BitFunx OSSC V1.8 Open Source Scan Converter & Retro Gaming Upscaler

The BitFunx OSSC V1.8 Open Source Scan Converter is an advanced retro gaming upscaler and video line multiplier for connecting compatible analogue consoles, computers and arcade hardware to a modern HDMI television, monitor, projector or capture device.

Instead of storing and processing complete video frames, the OSSC processes the incoming picture one scanline at a time. This produces less than two input scanlines of processing latency, making it particularly suitable for fighting games, platform games, rhythm games, shoot ’em ups and other timing-sensitive titles.

Compatible 240p and 288p signals can be processed using Line2x, Line3x, Line4x, Line5x or Line6x. Higher multiplication modes can produce an exceptionally sharp image from suitable RGB and component sources, including output up to 1920 × 1440 through Generic Line6x. The selected output must also be accepted by the connected display and any other HDMI equipment in the signal chain.

Three analogue video inputs provide extensive connection flexibility. AV1 accepts RGBS, RGsB and YPbPr through EuroSCART, AV2 accepts component YPbPr or RGsB through three RCA connections, and AV3 accepts compatible RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB and YPbPr signals through its 15-pin VGA-style connector.

This provides RGB SCART-to-HDMI, component-to-HDMI and VGA-to-HDMI conversion for compatible systems including the Super Nintendo and Super Famicom, Mega Drive and Genesis, Sega Saturn, Dreamcast, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, Nintendo Wii, Original Xbox, Neo Geo and numerous retro computers. Other systems can be used when fitted with an appropriate RGB modification, video-output accessory or active transcoder.

Stereo analogue audio from the selected input can be digitised and carried alongside the video through the HDMI output, allowing picture and sound to reach the display through one HDMI cable.

Adjustable scanlines, CRT shadow mask effects, sampling controls, sync processing, overscan masking, colour settings and system-optimised modes provide extensive control over the final presentation. Internal profiles and compatible microSD profile storage can retain preferred settings for different systems and displays.

The included infrared remote provides access to the configuration menus, while the front backlit LCD shows the selected input, detected signal and operating mode. Firmware can be updated through the built-in microSD card slot using compatible V1.xx OSSC firmware.

The OSSC does not accept standard composite video or S-Video directly. Systems limited to those signals require a suitable active transcoder, compatible video modification or an alternative video processor.

The BitFunx OSSC V1.8 is dispatched from UK stock with fast delivery, international tracked delivery to supported destinations and a 12-month Retrolize warranty.

Browse our complete range of retro gaming upscalers and HDMI adapters.

