Nintendo SWITCH, HAC-001 Manual
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Nintendo SWITCH, HAC-001 Manual

INTRODUCTION

This product is an electronic device that can be damaged by mistreatment. Carrying cases and additional protective materials may be purchased separately and help prevent damage.
Please carefully read this Operations Manual before setting up or playing with your Nintendo Switch system. If you have additional questions, please visit support.nintendo.com. Built-in instructions are also available through the Nintendo Switch Home Screen and System Settings ().
This Operations Manual is designed for first-time users of Nintendo Switch, and is intended to assist players with initial console setup and gameplay. Advanced user manuals can be found at support.nintendo.com.
To use this manual, follow the below table of contents. Entries are itemized by number, and can be searched by clicking on an entry, or by using your browser's document search function (ctrl+f) to search for the associated information (eg: ctrl+f: "5.6" will take the user to the entry "Playing in Tabletop Mode").

Getting Started

Welcome

We know you're eager to start playing the latest Nintendo games as soon as possible, but before you do, please review the information in this operations manual. You'll learn best practices for setting up your Nintendo Switch console to ensure the best possible gaming experience.
This manual contains basic information on

  • Console setup
  • Getting online
  • Buying and playing games
  • Managing your data.

You'll also find some troubleshooting tips, frequently asked questions, and glossary terms in case you get stuck. This manual was intended to help first-time users set up their consoles, so more advanced users can find additional information at support.nintendo.com.
For now, let's get started setting up your Nintendo Switch, or in the words of Mario, "Let's-a go!"

Contents of Nintendo Switch Packaging

Your Nintendo Switch package should contain the following components. Components should be packaged in safety material to prevent damage during shipping. Please read this section before unpacking your Nintendo Switch.
warningATTENTION
If any of the following is missing, please contact your retailer.

Console Tablet
Packaging should contain:

  • One (1) Nintendo Switch tablet (1x USB-C slot, 1x MicroSD card slot, 1x Nintendo Switch Game Card slot, 2x Joy-Con attachment/charge rails).

Console Dock
Packaging should contain:

  • One (1) Nintendo Switch dock (1x HDMI slot, 1x USB-C slot, 1x USB-C power connector, 2x USB input slots).

2 Joy-Con™ Controllers
Packaging should contain:

  • One (1)Left Joy-Con
  • One (1)Right Joy-Con controller
  • Two (2) detachableJoy-Con straps
  • One (1) plasticJoy-Con grip

HDMI Cable
Packaging should contain:

  • One (1) HDMI display cable.

USB-C Power Cord
Packaging should contain:

  • One (1) USB-C Power Cord.

System Specifications

Nintendo Switch is comprised of several key components, each of which has been designed to provide players with the best possible gaming experience, as well as meet industry standards for safety, environmental consideration, and durability. Please refer to the following charts to review those specifications. Please read this section before setting up your Nintendo Switch.

Console Tablet

Size (In)
  • 6.8L x 4.0H x 0.55D
Weight (Oz)
  • 10.5
Display
  • 6.2" LCD
  • 1280 x 720
  • Multi-touch capacitive touch screen
Processor
  • NVIDIA Custom Tegra
Storage
  • 32GB Flash (expandable up to 2TB)
Wireless
  • WiFi 802.11
  • Bluetooth 4.1
Video Output
  • 1080p via HDMI (docked)
  • 720p (handheld, tabletop)
Audio Output
  • 5.1ch Linear PCM
  • Via HDMI (docked)
  • Built-in speakers
Buttons
  • Power switch
  • Volume buttons
Ports
  • USB-C (charging, connect to dock)
  • 3.5mm 4-pole stereo headphone/mic jack
Slots
  • Nintendo Switch game card
  • microSD (microSDHC, SDXC)
Sensor
  • Accelerometer
  • Gyroscope
  • Brightness sensor
Battery
  • Lithium-ion (4310mAh)
  • Approximately 3-9 hours
  • 3 hours' charging time (sleep mode)
Power Consumption
  • Docked: 0.3W - 7W
  • Handheld: 0.01W - 4W
  • Tabletop: 0.01W - 4W

Console Dock

Size (In) 6.8L x 4.1W x 2.12D
Weight (Oz) 11.5
Output
  • USB Port (2.0) x2 on side, x1 on back
  • System connector (USB-C)
  • AC Adapter port (USB-C)
  • HDMI port

Joy-Con Controllers

Size (In) 4.1L x 1.3W x 0.55-1.12D
Weight (Oz)
  • 1.7 (Joy-Con L)
  • 1.8 (Joy-Con R)
Buttons
  • Joy-Con (L)
    • Left stick
    • Up, down, left, right, L, ZL, SL, SR, buttons
    • Capture
    • Sync
  • Joy-Con (R)
    • Right stick
    • A, B, X, Y, ZR, ZL, SL, SR, + Buttons
    • HOME
    • Sync
Wireless
  • Joy-Con (L)
    • Bluetooth 3.0
  • Joy-Con (R)
    • Bluetooth 3.0/NFC
Sensor
  • Joy-Con (L)
    • Accelerometer
    • Gyroscope
  • Joy-Con (R)
    • Accelerometer
    • Gyroscope
    • IR Motion Camera
Vibration
  • HD Rumble
Battery Life
  • Approximately 20 hour life
  • Charge time 3 hours, 30 minutes

