edit: I can't emphasize this enough.
If there are errors, check the guide under T5 first, then learn how to report from there ><

Converting .3DS/3DZ to .CIA Pictorial

Hopefully noob friendly!​

UPDATED! V5.1.4b @ UTC+8 2.45am 24-Nov-14:​

http://filetrip.net/3ds-downloads/utilities/download-quenopack-3ds-to-cia-5-1-4b-f33005.html​

​

Updated calling routine:​

Most questions all in front, so that users can doze off after​

Included the most recent exinjector & rsfgen.py​

Testing 32-bit compatibility​

​

Note: Haven't updated tutorial, but the prompts should be fool proof.​

Table of contents.​

T1 - Disclaimer​

T2 - Basics​

T3 - Requirements​

_____What you need to know, what programs to have.​

T4 - The Main Tutorial​

_____Steps 0, 1 & 2.​

T5 - Reference code (and how to report errors)​

_____Reference code 1 - 5, Faux errors, how to report errors​

T6 - [The not so] Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)​

_____Is it region free, does .3DZ work, help w/ errors, what not to do​

T7 - User Guides and Credits!!!​

_____Valiant effort by our community.​

​

Control+Find the header number (eg: T5 ) to jump to the section!​

T1 - Disclaimer

​

gbaTEMP and I shall not be responsible for your own misdoing and misdeeds. ​

Use at your own risk! ;P​

T2 - Basics

What are .cia files?​

Basically a somewhat stripped down decrypted version of .3DS files.​

You can't just rename .3DS > .CIA, you have to carry out a set of slightly complicated steps,​

which I have tried to get it dummified.​

Make sure you follow the steps concisely.​

Now, purpose of this tutorial is to guide users to convert 3DS games (not warez, not dev apps) to .CIA files for installation.​

​

Does not matter whether .3DS or .3DZ, and scene roms won't need to add 'header' to go online (GW users should know what's I'm talking about)​

T3 - Requirements

​

First off, these are the requirements:​

1. Using a 3DS that is FW 4.1-4.5 (also known as FW 4.X)
   I recommend that these users get a Gateway 3DS.
   .
2. A DS flashcart that works on your 3DS, for loading DS profile exploit
   Supercard DStwo or GW blue card (r4i) works.
   Gateway loader works fine. (cannot link you the link)
   .
3. Install 2.7 Python. You can find it will a quick Google search.
   Or just download the one for your computer from here:
   https://www.python.org/download/releases/2.7/
   ...
4. This package.
   Paste it on your desktop, in a folder named "CIA"
   http://filetrip.net/3ds-downloads/utilities/download-quenopack-3ds-to-cia-5-1-4b-f33005.html
   
   Please the files in the folders they were in.
   The program reads the stuff based on the location!
   I will not provide the 7.x key. To find it, simply search the guy who leaked it. ><
   .
5. A game backup (rom)
   .
6. Patience, and not fearful of looking at folders with multiple items!

Okay, let's get started.

T4 - The Main Tutorial

​

Video Version:It's based on older revisions, but still counts.
Thanks to TeamNinja for uploading, and DrWhoJan who brought it to our attention!

Spoiler

Step 0: Tools usage and folder placement

Spoiler

Okay before we begin,
a short reminder: strictly please use only the tools I provided for this tutorial:
http://filetrip.net/3ds-downloads/utilities/download-quenopack-3ds-to-cia-5-1-4b-f33005.html

The folder layout and location of the files are to be the same,
as I have optimized the calling procedure of the .bats (the programs).

Unless you have a working understanding of reading those and modifying them to your liking,
I suggest you follow as I have provided

As an addition, follow the images to unblock the .rar, before unzipping:

Step 1: Decrypting the Rom

Spoiler

1a. Getting ncchinfo.bin

Spoiler

Go to CIA\Step 1
Paste your rom in this folder.
Rename it to "rom.3ds"

Drag the rom.3ds onto ctrKeyGen
A file called ncchinfo.bin will be in your directory.

Now, go to CIA\For 3DS SD Card
Copy the launcher you use over to your 3DS SD card.
I will not provide slot0x25KeyX.bin, so find it yourself.
When you the value, HXD into a blank file, and save as slot0x25KeyX.bin

Spoiler: slot0x25KeyX.bin guide

hxd website: http://mh-nexus.de/en/hxd/

Also copy and paste ncchinfo.bin into the root of the 3DS SD card.

