How to Update Your RetroTINK's Firmware

Here’s a video that goes over everything you’d need to know about updating the firmware on your RetroTINK products. It’s a REALLY easy process, but I thought a quick runthrough showing all the models compatible with USB updating might be a help to some people. After you do it once though, it’s super quick to repeat!
Purchase all RetroTINK Products via multiple vendors worldwide here: www.retrorgb.com/retrotink.html
Drivers (install first): ftdichip.com/wp-content/uploa...
RetroTINK Update Software: www.dropbox.com/s/7nr70y6mbx9...
UPDATE: You can also update RetroTINK products using Python on a Mac and Linux! You'll still need this video to how you how to get your RetroTINK products into update mode, but here's how to set up and run the updates on a Mac: www.retrorgb.com/update-retro...
Please consider supporting this channel via monthly support services, tips, or even just by using our affiliate links to purchase things you were already going to buy anyway, at no extra cost to you: www.retrorgb.com/support.html
T-Shirts: www.retrorgb.com/store.html
All equipment used to shoot this video can be found here: www.amazon.com/shop/retrorgb
00:00 Intro
00:40 Compatible Models
01:15 Software Setup
02:05 Firmware Flashing
03:48 Update Other Models
05:36 Future Updates
The music in this video was legally licensed from Adobe:
Tiger Tracks_Adobestock_331814277 / ASLC-D4E276A-B210C71E47
Nintendo Revolution_Adobestock_331464068 / ASLC-10E85A56-103D27528E
Conquerors of Space_Adobestock_357315749 / ASLC-10E864C6-4AA63E74D2
Final Phaze_Adobestock_331390032 / ASLC-10E87D0B-1689509F59

[@RetroRGB]

UPDATE: You can also update RetroTINK products using Python on a Mac and Linux! You'll still need this video to how you how to get your RetroTINK products into update mode, but here's how to set up and run the updates on a Mac: www.retrorgb.com/update-retrotink-products-on-mac-linux.html

[@cybernitemusic]

What blows me away is that Mike Chi is a one man (and wife) operation who creates products and provides support that is far superior to much larger organizations! Good going Mike!

[@jeff15]

Yes. Amazing. Not sure how he sleeps at night.

[@H6rdc0re]

Framemeister and OSSC are also created and supported by a single person. That said all these people do amazing work and we all benefit. 🥳

[@ScorpioCesarcade]

Thank you for the tutorial RetroRGB, just purchased the 5x Pro and currently updating it now.

[@LFiers]

What does the update to? Mine works fine our the box. Just got mt 5x recently and not sure what's the point to updating it .

[@normalguycap]

Thanks for also posting the videos for teaching settings on your website too! I completed this video with my 5x so now I get to figure out how to do the more in depth stuff.

[@christopherbostock1941]

Thanks for the guide legend :) I panicked as it didnt only stop on my 5x pro the software said not responding so i just didnt dare click it. 5mins or less later though it suddenly said complete thank god :)

[@PhillipORiley]

Thank you for this video! Updated the firmware on my RetroTINK2X Pro.

[@irencsak]

This is a useful reference video for me, thanks

[@Sammmmmmmm617]

Waiting for mine in the mail 😭. Looks so awesome!

[@dylanjastle]

Thanks, I wasn’t sure if I needed to keep holding hold down that button while loading the new firmware

[@Svn-rr2mu]

Thank you for this and everything else you do!!!

[@Goati_]

came to this video a second time and I've now noticing the rust in peace guitar... rock on

[@robf228]

Thanks! Got my Tink5 updated!

[@perpetualcollapse]

I don’t even own any upscalers, but I’m still gonna watch this video.

[@adamlw7181]

Thank you kindly and you Mike! From Adam in the UK!

[@jimbailey3998]

Thank you for another great "how to" video.

[@thefoodorderguy]

Nice video, I'm a pleb so I like to watch these.

[@hhectorlector]

I’d be cool if Mike updated the official manuals with firmware updates so there aren’t so many posts online asking about blue LEDs 😅

[@RetroRGB]

That's a good suggestion. I'll start including links to manuals when I do the update posts.

[@hhectorlector]

@@RetroRGB the manuals' cover pages always say "Revision 1.0" or whatever but as new revisions come out - the official manual doesn't get updated. users must read every patch note AND the manual to get what's current with a RT device. idk. I'm just mad cuz I basically bricked my RT-2X M and can't play component video through it until I roll back the firmware cuz I can't figure out how to change the colorspace setting.

[@rfp313]

Something very important to mention: I don't know if this normally happens, but my update froze and looked like it wasn't working. The program said, "Not responding." I decided to let it sit and not do anything for fear of bricking the system. Well, it eventually said it was complete. I could have bricked it by stopping the program. It works perfectly and has a fantastic new interface in latest firmware.

