Game Boy Micro - Design and Specifications

Design and Specifications

The Game Boy Micro retains some of the functionality of the Game Boy Advance SP, but with an updated form factor. It is unable to play original Game Boy and Game Boy Color games due to design changes. Even though it still has the required Z80 processor and graphics hardware necessary to run the old games, it is missing other circuitry necessary to be compatible with the old Game Boy cartridges. It is officially incompatible with the Nintendo e-Reader and some other peripherals due to design issues. It is smaller than previous Game Boy systems. Additionally, it features a backlit screen with the ability to adjust the brightness so as to adapt to lighting. The shape itself is kept to a more simple oblong—similar to the style of the Nintendo Entertainment System controller.

The Game Boy Micro features a removable face plate that allows consumers to purchase alternative designs.

• Dimensions: 50×101×17.2 mm (2×4×0.7 in)
• Weight: 80 g (2.8 oz)
• Processor: 32-bit 16.8 MHz ARM processor (ARM7TDMI)
• Colors: various
• Screen: 51 mm / 2 inches, backlight with adjustable brightness.
• Resolution: 240×160 pixels
• Battery: built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, up to 5 hours of battery life with top brightness and sound or 8 hours with both features on default
• Headphones: standard 3.5mm headphone jack

The Game Boy Micro has a two-way switch on its right side for adjusting volume up or down. By holding down the L shoulder button, the switch can also be used to adjust the backlight between five levels of brightness.