Now insert SD card back into your 3DS

1b. Getting xorpads

Spoiler

Go to your 3DS.
Run System Settings > Other Settings > Profile > Nintendo DS Profile

Spoiler

The program will load and run.
Allow it to run until it tells you, that you can turn off your 3DS.

Once done, insert your SD card back on your computer.
Copy only these xorpads to this directory:
CIA\Step 2
Not every rom provides exefs_7x.xorpad. If you do see it, you must copy it!
Only copy manual.romfs.xorpad if you want to have a user manual option on home screen.

If you game has Download Play support, and you want it,
copy this too:

Step 2: Decrypting + Compiling the .cia!

Spoiler

Move rom.3DS to CIA\Step 2

Drag and drop or Double click on 'decrypt and make.bat'

Hit enter, and it will run.
The latest update has all the questions at the start of the process,
so one may mostly doze off and wait after doing so.
The image that says it all!

When you see this, you are at the end of the program!
If you see install.cia, it means you were successful!

"But Queno138, I want to repack another rom, must I unpack again?"

Spoiler

No!
This feature allows you to repack, as long as you have the items there.
It's been around since, 2.0? I just never properly documented it.

After this image, go up to (continue)

Installation Success!

Spoiler

Custom rsf guide:

Spoiler

T5 - Reference Codes (and how to report errors)

Reference codes has appeared in the batch program, for ease of referencing.

Genuine Errors

Spoiler

Reference code 1: Required .bins not located.

If the required .bins for the operation is not found,
it means that either you deleted it, or it could not be extracted, due to decryption error.

Associated with (and fix):
1. Invalid slot0x25KeyX.bin for FW 7x games (refer to guide on how to acquire it correctly)
2. Files have been moved (kindly keep them in the same place as guide dictates)
3. Decryption error. (Delete everything and try again.)
4. Mismatched tools (Ensure you are using the tools provided)


Reference code 2: rom.3ds not located.

Decryption cannot be done without the exact file, "rom.3ds"

Associated with (and fix):
1. rom name is not rom.3ds (Kindly rename the rom to rom.3ds)
2. rom not in folder (kindly place rom.3ds in Step 2)


Reference code 3: xorpad not located.

Xorpads are required for decryption

Associated with (and fix):
1. xorpad not named as per guide (simple, eg: 01.exefs_norm.xorpad)
2. xorpad not in directory (don't forget to transfer over the xorpad from 3DS SD card)


Reference code 4: Tools folder not found

Tools are required for the operation.

Associated with (and fix):
1. Tools folder has been renamed. (It needs to be named "tools")
2. Tools folder has been moved. (Move it back to the original directory)
3. Tools folder lost. (Redownload and extract the whole package)


Reference code 5: Folders located before decryption

This message only pops up when you have chosen to decrypt a rom.

Associated with:
1. Exefs, Encrypted_bin, decrypted, xorpad folder exists. (delete them before decrypting new rom)
2. Selected choice by accident. (ignore, proceed to pack rom.)

Faux errors:

Spoiler

Some of the text displayed tends to scare users.
If you get any one of these, please don't report, as it's not an error.

Reference code not shown/code persists:

Spoiler

If code persists, or error with no code:
Do us a favor and save each other some time.
Before showing errors,
ensure that:
1. you downloaded the lastest package.
2. followed the tutorial to the latter
3. did not use express

​

If error still occurs:
1. What Game you are using
2. Inform me if you are using CFW or GW
3. Tell me what error you get in game (or if you don't reach there)
4. screenshot \exefs, \decrypted, \xorpads, \step 2
5. show me the error page on the normal bat

this way, easier for me to identify the error.