[@RetroRGB]

Didn’t I show this in the video?

[@CollinKenny]

Thanks Bob!

[@ColdSphinX]

I update my RetroTINKs regularly, but for my Koryuu I had to get another programmer. Also I finally did it, a howto for the Koryuu would be great!

[@djustplcMario_Djust]

Thank you !

[@37Kilo2]

I need to watch this every time I update my 5X's. Thank you!

[@nicanorneto9697]

I love that intro..

[@mokkorifr]

Great vid! thanks for the tutorial! I'm trying to find where to get the firmware update for the retro5x, it doesn't appear on the product page. Where should we get it? thanks!

[@RetroRGB]

I don't think it's been released yet. I'll post it on RetroRGB the moment it is though!

[@LaneDenson]

Can you roll back to a previous firmware safely? 2.39 is great, but there's some judder on my MiST that I was able to correct on the older firmware, but haven't been able to figure it out on 2.39.

[@seamistseamist]

Does the 2x pro's 1.7 update brighten the image it's receiving? Or is it just what it should always look like?

[@enthusiasticgamer88]

Could you do this for the GBA Consolizer? I'm still confused on how to update it properly.

[@Hawk_Eye_Retro]

My headset is now rebooted! :)

[@EbenezerScroogeMcDuck]

so line doubler destroys scan lines? i need one for an SD CRT that has component. which is the correct model? also is retrotink euro scart or jp scart?

[@nikkiwileman7033]

Jw will there be a 1.7 update for the scart version or is there no more plans for updates for that model?

[@tybread2997]

Never updated the firmware until now. I was wondering the other day if there was any firmware updates. Could never find the page for it.

[@RetroRGB]

Just search RetroRGB.com for them...we cover all TINK updates and often demo their changes.

[@legerdemainmaster]

My retro tink 5x pro is fully upgraded. My only problem with the device it doesn't seem to work properly on my Japanese Sega Saturn model 2. I have to turn on and off several times to get the console working. Do you know why this is happening? On other upscalers it boots up quickly but not on the retro tink any suggestions.

[@Naturefreund]

Hello & Happy New Year Thanks for the video As for Retrotink 5x do I have to update it in order from older to newer firmware to get all changes or is it done by just flashing latest update that's available? Greetings from Germany

[@RetroRGB]

Great question!: Nope, just get the newest firmware. No need to flash anything in-between, even if you’re on the earliest one. I should have specified that!

[@Naturefreund]

@@RetroRGB I'm glad you wiped off my concern about that I'm fairly new to own a RT5X, picked one up since shortly after christmas to be specific The updating pattern went quite easier compared to the process on my OSSCwhich was tricky to find the right tools and get them properly running to do the update I now flashed the RT5X to FW v3.71 that should be the latest my guess Probably I'm going to get me a premium remote to ease up working with the Tink Any hibts how to add custom profiles found throughout the web? Greetings

[@kavya1638]

If I want to connect an RGB modded system to an SD TV through component, which box should I get that won't destroy the original image? (no scalers, no filters, interp, line doubling etc) would it simply be RGB2Comp by retrotink?

[@RetroRGB]

Yes

[@WW-jt2sq]

Very helpful video, thanks Bob!

[@jeff15]

Thank you sooo much. Is there away to update the original retrothink. I know you mentioned there is no update, but I saw there was. Can you get me the schematic for me to jtag and update it myself ? Awesome video btw.

[@RetroRGB]

The only way to upgrade would be to send it in to authorized repair shops for them to flash.

[@Septer_Sever]

Much simpler than the OSSC, not that it's hard to update that, either. I like the 8bitdo software, that lets you choose the product from a GUI. That would be awesome, now that Mike has 50 products!

[@The_Soulbutcher]

This was helpful and i just did the latest update on my Retrotink 2X Pro multiformat. But there is a problem with my consoles that are playing in anything above 480i. Is there a way to undo this update?

[@RetroRGB]

The RetroTINK 2x Pro and Mini can only accept 20p and 480i, nothing above.

[@The_Soulbutcher]

@@RetroRGB No i have the 2x Pro M. This one does do higher resolutions, that is the main difference between that and the Pro. And it was working fine before i did the update. Can you just tell me if i can undo that update?

[@littlerobotfairy9710]

I got the RetroTINK Firmware Updater installed, and held the menu button down while plugging it in. The LED turned red, too. But it doesn't show up on the device tab of the software, even after pressing search multiple times.

[@RetroRGB]

Did you installed the driver software first? Try rebooting? Try a different USB port?

