Frequently Asked Questions
There are 14 frequently asked questions at this time.
Where can I get the Modem Adapter or Broadband adapter and is there anything else I need to buy?
Please see our "Before you buy" sections for the Modem Adapter and Broadband Adapter. They have complete details on what you get when you purchase an adapter and any special considerations you might want to take into acccount. Once you have decided, the adapters are available at the following retail locations:
Toys ´R Us
WalMart
Best Buy
Electronics Boutique
GameStop
If you would like assistance finding the closest stores in your area, please use our Store Locator. You may also order them from our Online Store. ( Modem / Broadband )
Why doesn´t the Modem Adapter work with America Online, Compuserve, and certain free internet service providers?
This is not an issue of modem compatibility. These service providers have a special login tool that does not allow outside software to access their services. To make their games compatible, software companies must gain access to special development tools from the service provider. Nintendo and its third-party publishers do not have access to these tools, so the games currently available are not compatible.
Please note that AOL Broadband ( also known as "Road Runner") will work with the Broadband Adapter.
What ISPs will your modem adapter work with?
Of the popular Internet Service Providers that are currently available, the only ones we know that will not work with the Nintendo GameCube Modem are America Online, Compuserve, and most free internet service providers. The ability of an ISP to support online gaming is based on numerous factors. We suggest that you contact any Internet Service Providers that interests you and ask if they know of any reasons why their service would not support online gaming.
Can they fix Phantasy Star online so that it will work with America Online, etc.?
No. This is a programming issue that must be resolved and added to a game´s dialing instructions before completion. Because Phantasy Star Online is a finished disc there is no way to change it.
How much does it cost to play Phantasy Star Online?
The current cost is the price of the Phantasy Star Online game disc plus a monthly fee of $8.95. For more information on fees and payment options, please contact Sega of America.
Is it okay to set up the Nintendo GameCube on a home network?
It is entirely possible to use the Nintendo GameCube Broadband Adapter with a home network, however this should only be attempted by experienced home users. To create a home network, users will need--at minimum--a hub or router, two ethernet cables, and a broadband modem. Because of the possible variations available, we are unable to assist with the actual setup of a home network.
The use of a home network is entirely optional. If you have been trying to hook up to a home network and have been thus far unsuccessful, we recommend hooking up the Broadband Adapter directly to your broadband modem. Doing this will bypas any home network you might be using and will allow you confirm that your adapter is working properly.
I use a router for my broadband connection. Will the Nintendo GameCube work with it?
Maybe. This varies for each router. Please contact your router manufacturer for details.
What type of cable do I need for the broadband connection?
The type of cable used to connect the Broadband Adapter to the your cable or DSL modem is commonly referred to as an ethernet cable with an RJ45 connector. This is the most standard type of cable available at computer retail outlets. This cable may also be referred to as a:
Category 5 cable
Cat 5 ethernet cable
Patch cable
A 10 megabit ( 10Base-T) or 100 megabit ( 100Base-TX) network cable
The name of the cable may also have an "5e" after the name. Whichever cable is used, it must have an RJ45 connector on its ends in order to connect to the Broadband Adapter.
What is the UDP setting in Phantasy Star Online and what setting should I use?
UDP stands for User Datagram Protocol. This setting is usually turned off and should not affect your ability to connect. Please contact Sega of America for more information.
Can I change my password or user name for Phantasy Star Online?
You can change your password by going accessing "Website" from the Phantasy Star Online main menu. Enter your account information and select "Edit Information." The username can not be changed.
I have more than one internet service provider. How do I add another one?
On the "Select Network Information Settings" screen for the Modem Adapter or Broadband Adapter, choose an open provider and follow the setup steps. This screen is also used to switch between the different profiles.
My Nintendo GameCube is located far away from my broadband modem. Can I use a wireless network adapter?
In some cases, yes. This will depend largely upon which wireless network adapter device you purchase. Connecting to a wireless network can be a difficult option, unless you are experienced at setting up a home network. It is often easier to either use a long ethernet cable to connect or, if a phone jack is closer, use the Nintendo GameCube Modem Adapter instead.
Will I be able to use the modem/network configuration information that I created for Phantasy Star Onlne with other games?
This data will only work with Phantasy Star Online.
What is the network protocol standard ( speed rating) of the Nintendo GameCube Broadband Adapter?
The speed is 10Base-T. This adapter can only be used with 10Base-T compatible broadband connection devices and specially designed games that include on-line game features
