NES Controller USB Flash Drive

this is the easiest way to turn a vintage NES controller into a simple flash drive on a budget AND you can save the original parts if you ever want to return it back to its original working condition.

the first step is to gather the parts you will need.
Nes Controller ($5)
usb extension cord ($4)
usb flash drive ($10)
1/4" or 1/2" piece of foam

remove screws from the back of the controller. a simple jewelers phillips should do the trick. be careful not to strip them out or lose them!

carefully remove the cord and circuit board. if you save them, you can always replace it back to original working condition some day. I didn't have the heart to cut out a section for the flash drive so I will use foam instead.

you can find foam like this just about anywhere and it cuts easily with scissors. I left it about 1/2" thick so it kept plenty of pressure on the back side of the buttons since I like the feel of operational buttons. I also only cut enough to cover the buttons so there is plenty of room along the top for the flash drive.

next I inserted the flash drive into the usb extension cord and placed them along the top of the controller. I also routed the cord the same as the original so its tug-proof.

place the foam over the buttons and reinstall the back.

all done! now plug it into the pc to make sure it works properly and enjoy your new nostalgic flash drive!