compatibility puts more expensive flash carts to shame. Being a modern slot-1 flash cart, it supports SDHC and it needs no additional tools to boot; assuming that it's bootloader/firmware has been updated properly it will boot on any unmodified DS, DS Lite, DSi, DSi XL. With the latest version of the bootloader update to bypass DSi/XL firmware 1.4.2 (1.4.3 for China), the cart disguises itself as a Disney/Pixar Finding Nemo Escape to the Big Blue THQ, Red-fish icon displaying on your DSi. Like most flash carts this cart operates in what's known as DS-mode, meaning that even if you're using it in a DSi, DSi XL, it'll only play DS games and homebrew.
There are two packages for R4i SDHC V1.4.2 - R4i-SDHC luxury package and R4i-SDHC economical package, R4WOOD will ship luxury package shown below. WiFi ENGINE R4i SDHC V1.4.2 is clearly printed on the front package.
Within the box is a flimsy transparent plastic tray, within the tray sit the included plastic MicroSD reader and the R4i SDHC's pink protective case.
The R4i SDHC cart is kept within a standard DS cart protector. This protector consists of a folding plastic shell that clips together at the top, along with two rubber or soft plastic inserts. This protective case can fit two DS carts or slot-1 flash carts, and should have no trouble protecting the R4i SDHC during shipping. Not like other flashcarts, this case is semi-transparent and users can easily get to know whether there is one or two DS carts without opening the protector.

R4i SDHC Label and Package

What does it read on the front label ? WiFi R4i V1.4.2 Upgrade Revolution for DS (NDSi LL(XL)/NDSi/NDSL/NDS) WWW.R4I-SDHC.COM. There is no open window under this front sticker. And on the back panel, there is an anti-fake code under the TRUTH INQUIRY label. Users can check your code at Forgery-proof search page.
Q: Is R4i SDHC V1.4.2 slot spring-loaded ?
A: No, it is relying on friction to keep the MicroSD in place. It prevents memory card to fall out. And users can take memory card out easily this way.
Q: How to check anti-fake code ?
A: Please go to Forgery-proof search page directly or get guided with this video. Remember the code can only be checked once.

R4i SDHC Hardware

There is no PCB design change from R4i SDHC V1.4.1 to R4i SDHC V1.4.2, but differing from the first batches of R4i SDHC V1.4.1 with open window.
R4i SDHC V1.4.2 is the same shape as standard DS game carts and original DS card size, which ensures fitting into DSi DS console perfectly.

R4i SDHC Kernel

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 users can download and update the latest R4i SDHC kernel officially ( Newest update R4i SDHC V1.39b, June-2nd-2011 ).
For every version of R4i SDHC kernel, there are three folders - moonmemo,moonshl2,R4iMenu and one R4.dat file.
R4.dat - Game kernel, fixing newest DS game ROMs;
R4iMenu folder - DIY interface function package, designing your additional applications, skins, wifi and so on;
moonshl2 folder - video kernel, enable MP3/MP4/3GP music and movies;
moonmemo folder - Note book. How ? Press multimedia icon at R4i SDHC homepage -> console loads into moonshell ver2.00 -> Press Start button -> Select Notebook.
Kernel Installation Note: Copy all these four above to the root directory of memory card, R4i SDHC kernel installation completes.
To download the latest R4i SDHC V1.4.2 kernel, please visit: R4 Download
R4i SDHC Game Exploit
Upper Screen - Press "B" buttom to shift between Game List, Cheat, Save and ROM.
Game List - List out all the DS game ROMs and other NDS files. Press Zoom in/out icon on the right-down corner of bottom screen to shift navigation mode.
Cheat - Select cheat items and set up Cheat.
Save - Backup in 5 places.
ROM - Set up Cheat/DMA/SoftReset.

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 Mutimedia Icon

R4i SDHC moonshell ver2.01 is available, which supports MP3/DPG format muisc and movies. Other applicatoins like Check disk for NDS ver0.4, Image viewer ver1.11 and Morning timer ver1.2 are also available at this section.
Press START button to get Menu into NoteBook / System Setting / File List Shift / Wall Paper / Return Homepage

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 Config

In this section, users can set up console Language (English, Chinese, Japanese), Operation Sound (On/Off), Sleep Mode (On/Off, Press 'A' to increase, 'Y' to decrease sleep standby time ), DIY Skins.

