3DS Flashcart FAQ

This page will list frequently asked questions about 3DS hacking using flashcarts like Gateway 3DS or R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe.

If you have a question, put it at the end of the page, or ask on GBATemp's forum here.

If you have an answer or can help provide better answers and information than is currently listed, please edit this page to help other users.

If you found a new question in the forum and know the answer, put it in the corresponding section.

Glossary

NAND

There are two types of NAND: SysNAND and EmuNAND.

• SysNAND is the original NAND on version 4.5 that stores data/system information.
• EmuNAND is a backup/copy/emulated version of your SysNAND that runs off the SD card.

EmuNANDs can be safely updated to the latest system menu, while still having your SysNAND on version 4.5. So you can keep your 4.5 exploit while still having access to online features.

RedNAND is an unreleased nand redirection exploit written by Smealum (w/ help from friends) that has not been released publicly.

SD Card

The "SD Card" is the Big SD card in your 3DS. The one bundled with your console. It's used to store Launcher.dat file, all your save files, and if you want it can also store a copy of your NAND: The EmuNAND partition.

The "Micro SD Card" is the one placed into the flashcart and containing your game's ROMs.

Flashcart's names

In the FAQ and the forum, you will encounter different terms which could designate the same product. You can see here what they are referring to.

Software:

• Gateway: Refers to the "Hacked mode" (entering into the Gateway Mode, usually without EmuNAND) which patch the console to allow ROM, Region free, Firmware spoofing, etc.

The three available modes being: Gateway, EmuNAND Normal and EmuNAND Classic.

It can sometime be used by users even if it's not a Gateway 3DS flashcart.

Hardware:

• Gateway 3DS: It's the name of the Gateway 3DS team's flashcart.
• Gateway: Same as above, it's often just referred to as Gateway only.
• GW: It's the abbreviation for Gateway card.
• GW2.0b1: Launcher.dat version 2.0b1 from the Gateway 3DS team.

• R4i 3DS Gold Deluxe: It's the name of the R4ids.cn team's flashcart.
• 3DS Link: It's the name of the 3DS Link team's flashcart.
• R4i/Link: As both R4i 3DS Gold Deluxe and 3DS Link cards are from the same manufacturer and use the same firmware, they are often mentioned together when needing to provide a firmware version. For example R4i/Link v3.0 refers to both R4i 3DS Gold Deluxe v3.0 and 3DS Link v3.0.
• Gold/Link: Same as above, but using the "Gold" part of the name to talk about the R4i 3DS Gold Deluxe product.
• R4i/Link3.0: Launcher.dat version 3.0 from both R4ids.cn and 3DS Link teams.

Firmware / System Menu

Users often use "Firmware" to talk about the version of their console or Flashcart, but it's not the correct name.

Like for Wii and WiiU, the 3DS use a System Menu version. If you speak about the 3DS, please use "System version" instead of Firmware in this FAQ.

If you speak about the Flashcart's Launcher.dat, it's not a firmware either. It's a program launched by the DS profile exploit. The firmware would be what's inside the flashcart's chipset. But a lot of users call the Launcher.dat the "Firmware" so I used that word in the FAQ. If it's better to use another word, feel free to replace it.

Exploit

   

How does it work ?

This hack exploits two different vulnerabilities in the 3DS system menu.

The first one consists in altering the DS profile stored in DS NVRAM (by using a compatible DS flashcart and running a DS homebrew), to exploit the MSET vulnerability in "User mode".

The second one grants access to the 3DS "kernel mode" by launching the DS profile in the 3DS Settings. When the DS profile is launched, it uses a vulnerability in rsa_verify request (for which the length isn't checked) to copy the payload in memory and launch it with Kernel access to load a file located on the SD card (ys:/Launcher.dat).

Nintendo patched the second vulnerability in System version 5.0.0, and prevented the DS profile to crash in System version 7.0.0. Although the modified NVRAM still crash the system up to version 6.3.0, there's no indication that the MSET exploit wasn't patched in version 5.0.0 too.

Discussion threads :

• DS Exploit 12
• rsa_verify exploit 12

   

Console

Is it working in all consoles and regions?

Consoles from all regions are compatible with this exploit, and works on all 3DS consoles (Original and XL/LL). You need a 3DS with a System version from 4.1.0 to 4.5.0 to use this exploit. If your 3DS System version is 5.0.0 or newer, it will not work. The 2DS is manufactured with a System version higher than 4.5.0 so it will not work.

Is it a softmod or hardmod?

This hack is currently based on both. The exploit itself is done in software (It runs by launching programs on the console), but requires a Flashcart to install the DS exploit and another Flashcart to play 3DS ROMs.

You don't need to open your console or solder a modchip to play 3DS Roms, but it's possible to do physical modifications if you want to backup/restore your NAND. See this FAQ's NAND section for more information.

Can you check the System version before buying a new 3DS?

Copyright 2012 is NOT a guarantee of firmware <= 4.5.0. Having a Nintendo Serial Number <= SW12XXXXXX X (Sxx1153xxxx x if European) for a 3DS XL or <= CW421xxxxx x for a regular 3DS is. The lower the serial number the older the unit (which for our purposes is better).

