How to Install a Neo Geo CD SD Loader
By Stone Age Gamer | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: How-to Guides
Replace your Neo Geo CD's optical drive with Furrtek's SD Loader. Step-by-step instructions for front and top loader models, plus common pitfalls.
Quick Answer
Installing Furrtek's Neo Geo CD SD Loader replaces the finicky optical drive with a micro SD card reader. The process takes about an hour and requires basic soldering skills.
Front Loader vs Top Loader: Know Your Model
Furrtek's SD Loader comes in two revisions: Rev F for front-loading Neo Geo CD units and Rev E for top-loading models. The CD-Z console is not supported by the top loader version, so check your model before ordering.
Both kits include the main board, a microSD board, a flex ribbon cable, and a connector for CDDA audio. The PLCC68 socket is pre-assembled to reduce connectivity issues.
Installation Steps
- 1. Disassemble the Console: Remove the outer shell and carefully disconnect the ribbon cables from the CD drive. Keep screws organized by size. Common mistake: forcing ribbon cables can tear the traces. Gently wiggle the connector latch before pulling.
- 2. Remove the Original CD Drive: Unscrew the optical drive assembly and lift it out. Set aside the metal shielding if present. Checkpoint: note the orientation of the drive's grounding wire so you can reattach it later.
- 3. Install the SD Loader Main Board: Place the Furrtek main board into the drive's original mounting position. Secure it with the same screws. Common mistake: overtightening screws can crack the PCB. Snug is enough.
- 4. Connect the Flex Ribbon Cable: Insert the flex cable into the main board connector, then route it to the microSD board. Ensure the contacts face the correct direction. Checkpoint: the flex cable must lie flat with no kinks. A bent cable can cause intermittent read errors.
- 5. Attach the CDDA Audio Connector: Plug the included CDDA connector into the main board and route it to the console's audio header. Common mistake: plugging the connector backwards will produce no audio. Verify pin 1 alignment.
- 6. Reassemble and Test: Replace the shell, insert a micro SD card with Neo Geo CD games, and power on. The loader should boot directly to a game list. Checkpoint: if the screen stays black, reseat the flex cable and verify the SD card is formatted as FAT32.
What You'll Need
- Neo Geo CD SD Loader by Furrtek - FRONT LOADER: Kit includes NGCD SD Loader main board (rev F, for front loader units), assembled microSD board, flex ribbon cable, and CDDA connector. The PLCC68 socket comes pre-assembled with tight tolerances, so you won't have to worry about poor connections during installation.
- Neo Geo CD SD Loader by Furrtek - TOP LOADER: Kit includes NGCD SD Loader main board (rev E, for top loader units), assembled microSD board, flex ribbon cable, and CDDA connector. This version does not work with the CD-Z console, so verify your model before purchasing.