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 WiFi Engine

Connnect DSi to internet or DS Lite WiFi connection. After WiFi setup, R4i SDHC users can press WiFi ENGINE to enter into NDS Game Search/Download Menu. Search and add DS games into the download list, and the games will be automatic download to your PC through the PC-based Games-Engines software.

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 Kernel

R4i SDHC updated the kernel V1.39b for R4i SDHC V1.4.2, the new kernel fixed this bug:
5702 - Tangled (US)
5700 - Original Story from Fairy Tail: Gekitotsu! Kardia Daiseidou (JP)
5698 - Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's World Championship 2011: Over the Nexus (EU)
5694 - Dragon Quest VI: Realms of Reverie (EU)
5691 - Pucca Power Up (EU)
5690 - Murder in Venice (EU)
5688 - Sports Collection (US)
5682 - Minna to Kimi no Piramekino!(JP)
5678 - Petz Catz Playground (US)
5657 - Rio (US)
5653 - Wizards of Waverly Place Spellbound (US)
5636 - Lost Identities (EU)

To download the latest R4i SDHC V1.4.2 kernel, please visit: R4 Download

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 Functionality

● World New Download Engine For Games. ● A card provides all NDS games and unprecedented experience to the player. ● Users just one click away from playable games download. ● WIFI search engine function available with NDS/NDSi/NDSi LL. Users are able to search and    download the games and the latest game information according to their own preferences    anytime, anywhere. ● You will be able to manage your NDS/NDSi/NDSi LL download by distance control through WIFI    once you install our Games-Engine Assistant on your computer. Users only need to click on the    games they want to download on NDS/NDSi/NDSi LL and the games can be downloaded    automatically tothe assigned computers. This can avoid the annoyance of waiting during the    download process. ● Through our PC-based Games-Engine Assistant software, it is able to download our website's    NDS games quickly and easily. ● Core upgrade automatically through WIFI of NDS/NDSi/NDSi LL to avoid tedious upgrading steps. ● Able to memorize and restore to the previously selected game or application after restarting     machine and soft reset. ● Sleep mode function, for power saving and longer standby time. ● Multi-languages are optional, they are Simplified Chinese, complicated Chinese, English, Japanese,    French, German, Italian, Spainish and Dutch. ● Friendly interface, easy to operate. ● Realtime smart help windows. ● Integrated the latest Moonshell 2.0 Beta version. ● Game compatibility: 100%. ● No need to flash. Built-in launch Slot-2 (gba) function. ● Support SDHC micro sd cards (4GB、8GB、16GB、32GB). ● Support DMA read and no lag while using any microSD card. ● Support FAT16 and FAT32. Files can be transferred with PC, PDA, Cellphone and Camera. ● Support clean rom and drag-drop to play. Fast loading. ● Support NDS and iDS games. DS games can run on any DS versions. ● Files are to be saved directly to TF card, copy or restoration is not required. ● Automatically recognise saved new game types, no need to update the database. ● Support moonshell and home brew. ● Power saving design. Enter optimized mode automatically. ● Double screen UI, abbreviated picture and game title display, button and touch operations. ● Easy to use, setting or adjustment is not required. ● Support Wi-Fi, rumble pack and browser expansion. ● UI background can be changed. ● 4-level brightness adjustment. ● Support soft reset. ● Support AR cheat code. ● Support soft-reset of moonshell 2.0 (back to main menu of R4 NDSI by pressing START button). ● DLDI auto-patching. ● Support Download play.

