Famiclones are almost always compatible with the FDS if it can reach the slot.

Now, regarding what to look for to find a compatible FDS, I just received a new FDS last night with a white label on the bottom (I hear this generally indicates an older model w/o the copy protection). It in fact, HAD the copy protection and DIDN'T EVEN WORK! Guy said he tested it, whatever...

So, only use that whole white label thing as a general guideline....it's really not the best indicator. However, ALL of the pink label machines (AFAIK...not fact, could be total bull), have the copy protection. Some say Hong Kong units may be switched, but whatever, mine was from Thailand.


The main thing you must know is the chipset in the machine. The only way to find out is to open it up and look. Open it and take out the actual drive. Open the bottom of the drive and pull the board slightly out enough to get a look at the bottom of it. If there is a chip labelled FD3206 something, it has the copy protection. If it has a 7201 (or maybe FD7201 something), then you are good to go. Unfortunately, that's the only definite way. Otherwise you can try the work around featured here (in Japanese):

http://nesdev.parodius.com/fdscopy.zip

Or

http://nesdev.parodius.com/fds-copytool2.zip

The first doc is actually instructions to build an FDS to FDS dubbing cable and the second half of the first doc is how to build the copy-protection defeating mechanism. If anyone can figure out that part, lemme know! Stupid black and white scans....sheesh.


As far as finding blanks, plenty of japanese shops sell em. Don't pay more than 5-8 bucks for em.

I also may have found a new mega supply on them, but I will keep you in suspense until I know my facts....this might be a huge breakthrough on the origins of these odd little 2.8' disks. I'll keep you posted.

-Rob