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M3 Perfect SD - Lite Model Introduction
Today I'll be taking a brief look at the new re-design and more compact model of the new M3 "Lite".
The new M3 "Lite" is simply just a hardware re-design of the first generation SD M3 adapter. The re-design is only available in an SD memory card version, and there is no compact flash version, simply because of the much smaller size of SD memory cards as opposed to CF cards.
The M3 "Lite" Itself
Let's take a look at the new design next to the old model...
As you can clearly see, with the new re-design they've managed to trim down just over 1cm (approx.) off the entire cartridge. They've also added a little "handle" to the end of the cart to make it easier to grip when removing from your console (similar to real game paks).
To make this re-design possible, they've actually had to relocate the SD card slot from the original design, which was on the bottom-side of the M3 adapter, to its side on the new M3 "Lite". Now the memory card fits in horizontally rather than vertically.
This is obviously the only real major difference between the new and the old design. Now, you're going to have to remove the M3 adapter from the console before you can remove the memory card, whereas in the old design; you could simply remove the card without removing the adapter itself.
Some people may find this annoying, but with the new re-design, obviously you're going to have to make a sacrifice for the new smaller form. Luckily, with the M3 adapter having a good reputation for their build quality, removing and inserting the adapter from your console is a piece of cake.
Let's take a look at how the new M3 "Lite" shapes up next to some other carts.
As you can see above (and clearer below) the M3 "Lite" is even slightly smaller (approx. 3mm) than the SuperCard SD, which also has a side loading SD card slot.
And compared to a regular GBA game pak, it's approx. 7-8mm taller.
Packaging
The M3 "Lite" was packaged in a box almost identical to that of the original M3 adapter. The only things that have changed are the photos of the M3 adapter, and a few new lines of text and listed features to emphasise the high compatibility with Nintendo DS and GBA ROMs. They even went as far as to note that the M3 "supports" the use of Nintendo Wi-Fi connection.
They've included a mini-CD which contains the latest version (on packing) of the M3 Game Manager software. They've also included a detailed manual document describing how to use the Pass Key 2 (which may or may not be included depending on what package you buy) in both English and Chinese.
Also on the CD are some other useful utilities and software that will come in handy (especially for 56k users) such as the latest DirectX version, Windows Media Player, Quicktime alternative etc...
Even though you will want to download the latest version of the software from their website. Besides that, it's a useful and thoughtful CD.
Hardware and Design
I've already briefly gone over the design change in the 'The M3 "Lite" Itself' section above. But let's look into the new design a bit further!
Again, with the new M3 "Lite" the SD card slot is on the side of the unit. The slot is spring loaded. The SD card clicks into place when inserted, and to eject, you just have to push in on the card, and it will pop out. There's a nice curved groove on the side of the adapter to make this easier.
So... Was the new re-design really necessary?
If you've ever used a M3 adapter before, or have really seen one in use. You'll probably agree with me that the new re-design is definetely welcome. Granted the old design didn't really get in the way or annoy me at all, I certainly welcome a shorter design. Even if it is simply for looks.
If you own a compact flash version M3 adapter, you'll no doubt be eyeing this new M3 up!
The folks over at the M3 factory have once again provided us with a nice bulid quality. The adapters casing is solid and doesn't creak when you touch it or try to remove it from the console.
It fits into your console easily, and you don't have to apply any force at all. It fits just like a real game pak.
Inserted into a DS and a GBA, the M3 "Lite" certainly does look better than the old model. See for yourself below...
M3 "Lite" SD in Nintendo DS:
M3 "Lite" SD in Game Boy Advance SP:
M3 Adapter SD (old model) in Nintendo DS:
SuperCard SD in Nintendo DS:
Curious to see how they fit all the components in the small plastic casing? Here are some photos of the PCB...
As you can see it looks to be quite a tight fit in there!
Using the M3 "Lite"
Actually, I'm not going to cover the use of the M3 "Lite" in this review. As software wise, it's identical to the old M3 adapter (SD).
If you want to learn more about the software side of things, please check our other reviews of the M3 adapter family.
Conclusion
This new re-design of the M3 adapter is a great update to an already fantastic piece of kit.
No doubt if you're currently looking into getting a DS backup/media kit you should consider this one.
Unless you're really picky and must have a bottom loading SD card slot, then there's no reason to pick the old design over this new smaller re-design.
The M3 adapter may not be the cheapest kit out there, but it is worth considering if you read through other full reviews.
Pros
+ Very compact design
+ Great build quality
Cons
- Having to remove the adapter to remove SD card?
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