The Nintendo Serial Number can be found on the outside of the box on the top (It can also be found on the back of the 3DS itself)

• 

Since firmware 5.0.0 was released March 26, 2013, and we know the release of the various versions of the 3DS and the 3DS XL models/bundles...

For North America:

3DS XL models capable of coming with <= 4.5.0:

Red/Black

Blue/Black

Pink/White

Pikachu bundle

Pink/White 3DS XL in a bundle (with Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask or Style Savvy: Trendsetters)

3DS models capable of coming with <= 4.5.0:

Aqua Blue

Cosmo Black

Flame Red

Pearl Pink (bundled with Nintendogs + Cats)

Midnight Purple

Heroes of Ruin

The Legend of Zelda 25th Anniversary

Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance

Fire Emblem Awakening

Seems like almost all regular 3DS's are capable while only a limited selection of 3DS XL's are.

The highest reported Nintendo Serial Number that came with 4.5.0:

Red/Black 3DS XL: SW1268xxxx x [Colarfulltaco], (4.5.0-10u, Purchased in Canada).

Red/Black 3DS XL: SW1279xxxx x [DemiseScythe]

Blue/Black 3DS XL: SW1278xxxx x [drfsupercenter] (SW1335xxxx x reported > 4.5.0 [tlee22])

Pink/White 3DS XL: SW1286xxxx x [liquidsolidyetboth]

Midnight Purple 3DS: CW421xxxxx x (came with 4.4.0) [Orcastraw]

There are possible contradictions in this data from RickyEarl (says Blue/Black w/ SW1231xxxx x had 6.1.0) and tlee22 (says Red/Black w/ SW1275xxxx x had 6.1.0).

For Europe:

There is a spreadsheet for European 3DS's here that indicates any Sxx1153xxxx x or below Nintendo Serial Number should come with <= 4.5.0.

The lowest reported serial number that came with >4.5.0 is Sxx11623xxx x.

Discussion thread: at the forums

Flashcarts

How many 3DS Flashcarts exist?

• Gateway 3DS. Read GBATemp's review.
• R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe. Read GBATemp's review.
• 3DS Link (same product as R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe, just a different name).
• Orange 3DS (same product as R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe, just a different name).
• MT-Card.

All these products are bundled with both a DS mode flashcart and a 3DS mode flashcart.

Why are there two flashcarts?

The DS mode flashcart is used to run a DS Homebrew which will replace the DS profile informations. The modified DS profile is then used to exploit a vulnerability in 3DS mode, access Kernel mode and patch the 3DS system.

The 3DS mode flashcart is used to play 3DS Game ROMs.

Can I use my own DS mode Flashcart?

Yes.

If you already have a DS mode flashcart working with your 3DS, you can use it to run the DS homebrew. Just put the installer.nds file on your MicroSD and launch it from your usual method of booting DS homebrew.

Can I use the DS Mode flashcart bundled with 3DS Flashcart to run DS homebrew/games?

Yes.

The bundled DS Mode flashcart is a regular card working with 3DS firmware 4.5.0 (or newer, depending which product you buy).

• Gateway: This is a r4i gold 3DS clone, using a hacked Wood firmware.
  
• R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe: This is an official R4i Gold 3DS, with the official Wood Firmware.
  
• 3DS Link: This card and R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe are the same product.
• MT Card: This card does allow you to play DS ROMs on the DS Mode flashcart that comes in the package, but homebrew may not currently be supported.

Do 3DS Flashcarts work with all consoles?

The 3DS flashcarts are region free and works on all existing 3DS consoles (Original and XL/LL). It doesn't work on 2DS due to bundled system version at manufacturing time.

Do 3DS Flashcarts work on all 3DS System version?

The exploit currently used to get access to the 3DS Kernel works only on System version 4.1.0 to 4.5.0.

My 3DS System version is below 4.5.0, how can I update it?

The current exploit is working with 3DS System Menu version 4.1.0 to 4.5.0.

If you are on System version 4.1.0 to 4.5.0, you don't need to update. If your System version is 1.0.0 to 4.0.0, you will have to update to use this exploit.

There are two different methods to update your System NAND:

1. Using an original game cartridge bundled with the desired System version update (for example Luigi's Mansion 2 has v4.5.0). It works on all System versions, from v1.0.0 to any versions inferior to the game's bundled System version update.
2. Using a game's ROM bundled with System update v4.5.0 and with Gateway v1.0 (which doesn't prevent the required System version checking). It works on System version v4.1.0 to v4.4.0.

You can check this website to find which System version is present in a game's update partition.

Note: The ROM method is not possible with R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe / 3DS Link flashcarts as their initial release (v2.0) prevent the game from checking the required firmware.

Note: If you currently use the MT Card flashcart, update to Launcher.dat v1.1, as it supports 4.1.0-7.1.0. Further details on the update.

My console's firmware is above 4.5.0, what can I do? Is it possible to downgrade?

