Review: R4DS R4 Revolution for DS SLOT-1

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February 27th, 2007, 04:27
bandit

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Review: R4DS R4 Revolution for DS SLOT-1
R4DS R4 Revolution for DS SLOT-1
Manufacturer: R4
Site:
Replacement Shell Buy from DealExtreme (white) / Buy from DealExtreme (black)

R4DS Only: Buy from Homebrew Dev (R4i) / Buy from ConsoleSource / Buy from DealExtreme / Buy from Acekard.ca
Price: $31.00-$49.99

R4DS with microSD: Buy from ConsoleSource (1GB) / Buy from ConsoleSource (2GB) / Buy from DealExtreme (1GB) / Buy from Acekard.ca (2GB)
Price: $44.00-$124.99

Overview : The R4DS is the current top-of-the-line in DS SLOT-1 flash carts. It is just an amazing little device like original DS cart size, it is a complete solution with no need to purchase any additional components or deal with any messy software and truly the easiest media enhancer you have ever done; To simply put it, this is a must have peripheral for any regular DS/DS lite owner.

Features :
- 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. Open I/O interface
- User friendly skinnable interface. Touchscreen or button operation
- Supports rumble pak and memory pak
- Supports the WiFi game, DS Rumble Pak, DS Browser
- Supports changes of the background of Operation Interface
- Supports 4-scale-lightness adjustment (DS Lite only)
- Supports the Soft Reset.
- Moonshell 1.6 support Software Reset function (Press START key back to the R4 menu)
Quality/Usability : There have been alot of SLOT-1 carts being released these days. What each card varies is the operating system and the support provided by the developers. The R4 and M3 Simply (review) are produced by the same manufacturer and have almost identical hardware and firmware (non-interchangable). There is no difference when it comes to functionality. The only difference is the sticker and packaging. The R4 (Revolution for DS) uses a MicroSD card to store all the necessary data, from ROMs and music to the operating system files. For this review, I tested it with a US Modular 1GB and PNY 1GB microSD. There are some online sites that sell the R4 with a microSD (usually 1GB) but price will be higher.

Originally, the R4 included two shells (white and black) but due to production costs, R4 has now included 1 shell (white) instead of two. Included in the latest packages are:

1 x USB microSD card reader
1 x White R4 SLOT-1 cartridge
1 x Mini installation CD
1 x Silicone DS cartridge keychain holder

The included installation CD has instructions and all the necessary files to set up the MicroSD card ready for the R4. I personally went to R4's website to download the latest files. The included USB microSD card reader allows the user to connect it to the computer and be able to transfer files/data easily. The DS cartridge keychain holder lets you hold the R4 cartridge on one side and another DS game on the other.

Setting up the R4DS is fairly simple. If you downloaded the latest OS from their website, all you simply do is download the file, extract is and transfer the files onto the microSD and thats it. You may also use the included CD but its best to get the latest files from the official website as the CD may be out of date. The CD also includes helpful files such as a save converter which lets you convert saves from other flash carts to the format that R4 uses. There is also a ROM trimming tool that you can download online.

The R4 cartridge size is identical to that of the original DS cartridge. The microSD card is inserted through the top of the cartridge and fits flush with the cartridge. The R4 microSD slot is spring loaded. Unfortunately, the spring mechanism isnt that good. When you press down on the microSD, the card is suppose to pop up. Although it does, it doesnt pop up much and feels like its stuck. Occasionally it does pop up completely. Luckily, there is a small groove on the R4 cartridge allowing easy removal of the microSD card.

Adding ROMs and Homebrew is simple. Once you have the microSD card inserted into the card reader and the card reader connected to the computer, its a simple drag and drop. You'll need to setup a folder called "ROM" and "HOMEBREW" with files going into its respective folder.

