How do I backup my VMU saves to my PC?

[Leprekaun]

Hi all. I've done a bit of researching on how to backup saves to a PC and came across VMU Tool. It looks ok but the help section of the website doesn't explain the steps of connecting a PC HDD to the Dreamcast so I don't know how I would connect the Dreamcast to my PC. I thought that it perhaps could be through the RJ-11 socket used from the modem but then again, that's a modem, not a LAN adapter so I don't see how that would work so how would I go about connecting my Dreamcast to my PC to backup my VMU saves? Thanks.

[Jenkins]

Try the SD Card Adapter. DreamShell (a operating system for Dreamcast) can copy every file from your VMU to a SD card - even copy-protected savegames.

Otherwise you'll need a browser, like PlanetWeb, and a cheap provider to connect to the Internet (dial-up). The second option would be a BBA (RJ-45) but it's very expensive and rare. Perhaps the VMU2PC cable can help you too but you'll need a serial-to-usb adapter and special software...

[Leprekaun]

Thanks Jenkins. Yeah, I saw a video on YouTube about using a BBA but like you said, BBAs are extremely expensive. Is it guaranteed that I could use DreamShell to transfer my game saves to the SD card with the SD adapter? I don't want to purchase an SD adapter only to find that DreamShell doesn't allow the transfer.

[Jenkins]

Yes! Just plug the adapter in (serial port) and boot up DreamShell. After the OS is ready you can open the file manager. This tool allows you to copy stuff from A to B. Copy a savegame on a SD card or restore an old save file from it.

This is the easiest, cheapes and best solution for your purpose. Keep your eyes open for an adapter. You won't be disappointed!

It is even possible to play homebrew games and emulators from a SD card. Place some SDISO's (+ roms) on it and start them via DreamShell.