Downgrading is possible only if you have a backup of your NAND chipset created before updating. You can't restore another console's NAND backup.

If you have a NAND backup of your console and want to restore it, check the NAND section.

If you don't have a NAND backup, you can't use this hack at all. You must buy a new console if you want one with System version 4.5.0 or below.

Purchasing a MT card flashcart may be a possible solution at the time being, that being it is the only flashcart that supports 4.1.0-7.1.0.

Using the flashcarts

How do I update my Flashcart's software version?

Replace the Launcher.dat on your SD card with the new Launcher.dat file.

Do I need to run DS exploit every time?

No.

The patched DS profile is reset only if you launch a DS game or a DS mode flashcard. In this case, you will need to run the DS install.nds homebrew again.

You will also need to run the install.nds again if you changed your 3DS System language.

Is the 3DS hack permanent or do I need to run it after every reboot?

You need to run the exploit after each console's reboot/shutdown.

Go to Settings > Other Settings > Nintendo DS Profile to launch the hack again.

I want to remove all exploits on my system!

1. Run a DS game or a DS mode flashcart.
2. Shutdown your 3DS.
3. Delete the Launcher.dat from your SD card
4. Delete the install.nds from your DS flashcard's MicroSD.

If you do this and used EmuNAND the EmuNAND partition will still be on your system's SD card.

Does the Gateway Laucher.dat works on the r4I Deluxe ?

No.

You can't use a Launcher.dat to boot ROMs using a different flashcart than the one it's created for. Though, you can use any Launcher.dat without flashcart to enter in EmuNAND/EmuNAND Classic and access eShop or launch retail games.

Games

Are all games working ?

It depends on the flashcart and its firmware version.

ROMs:

• GW2.0b1, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe 3.0, 3DS Link 3.0: Only 2 games (Pokemon X/Y and Animal Crossing) are not working when using the ROM form.
• GW1.2, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/ 3DS Link 2.0: Games using SDK5+ are not working.
• MT Card v1.1:Pokemon X/Y and Animal Crossing are to be supported soon.

Game Cartridge:

• EmuNAND classic with GW2.0b1: All games (tested up to release 497) are working using EmuNAND classic Firmware 6.3.0

Attention: Since SDK6 (and System version 6.0+) games are using a different save encryption method. While in EmuNAND, the system is still running under 4.5.0 and it's using the old encryption method. If you play your cartridge in System NAND 6.0+ it will not be compatible with EmuNAND 6.0+ and the game will delete/reinitialize the save.

You can check the 3DS flashcarts game compatibility page to see which games are not working, and which version you need.

Are games region free?

Yes.

You can play games from all regions when using ROMs. But if you are using EmuNAND Classic you still need to use a game cartridge from your region.

ROM

• System NAND

Gateway 3DS v1 : Not region free
Gateway 3DS v1.2 - R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe v2.0 - 3DS Link v2.0 : Region free
Gateway 3DS v2.0b1 - R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe v3.0 - 3DS Link v3.0 : Region free, except on 4.1.0

• EmuNAND

Gateway 3DS v2.0b1 - R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe v3.0 - 3DS Link v3.0 : Region free, except on 4.1.0

Note: Region free and System version spoofing with Gateway 3DS v2.0b1 and R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DS Link v3.0 doesn't work if your System version is 4.1.0. R4i source1R4i source2 GW Source1.

To fix this issue update your EmuNAND or, if you don't use EmuNAND, update your System NAND to 4.5.0 using a retail game cartridge.

Game Cartridge

• EmuNAND Classic

Gateway 3DS v2.0b1 - R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe v3.0 - 3DS Link v3.0 : No region free.

Can I play online?

You can play online only when using EmuNAND Classic mode and a retail cartridge. Read the EmuNAND section for more informations.

Online doesn't work with ROMs.

Can I play games requiring System version past 4.5.0?

Yes.

The flashcarts are spoofing the required System version and prevent the prompt asking to update your console if you play from ROMs. But if you are using EmuNAND Classic (GW2.0b1), you still need to use an updated EmuNAND.

ROMs:

• GW1.2, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe 2.0, 3DS Link 2.0: Working with all games requiring System version up to 4.5.0 and some games requiring 5.1.0.
• GW2.0b1, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe 3.0, 3DS Link 3.0: Working with all games requiring System version up to 6.2.0.
• EmuNAND (GW2.0b1): Working with all games requiring System version up to 6.2.0.

Game Cartridge:

• EmuNAND Classic (GW2.0b1) : No System version spoofing. You need to update your EmuNAND System version to 5.1.0 or newer.

Why are games using SDK5+ not working with old flashcarts' firmware?

In SDK5, Nintendo changed the location of the booting logo (the Nintendo logo at the bottom of the booting screen). It's now located outside of the ExeFS, in unencrypted form. Since the game is unable to locate this file, the game can't boot.

Flashcarts' firmwares are patching the location to allow games created with SDK5 to work with System version 4.5.0.