The operating sytem (OS) is easy to navigate and easily skinnable. Upon startup, user is greeted with three options; GAMES, MULTIMEDIA and BOOT SLOT-2. When GAMES is selected, the file browser is located on the top screen. This is where all your selecting is done. To navigate through files or to select a file, you use the directional pad to move up and down. Too bad that you cant use the touch pad.

http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/1...previewpj2.png

All it takes to change the look of the OS is four simple images and placing it into the "_system_" folder:
- logo.bmp -- Background of the Top Screen of R4's startup.
- icons.bmp -- Background of the Bottom Screen of R4's Startup.
- bckgrd_1.bmp -- Background of the Top Screen of R4's Explorer.
- bckgrd_2.bmp -- Background of the Bottom Screen of R4's Explorer.
Note:
Do not change the picture's name;
Make sure the picture is .bmp format, 8-bit/24-bit;
Make sure the picture is 253*192 pixels.

I have tested the R4 with commercial ROMs of games I actually own. The R4 worked perfectly with all the games I tested and tried. All games ran at full speed without any slowdowns and saving of games worked. WiFi also worked on games that supported this feature such as Mario Kart DS. Playing against others with only one cart or multiple carts worked flawlessly as well. There was no problem with connected to Nintendo's WiFi with the R4. For an updated list of compatibility list, go here.

Testing of homebrew worked flawlessly for most programs. There were only a couple that I encountered that did not work for me. I dont know if it doesnt work in general or I did something wrong.

R4 includes Moonshell which allows you to play multimedia files on your DS. In order to watch movies, you must use DPG tools (PC Software) to convert the files to a format Moonshell will recognize. Playing a movies is a nice feature to the R4 but the quality will not compare to that of the PSP. Playing MP3s is a nice addition as well and plays flawslessly.

Conclusion : Overall, the R4DS Revolution for DS does what it is intended to do. Booting of clean NDS games and homebrew work flawlessly. Setting up the OS and placing of files is done with a simple drag and drop method. The ability to customize the look of the OS is a neat feature. MicroSD prices have dropped dramatically within the past year. You can purchase a 1GB for as low as $10! To find the best deals, visit our Online/Store Deals.

*UPDATE*

You can also download the latest files HERE.

Please note that none of the "upgrade" products listed in this site are endorsed by Nintendo, Sony and/or Microsoft. DCEmu Reviews and DCEmu Network does not condone piracy. The primary functions of a "modchip" and/or "flashcart" are to allow you to play imported games and homebrew software that you legally own or simply just for experimenting with hardware. We in no way endorse piracy, and encourage all users to do the right thing and support the developers/manufacturers that support them. We do not take any responsibilities for any use outside of these parameters or where the use of such a device is illegal.

Images via comments
March 16th, 2007, 00:46
bandit

3 Attachment(s)

Fake R4 Flashcarts are popping up, heres some info to make yourselfs aware of the problem:

Quote:

It seems that fake R4 Revolution slot 1 devices have been released in China, and have been making their way to customers via unreliable online retailers. Unlike the original R4 Revolution, these knockoffs utilize cheap internal flash memory and are basically poor DSLinker/MK5 replicas being sold under the R4 brand name. However, the packaging is near identical as are the devices themselves, although the main difference is the addition of a small blue label on the fake R4 that indicates the amount of internal memory.

The R4/M3 team will obviously not be providing support or replacements to users who purchase the phony devices. Our advice is to be very careful if you’re planning on purchasing a new slot 1 device and to only order from a reputable online retailer.

So if you decide to buy an R4, buy from a reputable seller such as the ones linked above.
April 11th, 2007, 04:33
Bobby Lemain

yay! lol im ordering mine tomoro from dealextream, by the way a week ago it was $41 on DX with a 1GB memcard, but it went up to 44 probably because of high demand.