[@littlerobotfairy9710]

@@RetroRGB So I was able to fix the problem. Believe it or not, the problem was the microUSB I was using. I was using a random long cable I had laying around, instead of the one provided with the RetroTINK. When I tried the USB cable that came with the RetroTINK, it appeared on the Firmware Updater with no problems. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to try to help me, though!

[@RetroRGB]

Ahhh, makes total sense. Over the years I've also found a few "charge only" USB cables...I try to remember to throw them out when I find them to avoid this exact situation :)

[@lifeofeml]

I’m having an issue where when I open the RetroTink Firmware Tool, press and hold menu button on the device, plug it into the PC, get a red light, the window does not show the device as an option to select in the drop down box. It stays blank. But it is connected, red light on.

[@RetroRGB]

Did you install the driver as well?

[@kaydub9565]

Help. The "drivers" do not have an exe file like in the video. It's impossible to follow this guide.

[@Shadowwolf-1337]

i am also confused for this reason

[@Bartl198425]

Danke!

[@beansoup1088]

Cheers bob

[@patricklittleton6090]

Where the heck can I find firmware for the 5X? All that seems to be out there is for the 2X.

[@RetroRGB]

No new firmwares have been released yet :) Keep an eye on RetroRGB.com, as we'll post as soon as they're ready and demo their features.

[@bradenh7704]

Will this work on Mac? Apologize if this is a dumb question…

[@dwcjr327]

Mine is at 2.71. Do I have to download all of em of just the latest update???

[@RetroRGB]

Just the latest!

[@PunkRocker290]

​@@RetroRGBI'm glad I read the comments, I was wondering the same thing. I'll have to update mine, I've had it for a year now but finally got around to using it. I checked the menus and it shows it has version 1.24 onboard.

[@Steeboohken]

Does the most current update include all the previous updates or do they all have to be installed individually?

[@RetroRGB]

The most current includes everything.

[@Steeboohken]

@@RetroRGB Thank you!

[@Recoverel]

Are the firmware software compatible with Mac? I am trying to update my Retrotink products. Any input is much appreciated!

[@RetroRGB]

I don't believe so.

[@Recoverel]

@@RetroRGB thanks for the info!

[@LFiers]

I just got my 5x. It seems to work fine our of the box. Is there any reason to update the firmware or am I good as it is?

[@RetroRGB]

Only if you want some of the extra new features. If you're just looking for a basic way to get your consoles to 1080p, you don't need to do anything other than power it on and select the input :) Maybe check out this video and see if there's anything new that interests you? kzbin.info/www/bejne/m2eqd6pja96jgq8

[@LFiers]

@@RetroRGB Appreciate the reply. I'll stick to it as is. I'm only using it the Sega Saturn, SNES and Dreamcast on my 1080p TV. Should be sweet.

[@shapelesscube]

Just got the 2X-SCART. Hooked up my Dreamcast to the Tink and the picture is jumping up and down super fast, updated to latest firmware 1.6 picture still jumping. ? :(

[@RetroRGB]

Make sure your Dreamcast SCART cable is set to 480i / 15KHz mode. The 2x SCART doesn't support 480p.

[@shapelesscube]

​@@RetroRGB I don't have a switch on my original Dreamcast SCART cable. I'm guessing you are thinking of "Sega Dreamcast PACKAPUNCH RGB 480p SCART cable" with a 15KHz/576i(480i) switch. So I would still get a picture if my cable is in 480p? Cause I get picture it just shaking a lot...

[@shapelesscube]

Did a test with an older TV that has SCART, running my original DC (PAL) SCART Cable directly into the TV resulted in no shaking of the picture. So I guess it must be a cable 480p...

[@RetroRGB]

If it's an original Dreamcast SCART cable, it should be 15KHz. I think...I've only used aftermarket. I'm really sorry, I'm not sure what else it could be.

[@shapelesscube]

@@RetroRGB No worries. I will look into it some more , thanks for the replys :)

[@jerrysmith3171]

Is there any update for the retrotink 5x??? I Can't find any.

[@RetroRGB]

Not yet. Keep an eye on retrorgb.com and we'll post (and demo) as soon as they're released.

[@jerrysmith3171]

@@RetroRGB Great thanks :)

[@100Megashock]

I have done all the steps ,however the updater won’t recognize my RetroTink 5x even after I hit search nothing shows up.

[@RetroRGB]

Did you install both pieces of software? Also, is the light on the RT5x red when you search for it?

[@100Megashock]

@@RetroRGB Yes ,I got it to work,apparently the USB cable I was using was “charge only” and did not contain the data lines,switched to another cable (one that came with an 8bitdo controller) and it worked.Had no idea there could be differences in these USB cables ,I thought they were all built the same as far as having all the lines in them.

[@chchris25]

I know how to update. But I don’t know how to find an update on the website.

