WIKI_ENTRY :: retrogaming

Assemble a Pocket or DMG-01 Bivert Module

Technical wiki guide for assembling a Pocket or DMG-01 bivert module for Nintendo Game Boy LCD modifications.

wiki topic - retrogaming updated - May 27, 2026 requires fine soldering

// 01 - Overview

A small no-wire bivert module

Mini Bivert module assembled on a Nintendo Game Boy DMG-01 PCB — **Figure 1:** Mini Bivert module assembled on a Game Boy DMG-01 PCB.

A bivert mod inverts the LCD drive signals used by the original Game Boy display path. It is commonly paired with LCD/backlight work to improve contrast and readability on modified consoles. This module packages the required inverter circuit into a very small PCB that solders directly to the Game Boy board.

The design goal is a cleaner installation: the module is shaped for the target console PCB and avoids the long point-to-point wires normally used in a hand-built bivert mod. The DMG and Pocket versions are different physical modules, so use the correct board for the console model.

This is a fine-pitch soldering mod. Work under magnification, use flux, avoid excessive heat on the LCD driver area, and verify the module orientation before soldering.

// 02 - Module variants

DMG-01 and Pocket use different boards

The Mini Bivert project has two practical installation families: the DMG version for the original Game Boy and the Pocket version for the smaller Game Boy Pocket PCB. The modules are designed to fit the corresponding board layout without extra wiring.

Top and bottom views of the Mini Bivert Module PCB — **Figure 2:** Mini Bivert DMG module PCB, top and bottom views.

Pocket Bivert module PCB for Game Boy Pocket — **Figure 3:** Pocket Bivert module PCB for the Game Boy Pocket.

Mini Bivert for DMG-01

Designed for the original Nintendo Game Boy DMG-01 board. The module solders directly in the LCD driver area and provides the inverter circuit in a compact PCB footprint.

DMG-01 Mini Bivert no-wire layout

Pocket Bivert for MGB-001

Designed for the Game Boy Pocket board layout. The Pocket module uses its own shape and routing so it can sit correctly on the smaller PCB.

MGB-001 Pocket Bivert compact fit

// 03 - Bill of materials

Minimal inverter circuit

The module is intentionally simple: a small PCB, a dual inverter gate and a decoupling capacitor. Keeping the circuit compact is what makes the installation cleaner than a fully hand-wired bivert mod.

QtyPartPackage / note

1x Mini Bivert / Pocket Bivert PCB Console-specific PCB

1x 74LVC2GU04 dual inverter gate SOT-23

1x 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor 0805

// 04 - Preparation

Open the console and locate the install area

**Figure 4:** Pocket Bivert module installed on a Game Boy Pocket PCB.

Disassemble the console enough to access the main PCB and LCD signal area. The module should be placed on the target pads/pins for the specific console version. Before soldering, dry-fit the board and check that the module shape, pin alignment and component side match the target area.

Do not assume the DMG and Pocket modules are interchangeable. The board outline and routing are different because the console PCBs are different.

// 05 - Assembly

Solder the module directly to the PCB

The key assembly detail is controlled alignment. The module is intended to remove the need for loose wires, but it only works cleanly if it sits flat and each solder joint connects to the intended pin or pad.

step_01

Clean and inspect the target area

Remove residue from the PCB, inspect the LCD driver pins/pads and verify there is no corrosion or previous solder damage.

step_02

Pre-tin lightly

Add a very small amount of solder to the target points and the module pads if needed. Too much solder will make alignment harder and can create bridges.

step_03

Align the module

Place the module in its final position and tack one point first. Re-check alignment before soldering the rest.

step_04

Solder the remaining joints

Use flux and short contact time. The goal is clean wetting on each pad without moving the module or overheating the surrounding area.

step_05

Clean flux and inspect under magnification

Check every joint, confirm there are no solder bridges and verify that the module has not lifted from the board.

// 06 - Checks and troubleshooting

Inspect before powering the console

A bivert module is small, but it sits in a critical display path. Most issues after installation come from orientation, solder bridges, cold joints or damaged pads.

orientation

Confirm the module variant and orientation before applying power.

bridges

Inspect adjacent pins/pads under magnification for solder bridges.

continuity

Use a multimeter to verify expected connections and no accidental shorts.

display

If the LCD is blank or distorted, power down and inspect all module joints again.

contrast

Re-check display contrast and related LCD/backlight work after the mod is installed.

mechanical fit

Make sure the shell closes without pressing on the module or nearby components.

// 07 - References

Project reference and source files

The Mini Bivert Module is open hardware and the repository contains the project README, images, license and BOM reference.