ROMs:

• R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe 2.0, 3DS Link 2.0: Not working with SDK5+ games.
• GW2.0b1, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe 3.0, 3DS Link 3.0: Working with all SDK5+ games.
• EmuNAND (GW2.0b1): Working with all SDK5+ games.

Game Cartridge:

• EmuNAND Classic (GW2.0b1) : No file path patching. You need to update your EmuNAND System version to 5.1.0 or newer.

What about games using SDK7+?

It is suspected that encryption changes in SDK7 may make ROMs created with that SDK unplayable. As of early March 2014 no ROMs have yet been released that use this SDK.

Note that just because a ROM needs System version 7 doesn't mean it must have been created using SDK 7.

Can I store multiple games on my MicroSD?

No.

At least, not for the moment. You need 1 game per MicroSD card.

The Gateway team said they are working on a game selection menu for GW 2.0.

How can I store games bigger than 4GB on FAT32?

It's unknown for the moment how the games will be stored to allow multiple games at the same time.

How do I install a game to my MicroSD card?

The game is written in RAW format, it doesn't use any file system.

You need to use tools to write the ROM image to your device. There are different tools depending on your operating system.

• Windows: Win32DiskImager.

Select the device in the list, Select the .3ds game file and click "Write" button. Attention, be sure to select the correct drive's letter. ALL your card will be deleted and the game will be written.

If the MicroSD contains already a game, the program will not display the device in the list. You need to format the MicroSD first (using Panasonic SD Formater).

• Mac OS: Mac OS 3DS Imaging Tool.

• Linux: use dd command line to write binary file to the device.

sudo dd if=/u01/filename.3ds of=/dev/mmcblk0 bs=1M

The location of the file and device may vary depending on your Linux machine. Beware that writing to the wrong device could trash your hard drive.

• Android: Gateway flash application for rooted android.

Can I trim ROMs to fit in a smaller MicroSD?

Yes.

Some games can be trimmed to remove unused dumped binary data. There are different program you can use to do that.

• ROM_Tool, by 3DSGuy
• 3DS Explorer by Elisherer, and 3DS Explorer mod by 3DSGuy

There are two trimming methods, what are the differences?

The normal trimming method removes unused data at the end of the Game's Data. it can be reverted to get the file back to the original Dump.

The second trimming methods also removes the Update Partition from the game's Data and is irreversible. You can't restore the deleted partition from the modified file.

The first method should be enough to fit all games in your MicroSD card.

How do I change games?

Exit your current game with Home > X > A, and wait few seconds before removing the flashcard, it's doing a backup of the save. change your MicroSD and put the flashcard back in the 3DS.

Saves

Where are stored the saves?

When you play, the save data is stored into the flashcart's internal save chipset.

The flashcart can only store one game's save at a time. You need to backup the save data to your SD card before playing another game or you will loose your progress.

Note: The gateway team announced that they are working on a direct file access solution, the save will saved directly to SD card in future revision of their Launcher.dat. For the moment, you need to backup your save progress to SD card manually.

Can I save my current progress to SD card?

If you want to backup your current progress to a file, you need to exit the game properly by using Home > Exit (X) > Confirm (A).

It will create a copy of the flashcart's internal save chipset to the root of your big SD card, with the filename based on the GameID. For example The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds (EU): SD:\00040000000EC400.sav

If there is already a backup file for that game, it will be overwritten.

When you launch a different game, it will check if there is already a backup for that game on your SD card. If found, it will be transfered to the flashcart's internal save chipset and will replace the previous game's data.

If I don't exit the game properly, will I lose my progress?

No.

As long as you play the same game, it will not overwrite the flashcart's current data with your old backup file. It will use the flashcart's internal save chipset as long as you don't play a different game.

Attention: If you play another game, it will NOT backup your previous game's progress to SD automatically, you need to properly exit the game manually if you don't want to lose your save before playing another game.

Attention 2: If you delete the .sav file on your SD card, the flashcart's current data will be reset when you launch the game, even if it's the latest played game! If you decide to format the SD card (for example to prepare EmuNAND) always keep a backup of your files and restore them to your card before launching the game again.

Can I backup the saves to my computer?

Yes.

You can keep a backup of your .sav files on your computer if you want.

Can I share save files with another user?

Yes.

The .sav files can be shared with other flaschart's users as long as they are playing the same ROM dump/region/version of the game.

How do I restore a save from someone else?

1. Play a different game than the one which you want to import the save. (It you play the same game, it will use the internal save chipset instead of the .sav file, so ensure that you are playing a different one).
2. Shutdown 3DS (users reported that it didn't work without shutting down, especially if you are using EmuNAND)
3. Put the .sav file on the root of your SD card. It should be named based on the game's TitleID, for example The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds (EU): SD:\00040000000EC400.sav
4. Put the game for which you want to import the save into the Flashcart.
5. Launch the game.

Is a save from Gateway 3DS compatible with R4i 3DS Gold Deluxe/3DS Link?

Yes.

The saves are compatible and can be shared between all current flashcart's manufacturers.

Is a save from EmuNAND compatible with SysNAND?