[@RetroRGB]

Search retrorgb.com for RetroTINK firmware updates - Links and descriptions of each are there. Also, there's no firmware update for the RT5x yet, but one is moving soon. Keep an eye on the site for more info :) www.retrorgb.com/?s=retrotink+firmware

[@ryandaves1451]

Can I do this on a phone or tablet?

[@RetroRGB]

No

[@phillipruth7608]

I can not get the tool to see my 5x anyone else have this issue

[@svonbrah]

Will these downloads work on a Mac?

[@RetroRGB]

Check the description for a link to Mac updates.

[@d3clin3gaming89]

how to check current firmware? 2x mini

[@RetroRGB]

You can just flash it with the latest version - There's no risk, even if you're already on the same rev. Firmware: www.retrotink.com/post/retrotink-2x-mini-firmware-page Updates: www.retrorgb.com/?s=retrotink+mini+firmware

[@zanmaru139]

@@RetroRGB This should be in the pinned post. I was having trouble finding the firmware.

[@gneil48]

My updater keeps crahing during the firmware update. This happen to anyone else?

[@RetroRGB]

Crash, or freeze like I showed in the video?

[@gneil48]

@@RetroRGB it was full on not responding but apparently that was my version of freezing because it worked eventually!

[@JustinFrost302]

I need a HDMI upscaler or a component video to HDMI upscaler for the original xbox 480p to 720p or 1080p

[@RetroRGB]

Check this out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pKixo6R_n911l6M

[@JustinFrost302]

@@RetroRGB the RetroTINK 5x is too much, I need something cheaper

[@coolzack9590]

@@JustinFrost302 ossc?

[@JustinFrost302]

@@coolzack9590 that too is too much

[@coolzack9590]

@@JustinFrost302 retrotink multi format?

[@slimrockwrestlers7334]

How much difference does firmware make?

[@RetroRGB]

Mike's made some REALLY impressive changes over the years, totally free. Here's some examples: www.retrorgb.com/retrotink-2x-scart-and-pro-firmware-updates.html www.retrorgb.com/retrotink-2x-pro-scart-firmware-update-v13.html www.retrorgb.com/retrotink-2x-m-720p-mode-added.html

[@slimrockwrestlers7334]

@@RetroRGB ok thanks , I'll probably do it then

[@slimrockwrestlers7334]

@@RetroRGB so do I download only the 1.7 or do o have to download all the downloads before 1.1 ,1.2,1.3 and so on

[@coolzack9590]

@@slimrockwrestlers7334 only the 1.7

[@madfinntech]

Damn, my unit went (NOT RESPONDING) for a minute during the update. You can imagine I sweated all my retro dreams out of me until the flash complete message appeared!

[@joseanmx1]

Same boat as I'm typing this, except it went to Not Responding almost immediately. Just gonna leave it alone for a few.

[@BeAsT1x5]

SO NO ONES GONNA MENTION THE MIKE CHI POSING AS A FOLDER ICON AT 3:14?!?!?!

[@slimrockwrestlers7334]

This happens so fast it's hard to follow

[@RetroRGB]

That's what I'm here for...to keep everyone in the loop in my weekly podcasts :)

[@TheSwartz]

I wish it was a little easier to find the drivers.

[@RetroRGB]

Just search retrorgb.com for "retrotink firmware": We list them all and even show examples of the changes.

[@mikaelangelo6940]

The real question is : Can you hack a retrotink to run doom directly on it?

[@brandonklopp5664]

pro-tip - For Retrotink5- make sure to hold the 'menu' button before plugging in USB cable to update FW

[@NerdyShawn]

No Linux Love? Was trying to get this going with wine and went down a rabbit hole so fired up a win10vm I hadn't ran in years. Seems like it requires .Net framework. Trying to get this thing updated to give that a try next Edit: Yay, now with more Linux love, lol kzbin.info/www/bejne/iovYmoB5fq6Gf9U

[@NerdyShawn]

I was able to update via a Windows 8 VM on with VirtualBox. It did fail at one point I believe because I was fiddling with the driver. Scalar wood boot with red without holding the menu indicating failure so I had to hold the menu button but eventually got it to flash successfully.

[@ThickpropheT]

FFFFFFFF I've got 3 RetroTink classics and I think I might need updated firmware for use with the Elgato HD60 Pro :(

[@zanmaru139]

"Programming Complete, Rebooting Headset " Well if you say so...

[@lukasperuzovic1429]

First

[@dergrunepunkt]

Crap, windows-only

[@IanTester]

It looks like they just use the FT232, a USB-UART chip very common in the maker (e.g Arduino) world. In Windows it shows up as a "Virtual COM" port, so it would probably work with Wine. And if the protocol isn't too complicated, I'm sure someone could whip up a Python script.