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Brand: BitFunx
Product Name: OSSC V1.8 Open Source Scan Converter & Retro Gaming Upscaler
Product Type: Open Source Scan Converter, Video Line Multiplier & Retro Gaming Upscaler
Model: OSSC Hardware V1.8
Platform: Open Source Scan Converter
Core Hardware: FPGA-Based Video Processing
Primary Use: Connecting Compatible Analogue Retro Gaming Hardware To HDMI Displays
Processing Method: Real-Time Scanline Multiplication
Processing Latency: Less Than Two Input Scanlines
Compatible Analogue Signals: RGBS, RGsB, RGBHV & Component YPbPr
AV1 Connection: EuroSCART
AV1 Video Support: RGBS, RGsB & YPbPr
AV1 Sync Support: CSync, Composite Video As Sync & Luma As Sync
AV1 Audio: Stereo Analogue Audio Through SCART
AV2 Connection: Three RCA Component Connections
AV2 Video Support: Component YPbPr & RGsB
AV2 Audio: 3.5mm Stereo Analogue Input
AV3 Connection: 15-Pin VGA / D-Sub
AV3 Video Support: RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB & YPbPr
AV3 Audio: 3.5mm Stereo Analogue Input
Composite Video Input: Not Supported Directly
S-Video Input: Not Supported Directly
Output Connection: HDMI
HDMI Video Format: Full-Range 24-Bit RGB
HDMI Audio: Supported
Standard-Definition Inputs: 240p, 288p, 480i & 576i
Progressive Inputs: 384p, 400p, 480p & 576p
Higher-Resolution Inputs: Compatible 720p, 960i & 1080i Signals
Computer Video Support: Compatible VGA, 400p & Retro-Computer Timings
240p / 288p Processing: Passthrough, Line2x, Line3x, Line4x, Line5x & Line6x
384p / 400p Processing: Passthrough, Line2x & Compatible Line3x Modes
480i / 576i Processing: Passthrough, Line2x Bob, Line3x Interlaced & Line4x Bob
480p / 576p Processing: Passthrough, Line2x & Line3x Generic
720p Processing: Passthrough
960i / 1080i Processing: Passthrough Or Line2x Bob
Maximum Generic Line6x Output: 1920 × 1440 On Compatible Displays
Scanline Simulation: Adjustable Strength, Position, Alignment & Pattern
Shadow Mask Simulation: Supported With Compatible V1.xx Firmware
HDR Display Flag: Supported With Compatible V1.xx Firmware
Overscan Masking: Configurable
Sampling Controls: Generic & System-Optimised Modes
Colour-Space Selection: Rec. 601 & Rec. 709 For YPbPr Sources
Profile Support: Internal Profiles & Compatible MicroSD Profile Storage
Display: Backlit LCD
Controls: Front-Panel Buttons & Infrared Remote Control
Firmware Updates: MicroSD Card
Compatible Firmware Family: V1.xx
External Power Required: Yes
Power Requirement: Regulated 5V DC, Minimum 1A
Included Power Supply: Regulated 5V DC, 2A
Power Connector: 2.1 × 5.5mm Centre-Positive Barrel Connection
Console Video Cables Included: No
HDMI Cable Included: No
MicroSD Card Included: No
Console Modification Required: Varies By Console & Available Video Output
OSSC Dimensions: Approximately 140 × 90 × 43mm
OSSC Weight: Approximately 185g
Remote Dimensions: Approximately 185 × 47 × 23mm
Remote Weight: Approximately 65.5g
Colour: Black
SKU: BFX-OSSC-V18-BLK

Compatibility depends on the console or computer producing RGBS, RGsB, component YPbPr or RGBHV/VGA through a correctly wired cable, modification or active interface.

Nintendo Systems

Super Nintendo Entertainment System – Original PAL Models: RGB SCART With A Correctly Wired PAL SNES Cable
Super Nintendo Entertainment System – Original NTSC Models: RGB SCART With A Correctly Wired NTSC SNES Cable
Super Famicom – Original Models: RGB SCART With A Correctly Wired Super Famicom Cable
SNES Mini / SNS-101: Requires An RGB Restoration Modification
Super Famicom Jr: Requires An RGB Restoration Modification
Nintendo 64 – PAL, NTSC-U & NTSC-J: Requires An RGB Modification Or Suitable Active Transcoder
Nintendo Entertainment System / NES: Requires An RGB Modification, Compatible Lumacode Solution Or Active Transcoder
Famicom & Famicom AV: Requires An RGB Modification, Compatible Lumacode Solution Or Active Transcoder
GameCube DOL-001 – PAL: RGB SCART Or Component Through A Compatible Digital AV Solution
GameCube DOL-101 – PAL: RGB SCART Through The Analogue AV Output
GameCube DOL-001 – NTSC-U/J: Component Through A Compatible Digital AV Solution
GameCube DOL-101 – NTSC-U/J: Requires A Modification Or Active Transcoder
Nintendo Wii RVL-001 & RVL-101: Component YPbPr
Nintendo Wii Mini RVL-201: Requires An Active Composite-Video Transcoder

Sega Systems

Master System Model 1: RGB SCART
Master System Model 2: Generally Requires An RGB Modification Or Compatible RGB-Output Solution
Mega Drive Model 1 & Model 2: RGB SCART Or Compatible Component-Video Cable
Genesis Model 1 & Model 2: RGB SCART Or Compatible Component-Video Cable
Mega-CD / Sega CD: Video Supplied Through The Connected Mega Drive Or Genesis
Sega 32X: RGB SCART Or Compatible Component Video Through The 32X AV Output
Sega Saturn – PAL, NTSC-U & NTSC-J: RGB SCART Or Compatible Component-Video Cable
Sega Dreamcast: RGB SCART, Compatible Component Video Or VGA/RGBHV
Sega Multi-Mega / CDX: RGB SCART With A Correctly Wired System-Specific Cable
Sega Nomad: Requires A Compatible RGB-Output Solution Or Modification
Sega Game Gear: Requires A Compatible Video-Output Modification

