Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do I need to start developing for NDS?
A: Courage, tools, emulator and/or PassMe.

Q: What is a PassMe? PassMe is a compact passthrough that fits into the DS slot (with the DS card sticking out).

Q: What is a passthrough? A passthrough is a device that allows you to run code from GBA slot in DS mode. It is between DS and a DS card. Whenever DS wants to speak Encryptian, the passthrough connects it to the DS cart. Whenever it's reading header (which is unencrypted) the passthrough changes a few bytes to vector ARM7 into the GBA cart and the ARM9 into a small loop in the header. Now custom code on the GBA cart can take over the DS and revector ARM9 into the corresponding entry point of the demo.

Q: Anyone know where I can get the password for the NDSTech Wiki?
A: Yes, just ask joat for an account.

Q: Can I use PassMe to play commercial games?
A: Simply said... no.

Q: Is the cartridge encryption broken yet?
A: Yes.