"(que to edit your post to move DX to the "R4DS with microSD" category)"

^:mad: bleh, I'm an idiot, I'm sorry :(
April 11th, 2007, 12:51
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bobby Lemain

yay! lol im ordering mine tomoro from dealextream, by the way a week ago it was $41 on DX with a 1GB memcard, but it went up to 44 probably because of high demand. (que to edit your post to move DX to the "R4DS with microSD" category)

They are already on there.
May 15th, 2007, 23:35
bowmessage

I liked your review a lot, thanks for taking the time :]
May 17th, 2007, 02:52
Xanthier

Thanks for the review, it not only told me exactly what I needed to know, but also gave some pretty good sites to order from - I just ordered from DealExtreme.

Cheers.
May 17th, 2007, 04:40
V3N0M

Yes, excellent review bandit! So I imagine this review is for the M3 as well? From what I understand the R4 and M3 are nearly identical? While I'm on this topic, does anyone know any differences ( no matter how small ) between the two?
May 17th, 2007, 14:53
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by V3N0M

Yes, excellent review bandit! So I imagine this review is for the M3 as well? From what I understand the R4 and M3 are nearly identical? While I'm on this topic, does anyone know any differences ( no matter how small ) between the two?

Thank you all. Your responses and contributions to reviews is what keeps this site going as well as my motivation.

To answer your question, the R4 and M3 Simply is pratically identical. They are both produced by the same manufacturer. Compatibility and firmware functions is all the same. Only different is sticker, brand and packaging. Although the firmware functions are the same, you can not use a R4 firmware/files on a M3 Simply and vice versa. Skinning is the same as well.

The R4 releases the first firmware and a couple days to a week or so later, M3 Simply gets the same firmware.
May 22nd, 2007, 04:07
delirumhappy

Has anyone ordered a R4 english from Colorful-Zone?
I'm trusting that they sell legit R4's

http://www.colourful-zone.com/Store/...roducts_id=165
May 22nd, 2007, 12:42
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by delirumhappy

Has anyone ordered a R4 english from Colorful-Zone?
I'm trusting that they sell legit R4's

http://www.colourful-zone.com/Store/...roducts_id=165

Never heard of them. They sell the English version for $39.99. For that price, might as well buy from one of the sellers above as they are trusted.
May 24th, 2007, 21:04
twinki

that seems legit, i just signed up on this forum so i wouldnt know about a lot of it. I just ordered my r4 and supercard lite on supercardnds.com i emailed those guy and they said everything in the picture is what i get. and its not like the fake with a cable, it has a micro sd adapter.
May 27th, 2007, 00:06
jo2thenah

is it true that you can only use specific homebrew apps? i can't use apps like DSorganize or something?
May 27th, 2007, 04:47
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by jo2thenah

is it true that you can only use specific homebrew apps? i can't use apps like DSorganize or something?

You can use DSOrganize.

Here is a homebrew compatibility list
http://wiki.scorpei.com/index.php/R4..._Homebrew_List
May 28th, 2007, 05:29
jo2thenah

sorry, but how does DLDI patching work? i want to get this because i don't like how i have to convert games on my supercard lite. i was planning on selling my passkey but keeping the actual flashcart, just in case coz my friend told me you can't use homebrew, and stuff. should i just get this and sell everything? =P im really confused.
May 28th, 2007, 23:56
Ceptic Tank

I own an R4, it's great :D The only downside is no GBA support. I have been thinking about getting a G6 Lite for the slot 2 and having my R4 in slot 1 for the ultimate combination.
June 24th, 2007, 18:00
lilmissfrightmare

I recently bought an r4, without realising it was japanese, I struggled a bit because I couldnt tell what the buttons were for, so I then ordered an american one that was in full english,

I set up the full installation and it worked great, I then copied all the files from my new card and replaced the old japanese program on the other card however when I try to use the old card a message appears on my ds screen (in japanese so I dont know what it says) and wont let me select my files.

Someone suggested this may be because the ds cartridge from the japanese pack will not accept the american program on the american disc, however I assumed it was simply a converter and would accept whichever program was on the micro sd card.

