Saturn MODE
- The Multi Optical Disc Emulator (MODE) is an all-in-one device that allows users to experience the full range of Sega's Saturn software. It simulates all aspects of the CD hardware.
Firmware can be downloaded here Please note that you need to register your device. If firmware is not present after registering, your device was shipped with the most recent firmware already installed. (Current Firmware is 1.05 R02)
Manual is located here
Set-Up
- Any storage size MicroSD card should work as long as it is FAT32 or ExFAT formatted. TerraOnion generally recommends avoiding Samsung branded cards as they have been known to cause issues on their devices. Sandisk is the preferred manufacturer.
- HDD/SSD must be 7mm height or thinner.
- HDD/SSD 2TB or below should be formatted as exFAT with default allocation, MBR, and set as the primary partition. Multiple partitions are not supported.
- HDD/SSD >2TB should be formatted as exFAT with default allocation, GPT, and set as the primary partition. Multiple partitions are not supported.
- CD games must be in their own folders. The folder name dictates the name that is displayed in the MODE menu for CD games. Nested folders are fully supported.
- It is recommended that multi-disc games have all of the disc images in the same folder. This allows the auto-queue function to load all the discs automatically.
Usage
The Saturn offers both Fast Boot and In-Game Reset in its options for quicker launching and return to MODE menu functionality.
Game Compatibility & Known Issues
- Games with programming bugs not caused by MODE can be found here
Tips & Tricks
- MODE can control the Saturn's refresh rate by installing a wire to pin 79 of the VDP2. Refer to the instruction manual for more details.
- For more accurate 50/60Hz timings a DFO (Dual Frequency Oscillator) can be installed.
To see how PAL games run on an NTSC Saturn without modding for 50Hz, Please refer to this guide: Complete European Sega Saturn 60Hz guide to PAL optimised games
- If you have a Movie Card in your Saturn a Video CD Authoring Guide may help in disc creation.
