Permacomputing Workshop: an Introduction to Nintendo DS Homebrew Hacking

Your “old” console hasn’t been forgotten: let’s open it up! Using your own code and hardware you can tweak, tinker, modify and increase its functionalities, which is what you’ll be doing in the workshop “Introduction to Nintendo DS Homebrew Hacking”. We will also look into how to extend the lifespan of our consoles and uncover what hidden features they conceal…

The workshop is open to all, and especially suited for those with an interest in “homebrew” hardware hacking; to apply or insert code or hardware extensions for input or output. This workshop requires participants to have basic programming skills and any kind of laptop. We’ll be using the Nintendo DS console as a basis & common platform; if you have your own feel free to bring it on the day, but it’s not mandatory.

🎮 Workshop programme & what you’ll learn

In the workshop you’ll learn to write your own programs for the DS, incorporating its (touch)screens, graphics, speakers, microphone, multiplayer-abilities and all sorts of other weird extensions.

The programme will start off with instructions by workshop host & CCU artist in residence Rein van der Woerd, followed by break-out sessions in small groups. During these sessions you’ll work on individual or group projects, and receive coaching by workshop “mentors” and fellow participants.

At the end of this workshop you’ll not only have a sense of the possibilities offered by hidden applications of old consoles, you’ll also have a working project you can continue exploring & tinkering with.

🔧 Requirements

Required: a laptop (any kind will do)
Required: basic programming experience
Optional: a Nintendo DS console

👨‍💻 The Artist

Our Permacomputing workshop leader is our CCU Artist In Residence: Rein van der Woerd. Inspired by the psychedelic mindset, Rein searches for ‘hippie-technology’. In his residency at Creative Coding Utrecht he researches permacomputing: a philosophy applying ecological and long-term thinking to computers. Through hands-on workshops and DIY, Rein tries to recover the digital utopianism of Web 1.0 and the first wave of personal computers.