How to Upgrade the Back Ports to USB-C on a GameBoy Advance

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Introduction

The Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP is renowned for its compact clamshell design and built-in rechargeable battery, yet its legacy charging jack is increasingly cumbersome in today’s era of universal USB-C. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step procedure for replacing the factory port with a modern USB-C connector. You will learn how to:

Disassemble the SP’s rear housing without damaging plastic clips or ribbon cables
De-solder and remove the original proprietary charging jack
Prepare and align a USB-C breakout module for seamless integration
Perform precise soldering to ensure a reliable electrical and mechanical connection
Reassemble the unit and carry out final functional and safety tests

Upgrading your Game Boy Advance SP requires advanced handling of small electronics and hot-work techniques. Observe the following safety measures at all times:

Soldering Risks
– Molten solder and a hot iron tip can cause severe burns. Always work on a heat-resistant mat, and handle soldering tools by their insulated grips.
– Fumes from solder and flux may be harmful if inhaled—work in a well-ventilated area or use local exhaust.
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
– Static electricity can irreversibly damage circuit boards and components. Wear an ESD wrist strap or ground yourself frequently by touching a known earth-grounded object.
Component Damage
– Excessive force when prying or desoldering can crack PCB traces or dislodge nearby parts. Use the proper size of spudgers and solder wick, and apply heat sparingly.
Electrical Safety
– Never attempt repairs on a device that is connected to a power source. Ensure your SP’s battery is removed or fully discharged before beginning.
Small Parts & Debris
– Keep track of all screws, springs, and shims—losing even a single tiny component can compromise your reassembly. Work over a parts tray or magnetic mat.

Note: For any troubleshooting, please refer to the video below.

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Vidéo d'introduction

Étape 1 Back Ports

How to Upgrade the Back Ports to USB-C on a GameBoy Advance, Back Ports: étape 1, image 1 de 1

Turn off the Game Boy Advance SP completely. Then start cleaning the ports located on the back side of the case.
Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to gently scrub the inside of the port.
Do NOT apply too much pressure or use anything sharp to clean the ports.

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Étape 2

Use a Y00 screwdriver to remove the six Tri-Wing 1.5mm screws as you carefully disassemble your Game Boy into 4 parts: console, battery, back panel, and motherboard. The 6 screws are highlighted in the red circles.
The next few steps require knowledge of soldering and soldering safety guidelines. We strongly recommend that you review this video on how to safely solder.

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Étape 3

Next, desolder the back port (highlighted in the red box) from the motherboard using a desoldering pump.
Take caution of the other parts of the motherboard as you desolder.
Clean off any remaining solder on the motherboard when you finish.

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Étape 4

Align your USB-C port in place and ensure the bottom is facing downward.
Prepare the solder and iron for the next step.

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Étape 5

Solder the sides that were previously connected to the old port.
After it is secured on both sides, solder the 4 metal pins on the back of the new USB-C port.
Once again, be careful not to damage/apply heat to any of the other parts of the motherboard.

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Étape 6

To test for a successful connection, turn on the device.
If it doesn't turn on, ensure the port is connected to the correct points. If it isn't, use your soldering iron to solder the correct metal points.