T6 - [The not so] Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What must I not do?​

Don't go into sysnand and check data management. (content will be deleted)​

Don't forget to back up data when necessary (to prevent losing saves)​

Don't forget to read T5 of my guide regarding errors. (to not plague this thread)​

Don't format 3DS for no reason (I mean, imagine one day you need to upgrade, and can't connect to NNID or something)​

Don't update firmware in CFW (cause it stops working)​

How to install .cia files​

What, you're here without knowing!?​

Basically, get Devmenu or bigbluemenu (can't tell you where)​

Will I be able to delete them afterwards?​

Devmenu and BBM has options for deleting them.​

Just don't delete your updates or important warez by mistake.​

Check the ID against http://3ds.essh.co/​

Does this require FW 4.5 like other exploits​

.....​

You think?​

</sarcasm> YES​

Does this work with trimmed roms?​

YES! (link)​

Does this work with FW 7.X games?​

GW = YES!​

CFW = NO.​

And before you ask, if there were any workarounds​

(well, besides obviously getting a GW that is so worth it now),​

I'll be happy to share.​

Does your tutorial contain "region free and firmware spoofing"?​

YES!​

​

Does the package support download play?​

YES!​

​

Does this work with .3DZ?​

YES!​

After all, it's just a file extension. doesn't affect conversion.​

Does your tutorial contain "user manuals"​

YES!​

I have an existing save on Gateway. Why is it not on the .cia game?​

Imagine the .cia game being like an eshop game.​

Every game comes with a new save.​

Are saves brought forward?​

NO.​

Because that's not how the mechanics of conversion works.​

Gateway makes the redcard 'find and see' the saves, not the homepage apps.​

What about nand saving/card2?​

NO.​

But ONLY for card2, you can use savefiler or save data transfer tool.​

If you were already playing your roms as a card2, go ahead and transfer ​

Why can't I modify to card2 then transfer?​

By making it card2, you broke the header,​

which the 3DS will check if the save is corrupt before transfer.​

Based on the chain of events mentioned, it is considered corrupted.​

Can user manuals be repacked together?​

YES!​

Take note that if using different region game,​

enable region free.​

Does this work with VC roms?​

NO (link) or YES? (link)​

Try it yourself!​

Does this conversion method work with Dev apps (devmenu and SDK stuff)​

NO!​

However, link to show you how to get them converted: (link)​

Do I need .rsf files?​

Up to you. The batch program will generate one for you,​

but if you follow the prompt, you can insert your own.​

Not all work at the moment.​

Can I load games above 4.5 on CFW?​

From what I know, some games require firmware spoofing​

and the FW6/7 games is a big NO​

Where can I find slot0x25KeyX.bin/7.X keys?​

Can't tell you where. But I know who has it (the guy you leaked it, duh)​

get it, type it in hex using HXD, save as slot0x25KeyX.bin​

Paste it into your SD card.​

Why do I see no errors but there is no .cia?​

Most likely you are using express. IF you are noob, just don't.​

Chances are it's decryption or your key 7 is wrong.​

Go to section T5, it'll teach you something.​

It says not enough memory, why? I have x GB ram.​

Well, your computer probably already runs a lot of processes,​

and packing the rom can take up to 2-3x it's original size.​

Don't tell me you got 16GB ram.​

Just go o into safe mode, and launch the .bat there.​

As long as the folders are still there,​

you can choose to continue with repacking, without re-depacking.​

​

If it still doesn't work,​

rename _makerom.exe to makerom.exe and try again.​

​

I've already added a new makerom to circumnavigate that,​

but I still recommend keeping your processes low.​

Help, can't drag and drop on python​

try either option:​

Spoiler

put this into a .bat

c:\Python27\python.exe" ctrKeyGen.py %1

then drag and drop the rom.3ds onto the .bat

Or

regedit
 
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Python.File\shellex\DropHandler]@="{60254CA5-953B-11CF-8C96-00AA00B8708C}"
 
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Python.NoConFile\shellex\DropHandler]@="{60254CA5-953B-11CF-8C96-00AA00B8708C}"
 
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Python.CompiledFile\shellex\Drop Handler]@="{60254CA5-953B-11CF-8C96-00AA00B8708C}"

​

​

What is the express.bat in your package​

It's a program NOT for noobs.​

It doesn't ask questions; simply repacks if there are folders,​

decrypt and unpack if there are xorpads​

Doesn't prompt, just runs.​

It has some preset settings.​

It won't decrypt the whole romfs.bin. Creates its own rsf.​

Due to it's nature, error prompts might be skipped.​

So I repeat,​

It's a program NOT for noobs.​

Help, my errors aren't resolved!​

Do us a favor and save each other some time.​

Before showing errors,​

ensure that:​

1. you downloaded the lastest package.​

2. followed the tutorial to the latter​

3. did not use express​

​

If error still occurs:​

1. What Game you are using​

2. Inform me if you are using CFW or GW​

3. Tell me what error you get in game (or if you don't reach there)​

4. screenshot \exefs, \decrypted, \xorpads, \step 2​

5. show me the error page on the normal bat​

​

this way, easier for me to identify the error.​

​

Wondering if you have a faux error?​

Ctrl Find "T5"​

​

​

T7 - User Guides and Credits!!!

