Sega Saturn FRAM Save Memory Upgrade Install Guide

Sega Saturn FRAM mod will replace the volatile SRAM chip inside the Saturn with a non volatile FRAM chip. This will prevent the internal saves from being lost when the internal battery dies.

The process should be the same for all Saturn revisions.

  1. Desolder the SRAM chip from the Saturn mainboard (UPD43257B / UM62257M / SRM20257LLM10)
  2. Solder in the FRAM chip to replace it
  3. Do not solder pins 22 and 28 of the FRAM chip
  4. Connect pin 22 to a ground point on the mainboard or the FRAM chip itself
  5. Connect pin 28 to a different +5V supply on the mainboard such as a neighbouring chip’s +5V pin, to disconnect it from the clock battery

Sega Saturn VA0 / 837-11495

SRAM chip is located on the top side and lower right of the Saturn mainboard.

Sega Saturn VA1 / 837-11892-01

SRAM chip is located on the underside and bottom left of the Saturn mainboard.

Sega Saturn VA9 / 171-7291C

SRAM chip is located on the top side and lower right of the Saturn mainboard and is not stuck down with epoxy.

Sega Saturn VA13 / 837-13100

SRAM chip is located on the top side and lower right of the Saturn mainboard and is not stuck down with epoxy.

Removing the Original SRAM Chip

Coming soon.