R4i SDHC V1.4.2 Manual

1. Download Kernel and Game
By using TF card reader, connect the TF card with computer, open the memu.
a. Upload game kernel: Copy the R4.DAT file to your TF card..
b. Upload video kernel: Copy the Moonshl2 to your TF card.
c. Upload DIY Interface function: Copy the R4iMenu to your TF card .
2. Copy games
By using TF card reader, connect the TF card with computer, copy the downloaded games to TF card. (If needed, corresponding menu can be set up)
3. Main menu operation
Make sure microSD card with Kernel is inserted in R4i NDSI, then insert R4 NDSI in NDS SLOT-1 port, start the machine and enter main menu interface. By pressing buttons (right and left) or touching screens, you may choose the games or media function, press A to the relative function.
4. Game operation menu
Choosing game function in Main Menu to enter Game interface, return to main menu by pressing R.
In Game Interface, press L to adjust 4-level brightness.
In Game Interface, it’s on top screen showing game messages including four items: game, cheat, setting and ROM, while it’s on bottom screen showing game name, file size and current game category. Press “UP” and “DOWN” to check current page easily, and press “LEFT” and “RIGHT” to turn over the page, on the top line of bottom screen, it is showed with current file and total file qties, while on bottom line of the bottom screen the path of the category.
Press X or B, enter four items in the top screens: game, cheat, setting and ROM.
Enter cheat item, it’s showed in the bottom screee Current game name, cheat function setting, cheat function switch, timely reminding window and file saving. Touch Cheat off/Cheat on to run the cheat function, and touch file saving to save the file.
Enter Setting item, it's showed in the bottom screen there languages: English, Simplified Chinese and Japanese, touch file saving to save the relevant file.
Enter ROM item, it’s showed in the top bottom screen cheat, DMA, software start functions, touch the relevant file to save the file. When the Soft-Reset function is ON during game, “L+R+A+B+X+Y” kdy combination can be pressed to return R4-II menu.. Don’t save during soft reset, otherwise “archive lost” will be led. It is recommended to return game main menu and then soft reset. If Soft-Reset can not be operated or the Game is impacted, please turn off the soft-reset function.
5. Game Operation
Choose your expected game in the game menu, press A or touch the screen to play games.
In the first operation, it will remind “ file is effected”
The updated date of the files will be automatically revised while playing the games each time, the updated files could be easily found by checking the latest date revision.
The names of the files are the same as which of the games, expanded name is SAV. Which can be copied to computer at any moment.
6. Cheat Operation
Choose the games, enter Cheat by pressing B or X.
Game Title is showed in the top screen, while it shows in the bottom screen reminding window, Cheat off/Cheat on, file saving, current Cheat items. Choose your expected Cheat item by pressing “up” and “down”, and open or close the item by pressing A or touching the screen. Touch “Cheat on/Cheat off” to operate the Cheat, and touch the screen to save the file.
While the Cheat is running, you may choose the cheat code one by one by pressing “up” and “down”, and close the cheat code by pressing “A”. Under Cheat Code Category, press A to open/close the category. You can delete the cheat.dat file in R4iMenu category if the cheat function is not required.
Cheat database updates: Download the newest cheat database and copy usrcheat.dat file to R4iMenu category.

7. Skin change method
Four files are alternative in the R4iMenu/Skin category: they are TScreen.bmp, BottomInit.bmp, TScreen.bmp and BottomScreen.bmp, which are the operation interface of R4, content in the pictures can be changed at random.
TScreen.bmp -- R4 NDSI Top screen interface after starting the machine
BottomInit.bmp -- R4 NDSI Bottom screen interface after starting the machine
TScreen.bmp -- R4 NDSI Top screen interface for the file category
BottomScreen.bmp -- R4 NDSI Bottom screen interface for the file category
Notice: The above files names can not be changed, picture must be in .bmp format with 8 or 24 digits, picture size must be of 256*192 pixel.
Once your favourite picture is ready, copy the complete category “TF card R4iMenu/ skin” to TF category.

R4i Gold 3DS Review by GBAtemp

R4i Gold 3DS Review

Manufactured by: R4iDSN/R4i Gold.cn
Also Known As: R4i Gold, R4i Gold.cn, R4i Gold 3DS, R4i Gold.cn 3DS
Review by Rydian - completed 5/19/2011

Overview

• This is a review of the R4i Gold 3DS from www.R4iDS.cn. I'd like to thank www.r4ids.cn for providing the review sample! The R4i Gold is a budget flash cart which still intends to deliver high compatibility and a solid product for the low price, with some people suggesting it's DS game compatibility puts more expensive flash carts to shame. Being a modern slot-1 flash cart, it supports SDHC and it needs no additional tools to boot; assuming that it's bootloader/firmware has been updated properly it will boot on any unmodified DS, DS Lite, DSi, DSi XL, or 3DS. With the latest version of the bootloader update to bypass DSi/XL firmware 1.4.2 (1.4.3 for China), the cart disguises itself as a Miami Nights game. Like most flash carts this cart operates in what's known as DS-mode, meaning that even if you're using it in a DSi, DSi XL, or 3DS, it'll only play DS games and homebrew.
  
