Nintendo
Using the GBA as a Car Speedometer
A reddit user u/TescoAlfresco has modified a GBA to be a speedometer for his car, which has lead to a deeper discussion on other Game Boy uses.

This trend is not limited to the Game Boy Advance. Modders have also utilized the Game Boy Color for similar projects. For instance, a detailed guide on The Autopian outlines the process of converting a Game Boy Color into a digital speedometer. The tutorial provides step-by-step instructions, from selecting the appropriate GPS speedometer module to modifying the Game Boy shell and installing the necessary components. The result is a fully functional speedometer housed within the classic handheld console, offering both practicality and a touch of nostalgia for drivers.

Interestingly, the concept of using Game Boy hardware for automotive purposes isn’t entirely new. Back in 2004, TurboXS introduced the DTEC (Dynamic Tuning and Engine Control) system, which repurposed the Game Boy Advance as a digital engine management tool. As reported by IGN, the DTEC allowed users to monitor various engine parameters, such as boost pressure, air-to-fuel ratios, and RPMs, through the Game Boy Advance’s screen.

This commercial product was a groundbreaking application of gaming hardware, demonstrating the potential for the Game Boy Advance to serve as more than a gaming console. The DTEC system is connected directly to a car’s onboard diagnostics (OBD) system, providing an interactive and customizable interface for car enthusiasts and tuners. While its focus was on performance tuning rather than basic functionality like a speedometer, the DTEC showcased the versatility of Nintendo’s handheld devices.
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