Accessories
Joy-Con Strap

Size (In)
  • 0.57L x 3.98H x 0.55D
Weight (Oz)
  • 0.67

Joy-Con Grip

Size (In)
  • 5.67L x 3.98H x 1.58D
Weight (Oz)
  • 3.4

Console Setup

Please read this section before setting up the Nintendo Switch console. There are a number of steps required to ensure the console is properly set up for use. It is important that the Nintendo Switch console be properly set up to prevent any potential issues or confusion.

Connect Joy-Cons

  1. Remove the Console Tablet, and Left and Right Joy-Cons from packaging material.
  2. Slide Left Joy-Con into rail on left side of Console Tablet until locked in place and a clicking sound is heard.
  3. Slide Right Joy-Con into rail on right side of Console Tablet until locked in place and a clicking sound is heard.
  4. The Joy-Con controllers will synchronize with the system when it is turned on.

warningATTENTION
Additional Joy-Cons may be synchronized after setup. Connect Joy-Cons to console and wait a moment for synchronization.

Dock Console

  1. Remove Console Dock from packaging material. Place upright on flat surface next to television.
  2. Remove HDMI Cable and USB-C Power Cord from packaging.
  3. Open hatch on back of Console Dock and plug cables into their respective slots.
  4. Plug HDMI Cable into input slot on television.
  5. Plug USB-C Power Cord into wall outlet.
  6. Close hatch.
  7. Slide Console Tablet into tablet slot until tablet USB-C port connects to USB-C connector.

warningATTENTION
Ensure Console Tablet screen is facing away from hatch section of dock.

Power On

  1. Switch television to designated HDMI input and press power () switch on top of console.
  2. Disengage Joy-Con controllers from rails.
    1. Press and hold lock button on back of controller while sliding upward to disengage from Console Tablet.
  3. Follow instructions on-screen (Press A to unlock).

warningATTENTION
Ensure all electronic cables are firmly connected before powering on Nintendo Switch.

Online Setup

Once the Nintendo Switch console has been physically set up, players will need to turn the console on and ensure that everything is working properly. A basic user profile can then be created to use with the console. In addition, there are several optional setup choices that may improve the player experience, including Nintendo Switch Online setup, as well as parental controls. Please read this section to help set up your Nintendo Switch User Accounts.

First Time Setup
Follow instructions on-screen to set:

  1. Default language.
  2. Online settings (optional).
  3. Time zone.
  4. Select a user icon and enter user nickname.
  5. Once these operations have been completed, users will be taken to the Home Screen.

(Optional) Create Additional User Profiles
Nintendo Switch User Profile creation screen.
Create Additional User Profiles

  1. Navigate to and select System Settings ().
  2. Scroll to Users.
  3. Select Add User.
  4. Select Create New User.
  5. Select a User Icon.
  6. Enter a User Nickname.
  7. User will be added to console. Select OK.

(Optional) Connect to WiFi

  1. Navigate to and select System Settings ().
  2. Scroll down to Internet.
  3. Select Internet Settings.
  4. Select your WiFi network from the list that appears.
    warningATTENTION
    Previously registered networks will appear first. Unregistered networks will appear in a subsequent list.
  5. If necessary, enter WiFi password and wait a few moments for network to connect.

(Optional) Connect Nintendo Account
To create a Nintendo account, visit http://my.nintendo.com.

  1. Navigate to top left corner of screen and select user account icon.
  2. Using left menu, navigate to User Settings.
  3. Select Link Nintendo Account
  4. Enter Nintendo Account information and password.

(Optional) Sign up for NIntendo Switch Online

  1. Ensure console is connected to WiFi.
  2. Ensure Nintendo Account is linked to user profile.
  3. From Home Screen, navigate to and select Nintendo Switch Online icon at bottom of screen.
  4. Navigate to Membership Options & Support.
  5. Select Subscribe to open store page.
  6. Select Subscription type.
    warningATTENTION
    • Individual subscription type for individual memberships.
    • Family subscription type for group memberships (up to 8 individuals).
  7. Select Subscription level and Proceed to Purchase:
    ATTENTION
    • Nintendo Switch Online (includes: online play, cloud save backup, NES, SNES, and Game Boy collections).
    • Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pak (Includes Basic level package, free access to first party downloadable content, as well as N64 and Game Boy Advance collections).
  8. Enter account password.
    • Manually
    • Via Smart Device
  9. Select payment method.
    • Redeem accrued points
      OR
    • Enter Credit card information
  10. Select Add Funds and Purchase to activate subscription.
  11. (Optional) Download Nintendo Switch Online app via your smart device.
    warningATTENTION
    Online interactions are not moderated by Nintendo and are unrated by the ESRB. Parents should supervise children when playing online.

