- - = = M37R01Dz M0Dz = = - -
- - = = Wasabi Review = = - -
Our latest review we test out the recently released Wasabi, http://www.wasabi.net.cn which boast loads of new features. As always I would like to thank the Wasabi team for samples to bring you this review.
Imagine if, you never had to open a console to check what chipset you have. Not having to check the serial number and hope the database is correct before ordering your chip. Well I’m glad to say that day has finally become reality. The Wasabi is the first chip to support all known wii chipsets, DMS/D2A, D2B, and the notorious D2C.
--==Feature List==--
--==First Impressions==--
The Wasabi comes in an electrostatic bag with a glue like seal making it even easier to get out the wrapper. Once out you will notice the high quality Actel chip and SST flash ROM. Just don’t get scared with all the small points on the chip, those will not be used. The chip is pretty thick and has a Wasabi sticker on the back to help prevent against shorts. You may also notice there is no plug for a programmer as the chip is upgradeable from DVD.
--==Installation==--
You can download the official install diagram at, http://www.wasabi.net.cn/wasabi10.pdf
Before installation you are going to want to make 2 settings on your Wasabi chip. First to set the region setting of your console look for the pads labeled 1 and 2 in the rounded corner. For USA you will want to bridge pads 1 together. PAL will bridge pads 2 together. JAP consoles can skip this step as you will leave 1 and 2 untouched. Next we need to set what version console the chip will being going into. To achieve this locate pads “C”, “D”, and “E”. DMS/D2A you will want to bridge pads “C” and “D”. D2B you will bridge points “D” and “E”. And for D2C again leave untouched, and skip this step.
Now that your chip is all setup you will want follow the guide according to your chipset on the installation points. The DMS/D2A and D2B require 5 wires and the D2C requires 9 and all boards have the optional flash recovery pad “J”. The 5 wire installs have a new set of points compared to all previous chips. Two great things about this new install, is it gives people a chance who messed up their other points, to attempt again with new points. But even better, the installation on cut pin D2B’s has never been easier with full pads to solder to oppose to sanding down and possibly destroying your drive.
The D2C install with its 9 wires makes things as easy for the d2c then ever before. Use the same 5 points from the DMS diagram, along with 4 more points, 3 of which are pins, and 1 via, but can be installed with 4 vias if you want to go to the bottom side of the drive.
--==Testing==--
At the time of writing we have only tested on a D2C and DMS console, we will update this review once we have some more to test on
After you boot up the Wii you will see the green LED light up letting you know it is getting power. Once you insert you game it should flash red, then back to green. Always first to test is the Wii sports original, which booted fine. We then tested about 10 backups which all played without problem. Next up was a few GC backups and originals with and without the audiofix problem, all of which seemed to run perfect. After that we booted up a few homebrew disc and played some original Metroid for a bit (gotta take breaks sometimes). The new error 0001 games were next including Super Smash and Super Mario Galaxy. Super Mario Galaxy booted and played great. On the D2C SSBB booted up and played without a problem, no layer break just strait burn .ISO with IMGBurn. Last but not least we tested a few Wii and GC import backups (region free) and all booted and ran fine.
Since there are no updates and no directions on the flash recovery I was not able to test either of those 2 features, at this current time. If a way comes out soon I will update the tutorial with more information in this department.
--==Conclusion==--
At the end of the day we were very impressed by the numerous new features and ease of installation of the Wasabi. There isn’t to much better then having a single chip work on all consoles, and having the ability to upgrade from DVD for future proof features along with the 128 flash ROM. With its much lower wire count, it shouldn’t be a hassle to get up and running and or figuring out what wire is causing the problem on your install.
You can always check their resellers list at http://www.wasabi.net.cn/resellers.html
--==Pros==--
--==Cons==--
Any part of this review is subject to change without any notice.