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Parsec CouchLink

Parsec CouchLink turns a remote Parsec gamepad into a real controller input for a retro console.

Remote player
   |
   | Parsec virtual Xbox controller
   v
Windows host running couchlink.exe
   |
   | Wi-Fi
   v
Raspberry Pi Pico 2 W running couchlink-pico.uf2
   |
   | USB as wired Xbox 360 controller
   v
USB4MAPLE or another USB-to-console adapter
   |
   v
Console player 2

Start Here

• Quick Start - install from a release zip and run the setup script.
• Setup and Flashing - what the script does and how to recover a Pico.
• Troubleshooting - what to run when setup or discovery fails.
• Build - build the release zip from source.
• Protocol - short runtime and setup protocol reference.
• Changelog - release notes.

What Ships In A Release

File	Purpose
setup.ps1	The first-run setup script.
couchlink.exe	Windows app that reads the Parsec gamepad and sends state to the Pico.
couchlink-pico.uf2	Pico firmware flashed by setup.
README.txt	Short copy of the release-folder instructions.

Normal Flow

1. Download the release zip.
2. Extract it.
3. Run setup.ps1 from PowerShell.
4. Hold BOOTSEL while plugging in the Pico when prompted.
5. Enter the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi credentials.
6. Let setup add the Startup shortcut.
7. Start a Parsec session and play.

The Wi-Fi password is sent to the Pico over USB setup mode. It is not saved on the PC.