If played from ROM: Yes

If played from Cartridge: It depends on the game. Explanation:

Since System Menu version 6.0.0, there is a new save encryption method (using a different KeyY).

When playing a game cartridge with EmuNAND, the console is still using the KeyY provided by SysNAND (4.1.0-4.5.0). Unable to provide the new encryption method from v6.0.0, the games fall back to the old one.

If you played a game requesting the new save encryption method on EmuNAND, you will lose the save if you play that game on SysNAND. And the other way around is true, if you played a game requesting the new save encryption method on a SysNAND first, you will lose your save if you try that game in EmuNAND.

To resume, for games using the new KeyY:

• If you start a game cartridge on EmuNAND, always play on EmuNAND.
• If you start a game cartridge on SysNAND, always play on SysNAND.

Some games using the new KeyY method:

• Pokémon X/Y
• Zelda ALBW
• Bravely Default
• Add more games here

Is a save created under one EmuNAND version compatible with another EmuNAND version?

Yes.

For the moment, the EmuNAND is using the KeyY save encryption method from the SysNAND (4.1.0-4.5.0). Playing a game in any EmuNAND version will still use the same save encryption method.

We don't know if the flashcart's teams will "fix" the encryption method to use the EmuNAND one and prevent losing save data between EmuNAND and SysNAND. If they do, your save data started on EmuNAND with the current Launcher.dat version will not work with future Launcher.dat releases.

NAND

How do I backup my NAND?

There are two methods:

1. You can backup your NAND with a hardware method. You need to open your console and solder wires in your console. For instructions, check these threads for 3DS and 3DS XL.
2. You can backup your NAND with a software method, using the Launcher.dat.

- GW2.0b1, Gold/Link 3.0: Launch the Gateway menu (press L when selecting the DS profile) and select the "Backup NAND" option. It will save your system NAND to Nand.bin file at the root of your SD card.

Information: You don't need the 3DS flashcart to backup your NAND to nand.bin file. You need only a working DS flashcart to install the modified DS profile on your console and the Launcher.dat file on your SD card.

What is the correct size of the NAND dump?

There are two different NAND chipsets (different manufacturers), and they are of different sizes.

Toshiba NAND:
1931264 sectors
988.807.168 bytes = 943 MB

Samsung NAND:
1953792 sectors
1.000.341.504 bytes = 954 MB

How do I restore my NAND backup?

It's possible only through hardware method.

If you want to modify your console to do hardware NAND backup and restore, you can check these threads:

NAND Flash Dump (3DS)

nand flash dump (3ds xl)

There are two different models (Normal 3DS and 3DS XL). The 3DS XL is easier to mod.

3DS XL restore process:

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Can I restore another 3DS's NAND backup?

No.

Can I restore a NAND backup made using software tool?

Yes.

But only a NAND backup from your own 3DS.

EmuNAND

What is EmuNAND?

EmuNAND is a copy of your 3DS NAND chipset. It allows you to use this copy located on SD card as if it was your real one located inside the console.

It allows you to do everything without affecting your real NAND, like updating your EmuNAND to access eshop and play online while keeping your realNAND at System version 4.5.0 which lets you run the exploit.

With Gateway 2.0b1, there are two different EmuNAND modes:

• EmuNAND Gateway: Boots the console into EmuNAND, and lets you play 3DS ROMs from the Gateway flashcart.
• EmuNAND Classic: Boots the console into EmuNAND, and lets you play retail game's cartridges.

Do I need EmuNAND?

If you want only to play ROMs, you don't need EmuNAND. You can launch all game's ROMs on your System NAND 4.5.0

EmuNAND with ROMs support is useful only if you don't want to affect your System NAND, or if you want to update the EmuNAND to get Online access.

If you want to download Demos, buy games on eshop, use streetpass without the fear that your console download an update, then you need EmuNAND updated to the latest firmware.

Note: EmuNAND probably won't work correctly, if at all, on new System version released after the latest available Launcher.dat version. A Launcher.dat update should be able to fix the compatibility for newer System version/NATIV_FIRM firmware.

Do I need a 3DS flashcart to setup and use EmuNAND?

You don't need a 3DS flashcart. You only need a DS compatible flashcart (DStwo, R4i, etc.) to install the DS exploit which is used to boot the launcher.

The 3DS flashcart is needed only to launch 3DS Roms.

Can I use another 3DS EmuNAND?

No.

How do I create the EmuNAND partition?

Using the Launcher.dat from Gateway v2.0b1, press L while selecting the DS profile and it will boot the Gateway menu. Select "Prepare EmuNAND" option.

ATTENTION : It will format your SD card and delete everything. Make a backup of all your SD card's content to your computer before proceeding.

How do I launch EmuNAND?

If the SD card has the EmuNAND partition, it will always boot EmuNAND when you launch the exploit.

If you don't want to use EmuNAND, you need an SD card without it.

There's currently no way to boot into System NAND if there is an EmuNAND partition on the SD Card.

What's the differences between Normal and Classic EmuNAND?

• The EmuNAND Normal lets you play ROMs. You don't need to update EmuNAND to play ROMs requiring a newer System version.
• The EmuNAND Classic lets you play Cartridges and online. You need to update EmuNAND to play a game requiring a newer System version.