  
• Packaging
  The R4i Gold from R4iDS.cn comes in a cardboard box measuring 7 x 1.5 x 10.5 cm. The box has a gold-brown coloring scheme to fit in with the cart's title, and has the stylized "i' (for DSi compatibility) and "SDHC" (for SDHC compatiblity) logos on the front as well. New to this version is a red design proclaiming 3DS compatibility, though some samples had a red sticker placed onto the box instead, since the packaging had not yet been changed to include the 3DS logo. The packaging and design was not changed at the same time as the cart's 3DS compatibility, so it's possible to get a 3DS-compatible cart with the older packaging (like this review sample I was sent). The new packaging and design can be seen on the R4i Gold website. As with any product, there's a list of features on the back, though it can be hard to read due to the color scheme chosen for the background and text. The feature list is not perfect as far as English grammar standards go, but is better than many competing budget products. A copy of the feature list (as written) follows the images.
  
  
  
  
  • Compatible with all DS editions of different kinds of language
  • Support SDHC (Micro SD 4G, 8G, 16G, 32G)
  • 2nd generation storage device(no booting tool required)
  • Flush fitting slot 1 card
  • uses MicroSD card, FAT16 or 32
  • Supports any MicroSD card speed with no lag in game
  • Supports Clean ROM,drag and drop.Works on any OS
  • Built in NoPass
  • Automatically detect save type
  • Save directly to MicroSD card,not to onboard chip
  • Supports Moonshell and other homebrew
  • User friendly skinnable interface.Touchscreen or button operation
  • Supports the WIFI game,DS Rumble pak, DS Browser
  • Supports changes of the background of Operation Interface
  • Supports Skin DIY by setting background and font colors on Main Menu and Game Menu manually and automatically
  • Supports 4-scale-lightness adjust ment(DS Lite only)
  • Supports the Soft Reset
  • Supports Action Replay cheat
  • Moonshell 2.02 supports Software Reset function
  • DLDI auto-patching
  
  Within the box is a flimsy transparent plastic tray, within the tray sit the included MicroSD reader and the R4i Gold's protective case.
  
  The included USB MicroSD reader is unbranded and simple in design. It has a silver metal shell, a dim red LED indicating activity, and an opening for the MicroSD. When a MicroSD card is placed into it far enough for it to connect, it's often difficult to remove it because of the tight fit. In addition even when placed into a USB slot without a MicroSD in it, the reader gets noticeably warm within minutes. This is often an indicator of bad design, and overheating MicroSD readers contribute to a bulk of corruption issues so it's recommended that you use your own MicroSD reader instead of the supplied one.
  
  The R4i Gold cart is kept within a standard DS cart protector. This protector consists of a folding plastic shell that clips together at the top, along with two rubber or soft plastic inserts. This protective case can fit two DS carts or slot-1 flash carts, and should have no trouble protecting the R4i Gold during shipping.
  
  
• Hardware
  The R4i Gold is a simply-constructed flash cart, in line with it's aim towards budget users.
  
  From the front, the R4i Gold has the same shape as standard DS game carts, except it has two indentations (one on either side) near the top, presumably for better gripping with your fingers. The sticker has the common R4 design, with the team's URL printed on it, and is not over-reflective. There is no noticeable bulge or bump underneath the sticker, indicated a slimmed design internally.
  
  Going to the back, there's a few things to point out.
  • First is the MicroSD slot, positioned to the right. This slot is not spring-loaded, relying on friction to keep the MicroSD in place. Some people prefer this as it means one less part to potentially break, while others worry that since it doesn't lock the MicroSD card into place it could fall out. I'm happy to report that I have no concern of the MicroSD falling out. It's held in there tightly enough that it will not come out on it's own, and it doesn't require too much force to remove it.
  • The second point is the contact area. The R4i Gold only has two lead "teeth", which are meant to guide the contacts into place when the flash cart is inserted into the DS, but are also meant to keep fingers from directly touching the contacts, dirtying them. This may be a concern for some people, but many flash carts have less teeth than actual DS game carts, so it's nothing unexpected. In addition, it makes padding the cart to fix "contact issues" easier. No natural contact issues with this cart have been observed, however some contact issues were experienced when shaking the ds unit. Other reviewers I contacted were not able to replicate this problem, so while one may not experience this it is possible that another will.
  • The PCB for this version is a deep red, and a small white number 6 is visible on the PCB, in the uppermost portion of the right contact slot.
  