Sony Systems

PlayStation / PS1: RGB SCART
PS One: RGB SCART
PlayStation 2: RGB SCART Or Component YPbPr
PlayStation 3: Component YPbPr At A Compatible Output Resolution Up To 1080i
PSP-2000: Component Video With A Compatible TV-Out Cable
PSP-3000: Component Video With A Compatible TV-Out Cable
PSP Go: Component Video With A Compatible TV-Out Cable Or Cradle
PSP-1000: Not Supported Directly Because It Does Not Provide Video Output
PSP Street E1000: Not Supported Directly Because It Does Not Provide Video Output

Microsoft Systems

Original Xbox: Component YPbPr With A Compatible Component Cable Or Adapter
Original Xbox PAL: HD Modes Generally Require A Compatible Modified Or NTSC-Configured Console
Xbox 360 With Component AV Support: Component YPbPr At A Compatible Output Resolution Up To 1080i

SNK & NEC Systems

Neo Geo AES: RGB SCART With A Correctly Wired Revision-Specific Cable
Neo Geo CD & CDZ: RGB SCART
Neo Geo MVS: Supported Through A Properly Attenuated Supergun Or Consolised Video Output
PC Engine, CoreGrafx, CoreGrafx II & SuperGrafx: Requires An RGB Modification Or Compatible RGB-Output Accessory
PC Engine Duo, Duo-R & Duo-RX: Requires An RGB Modification Or Compatible RGB-Output Accessory
TurboGrafx-16: Requires An RGB Modification Or Compatible RGB-Output Accessory
PC Engine With Super SD System 3: RGB Through The Accessory With A Compatible Cable
PC Engine With dbGrafx Booster: RGB Through The Accessory With A Compatible Cable

Atari & Other Consoles

Atari Jaguar: RGB SCART
Atari 2600: Requires An RGB, Component Or Lumacode Modification, Or An Active Transcoder
Atari 5200: Requires A Suitable Video Modification Or Active Transcoder
Atari 7800: Requires A Suitable RGB, Component Or Active Video-Conversion Solution
Panasonic 3DO: Requires An RGB Or Component Modification, Or An Active S-Video Transcoder
ColecoVision: Requires An RGB Modification Or Active Video Transcoder
Intellivision: Requires An RGB Modification Or Active Video Transcoder
Philips CD-i: Model-Dependent Native RGB, Compatible Modification Or Active Transcoder
FM Towns Marty: Compatible RGB Through A Suitable System-Specific Cable Or Adapter

Retro Computers & FPGA Systems

Commodore Amiga: RGB SCART Or Suitable RGB-To-SCART Adapter
Atari ST / STF / STFM / STE: RGB Through A Suitable Monitor-Port Cable
Sinclair QL: RGB Through A Suitable System-Specific Cable
ZX Spectrum 128 / +2 / +3: RGB Through A Correctly Wired Model-Specific Cable
ZX Spectrum 16K / 48K: Requires A Video Modification Or Active Composite-Video Transcoder
Amstrad CPC: RGB Through A Suitable Monitor-Port Adapter
MSX / MSX2 / MSX Turbo R: Model-Specific RGB SCART Or VGA Connection
Sharp X68000: RGBHV Through A Suitable VGA Adapter Cable
DOS & Early Windows PCs: Compatible VGA/RGBHV Timings
PC-98 Computers: Model-Specific RGBHV Cable & Compatible Video Timings
MiSTer FPGA Analogue Output: VGA, RGB Or Component Through The Appropriate Analogue Hardware
Other FPGA Systems: Compatible RGB, VGA Or Component Output

Arcade Hardware

Compatible Arcade Boards: Supported Through A Correctly Configured Supergun Or Properly Attenuated Video Interface
Example Hardware: Neo Geo MVS, Capcom CPS-I, CPS-II & CPS-III, Irem M72 / M81 / M92, Sega System 16, Sega System 18, Sega Model 2, Seibu SPI, Taito F2, Taito F3, Toaplan V1, Toaplan V2 & Compatible JAMMA RGB Boards
Raw JAMMA RGB & Sync: Must Not Be Connected Directly To The OSSC

Connection Requirements

Supported Video Signals: RGBS, RGsB, Component YPbPr & RGBHV/VGA
Direct Composite Support: Not Supported
Direct S-Video Support: Not Supported
Output Connection: HDMI
Console Video Cable Included: No
HDMI Cable Included: No
MicroSD Card Included: No
External Power Required: Yes
Hot Plugging: Not Supported

Compatible Analogue Signal Required: The OSSC accepts RGBS, RGsB, component YPbPr and RGBHV/VGA video. Compatibility is determined by the signal produced by the console and cable, not merely the console model.

