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VMU and SD
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VMU and SD card

Validated

Switching virtual VMUs, backing up save data, organizing the microSD card, and using the display modes.

Updated September 21, 2026 · English

Active VMU

Validated

Only one VMU is presented to the Dreamcast at a time. Each complete image uses 128 KiB.

Swap VMU

Validated

The interface maintains a second local slot that can replace the active VMU through the storage menu.

Backup

Validated

The EXPORT SD option copies the complete active VMU image to the microSD card.

Display modes

Validated

A short press of L3 cycles between Full Color, monochrome mode, and Palette Mode.

microSD card

Validated

Use a genuine card, preferably Class 10 or U1, formatted as FAT32.

Organization

Validated

Separate folders store backups, emulator content, and DreamColor Plus files.

Switching memory

How to change the active VMU

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Open VMU / Storage.
  3. Select SWAP VMU and confirm.
  4. Wait for the completion message before leaving the menu or turning the controller off.
  5. The slot that was on standby becomes the active VMU.
Protecting save data

How to create a backup

  1. Open Settings → VMU / Storage.
  2. Select EXPORT SD and confirm.
  3. Wait while the active VMU is copied to /dcp/vmu/default.vmu.
  4. Turn the controller completely off before removing the card.
  5. On a computer, copy the file to a safe location and rename the backup using the game title and date.
Recommended structure

Card folders

FolderContents
/dcp/vmu/Backups exported from the VMU
/roms/gb/Legally obtained Game Boy games
/roms/gbc/Legally obtained Game Boy Color games
/roms/sms/Legally obtained Master System games
/roms/gg/Legally obtained Game Gear games
/roms/pce/Legally obtained PC Engine games
/roms/md/Legally obtained Mega Drive games
/roms/snes/Legally obtained Super Nintendo games
/dreamcolor/DreamColor Plus files and settings

Do not move or rename files while the controller is powered on.

Recommended card

Genuine FAT32 microSD card

  • Choose a Class 10 or U1 card from a reputable brand.
  • Avoid counterfeit, damaged, or very slow cards.
  • Insert or remove the card only while the controller is powered off.
  • Do not interrupt exports or updates in progress.