  
  
  
  There seems to be a size issue with the cart. When placed into certain DS units, the R4i Gold makes an audible click about 3/4ths of the way down. When attempting to remove it past this point, it literally seems to get stuck. This is not simply a friction issue, as fatter flash carts do not make the click, and are simply held in by friction. On the contrary, the R4i Gold seems to be caught on something, as I have to pull it to the right in order to free it (while pulling it to the left simply hooks it harder). The cart requires minimal force to remove from the DS Lite, and is quite easy to remove from the 3DS due to it's physical wider slot-1, but the cart literally gets stuck in the DSi and DSi XL.

R4i Gold Kernel

The native firmware for the R4i Gold from www.r4ids.cn is the R4i Gold Kernel, the tested version was 1.51. This is a modified version of Moonshell, which is the standard home media viewer for the DS series. The version modified here is 2.02. Moonshell is naturally capable of playing various audio formats, viewing various image formats, and even playing videos converted into a specific format (DPG). It's not uncommon for a flash cart team to modify Moonshell to fit in with their cart, so it'll be interesting to see what this team did.

The first visible change is that the R4i Gold Kernel boots into a DSi stylized main menu. From left to right, the options are Game, Audio, Video, NotePad, Picture, and File Browser. To further add to the feel of the DSi's menu, there are 12 empty icons to the right of the main ones. The R4i Gold team informs me that you will be able to add your own icons in a later version of the kernel to boot directly to your favorite games.

• The Game option currently launches Wood at the base menu, though this may change in a later version.
• The Audio option launches moonshell's file browser, displaying all compatible audio files on your MicroSD.
• The Video option launches moonshell's file browser, displaying all compatible video files on your MicroSD.
• The Notepad option launches moonshell's file browser, displaying all compatible text files found on your MicroSD.
• The Picture option launches moonshell's file browser, displaying all compatible image types found on your MicroSD.
• The File Browser option launches moonshell's file browser at the root of your MicroSD.

While automatically viewing all the files of a specific category located on your MicroSD seems like a useful feature at first, many homebrew games and programs keep their resources in various folders as plain files. This means that most people will open up one of the options only to be greeted with a huge list of files that are useless on their own, with the files they actually want interspersed. Another issue is that these lists will contain files that cannot actually be played, such as some tracker formats. Taking these drawbacks into consideration most people will end up using the File Browser option so they can choose their media manually by browsing folders. Upon using the file browser it appears that many options from Moonshell have been removed or locked, and any attempt to run an NDS file (retail game or homebrew) simply launches Wood (at it's default screen).

While the R4i Gold site has information and download links for various themes/skins, these are for the older version of the kernel. The current version uses a different type of skin (SKN file), and the team tells me they do plan to release a tool for it.

The native firmware consists of one file and a system folder. The file is _DS_MENU.DAT, and the folder is _SYSTEM_. The _DS_MENU.DAT file is what the R4i Gold cart attempts to boot off of. In the Wood R4i Gold distributions this is replaced with a copy of the WOODR4.NDS file, so if you're upgrading just the Wood R4 firmware and want to keep the R4i Gold Kernel as default, do not replace the _DS_MENU.DAT file with the one that comes with Wood (otherwise your R4i Gold will boot straight into Wood every time).

Wood

• Overview
  Wood is an alternative firmware for flash carts which focuses on game and homebrew playability, the tested version was 1.29b. It started off as an alternative for the Acekard R.P.G., but was then ported to the old-model R4, before being ported to the R4i Gold/DSN. The port for the R4i Gold is officially-supported, and is currently what is used to launch games and homebrew. The modified version for the R4i Gold adds a new option to the bottom of the main menu (Return), which boots back to the R4i Gold kernel if it's installed (otherwise it just resets Wood). Wood consists of a WOODR4.NDS file, and an __rpg folder.
  
