Revolutionize your Nintendo Switch Lite experience with the ultimate guide to installing Hekate, the powerful homebrew launcher that unlocks a world of customization and hacking possibilities. Get ready to unleash the full potential of your handheld console and enjoy an unparalleled gaming journey. This comprehensive tutorial will guide you through the installation process seamlessly, arming you with the knowledge to explore the vast possibilities that await you on your Switch Lite.
Before embarking on this exciting adventure, ensure that you have a clear understanding of the potential risks and consequences of homebrew installation. By following this guide diligently and taking the necessary precautions, you can minimize the chances of encountering any unforeseen issues. With careful preparation and a thirst for discovery, you’re now ready to embark on the journey of installing Hekate and unlocking the hidden potential of your Nintendo Switch Lite.
To commence the installation process, you’ll need to gather the essential tools and files. Prepare your Switch Lite by ensuring it’s fully updated to the latest firmware version. Additionally, you’ll require a microSD card with sufficient storage space and a computer with a stable internet connection. With these prerequisites in place, you’re now ready to proceed to the next step and delve deeper into the world of homebrew installation on your Switch Lite.
Preparation: Gathering Materials
Before embarking on the installation process, it is crucial to assemble the necessary materials to ensure a smooth and successful experience. This preparation stage is essential to avoid any potential setbacks or complications during the installation of Hekate on your Switch Lite Picofly device.
Required Items:
- Nintendo Switch Lite Picofly: The target device for Hekate installation.
- MicroSD Card: A microSD card formatted in FAT32 or exFAT with sufficient storage capacity.
- USB-C to USB-A Cable: For connecting the Switch to a computer or laptop.
- Computer or Laptop: Running a supported operating system, such as Windows, macOS, or Linux.
### Optional but Recommended:
- RCM Loader (e.g., RCMjig, Xecuter RCM Loader): To enter the Recovery Mode (RCM) on the Switch.
- Hegate Payload Injector (e.g., TegraRcmGUI, HekateCTGUI): For booting the Hekate payload.
### File Downloads:
Ensure you download the following files from reliable sources:
| File | Description |
|---|---|
| Hekate Payload (latest version) | The Hekate bootloader payload for the Switch. |
| Atmosphere Firmware (latest version) | Custom firmware to be installed alongside Hekate. |
### Safety Considerations:
Before handling any electronic components, it is vital to observe the following safety precautions:
- Always ground yourself by touching a metal surface to discharge any static electricity.
- Handle the microSD card with care to avoid damage to the contacts.
- Keep the RCM loader and USB-C cable away from liquids and potential electrical hazards.
Accessing Recovery Mode
To enter recovery mode on your Switch Lite using the PicoFly, follow these steps:
1. Preparation
Ensure that your Switch Lite is fully powered off. Then, locate the PicoFly adapter and slide it onto the right Joy-Con rail on the bottom of your Switch Lite.
2. Connecting PicoFly and microSD Card
Next, insert your microSD card into the PicoFly adapter. Make sure the microSD card is formatted as FAT32 and contains the Hekate payload file. Once the microSD card is inserted, connect the PicoFly to your computer using a USB-C cable.
| Operating System | Command |
|---|---|
| MacOS | diskutil unmountDisk /dev/rdiskX |
| Windows | diskpart list disk select disk X clean create partition primary format fs=fat32 quick assign letter=Y |
| Linux | sudo umount /dev/sdX sudo parted /dev/sdX -s mklabel gpt sudo parted /dev/sdX -s mkpart primary fat32 1 100% sudo mkfs.vfat -F 32 /dev/sdX1 |
Note: Replace “X” in the commands below with the actual disk number of your microSD card.
3. Ejecting PicoFly and Booting
Safely eject the PicoFly from your computer. With the PicoFly still attached to your Switch Lite, press and hold the Volume Down (-) button. While holding the Volume Down button, press the Power button to turn on your Switch Lite. Continue holding the Volume Down button until you see the Hekate payload menu on the screen.
Launching Hekate
1. Preparation
Ensure your Switch Lite Picofly has custom firmware installed and the necessary homebrew applications.
Connect your Switch Lite Picofly to your computer using a USB-C cable.
2. Transferring Hekate Files
Download the latest Hekate release from its official website.
Unzip the downloaded file and copy the “hekate_ipl.bin” file to the “bootloader” folder on your Switch Lite Picofly’s microSD card.
3. Configuration and Booting
Now, press and hold both the Volume Up and Power buttons on your Switch Lite Picofly until you see the Hekate menu displayed on the screen.
| Action | Input |
|---|---|
| Enable/Disable Autoboot | L Button |
| Launch into Hekate | A Button |
| Switch Profiles | DPad Left/Right |
| Boot into Payload | Volume Up/Down Button |
Use the D-pad to navigate the menu and select the “Launch” option to boot into Hekate.
You can also configure various settings in the Hekate menu, such as setting up custom payloads and changing the boot order.
Installing Custom Firmware
To install custom firmware (CFW) on your Switch Lite Picofly, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Preparing Your Switch Lite Picofly
Ensure your Switch Lite Picofly is connected to the internet and has sufficient battery life.
2. Downloading Hekate
Visit the Hekate website and download the latest Hekate package for your Switch Lite Picofly model.
3. Extracting Hekate
Extract the downloaded Hekate package to a convenient location on your computer.
