Injecting Payloads into Your Nintendo Switch: A Comprehensive Guide

Everything you need to know about putting your Switch into RCM and injecting payloads.

Key Takeaways

Payload Injection: This process involves sending a small binary file (the payload) to a vulnerable Nintendo Switch console, typically to boot custom firmware or other homebrew applications.
Recovery Mode (RCM): To inject a payload, your Switch must be in RCM. This is often achieved on unpatched V1 consoles by using a jig and pressing specific button combinations during power-on.
Tools and Methods: Various tools and methods exist for payload injection, including PC applications like TegraRcmGUI, mobile apps like Rekado, dedicated RCM loaders, and even web-based injectors.

Understanding Payload Injection

Payload injection on a Nintendo Switch refers to the process of sending a small piece of code, known as a payload, to the console's processor while it's in a specific state called Recovery Mode (RCM). This is a fundamental step for users looking to run custom firmware (CFW) or homebrew applications on certain vulnerable Switch models, primarily unpatched V1 consoles. The payload acts as a bootstrap, taking control of the system before the standard operating system loads, allowing for the execution of unofficial code.

The concept is similar to booting a computer from a USB drive or network, bypassing the default startup process. In the context of the Switch, this vulnerability, often referred to as the "Fusée Gelée" exploit, allows external tools to load arbitrary code into the Tegra X1 processor's boot ROM.

The Role of the Payload

The payload itself is a binary file, typically with a .bin extension, that contains the instructions for the Switch to execute. Common payloads include:

Hekate: A powerful bootloader that allows users to boot into various configurations, manage partitions, backup and restore NAND, and launch other payloads.
Atmosphere (fusee.bin): The primary payload for booting the Atmosphere custom firmware.
Other Homebrew Payloads: Payloads designed for specific purposes, such as launching Linux distributions or diagnostic tools.

Entering Recovery Mode (RCM)

Before you can inject a payload, your Nintendo Switch must be in Recovery Mode (RCM). This is a special boot mode that allows low-level access to the hardware. Entering RCM typically requires a combination of hardware manipulation and button presses.

For unpatched V1 Switch consoles, the most common method involves using an RCM jig or a modified right Joy-Con. This jig essentially bridges specific pins on the right Joy-Con rail, triggering RCM when the console is powered on while holding the Volume + button.

Steps to Enter RCM (for unpatched V1):

Ensure the Switch is completely powered off. Holding the power button for 30 seconds can ensure a full shutdown.
Insert the RCM jig into the right Joy-Con rail.
Press and hold the Volume + button.
While holding Volume +, press the Power button.
The Switch screen should remain black. This indicates it has successfully entered RCM. You can now release the Volume + and Power buttons and remove the jig.

If your Switch shows the Nintendo logo or boots normally, you have not successfully entered RCM. You may need to try the process again, ensuring the jig is correctly inserted and the timing of the button presses is right.

Checking for RCM Detection:

Once in RCM, connect your Switch to your computer or injection device using a USB-C cable. On your computer, you can verify if the Switch is in RCM by checking Device Manager (on Windows) for a device named "APX Device."

A visual representation of network connections, similar in principle to connecting your Switch for payload injection.

Methods for Injecting Payloads

Several tools and methods are available for injecting payloads into a Switch in RCM. The choice often depends on your available hardware (PC, Android phone, dedicated injector) and personal preference.

PC-Based Injection (TegraRcmGUI)

TegraRcmGUI is a popular and user-friendly Windows application for injecting payloads.

Steps for Using TegraRcmGUI:

Download and install TegraRcmGUI.
Navigate to the Settings tab and install the APX Device Driver if you haven't already.
Put your Switch into RCM and connect it to your PC via a USB-C cable. TegraRcmGUI should show "RCM O.K." or the Switch as detected.
Go to the Payload tab.
Click the folder icon next to "Inject payload" and select the desired .bin payload file (e.g., hekate_ctcaer_X.X.X.bin).
Click "Inject payload."

Diagram of top-of-rack switching

Illustrating connectivity, analogous to the connection between your PC and Switch for injection.

Android-Based Injection (Rekado)

Rekado is an Android application that allows you to inject payloads using your phone, provided your phone supports USB OTG (On-The-Go) and you have a USB-C to USB-C cable or a USB-C to USB-A adapter and a USB-A to USB-C cable.

Steps for Using Rekado:

Install Rekado on your Android device. You may need to enable installation from unknown sources.
Download the desired .bin payload file and place it in the Rekado folder on your device's storage.
Launch Rekado.
Connect your Switch in RCM to your Android device using a USB cable.
Grant Rekado permission to access the USB device if prompted.
In Rekado, select the payload you want to inject.
Tap on "Injection" or a similar button to send the payload.

This video demonstrates how to boot a payload using an Android phone, showcasing a popular mobile injection method.

Dedicated RCM Loaders

Dedicated RCM loaders are small, portable devices specifically designed for injecting payloads. They often have pre-loaded payloads and are convenient for injecting without a computer or phone.

Using an RCM Loader:

Ensure the RCM loader is charged and has the desired payload(s) loaded onto it.
Put your Switch into RCM.
Insert the RCM loader into the Switch's USB-C port.
The loader should automatically inject the selected payload.