• Use And Feel
  Wood uses the DS's screens independently.
  • The top screen consists of a calendar along with the time and month/year.
  • The bottom screen contains the file list, and is where you navigate around your MicroSD, as well as access menus to do certain functions and change certain settings. The bottom screen's default view is split into two sections, an option to browse the MicroSD for files, and a Favorites folder where you can access shortcuts you've placed to your favorite ROMs and homebrews.
    Files can be listed three different ways.
    - Filename only.
    - The ROM's embedded icon with the filename.
    - The ROM's embedded icon with the embedded name data.
  
  
  
  
  The bottom menu can be navigated with the DS unit's buttons, or the touch screen.
  • When using the touchscreen you can swipe up and down to scroll within the current folder, tap a game or folder to launch/enter it, and tap the folder/arrow icon (depending on the skin you're using) in the upper-left to go back to the previous folder. Tapping the Start icon in the bottom left or right of the screen (depending on the skin) will bring up the main Wood menu.
  • When using button controls you scroll with the D-pad, press A to enter a folder or launch a game, and press B to return to the previous menu. Pressing Start brings up the main Wood menu, which contains many different functions, and pressing Select changes the file list mode as mentioned above. Pressing X automatically jumps to your Favorites folder, where you can paste shortcuts to your favorite ROMs and homebrew, after using the option in the Start menu to copy them. Pressing Y brings up the properties for the highlighted object, if this object is a DS game ROM you get access to additional settings, and if this is a GBA ROM you can choose whether to flash it to RAM or NOR of the slot-2.
  
  The start menu's options are as follows.
  • Copy copies the selected file.
  • Cut cuts the selected file.
  • Delete deletes the selected file.
  • Paste pastes the copied or cut file. If pasted within the Favorites folder it simply places a shortcut, but if pasted elsewhere it actually makes a copy.
  • Settings accesses the main Wood settings menus.
  • File Info brings up the information for the highlighted object.
  • Help brings up a window with various control information, as well as information on the current Wood build and the hardware it's running on.
  • Tools brings up various tools for using the 3-in-1 expansion pack.
  • Return exits Wood and boots the R4i Gold kernel (or reboots Wood if the R4i Gold Kernel is not installed).
• Settings
  The main settings for Wood are split into multiple sections. The sections can be changed via the touchscreen by pressing the arrows at the top of the options box, and also through the L and R shoulder triggers. Within a section the D-pad can be used to navigate and change options, and for touchscreen the arrows function the same. Global/main settings can sometimes be overridden on a per-ROM basis via the use of settings changed in a ROM's properties.
  
  - System settings -
  • User Interface Style is the skin selection menu.
  • Language determines which language is used.
  • Set file list type determines which file types are listed, NDS, NDS+SAV, or ALL.
  • Safe Mode is an option that locks the start menu, to prevent children from accidentally erasing things they shouldn't. Since the settings menu will not be accessible when Safe Mode is active, the user will need to edit the settings file on the MicroSD from a computer to disable Safe Mode.
  
  - Interface Settings -
  • Scrolling speed determines how fast things scroll.
  • Filelist style determines which of the three file listing types is used. While you can change this live via the Select key, the change is only saved if this setting is changed.
  • Animation determines whether a highlighted file's icon pulses or not.
  • 12-hour clock determines if the time is displayed in 24-hour or 12-hour format.
  
  - File system settings -
  • Show hidden files determines if files with the hidden attribute are listed.
  • Trim rom when copy will automatically "trim" a ROM when moving it around, if enabled.
  • Save extension determines which extension Wood uses and looks for, either .sav or .nds.sav.
  
  - Patches -
  • Reset Hotkey determines which hotkey is used within a ROM to reset the flash cart (not the game). The default is L+R+A+B+Down, but there's five combinations to choose from.
  • Cheat in Game(AR) is the global cheat setting, on or off.
  • Reset in Game determines if the soft-reset hotkey is enabled for ROMs.
  • Reset in Homebrew determines soft-reset for homebrew.
  
  - GBA settings -
  • Universal sleep determines whether the GBA's sleep function is on universally or not.
  • Backup save at startup is a bit complex. If enabled, the 3in1's most recent save (PSRAM or NOR) will be written to the MicroSD card when the firmware boots. If disabled then the save will be written when a new ROM is flashed (i.e. flash a PSRAM file and the PSRAM save in SRAM will be backed-up).
  • Slot-2 mode is whether the firmware should boot slot-2 into PASSME/NDS mode, GBA mode, or ask the user each time.