Do I need to update my EmuNAND?

You don't need to update EmuNAND if you don't plan to play a retail cartridge requiring a newer System version, access eshop, download Game's updates/patches or play online.

Can I play online with EmuNAND?

You can play online when using EmuNAND Classic mode and a retail cartridge, as long as you have the latest game's update. If Nintendo release a new game patch/update you can't play online anymore unless you can connect to eShop to download it. Do not accept Eshop System update prompt when you are in EmuNAND Classic! It will update your System NAND.

Online doesn't work with ROMs.

Local Multiplayer works fine with ROMs.

How do I update my EmuNAND?

ATTENTION:

Do not update your EmuNAND if your current Launcher.dat version doesn't support the target System version!

Read the next question to see the maximum System version compatible with your Launcher.dat version.

DO NOT USE eShop or the update prompt to download/update your EmuNAND. It will update your System NAND instead. Always go to Settings > verify that the GW3D text is displayed > go to update menu.

Updating using internet:

• You can find the official tutorial on Gateway 3DS website, news from 01/12/2013.
• Another tutorial.

Updating offline:

If you downloaded a new System update while in sleep mode and have a prompt to update when you are in EmuNAND, you can install it offline. Follow the previous method "Updating using internet" to install your already downloaded update.

Updating using a cartridge:

There is a report that you can update the EmuNAND with a retail game cartridge, but it's only if you want to stay offline and play your retail game with the required System version. This method is not recommended.

You need to be in EmuNAND Classic to get the update prompt. It will update ONLY your System version without eShop features. If you try to access eshop it will prompt you to update to get the latest eShop features, if you accept it will update your System NAND! NO DOT UPDATE USING ESHOP. If you want to update, use the Settings menu and follow a tutorial.

What is the latest working System version for EmuNAND?

Working system versions depend on your current Launcher.dat version. If a new System version is released after the latest Launcher.dat version, chances are the new System menu will not work anymore, or only launch in degraded mode.

Legend:

• Fully working: You can play ROMs and retail cartridges, region free for ROMs, System menu version spoofing for ROMs, Applications launching. eShop access is also working if you are using the latest available System version.
• Compatible: This system version can be launched with EmuNAND but is not compatible with all features. It should lets you launch ROMs and retail cartridge. No region free or System menu version spoofing. The console can freeze if you try to access settings menu or any applications (eShop, Mii, etc.)

Gateway 2.0b1, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/Link 3DS 3.0:

• Latest fully working System version: 6.3.0
• Compatible System version(s): 7.0.0, 7.1.0

Gateway 2.0b2, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/Link 3DS 3.1:

• Latest fully working System version: 7.1.0

Can I backup my EmuNAND partition located on my SD card?

Yes.

Windows

You can currently use Win32DiskImager. It will backup all your SD card (NAND partition and FAT32 partition) as a single binary file.

To backup only the EmuNAND partition, you can use "emuNAND Tool".

Linux

you can use dd command to backup your EmuNAND partition only.

Commands for Toshiba NAND:

Backup emuNAND from the sd card:

dd if=/dev/sdX of=dummy.bin count=1
dd if=/dev/sdX of=nand.bin count=1 skip=1931264
dd if=/dev/sdX of=nand.bin count=1931263 skip=1 seek=1

Write backup to sd card:

dd if=dummy.bin of=sd_tmp.bin count=1
dd if=nand.bin of=sd_tmp.bin skip=1 seek=1
dd if=nand.bin of=sd_tmp.bin count=1 seek=1931264
dd if=sd_tmp.bin of=/dev/sdX bs=8M
rm sd_tmp.bin

Commands for Samsung NAND:

Backup emuNAND from the sd card:

dd if=/dev/sdX of=dummy.bin count=1
dd if=/dev/sdX of=nand.bin count=1 skip=1953792
dd if=/dev/sdX of=nand.bin count=1953791 skip=1 seek=1

Write backup to sd card:

dd if=dummy.bin of=sd_tmp.bin count=1
dd if=nand.bin of=sd_tmp.bin skip=1 seek=1
dd if=nand.bin of=sd_tmp.bin count=1 seek=1953792
dd if=sd_tmp.bin of=/dev/sdX bs=8M
rm sd_tmp.bin

Be sure to change the /dev/sdX to match your SD card. This will make a nand.bin and dummy.bin. The dummy.bin is simply the first sector of the sd card, and nand.bin is your unsplit nand. Thanks to moosehunter

Mac OS

-Add Mac OS solution here- You can also use VMWare or Linux live image.

The two different NAND sizes

Toshiba NAND:
1931264 sectors
988.807.168 bytes = 943 MB

Samsung NAND:
1953792 sectors
1.000.341.504 bytes = 954 MB

Can I use my hardware NAND backup with EmuNAND?

Yes.

The EmuNAND partition has its first sector moved after the last NAND sector, and the first sector is replaced by a dummy sector (acting as SD card's MBR). You can't write your NAND backup directly to SD card without modifying the sector positions.