Composite & S-Video Are Not Supported Directly: Standard composite video and S-Video require a suitable active transcoder, compatible video modification or an alternative video processor.

Passive Adapter Warning: A passive composite-to-SCART adapter only changes the connector. It does not convert composite video into RGB and will not make a composite-only source compatible.

EuroSCART Connection: The AV1 input uses the European SCART pinout. Japanese RGB21 cables use the same physical connector but have a different pinout and must not be connected directly.

Correct RGB Cable Required: Cable components, console region and sync wiring can affect compatibility, picture stability and colour accuracy. TTL-level CSync must be correctly attenuated before reaching the SCART input.

Console Video Cables: RGB SCART, component and VGA console cables are not included.

HDMI Cable: A standard HDMI cable is required and is not included.

MicroSD Card: A compatible microSD card is required for firmware updating and supported profile storage but is not included.

Display Compatibility: Line3x, Line4x, Line5x and Line6x can produce non-standard or demanding video timings that may not be accepted by every television, monitor, AV receiver, HDMI switch or capture device.

Line2x Compatibility: Line2x normally provides the widest display compatibility. Select Line2x or passthrough if a higher multiplication mode is not accepted.

Interlaced Video & Bob Deinterlacing: Bob modes provide low-latency processing for compatible interlaced signals but can produce visible vertical movement around static text, menus and fine horizontal details. Avoid leaving static graphics or text displayed for prolonged periods in a bob mode, as the constant flicker can accelerate image retention on susceptible displays.

Resolution Switching: Games that switch between resolutions such as 240p and 480i may cause a temporary blank screen while the OSSC and connected display resynchronise.

1440p Output: Generic Line6x can produce a 1920 × 1440 output, but only displays and HDMI equipment capable of accepting the resulting timings will show an image.

HDR Display Flag: The HDR option sends compatible HDR metadata to the display. It does not remaster the original game graphics into genuine HDR content.

Arcade Hardware: Raw arcade-board RGB and sync must not be connected directly. Use a correctly configured Supergun or another interface that attenuates the video and sync signals to safe consumer levels.

Hardware & Firmware Compatibility: V1.8 identifies the OSSC hardware revision. This board is designed for V1.xx firmware and must not be updated with V0.xx firmware or firmware intended for another hardware revision.

External Power Required: The included regulated power adapter supplies 5V DC at 2A.

Replacement Power Supply: Any replacement must supply regulated 5V DC at a minimum of 1A through a 2.1 × 5.5mm centre-positive barrel connector. Incorrect voltage, AC output or reversed polarity can permanently damage the OSSC.

Hot Plugging: Switch off the OSSC and connected equipment before inserting, removing or changing analogue video cables.

First-Time Setup

1. Switch off the console, OSSC and connected display.
2. Connect the console using an appropriate RGB SCART, component YPbPr or VGA cable.
3. Connect the OSSC to the television, monitor, projector or capture device using a standard HDMI cable.
4. Connect the included 5V 2A power adapter and fit the correct plug head for the destination.
5. Switch the display and OSSC on before starting the console.
6. Select the appropriate OSSC input and begin with passthrough or Line2x for the widest display compatibility.
7. Test higher line-multiplication modes individually and retain the highest mode accepted reliably by the complete HDMI setup.
8. Enable the display’s Game Mode where available to minimise any additional processing delay introduced by the display.