•  
  • Select a save type is where you can manually override the automatic save size detection. Options range from 4Kb to 64Mb.
  • Link with GBA determines if the DS ROM's ability to link with a GBA ROM in slot-2 is enabled or not.
  • Rumble strength determines how strong the rumble feature of some slot-2 carts is (and if it's enabled).
  • Cheats in Game(AR) overrides if cheats are enabled.
  • Reset in Game overrides whether soft-reset is enabled.
  • Choose Save Slot lets you select which game save slot is currently used, as Wood has the ability to handle up to three save files per game.
  • Show icon determines if the game's icon has transparency or not.
  • Language determines which DS language the game detects.
Per-Game Settings These are the settings that are displayed if you press Y when highlighting a game, and choose to enter it's settings. These settings will override the global settings on a per-game basis. - Compatiblity - - Features -
• Skinning
  The Wood firmware is entirely skinnable, and many skins have been created. Wood uses the same skin files as the AKAIO system software, so there's literally hundreds of skins out there, and various tools to make your own. Skins are placed in their own folder in the /__rpg/ui/ folder, after that they show up in the skin selection menu. Skins can be changed from the Start -> Settings -> System Settings -> User Interface Settings menu. Unfortunately most skins for AKAIO/Wood were only made with a specific number of main menu options, so the additional "Return" option added for the R4i Gold port appears below the main menu, and can look odd depending on the skin you're using.
  
• Games
  The Wood software for the R4i Gold supports clean ROMs, it's suggested that you play clean ROMs as ones pre-patched to remove Anti-Piracy (AP) can interfere with Wood's ability to automatically remove AP. ROMs can be placed anywhere on the MicroSD (except hidden folders like the /__rpg/ folder), and you simply press A when highlighting a ROM to launch it. I tried a variety of ROM types including ones known to be problematic, and Wood R4i Gold 1.29b has no issue loading trimmed ROMs, and even works with translation and level-edit patches correctly, such the fan translation for Tales Of Innocence, and New Super Mario Bros. 3 level-edit patch.
  
  • Animal Crossing: Wild World: Works
  • Bangai-O Spirits: Works
  • Blue Dragon: Awakened Shadow: Works
  • Castlevania: Portrait Of Ruin: Works
  • Kingdom Hearts Re:coded: Works
  • Mega Man Zero Collection: Works
  • Meteos: Works
  • New Super Mario Bros. 3: Works
  • Okamiden: Works
  • Pringe Of Persia: The Forgotten Sands: Works
  • Pokemon Black: Works
  • Pokemon HeartGold: Works
  • Rhythm Heaven: Works
  • Sports Collection: Fails, there's no sound, no save file is made, and no events can start.
  • Tales Of Innocence Translation: Works
  
  As we can see many games that are known to cause problems on lesser carts work fine, only one of the most recent games didn't work. This is a normal situation as games come out with new AP measures, and it's important that flash carts update to bypass new AP measures. Overall Wood has excellent DS game compatibility, and it's often hard to find a game that doesn't run on it.
  
  Unknown to most people, MicroSD cards (especially MicroSDHC) have varying speeds. The aspect most often discussed is the write speed as that's what matters for normal cases, but the read speed is also important for when you're running things off of a MicroSD (as with flash carts). MicroSDHC cards are rated with a "Class", such as Class-2 or Class-6, and while the Class dictates the write speed, in general a higher-Class card will be made better. In the past flash carts have been very susceptible to read speed issues on MicroSD cards (especially latency), so a slow MicroSD card could cause a game to malfunction when it would normally work fine. Modern firmwares such as Wood have advanced programming methods within them to alleviate this issue, and I tested the games on three different cards. The first was a 2GB PNY, the second was a 4GB Class-2 Sandisk, and the third was an 8GB Class-6 Transcend. I'm happy to report that Wood R4i Gold does not exhibit latency issues on a standard Class-2, though it should be noted that if the MicroSD you're using is old, failing, or fake then it may simply not be able to feed enough data for the game, even by Wood's standards.
  