On Windows, you can use the "emuNAND Tool" to write your NAND backup to your SD card.

If you are on Linux, you can use dd command to write your NAND.bin to your SD card.

Related GBATemp's post : How to use dd to backup/restore EmuNAND partition. (Values are for Toshiba NAND. Change the values for Samsung NAND).

Is EmuNAND affecting System NAND?

While in EmuNAND, your System NAND (4.5.0) is still running and active. Some action done in EmuNAND will only affect EmuNAND, while others will affect both EmuNAND and System NAND.

Here is a list of known actions affecting the System NAND:

Confirmed

• Updating the System version from Eshop will update the System NAND.

Conflicting reports

• Modifying a network setting in EmuNAND will save all EmuNAND's network setting to SysNAND's network setting.
• Moving game's icon position on the System Menu also change their position on SysNAND.

Note: If these issues are only present in a specific Launcher.dat version, move them to the "Known Bug List" section.

Is System NAND affecting EmuNAND?

Yes. As your console is still running on System NAND 4.5.0, it's using that System version's files and functions.

Here is a list of known actions affecting the EmuNAND:

• The save data encryption method used by new games (SDK6+) is still using the 4.5.0 encryption method, even if you are using EmuNAND 6.1.0+

Specific Game's Questions

How do I play Pokémon X/Y?

ROM: The Pokémon X/Y ROM doesn't work on current flashcarts.

Cartridge: To play the retail Pokémon X/Y, you need EmuNAND Classic 6.2.0 or higher.

How do I play The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds?

ROM: Zelda: ALBW works with and without emuNAND using Gateway 2.0b1 or Gold/Link 3.0 (or higher). If you play on EmuNAND, you don't need to update it.

Cartridge: To play the retail Zelda: ALBW, you need EmuNAND Classic 6.2.0 or higher.

Attention: EmuNAND and SysNAND environments are different. You will lose your save progress if you start playing in one environment and launch your game in the other one later. The game will reset your save file and you will have to start a new game. This also apply to all games bundled with System update 6.0.0+

How do I play Animal Crossing: New Leaf?

ROM: The Animal Crossing: New Leaf ROM doesn't work on current flashcarts.

Cartridge: The original game cartridge doesn't need EmuNAND Classic, the game only requires System version 4.5.0, therefore you can play your game on your SysNAND without updating and loosing Flashcart capability.

Known bugs

Gateway 3DS v2.0b1, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v3.0

• Region free and System version spoofing doesn't work on System menu 4.1.0 or EmuNAND 4.1.0. To work around this problem, either update your SysNAND to 4.5.0 with a game card, or use EmuNAND and update it, or use the previous Launcher.dat version if your game doesn't need a new System version.
• Console freeze when entering in Gateway mode. No reliable method to prevent this issue has been found. You can remove the Flashcard from the 3DS to have less freezes when booting in Gateway mode.
• Console freeze when exiting a game, preventing the save to be backed up correctly to the SD Card, resulting in savegame loss. See the Troubleshooting section for a way to mitigate this bug.
• All changes done in EmuNAND Wifi Settings are also applied to SysNAND.
• Following issues are not bugs, but results of currently unpatched System version/NATIV_FIRM version.
  • EmuNAND v7.x.x doesn't have region free and System version spoofing.
  • EmuNAND v7.x.x can't launch new updated applications (eshop, System settings, etc.)
  • EmuNAND v7.x.x uses mixed language settings in games (Japanese, Spanish, German, French, etc.) even if the game doesn't allow using one of these languages in your region.

All bugs listed above are fixed in Gateway 3DS v2.0b2 and R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v3.1.

Gateway 3DS v2.0b2, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v3.1

• Updated Youtube channel doesn't work. The original (not updated) channel works fine. The update is currently available only on USA eShop.
• Randomly brick 3DS console. This was meant as an anti-clone feature by Gateway, and affects clones often, but occasionally bricks consoles even using a real Gateway. What triggers this on a real Gateway is not fully known; one report connects it to diagnostics, but there are probably other factors as well. This thread explains how to fix the brick (requiring soldering and hardware) and some users may be willing to fix other people's bricks.

R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v3.1

• Save issue (savegame loss) since 2014. Set the Console's date back to 2013 or use Launcher.dat v3.0 report thread. Issue fixed in R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v3.2.
• Randomly brick 3DS console (as above)

These are anti-clone functions from Gateway's team.

R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v3.2

• Randomly brick 3DS console (as above)

  

R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v3.3

• Doesn't boot games from different regions
• Freezes after entering to System Settings in EmuNAND 7.1
• Probably contains all bugs from R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v3.0 (see above), as it seems it's a reverted version to prevent bricking issue.