Palantine and the CFW and CIA guide that (almost) started it all!:​

http://gbatemp.net/threads/4-x-only-cia-cfw-complete-guide.373532/​

​

gamesquest1; the first ever decrypting guide I could understand:​

https://gbatemp.net/threads/tutorial-how-to-decrypt-3ds-roms-for-dummies.372653/page-2#post-5136907​

​

ryanrocks462, which I also cross refer to:​

https://gbatemp.net/threads/tutorial-how-to-decrypt-3ds-roms-for-dummies.372653/​

​

Versehell's also very comprehensive guide:​

http://gbatemp.net/goto/post?id=5149679#post-5149679​

​

Liomajor's first most automatic guide:​

http://gbatemp.net/threads/release-...into-repacked-roms.373839/page-7#post-5153600​

​

piratesephiroth's Exinjector!​

http://gbatemp.net/threads/release-exinjector-inject-original-exheaders-into-repacked-roms.373839/​

​

Kyogre123's savedatafiler tutorial​

http://gbatemp.net/threads/how-to-put-savedatafiler-on-homescreen.373756/​

​

relys and the NCCH/SD programs!​

http://gbatemp.net/threads/release-3ds_ctr_decryptor-void.370684/​

​

ground, whom I never spoke to, but I thank your efforts in Exheader research!​

​

Vappy's, rsfgen.py!​

​

​

​

Also to neimod, 3DSguy, 3Dbrew, and many others that slipped my mind!​

​

​

And last but not least,​

everyone on gbatemp ​

​

I'm not reinventing the wheel, I'm merely gathering all information into one.

 

[Queno138]

VC games install and save fine for me, is it homemade ones that don`t work?

wait what?
I was told it didn't work.

you followed my steps and it worked?

The only thing I could think of is to look for the .xorpad for the game in question , must be some where on web.

Unless People can post there generated .xorpad files for all type of games in zip format here , assuming that is not forbidden to .

PS: I'm looking for the one for Zelda a link between worlds (E) ctr-bzlp.3ds / .xorpad files cheers.

even if you do create a .cia file,
how are you going to install it onto your 3DS?

 

[drwhojan]

wait what?
I was told it didn't work.

you followed my steps and it worked?
even if you do create a .cia file,
how are you going to install it onto your 3DS?

I'm more into getting the cia file compiled successfully .

The rest I will worry about later, Do some asking about see if anyone has an older firmware 3DS 4.X , as for flashcard well one will be found sooner are later .

 

[1timeuser]

wait what?
I was told it didn't work.

you followed my steps and it worked?

Yes, I installed Super Mario Bros. 3,Sonic The Hedgehog 2 GG, and Zelda - Link`s Awakening with your tutorial and all worked

 

[Queno138]

Whatever the case,
pass/fail is not tied to SDK, apparently:

dragons         sdk 5-2-1     pass
pokemon         sdk 5-2-0     pass
mario golf     sdk 5-2-3     pass
pokemon art     sdk 7-1-1     fail
ssb         sdk 9-11-0    pass

 

[Quincy]

Getting this error on building :S

 

[Queno138]

Getting this error on building :S

Possibly your computer doesn't have enough ram.

I got around that by compiling in safe mode.

1. initiate safe mode with command prompt
2. use task manager > run >explorer.exe to open desktop (if it ain't there)
3. use the make desc app4.bat (or whichever one you prefer.

If you still can't compile in safe mode,
I suggest trimming the rom first.

 

[Quincy]

Possibly your computer doesn't have enough ram.

I got around that by compiling in safe mode.

1. initiate safe mode with command prompt
2. use task manager > run >explorer.exe to open desktop (if it ain't there)
3. use the make desc app4.bat (or whichever one you prefer.

If you still can't compile in safe mode,
I suggest trimming the rom first.

