"Just an update to let everyone know that I successfully modified a light shield using two of the Nichia flat LEDs. Overall, the light is slightly less than I was hoping for. Don't get me wrong, though, it is still WAY better than anything else currently available over the counter.

Using a GBC game (which gives the most voltage), the light is amazingly uniform over the screen with no "hot spots" at all. Even the corners are well lit. I would still prefer a brighter light, but the games are definately playable with all areas of the screen very visible.

Using a GBA game, the light is noticeably dimmer. Most GBA players would probably not be happy with the amount of light.

Before I close, let me toss in a few additional remarks about this mod, hoping that they might help or inspire others...

1. I used the smallest drill bit I had to start holes in the shield to mount the LEDs. You can easily drill a hole just by using your fingers to twist the drill. If it gets tight, use a pair of pliers. I used a very tiny round file to lengthen the holes into the slots needed for the flat LEDs.

2. I used a quick-set epoxy (90 sec) to securely hold the LEDs in the slots and to angle them slightly toward the center of the screen.

3. With the LEDs secured, it was a lot easier to bend the leads and solder them. I bent them at 90 degree angles and directed them through a bigger hole that I hand-drilled through the side of the reflector (same side as the original wires entered).

4. I used a couple of insulated lead wires from an old telephone cord to solder to the LED leads. This allowed me to solder without having to work in a cramped space, and made the soldering MUCH easier.

5. Finally, I cut the original wires about one-third the way up the channel (where it curves and hence has more room to stuff a soldered connection into it) and soldered the ends together. Just use Scotch tape to provide some insulation when done.

6. As a final touch, I used a narrow strip of one of the PDA anti-glare screen covers on the black area of the screen just above the playing area. This allows me to adjust the shield so the glare falls on the strip. These PDA covers REALLY kill any glare (they also darken the screen a lot if you cover the entire screen). "