Close-up of network switch ports

Depicting connection points, similar to where an RCM loader connects to the Switch.

Web-Based Injection

For certain operating systems like ChromeOS or devices that support WebUSB, web-based payload injectors are available. These allow you to inject payloads directly from a web browser.

Using a Web Injector:

Ensure your device and browser support WebUSB.
Navigate to a reputable web-based RCM injector website.
Put your Switch into RCM and connect it to your device.
Select the desired payload on the website.
Click the button to inject the payload. You may need to grant the website permission to access the USB device.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Payload injection can sometimes encounter issues. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting steps:

Switch Not Detected in RCM:

Ensure your Switch is truly in RCM (black screen, no logo).
Verify that you are using a data sync cable, not just a charging cable. Some cables do not support data transfer.
Check your USB port on both the Switch and the injection device for any damage.
If using a PC, ensure the APX Device Driver is correctly installed.
Try a different USB cable and/or a different USB port.
Restart your PC or injection device.

Payload Injection Fails or Freezes:

Ensure you are using the correct and latest version of the payload for your needs.
Verify the integrity of the downloaded payload file.
If using a PC, try running the injection software as an administrator.
Ensure no other applications are interfering with the USB connection.
Try a different injection method or device.

Switch Boots to a Black Screen After Injection:

This could indicate an issue with the payload or the files on your SD card.
Ensure your SD card is properly formatted and contains the necessary CFW files.
Try re-downloading and replacing the payload file on your SD card or injector.
If using Hekate, check the bootloader folder on your SD card for any issues.

Image of server racks in a data center

Data center infrastructure, highlighting the importance of reliable connections and systems, much like successful payload injection.

Understanding Payload Injectors

Payload injectors, also known as payload senders or code loaders, are the tools (software or hardware) that facilitate the transfer of the payload to the Switch in RCM.

These injectors interact with the Switch's Tegra X1 processor while it's in the vulnerable RCM state to send the payload data over the USB connection. The effectiveness and features of injectors can vary.

Types of Payload Injectors:

As discussed, injectors can take various forms:

Type	Description	Examples
PC Software	Applications running on a computer to send payloads.	TegraRcmGUI, NXBootCmd (macOS)
Mobile Applications	Apps on smartphones that use USB OTG to inject payloads.	Rekado (Android), NXBoot (iOS)
Dedicated Hardware Injectors	Small, portable devices designed solely for payload injection.	Various RCM loaders available commercially.
Web-Based Injectors	Websites that can inject payloads using WebUSB.	RCM Web Fusee Launcher

Choosing the right injector depends on your convenience and the devices you have access to. PC-based injectors offer more features and troubleshooting capabilities, while dedicated hardware provides portability.

FAQ

What is a payload in the context of the Nintendo Switch?

In the context of the Nintendo Switch, a payload is a small binary file containing code that is injected into the console's memory while it is in Recovery Mode (RCM). This code can then execute, allowing users to boot custom firmware (CFW) or homebrew applications, bypassing the normal boot process.

Why do I need to inject a payload?

Injecting a payload is necessary on certain vulnerable Nintendo Switch models (primarily unpatched V1 consoles) to launch custom firmware (like Atmosphere) or homebrew. The payload exploits a vulnerability in the console's boot ROM to gain control before the official operating system loads.

How do I know if my Switch is unpatched and vulnerable to payload injection?

Whether your Switch is unpatched depends on its serial number. There are online resources and databases where you can check your Switch's serial number to determine if it is susceptible to the Fusée Gelée exploit that allows for RCM injection.

What is RCM and how do I enter it?

RCM stands for Recovery Mode. It's a low-level boot mode on the Switch. To enter RCM on unpatched V1 consoles, you typically need to use an RCM jig (or a modified Joy-Con) and hold the Volume + button while pressing the Power button during startup. The screen will remain black if successful.

What tools can I use to inject a payload?

You can use various tools to inject payloads, including PC applications like TegraRcmGUI, Android apps like Rekado, dedicated hardware RCM loaders, and some web-based injectors.

What should I do if my Switch is not detected when trying to inject a payload?

If your Switch is not detected in RCM, ensure it is properly in RCM (black screen). Check that you are using a data sync cable, not just a charging cable. Try different USB ports and cables. On a PC, verify that the necessary drivers (like the APX driver for TegraRcmGUI) are installed correctly.

Can I inject a payload on any Nintendo Switch model?

No, payload injection using the RCM exploit is only possible on unpatched V1 Nintendo Switch consoles. Later revisions and the Switch Lite and OLED models have patched this vulnerability and typically require hardware modifications (like modchips) for custom firmware.

What is the difference between Hekate and Atmosphere's fusee.bin payload?

Hekate is a bootloader that provides a menu with various options, including launching different payloads, managing partitions, and performing NAND backups. Fusee.bin is the specific payload used to directly boot the Atmosphere custom firmware. You can often launch fusee.bin through Hekate.

Do I need an SD card for payload injection?

While you can inject some payloads that don't require an SD card, to utilize custom firmware and homebrew applications, you will need a properly prepared SD card inserted into your Switch. The payload often loads files and configurations from the SD card.