I have 8GB of ram, of which 45% is in use. I don't think that 4GB free is "not enough ram" XD

I'll still try it tho.

 

[Relys]

I have 8GB of ram, of which 45% is in use. I don't think that 4GB free is "not enough ram" XD

I'll still try it tho.

You need to compile x64 makerom. Else the mallocs will fail because they can't access >4GB of RAM due to address space restrictions of x86.

 

[Queno138]

I have 8GB of ram, of which 45% is in use. I don't think that 4GB free is "not enough ram" XD

I'll still try it tho.

if its a big game,

I read that it can take up to twice the size of the game.

well it could be, not too sureXD

You need to compile x64 makerom. Else the mallocs will fail because they can't access >4GB of RAM due to address space restrictions of x86.

where can I find one? ><

 

[drwhojan]

I did it the quick way one, two of same game, one already in .cia for as as, and one in .3ds dissembled and rebuild using the quick way.

Strangely only the header was slightly changed form the original .cia format .

http://gbatemp.net/threads/4-x-only-cia-cfw-complete-guide.373532/page-38#post-5147984

 

[Quincy]

You need to compile x64 makerom. Else the mallocs will fail because they can't access >4GB of RAM due to address space restrictions of x86.

Would you happen to have a version of x64 makerom handy? I am not on a development/compiling machine atm, and I am not sure I am able to compile the executable on windows XD

 

[Queno138]

I did it the quick way one, two of same game, one already in .cia for as as, and one in .3ds dissembled and rebuild using the quick way.

Strangely only the header was slightly changed form the original .cia format .

http://gbatemp.net/threads/4-x-only-cia-cfw-complete-guide.373532/page-38#post-5147984

If it was that different, I believe the game would not be downloadable ><

 

[Quincy]

64bit makerom

https://gbatemp.net/threads/release-3ds_ctr_decryptor-void.370684/page-48#post-510472HOWEVER THIS STILL GIVES ERRORS

This time RSF errors so I guess it's not compatible

Relys do you have the x64 version that works?

 

[Queno138]

64bit makerom

https://gbatemp.net/threads/release-3ds_ctr_decryptor-void.370684/page-48#post-510472HOWEVER THIS STILL GIVES ERRORS

This time RSF errors so I guess it's not compatible

what RSF errors do you get? :/
have you tried safe mode yet?

 

[jimmsu66]

Yes I know, Added Launcher.dat and genrated/ctrKeyGen.py ctr-bzlp.3ds / ncchinfo.bin

Launcher.dat
ncchinfo.bin

on root of SD

profile/nintendo ds profile

No think happened are generated on sd card.

No think mention about what firmware for this process , Are is it still 4.X no matter what ?

Start of the guide :

First off, these are the requirements:

1. Using a 3DS that is FW 4.1-4.5 (also known as FW 4.X)

 

[Quincy]

what RSF errors do you get? :/
have you tried safe mode yet?

[RSF ERROR] Unrecognised key 'UseExtSaveData'
[RSF ERROR] Error Proccessing RSF file

Safe mode ain't gonna fix this

 

[kamo]

Did someone with a EU 3DS managed to get SMTIV to run? I got it converted, edited icon.bin to be region free and all but as soon as it starts I get the error where the system needs to restart.

 

[Queno138]

[RSF ERROR] Unrecognised key 'UseExtSaveData'
[RSF ERROR] Error Proccessing RSF file

Safe mode ain't gonna fix this

are you not using my rsf file?

Did someone with a EU 3DS managed to get SMTIV to run? I got it converted, edited icon.bin to be region free and all but as soon as it starts I get the error where the system needs to restart.

I'll test that once I'm done.

If it compiles, it's the game problem.
(or special changes need to be made in the .rsf)

what region rom was the SMTIV?

--------

I'm done compiling a list of games that might not work.

 

[OrangeFlavored]

Got the .xorpad for my DLC but not really sure where to go from there. I can xor each file but can't figure any way to get the rest of the information I'd need to make a .cia, thought I might be able to get it from the .tmd file but 3DS Explorer doesn't want to touch it even after xor with the xorpad. Kind of at a dead end for now.

 

[Quincy]

are you not using my rsf file?

Yes I am. I am using the exact same RSF file you used in the guide, edited to my dump ofcourse.

The RSF errors are with the 64bit version. I'll see if I can compile a more recent version myself