Please could you give me some advice on how to fix this as I would like both of my cards to be in english,

If as assumed there is a compatability issue please can you tell my where or how I can buy a new american r4 ds cartridge converter with out buying a full set again?

thank you :)
June 29th, 2007, 10:01
sleeping247

Hi. Could you please tell me where to download the theme you used in your review?
June 29th, 2007, 15:01
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by sleeping247

Hi. Could you please tell me where to download the theme you used in your review?

R4's own forum has a lot of skins

http://forums.r4ds.net

If you browse their forums, there is a link to a site that hosts all if not majority of the skins that you can download from.
July 2nd, 2007, 23:12
metroplex2k7

Which one will let you play gba roms?
July 3rd, 2007, 14:27
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by metroplex2k7

Which one will let you play gba roms?

You will have to look for slot-2 devices. Slot-1 devices do not play GBA games.
July 3rd, 2007, 16:02
metroplex2k7

What is a good slot 2 device for that? you seem to know your stuff, which do you recommend? r4 or m3. most people seem to prefer the r4, but it seems, (from the wiki list), m3 has better compatibility.
July 5th, 2007, 12:36
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by metroplex2k7

What is a good slot 2 device for that? you seem to know your stuff, which do you recommend? r4 or m3. most people seem to prefer the r4, but it seems, (from the wiki list), m3 has better compatibility.

Again, R4 and M3 is not a slot-2 device. It only plays DS games. If you're looking for slot-2 device, you can google to find reviews. I have not reviewed any slot-2 devices yet.

If you want to get a slot-1 devices that plays DS games, R4 and M3 Simply are both the same. They are manufactured by the same company. R4 gets their updates first and M3 gets it a couple days later.
July 7th, 2007, 02:13
metroplex2k7

I ordered the R4, should get it in a couple weeks. I am looking forward to it. Thanks for the info. I plan on getting the EZ Flash 3-1 for my slot 2 needs.
August 17th, 2007, 22:52
mickydibble

hi folks, i am always on this site but sometimes, well most of the time dont sign in ,says i was last on in december 1st 06...shame on me ....thnx to all ... where is cheapest for nds lite? any ideas
September 4th, 2007, 15:41
paul3100

Hi all, wanted to know if the R4 can use 4 GB SD memory?

I read on another web page it may work but would possibly be unstable!

Can anyone confirm if the 4GB cards will work or don't

cheers, paul

EDIT:

Quote:

where is cheapest for nds lite? any ideas

TBH there isn't much of a difference in price for the DSlite and for a few £££$$$ your best buying from a shop where you know you will be able to return it if it goes faulty!
September 5th, 2007, 16:24
paul3100

Ok so bought the 4 gig Card for my R4 and guess what? it doesn't work!!! :0(

Doesn't work on my supercard lite either

paul
October 30th, 2007, 15:15
Fullpint

I have had my R4 for about 2 months now and I have found it a great addition to the DS. I had another look at your review and noticed that you have been able to transfer some of you ***** on to the R4. The reader I recieved is silver metal, not orange plastic. Do the DS ***** have to be connected to the PC via some sort of card reader? If the R4 is a complete solution then I must be missing somthing simple. Hope you can help as you screen shot shows that you have been able to transfer ***** on to the card.

Thanks

We do not support the talk of piracy in this forum/site.
October 31st, 2007, 12:08
bandit

We do not talk about piracy on this forum. All I have to say is you need to place them in a folder. That is all I can say. For your answer, google it.
November 1st, 2007, 15:14
plasterdat

hey all. just signed up here and had a question about the R4. i got it for watching videos and i ordered it yesterday. i ordered it from real hot stuff and i was wondering if the site is legit? just to make sure. also will using the R4 screw around with my DS? i have about 5 games i play and i dont want them to get screwed up
November 1st, 2007, 16:01
paul3100

Ok well the second question: no the R4 will not screw up your DS in any way at all, just like using a genuine cart in both plugging the R4 into your ds and using it.

No change what so ever will occur :-)

The web site i have heard off before but couldn't tell you if its good or bad , but if you have ordered from them then i would just sit tight for a week or so before getting exited!

