Install a USB-C charging port in the Game Boy Advance SP
The GBA SP has a peculiar proprietary charging connector. It gets lost, breaks, or is simply hard to find. A USB-C mod replaces that connector with a standard USB-C port — so you can charge it with any modern phone charger or power bank.
What you need {#what-you-need}
- USB-C charging module for GBA SP — small PCB with USB-C connector, specifically for the GBA SP
- Tri-wing screwdriver (2.0mm)
- Soldering iron + solder + desoldering braid — the mod requires some soldering
- Spudger or plectrum
- Phillips screwdriver (PH1)
This mod requires basic soldering skills. You solder the USB-C module in place of the original connector. If you've never soldered before, practise first on a piece of wire or a cheap circuit board.
Step by step
1. Open the GBA SP
Remove the battery cover and battery (see battery guide). Unscrew the four tri-wing screws on the back. Carefully open the housing.
2. Remove the motherboard
Disconnect all ribbon cables. Remove the screws holding the motherboard in place. Note: the original charging connector is soldered to the motherboard.
3. Remove the original charging connector
Heat the solder joints of the original connector with your soldering iron and remove it. Clean the pads with desoldering braid so they’re clean for the new module.
4. Solder the USB-C module
Position the USB-C module on the pads. Solder each contact point. Make clean, small solder joints.
5. Modify the housing
The USB-C port is wider than the original connector. You need to widen the opening in the housing slightly — carefully cut or file away the plastic until the USB-C plug fits in neatly.
Measure twice, cut once. Take your time when cutting out the opening — too little material is better than too much. You can always trim more, but you can't put it back.
6. Test before closing
Connect the battery and plug in a USB-C cable. Check that the charging light comes on. If it works: put everything back together.
7. Close the GBA SP
Reinstall the motherboard, reconnect all cables, close the housing and tighten the screws.