Identify the Dreamcast peripheral

SEGA lists Dreamcast keyboards under HKT-4000 and HKT-7600. The Dreamcast mouse is HKT-9900. These dedicated peripherals connect to a console control port.

For another Dreamcast peripheral, follow its own manual. Procedure and compatibility vary by accessory and software.

Connect the peripheral before powering on

• Switch off the Dreamcast.
• Connect the keyboard, mouse or other peripheral to the control port specified in its documentation.
• Then switch on the console.
• Follow the peripheral’s instructions and use only a SEGA-authorised peripheral.

The system documentation recommends connecting the controller or peripheral to the control port before powering on, then following its manual.

Check software compatibility

Compatibility is not universal across Dreamcast software. SEGA’s official list distinguishes Dreamcast mouse and keyboard support. A title supporting one should not automatically be treated as supporting the other.

• Consult the software manual or instructions.
• Check the entry for your peripheral separately.
• Do not assume a fault if the peripheral does nothing in software that does not support it.

Configure controls where the software allows it

If the software has an options menu, open control settings and follow its keyboard or mouse instructions. A consulted Dreamcast game manual documents this type of option; do not generalise it to all software.

Additional requirements are software-specific. Do not assume a standard controller must remain connected to another port unless the title’s manual says so.

Example: documented compatible software

ScummVM’s Dreamcast documentation says Dreamcast mouse and keyboard peripherals are supported. This applies only to ScummVM, not every other Dreamcast programme.

If the peripheral does not respond

• Check that it was connected before powering on.
• Reread its manual to confirm the port and connection instructions.
• Check software support separately for the keyboard, mouse or accessory in use.
• Consult software options where provided.

Without a compatibility statement in the software’s manual or documentation, do not infer a peripheral or console fault: support varies by software.