Firmware Updating

1. Confirm that the firmware is intended for OSSC hardware revision V1.8 and the V1.xx firmware platform.
2. Download firmware only from the official OSSC project or another explicitly authorised source.
3. Prepare a compatible microSD card according to the instructions supplied with that firmware release.
4. Insert the prepared microSD card while the OSSC is switched off.
5. Start the update through the OSSC menu and follow the on-screen instructions.
6. Do not remove power or the microSD card while an update is in progress.
7. Switch the OSSC off and remove the card when the update has completed as instructed.

1 × BitFunx OSSC V1.8 Open Source Scan Converter
1 × Infrared Remote Control
1 × 5V 2A Power Adapter
1 × UK Plug Head
1 × EU Plug Head
1 × US Plug Head
1 × AU Plug Head
1 × User Manual

This BitFunx OSSC V1.8 is covered by a 12-month limited Retrolize warranty against manufacturing defects and hardware faults arising during normal use.

The warranty does not cover accidental damage, liquid damage, misuse, damaged connectors, hot plugging, excessive strain, incorrect power supplies, reversed polarity, unauthorised hardware modification, interrupted firmware updates or damage caused by unsuitable cables or incompatible equipment.

Display incompatibility with particular line-multiplication modes, non-standard output timings, resolution switching, bob-deinterlacing behaviour, unsupported analogue video formats or incorrectly wired third-party cables is not considered a hardware fault.

Firmware must only be updated using files designed for OSSC hardware revision V1.8 and the V1.xx firmware platform. Damage or malfunction caused by installing incompatible firmware is not covered.

Warranty claims remain subject to the full Retrolize warranty terms and are provided in addition to the customer’s statutory rights.

What Does OSSC Mean?

OSSC stands for Open Source Scan Converter. It is a low-latency video digitiser and line multiplier designed primarily for retro consoles, computers and compatible arcade hardware.

How Does The OSSC Differ From A Standard HDMI Adapter?

A standard console HDMI adapter normally supports one console family and provides limited or fixed processing. The OSSC accepts multiple analogue signal types and provides configurable line multiplication, sampling, scanlines, shadow masks, sync processing, profiles and system-specific adjustments.

Does The OSSC Add Input Lag?

The OSSC adds less than two input scanlines of processing latency. This is extremely low, but “zero lag” should be understood as a commonly used description rather than a literal technical measurement.

Does It Work With PAL & NTSC Consoles?

Yes, provided the console supplies a compatible RGB, component or VGA-style signal through the correct cable. The connected display must also accept the resulting 50Hz, 60Hz or system-specific output timings.

Will It Work With An Unmodified Nintendo 64?

Most Nintendo 64 consoles do not provide native RGB or component video. An appropriate RGB modification or active transcoder is therefore normally required.

Is It Suitable For PlayStation 2?

Yes. A PlayStation 2 can connect through RGB SCART or component YPbPr. However, many PlayStation 2 games use 480i or 576i, and the OSSC’s low-latency bob deinterlacing can create visible movement around fine details and text.

Does It Output 1440p?

Generic Line6x can produce a 1920 × 1440 output from suitable 240p sources. The television, monitor and every HDMI device in the signal chain must accept the resulting timings.

Does The OSSC Work With A 4K TV Or Upscale To 4K?

It can work with a 4K television that accepts the selected OSSC output mode, but the OSSC does not produce native 4K output. The television performs any final scaling from the OSSC output to its panel resolution.

Can It Be Used With A Capture Card?

Yes, provided the capture card accepts the selected OSSC output resolution, refresh rate and video timings. Line2x generally provides wider compatibility than the higher multiplication modes.

Is Audio Carried Through HDMI?

Yes. Supported stereo analogue audio supplied through SCART or the appropriate 3.5mm input is digitised and carried through the HDMI output.

Can Different Settings Be Saved?

Yes. The OSSC supports internal profiles. Compatible V1.xx firmware can also provide profile loading and storage through a microSD card.

What Additional Cables Are Required?

A compatible RGB SCART, component or VGA cable is required between the console and OSSC. A standard HDMI cable is also required between the OSSC and display. These cables are not included.

Does It Support Composite Or S-Video?

No. Standard composite video and S-Video are not accepted directly. These signals require an active transcoder, compatible hardware modification or another processor with native composite and S-Video inputs, such as the RetroScaler2x AV To HDMI Line Doubler.

Is International Delivery Available?

Yes. International tracked delivery is available to supported destinations, with delivery options calculated at checkout.