4. Copying Hekate to Your Switch Lite Picofly
Create a folder named “Atmosphere” in the root directory of your Switch Lite Picofly’s microSD card. Copy the extracted Hekate files into the “Atmosphere” folder.
5. Starting Hekate
Hold the “+” and “VOL +” buttons while inserting the microSD card into your Switch Lite Picofly. Continue holding the buttons until the Switch Lite Picofly powers on. This will boot into RCM mode.
Connect your Switch Lite Picofly to your computer using the provided USB cable.
Open the “fusee-gelee.bin” file from the extracted Hekate package in your preferred payload sender software (e.g., TegraRCMGUI).
Send the payload to your Switch Lite Picofly, which will start Hekate as the custom boot loader.
6. Setting Up Hekate
Configure the Hekate settings as per your preference, such as selecting the desired CFW to boot into and enabling automatic booting.
Optimizing Performance
To get the most out of your Switch Lite Picofly, you’ll want to optimize its performance. Here are a few ways to do that:
Boost Dock Mode Performance
Plug your Picofly into a dock to enjoy docked mode gameplay. For optimal performance, try replacing the included HDMI cable with a lower latency option.
Adjust Screen Refresh Rate
In handheld mode, you can fine-tune the screen refresh rate to improve gameplay smoothness. Use the HSwitchMod framework to set the refresh rate between 45-60 Hz.
Disable Performance Capping
The Switch Lite Picofly offers a way to disable performance capping. This allows the device to achieve higher frame rates and faster loading times. Use custom firmwares like Atmosphere or Kosmos to disable this limitation.
Overclock the CPU
If you want to push the Picofly to its limits, you can overclock the CPU. This method boosts performance but can impact battery life and stability. Proceed with caution and use custom firmware with built-in overclocking features.
Install a Custom Kernel
Installing a custom kernel like Hekate can enhance performance and stability. Hekate offers additional features such as boot and recovery options and can be accessed via the microSD card.
Install Performance-Boosting Mods
Various mods can improve performance on the Picofly. Consider mods that optimize the GPU, reduce background processes, or improve RAM allocation.
Undervolt the Device
Undervolting involves reducing the voltage supplied to the Picofly’s components. This reduces power consumption and heat generation while potentially improving performance. Experiment with different voltage settings to find the optimal balance.
Updating Hekate
To update Hekate, download the latest release from the official GitHub page. Extract the contents of the ZIP file to the “hekate” folder on your SD card. Ensure that you overwrite existing files.
Custom Firmware
Installing Custom Firmware
To install custom firmware, you will need a compatible Nintendo Switch Lite and a hacked Switch. Follow these steps:
- Extract the contents of the custom firmware ZIP file to the “atmosphere” folder on your SD card.
- Place your SD card into the hacked Switch and boot into Hekate.
- Select “Tools” and then “Payloads.”
- Launch the “fusee-primary.bin” payload.
- Your Switch will boot into the custom firmware.
- Download the latest release of your custom firmware from the official source.
- Extract the contents of the ZIP file to the “atmosphere” folder on your SD card, overwriting existing files.
- Reboot your Switch into custom firmware.
- Download the latest version of Hekate from the official website.
- Extract the downloaded file to a folder on your computer.
- Connect your Switch Lite Picofly to your computer using a USB cable.
- Copy the extracted Hekate files to the “bootloader” folder on your Switch Lite Picofly.
- Eject your Switch Lite Picofly from your computer.
- Boot your Switch Lite Picofly into RCM mode by holding down the Volume Up and Power buttons simultaneously.
- Once your Switch Lite Picofly is in RCM mode, press the Power button to launch Hekate.
- Run homebrew applications and games
- Overclock your Switch
- Create backups of your games
- And more
Updating Custom Firmware
To update custom firmware, follow these steps:
Removing Custom Firmware
To remove custom firmware, simply delete the “atmosphere” folder from your SD card and reboot your Switch into OFW (stock firmware).
| Custom Firmware | Official Website |
|---|---|
| Atmosphere | https://github.com/Atmosphere-NX/Atmosphere |
| SX OS | https://sx.xecuter.com/ |
| ReiNX | https://team-xecuter.com/reinx/ |
How to Install Hekate on Switch Lite Picofly
Installing Hekate on your Switch Lite Picofly is a relatively simple process, but it does require some basic technical knowledge. Here are the steps you need to follow:
That’s it! You have now successfully installed Hekate on your Switch Lite Picofly.
People Also Ask About Switch Lite Picofly How To Install Hekate
What is Hekate?
Hekate is a custom firmware for the Nintendo Switch that allows you to run homebrew applications and games. It also provides a number of other features, such as the ability to overclock your Switch, create backups of your games, and more.
Is it safe to install Hekate on my Switch Lite Picofly?
Yes, it is safe to install Hekate on your Switch Lite Picofly. However, it is important to note that installing Hekate will void your warranty. Make sure you do it at your own risk.
What are the benefits of installing Hekate on my Switch Lite Picofly?
Installing Hekate on your Switch Lite Picofly gives you a number of benefits, including the ability to:
How do I uninstall Hekate from my Switch Lite Picofly?
To uninstall Hekate from your Switch Lite Picofly, simply delete the “bootloader” folder from your Switch Lite Picofly’s microSD card.