Always a good idea to pay via paypal or a credit card for protection .

paul
November 2nd, 2007, 01:32
plasterdat

Quote:

Originally Posted by paul3100

Ok well the second question: no the R4 will not screw up your DS in any way at all, just like using a genuine cart in both plugging the R4 into your ds and using it.

No change what so ever will occur :-)

The web site i have heard off before but couldn't tell you if its good or bad , but if you have ordered from them then i would just sit tight for a week or so before getting exited!

Always a good idea to pay via paypal or a credit card for protection .

paul

that's good but it's exactly that is what scares me. i payed thru credit card and the last thing i want to get is gypped. anyways i'll sit tight...
November 2nd, 2007, 11:30
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by plasterdat

hey all. just signed up here and had a question about the R4. i got it for watching videos and i ordered it yesterday. i ordered it from real hot stuff and i was wondering if the site is legit? just to make sure. also will using the R4 screw around with my DS? i have about 5 games i play and i dont want them to get screwed up

RHS is legit
November 11th, 2007, 19:31
joe pineapples

Hi

new to this, and just ordered an R4 myself from Clickshop. I see they are linked on the forum, so ilm assuming they are reputable so i shouldnt have anything to worry about on the purchase?

A bit off-topic, but regarding the R4 V2, does it matter wether or not i get a 'hi speed; SD card, for the purposes of 'lag, or will a 'standard' one do?. I was thinking about either a Kingston or Sandisk..

thanks

joe
November 11th, 2007, 20:27
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by joe pineapples

Hi

new to this, and just ordered an R4 myself from Clickshop. I see they are linked on the forum, so ilm assuming they are reputable so i shouldnt have anything to worry about on the purchase?

A bit off-topic, but regarding the R4 V2, does it matter wether or not i get a 'hi speed; SD card, for the purposes of 'lag, or will a 'standard' one do?. I was thinking about either a Kingston or Sandisk..

thanks

joe

Clickshop? I dont see them linked or heard of them. I suggest purchasing from links on the first post.

As for R4 v2, it will should work with both hi-speed and standard.
November 11th, 2007, 23:54
joe pineapples

Quote:

Clickshop? I dont see them linked or heard of them. I suggest purchasing from links on the first post.

Hi

the ad was one of the 'ads by google' at the top earlier - i guess they are cycled through. Had already ordered before reading about this 'fake' business, so i can only cross my fingers now

joe
November 12th, 2007, 00:01
bandit

Quote:

Originally Posted by joe pineapples

Hi

the ad was one of the 'ads by google' at the top earlier - i guess they are cycled through. Had already ordered before reading about this 'fake' business, so i can only cross my fingers now

joe

Ah ok. Yes, those Google ads are generated. For future reference, its best to order from links on the first post.
November 15th, 2007, 22:30
nico12

Hi guys, I'm new here so be cool. :P

I buy a R4 with Card SD 2 GB from ConsoleSource and i want to know how much time it takes to send to it. (I live in Canada, Montreal) Some of my friends at school says to me that they put it in front of ur door so everybody can took it, others said that they come in trucks and put in in ur postmail and others said that if they come and ur not there they gave it to ur posteman. (sorry for my English cuz its not my main language)

Thanks
November 16th, 2007, 16:28
paul3100

i guess it will take as long as it takes! if its small enough for your letterbox then its posted other than that it should (should!) be taken back to the main office and re delivered .

paul
November 16th, 2007, 21:47
nico12

OK thanks paul now im reassurance cuz i dont wanna spend 92.00$ for a steller -.-'

But I wish it's come fast cuz I'm not patient and I think noone will be :P

-nico-
November 18th, 2007, 11:30
joe pineapples

Hi

Still nothing from Clickshop, so cancelled the order and replaced it with one from DealExtreme, who are doing a very good R4/2gb memory bundle. And the bonus of being a link in your list of course :)

cheers
joe

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