When you save in a game and turn off the console a small coin cell keeps the save game memory powered. Once you enter swanshell again the save file is moved into a file on your memory card. The battery also used to keep the real time clock running. Thus having a battery in your nileswan is crucial.
Unfortunately international shipping of lithium batteries is restricted. Consequently unfortunately we can only preinstall a battery in some cases. And while we tried to keep battery draw as low as possible, at some point the battery will need replacement.
Buying a battery
Ideally a CR1632 lithium coin cell battery is used. CR1625 coin cells may also work, but you will need to replace it sooner due to the lower capacity. Other 16 mm coin cells such as CR1620 and CR1616 are not recommended. They will be a hazard, because the battery holder will not clamp them down properly!
Lithium batteries are highly dangerous when ingested, so make sure to keep them away from children and pets. When disposing old batteries make sure to do so safely and while following local regulations. The manufacturer of your batteries should provide you with further information.
Inserting the battery
Below is a written guide with pictures. We also prepared a video illustrating the process.
Getting to the PCB
First remove the storage card if there is one inserted.
Remove the T5 head screw in the back. Make sure not to lose it.
Using both thumbs pull down the lid of the cartridge. This might require a bit of force, but watch out not to use too much. Pushing inside the gap between the lid and the back of the bottom piece also works once it is there. After the lid has been moved down it can be just taken off.
Note that the USB port sits inside the outer housing, so the PCB cannot be just taken out to the top. The circuit board can be lift up by the front corner by bending the housing slightly or by the battery holder (as pictured) and then be pulled out. Avoid touching any electronic components if possible.
Please keep an eye on the plastic piece covering the button. It should stay if the housing is not shaken too much, though if it does fall out, tweezers can be very helpful. Please make sure the orientation is correct.
Replacing the battery
If you are replacing an existing battery: Pull up the lever keeping the old battery in place. Then you can push it out, ideally use something thin nonconductive to help.
For the new battery be very sure about the polarity! Not doing so can not only damage your nileswan, but can also lead to serious injuries or worse. The positive side (+) is the top side. It should when installed touch the top side of the battery holder which has a + marking on it.
Squish the battery under the lever. The lever should snap back once the battery is inside and keep the battery firmly locked.
Closing the nileswan again
Insert the circuit board again by aligning the USB port back into its cut out in the back of the casing. Afterwards the PCB should go into place almost on its own.
Now it is time to put the lid back on the same way it came off. Afterwards put the screw in again while not overtightening it.
