# GameCathode — From Trash to Treasure

> A discarded CRT television transformed into a self-contained retro emulation powerhouse — built entirely from recycled hardware.

**Live:** [gamecathode.jrodriiguezg.link](https://gamecathode.jrodriiguezg.link)  
**Docs:** [gamecathode.readthedocs.io](https://gamecathode.readthedocs.io/es/docs-english/)  
**GitHub:** [jrodriiguezg/GameCathode](https://github.com/jrodriiguezg/GameCathode)

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## Overview

GameCathode is a hardware maker project that gives a second life to a Minerva MT 5511 CRT television found at a workshop cleanup. It was gutted and retrofitted with a complete salvaged PC, delivering pure analog video output directly to the original CRT tube — zero input lag, pixel-perfect retro aesthetics, no new parts purchased.

## Key Stats

| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Recycled Components | 7 |
| Hardware Origin | 100% salvaged |
| New Parts Purchased | 0 |
| Build Stages | 6 |

## Bill of Materials

| Role | Component | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Display Enclosure | Minerva MT 5511 CRT | Workshop salvage |
| Processor | Intel Core i7 (1st Gen) | Salvaged desktop |
| Memory | 8 GB DDR3 RAM | Salvaged desktop |
| Graphics (AV Out) | Nvidia GeForce 7300 256MB | Salvaged desktop |
| Storage | 500 GB HDD | Salvaged desktop |
| Power Delivery | Modified 300W PSU | Salvaged & modified |
| Networking | D-Link WiFi Card | Salvaged desktop |

> The Nvidia GeForce 7300 was chosen specifically for its **native AV output** — no HDMI converters, no digital artifacts, pure analog signal to the CRT phosphors.

## Build Journey

| Stage | Status | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 01 — Planning | ✅ Completed | Architecture design, component sourcing, feasibility study |
| 02 — Disassembly | ✅ Completed | CRT discharge, internal gutting, component salvage |
| 03 — Modification | ✅ Completed | Chassis fabrication, PSU modification, airflow design |
| 04 — Assembly | ✅ Completed | Component install, cable management, GPU configuration |
| 05 — Testing | ✅ Completed | Thermal testing, emulator benchmarks, video calibration |
| 06 — Completion | ✅ Completed | Deployed, production ready, zero waste |

## Project Highlights

### 1. Pure CRT Experience
No digital-to-analog HDMI lag. The system outputs a native analog signal via the Nvidia GeForce 7300 for pixel-perfect retro aesthetics. Every scanline, every phosphor glow — exactly as developers intended.

### 2. Heavy Emulation
The Intel i7 provides enough overhead to comfortably emulate demanding systems like **GameCube via Dolphin**. Titles that would choke a Raspberry Pi run without breaking a sweat.

### 3. 100% Recycled
Every component was pulled from obsolete hardware destined for landfill. Proof that obsolete tech still holds immense value when reimagined.

## Supported Software

- [RetroArch](https://www.retroarch.com/) — Multi-system emulator front-end
- [Dolphin](https://dolphin-emu.org/) — GameCube/Wii emulator
- Any x86-compatible emulator

## Documentation

Full build documentation including technical details, wiring, and disassembly notes available at:  
📖 [gamecathode.readthedocs.io](https://gamecathode.readthedocs.io/es/docs-english/)

## Author

**Juan Raul Rodriguez Gil** — Maker, SysAdmin & Tech Enthusiast  
[jrodriiguezg.link](https://jrodriiguezg.link) | [GitHub](https://github.com/jrodriiguezg/GameCathode)

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© 2026 Juan Raul Rodriguez Gil