Setup Guides - Nintendo DS

Nintendo DS Setup Guide

Setting Up Your System

The Nintendo DS and DS Lite use the same firmware and function similarly. The DS Lite features a brighter screen and a slimmer design.

To turn on your DS or DS Lite, press or slide the power switch. If the system doesn’t turn on, plug it into the charger. An orange light indicates it’s charging and will turn off once full. The green power light turns red when the battery is low and will blink when nearly depleted.

Playing Games

The DS and DS Lite have two game slots: the top slot for DS cartridges and the bottom slot for Game Boy Advance cartridges. These are the only DS models with GBA compatibility. Some DS games or accessories also require the GBA slot.

Cartridges should be inserted before powering on the system. If no game is detected, try booting without any cartridge inserted to access the system menu and check launch preferences.

If a game doesn’t read, clean the contacts with a cotton swab (for GBA) or soft toothbrush (for DS), using rubbing alcohol. Avoid blowing into the cartridge. If corrosion is present, gently scrape with a toothpick.

If the touchscreen isn’t accurate, recalibrate it by opening the system menu, going to “Touch Screen Calibration,” and following the on-screen instructions.

Manuals

Nintendo DS

Download the DS Manual (PDF)

Nintendo DS Lite

Download the DS Lite Manual (PDF)

Nintendo DSi Setup Guide

Setting Up Your System

The Nintendo DSi and DSi XL removed the GBA slot and added cameras, SD card support, and slightly larger screens (especially in the XL model).

To begin, press the power button and follow the on-screen setup. If the system doesn’t power on, plug it into the charger. An orange light indicates charging; the green power light turns red and blinks when the battery is low.

Playing Games

The DSi plays Nintendo DS cartridges only. These can be inserted while the system is on or off. Launch games from the home menu. Press the power button once to return to the menu or hold it to power off the system.

The DSi includes an SD card slot for saving photos and data. It supports standard SD and SDHC cards (up to 32 GB). SDXC and miniSD/microSD (without adapters) are not compatible. Insert the SD card face-down and ensure the write-lock tab is not engaged.

If a game doesn’t read, clean the cartridge contacts using a toothbrush and rubbing alcohol. Gently scrape any corrosion using a toothpick.

If the touchscreen is misaligned, recalibrate it by opening the system settings and using the calibration tool.