   

R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v3.3b

• None. (this version is actually R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe/3DSLink v2.0, based on Gateway v1.2)

   

Troubleshooting

Region free and System version spoofing are not working

The Gateway v2.0b1 and Gold/Link v3.0 have compatibility problem if your System NAND is 4.1.0 or your EmuNAND is either 4.1.0 or 7.0.0+

• Solution: You need to update your System NAND to 4.2.0-4.5.0, or use the previous or the newer Launcher.dat version. This bug is fixed in Gateway v2.0b2, R4i 3DS Gold Deluxe/3DSLink v3.1.
• Recommended: Update Launcher.dat to Gateway v2.0b2, or revert back to Gateway v1.2 or R4i 3DS Gold Deluxe/3DSLink v2.0 if your game works with the old version, or update your System menu to 4.2.0-4.5.0.

My EmuNAND created with Gateway Launcher.dat doesn't work with R4i 3DS Gold Deluxe / 3DS Link

It's probably caused by sector 0 of the SD card.

Nobody reported how to fix this issue yet. A User with R4i EmuNAND need to provide a copy of his sector 0.

My saves are being lost after I exit a game

There are conflicting reports on the cause of this bug in Gateway's 2.0b1 firmware and how to prevent it. The symptom is the 3ds freezing/hanging after exiting a game, resulting in the save not properly being transferred to the SD card. The leading theory is that the 3DS hack doesn't always properly initialize, and so it doesn't return after exiting a game.

The only way to ensure that your game will save properly is to run it and then exit the game after it reaches the main menu. If that exit to the home menu works properly (doesn't freeze) then all future exits should work properly during that current run of the 3DS hack, meaning your saves will transfer to the SD card properly (until you re-enter Nintendo DS profile and thus re-initialize the 3DS hack).

• Solution: If your system froze when exiting a game, do not launch the game again! Your progress is not lost yet, the save is still on the flashcart. Restart the system and enter Gateway mode. Remove the SD card (the system should warn you at that point about removing SD cards when the power is on; you can usually just ignore that), and then boot the game. After confirming that your save wasn't lost, insert the SD back in and exit the game by pressing the Home button and then Close. At this point the game should close, and the save should have been safely copied to the SD card. If it freezes again you can repeat the process.

This solution may not work with EmuNAND, as removing the SD card may cause complications.

Attention: If you launch a game after the freeze, the savegame will be lost, either replaced by the save of the new game, or deleted if the new game has no save.

My retail game says my Savegame is corrupted

You are probably trying to play a retail game cartridge in EmuNAND after starting the game on SysNAND, or playing on SysNAND after starting it on EmuNAND.

Newer games use a different save format and are not compatible between EmuNAND <-> SysNAND.

EmuNAND 6.0+ Saves will work with any EmuNAND FW6.0+ 3DS.

SysNAND 6.0+ Saves will work any SysNAND FW6.0+ 3DS.

The save won't get corrupted as long as you are using the same FW environment (SysNAND or EmuNAND).

For more information, read the "Save" section of this FAQ.

My friends are always offline when I use EmuNAND / I have two different friend codes

This is due to the 3DS generating a friend code on the EmuNAND first, then on the SysNAND later.

If your system never generated a friend code on the SysNAND, it will generate one on the EmuNAND once you give the 3DS a internet connection in EmuNAND mode. Later on if you decide to have a internet connection on the SysNAND as well, it'll generate another one for SysNAND. Thus the friend code on SysNAND will never get transferred to the EmuNAND and you'll have two different friend codes for the same system. One for SysNAND and another one for EmuNAND.

• Solution: You can either make sure to have a friend code generated on SysNAND first before creating the EmuNAND, or delete the EmuNAND and create a new EmuNAND after making sure a friend code is generated on the SysNAND, or you can simply live with it and use two different friend codes.

   

My game displays in incorrect language

This is probably because you are using an EmuNAND version incompatible with your current Launcher.dat version.

System version 7.1.x has been released after the release of Gateway 3DS v2.0b1, therefore this version of Gateway 3DS doesn't know how to patch the EmuNAND 7.x correctly and results in many bugs (incorrect language, no region free, no Settings access, etc.). Check the Known bugs section on his FAQ for a full 2.0b1 bug list.

To resume:

ALL Games work fine with

• GW 2.0b1 + NO emuNAND.
• GW 2.0b2 + NO emuNAND.
• GW 2.0b1 + EmuNAND 4.x - 6.x
• GW 2.0b2 + EmuNAND 4.x - 7.x
• MT 1.1 + EmuNAND 4.x - 7.x

Games display in Incorrect language with

• GW 2.0b1 + EmuNAND 7.x

To fix the language issue

• Don't use EmuNAND.
• Downgrade your EmuNAND to 4.x - 6.x version using EmuNAND Tool to write one of your old EmuNAND backup to your SD Card.
• Create a new EmuNAND based on your 4.x SysNAND.
• Use GW 2.0b2.

Attention, GW 2.0b2 is NOT recommended as it will brick your 3DS.

Legend

GW 1.2 = Gateway 3DS 1.2, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe 2.0 and 3.3b

GW 2.0b1 = Gateway 3DS 2.0b1, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe 3.0 and 3.3

GW 2.0b2 = Gateway 3DS 2.0b2, R4i Gold 3DS Deluxe 3.1 and 3.2

MT 1.1 = MT-Card 1.1