This function is more of a backup for catastrophic cartridge failure. Sometimes when an ARP
cartridge becomes corrupted, it can be re-flashed and made usable again. Or if there is an actual
hardware failure (damage), a new cartridge must be purchased. In either case, a CD application
which runs on the Saturn, must be used to reflash the cartridge.
An example of a Saturn CD application which can reflash the cartridge is ExCyber’s ARFLASH
utility. This can be found on Rockin’-B All Stars compilation at “
http://www.rockin-b.de/saturn-
rb-all-stars.html
”.
Also, there is a utility that may be run using the DataLink called “Saturn Cartridge Firmware
Flash Utility” This can be downloaded here:
http://ppcenter.webou.net/devblog/article/48/saturn-
cartridge-firmware-flash-utility-small-update.html
This is a binary file (flasher.bin) that may be executed on the Saturn, using the DataLink's “Send
Homebrew Game” function. This can be used to update your cartridge firmware. This can also
be run from CD, if your cartridge is not functional.
Step5 – Troubleshooting
The DataLink software will attempt to communicate many times with the DataLink device before
giving up and displaying an error message box. If you receive this communication error message,
the possible reasons could be:
•
The wrong COM port has been selected
•
A COM port number higher than 9 has been assigned
•
The USB cable is not plugged into both the PC and the DataLink device
•
The 25pin ribbon cable connector is not plugged into the PAR cartridge
•
The Saturn is not powered on
•
The PAR cartridge is not at it’s Main Menu screen
•
The PAR cartridge is not making good contact and must be re-inserted
•
The PAR cartridge firmware is too old, and must be updated
There has now been a test mode added to the software. It is under File...USB Test. This will
allow the USB communication to be tested, between the PC and the DataLink. The Saturn and
ARP cartridge are not required for this test, just plug the DataLink into the PC.
The following cartridge firmwares have been tested so far. Any newer versions should be
compatible with the DataLink. If your cartridge has an older version of firmware, it may need to
be updated to operate correctly with the DataLink.
•
EMS Action Replay Plus version 2.01 (or newer)
•
Pro Action Replay version 1.94 (or newer)
•
Gameshark-USA version 1.91 (or newer)
Feel free to send any further questions/comments to:
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