• Saves
  Wood uses the standard RAW .SAV type, directly compatible with other modern flash carts using RAW saves. Saves are created in the same folder as the game ROM, and the extension can be .SAV or .NDS.SAV, selectable in the main settings. The save size is automatically detected, and the supported size ranges from 4 Kilobits to 64 Megabits, so even games like WarioWare: DIY that use a very large save file can function.
  
• Cheats
  Wood has cheat support, the standard and editable usrcheat.dat can be placed in the /__rpg/cheats/ folder and cheats for each game will be populated as needed. When viewing a ROM's properties by pressing Y, you can press X to pull up the cheats list for the highlighted game. Cheats can be sorted into groups, groups can be expanded or shrunk with the A button. When highlighting a cheat, you can press Y to view the entire name (if the name/description is too large to fit on-screen at once), and press A to toggle it on and off. Cheats that are currently enabled have a mark to the left of them, and the L trigger is a shortcut to disable all cheats.
  
• Homebrew
  Wood supports DS homebrew as well, and homebrew is launched the same way that DS game ROMs are, but take note that some homebrew require themselves to be in a specific part of the MicroSD (such as the root, or a specific folder). DLDI patching is done automatically.
  
  • bitbox: Fails, was not even detected as a game.
  • bitbox (safe): Works
  • CLIRC: Works
  • CarPhysics 5: Works
  • Colors!: Works
  • Game Melody Oratorio Volume 2: Works
  • It's 1975 and this man is about to show you the future: Works
  • Jelly Blocks 1.3: Works
  • Lack of Disco: Works
  • Lone Wolf: Flight From The Dark: Works
  • Lone Wolf: Shadow On The Sand: Works
  • Mind Maze Beta: Works
  • NitroTracker 0.4: Works
  • Nyan For NDS 1.1a: Works
  • Pocket Physics: Works
  • Powder 115: Works
  • Red Temple 1.5a: Works
  • sd-4K: Fails, was not even detected as a game.
  • Space Impakto DS: Works
  • Still Alive DS: Works
  • TheSnowman-NDS: Works
  • Vector Tower Defense DS: Works
  • World Of Sand: Works
  
  Overall we can see that Wood has good homebrew compatibility as well, though it seems incapable of detecting 4KB homebrews. Wood includes a soft-reset option for homebrew, but upon testing I found it to be very buggy. Some homebrews such as Lack Of Disco will not even start when the option is enabled (whitescreening instead), the soft-reset does not work in all games, and after soft-resetting in some games (such as Still Alive DS) the touchscreen would not respond in Wood or another homebrew until a DS ROM was launched.
  
• Updates
  Wood updates quite regularly, it went from version 1.14 to version 1.29 in a period of only six months. When popular games come out with new AP, Wood is often released within a week or two, so with Wood you won't be sitting around for months waiting for an update or hoping for a patch like you will with unsupported flash carts. The Wood updates come with both an updated WOODR4.NDS, and a replacement _DS_MENU.DAT. It's important to note that the _DS_MENU.DAT that comes with Wood updates is set to launch Wood, not The R4i Gold kernel! If you replace the default _DS_MENU.DAT with the Wood one, then the flash cart will only boot Wood until you reinstall the R4i Gold Kernel. Other than that, updating Wood is as simple as deleting the WOODR4.NDS file and __rpg folder to replace them with the new versions.

Conclusion

The R4i Gold lives up to it's claim of being a budget cart with high compatibility, and indeed puts many more expensive carts to shame. The cart lacks more advanced features such as in-game menus and real-time save, but this is expected with a budget cart. The team is attempting to create their own OS for the cart, and while it's still in the early stages of usability it does show that the team cares about supporting their cart. In addition to the team showing interest in patching the cart for new devices (such as the 3DS) and new firmwares (for the DSi/XL) it looks like this cart intends to give the kind of support a decent flash cart needs, which is what's important in the end.

Pros:
+ SDHC support
+ Automatic DLDI patching
+ Cheats/AR support
+ Save type detection
+ Multiple save slots per game
+ Game compatibility
+ Simple/Sturdy design
+ Functional menus
+ Fully-skinnable
+ Some native slot-2 support
+ Quick and easy shortcuts list
+ Regular updates

Cons:
- Cart physically sticking
- Homebrew soft-reset is buggy at best
- No support for 4KB homebrew