(Optional) Activate Parental Controls and Safety

www.apple.com
play.google.com

  1. Navigate to and select System Settings ().
  2. Scroll to Parental Controls.
  3. Select Parental Controls Settings.
  4. Download the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app to your smart device.
  5. Select I have the app installed. What's next?
  6. Follow onscreen instructions on both console and smart device to connect and activate parental controls.

Games

Playing Games

Nintendo Switch offers a variety of ways to play your favourite Nintendo games. Games can be purchased several ways, and the Nintendo Switch console can be set up in several configurations. This section deals with the purchase and installation of Nintendo Switch games as well as the Nintendo
Switch's various modes. Please read this section before attempting to play Nintendo Switch games.

Purchasing Nintendo Switch Game Cards
Nintendo Switch Game Cards can be purchased at any physical or online retailer dealing in video game sales. For best results, it is recommended that you buy only from authorized resellers of Nintendo products.
Nintendo Switch Game Cards must be inserted into the console in order to play.
Nintendo Switch Game Card.

Purchasing Nintendo Switch Digital Games
Nintendo eShop storefront.

Purchasing Digital Games
Nintendo Switch games can also be purchased digitally through the Nintendo eShop and downloaded to your Nintendo Switch console. A WiFi connection is required to purchase and download games. Games can be downloaded to the Nintendo Switch's internal 32 GB flash drive, or to an optional MicroSD memory card and do not require a physical Game Card to play.
warningATTENTION
Parental controls may restrict purchasing access. Ensure parental controls are set to allow purchases, or turned off prior to purchase.
To purchase and download a game:

  1. Navigate to and select the Nintendo Switch eShop icon () from the Home Screen to open the eShop.
  2. Select User.
  3. Use the Side Menu on the left to select a section of the eShop, OR press Y to search for individual games.
  4. Select your desired game's thumbnail icon.
  5. Select Proceed to Purchase.
  6. Select payment method.
    • Redeem accrued points
    • Credit card
    • Nintendo eShop Card (sold separately)
    • PayPal
  7. Select funds to be added.
    • Required Amount Only
    • $50.00
    • $100.0000.00
  8. Enter account password.
    • Manually
    • Via Smart Device
  9. Select Add Funds and Purchase.
  10. Game will begin downloading automatically. A thumbnail icon will appear on the Home Screen.
  11. Select Close to close the eShop, or Continue Shopping to continue using the eShop.

Inserting Nintendo Switch Game Cards

  1. Open Nintendo Switch Game Card slot hatch on top of Console Tablet.
  2. Insert Game Card with label facing towards screen-sde of tablet.
  3. Close Game Card Slot.
  4. Turn console on and unlock Lock Screen.
  5. Select game icon from Home Screen.
    warningATTENTION
    Some physical games may require an additional download or update before they can be played.

Playing in Docked Mode
Nintendo Switch can be played while docked and connected to a television. Playing while docked lets the console access more power, and games will run at a slightly higher resolution.
warningATTENTION
For health and safety, it is recommended players sit at least six feet from the screen in a well-lit area. Players are recommended to take a 15-minute break for every hour of gameplay.
To play games while the console is docked:

  1. Disengage the Joy-Con controllers from the Console Tablet.
  2. Press the L and R buttons to synchronize your controllers.
  3. Select the game from the Home Screen.

Playing in Handheld Mode
Nintendo Switch in Handheld Mode.

Nintendo Switch can also be played as a handheld device. The console will run on internal battery power in this mode. Battery life ranges from 3-9 hours, based on several factors, including the game being played, backlight level, WiFi connection, and volume.
For health and safety, it is recommended that players play while seated in a well-lit area and avoid unnecessarily transporting the console. Players are recommended to take a 15-minute break for every hour of gameplay.

  1. Ensure the Joy-Con controllers are locked in the rails on either side of the Console Tablet.
  2. Remove the Nintendo Switch Console from the Console Dock.
  3. Press the Home Button (⌂) on the Right Joy-Con, or the Power Switch () on top of the Console Tablet to activate the console.
  4. Press the A Button to open Lock Screen.
  5. Press any button on the Joy-Con three times to unlock the console.
  6. Select the game from the Home Screen.

warningATTENTION
Nintendo Switch can be charged while playing in Handheld Mode, but it is recommended that the console be placed in the Tablet Dock for long term charging.

Playing in Tabletop Mode
Nintendo Switch with kickstand extended for Tabletop Mode.

Playing in Tabletop Mode
Nintendo Switch can also be played as a tabletop device. The console will run on internal battery power in this mode. Battery life ranges from 3-9 hours, based on several factors, including the game being played, backlight level, WiFi connection, and volume.
For health and safety, it is recommended that players play while seated in a well-lit area and avoid unnecessarily transporting the console. Players are recommended to take a 15 minute break for every hour of gameplay.

  1. Remove the Console Tablet from the Console Dock.
  2. Unfold the kickstand on the back of the Console Tablet, and place the unit on a sturdy, flat surface.
  3. Disengage Joy-Con Controllers from Console Tablet and attach Joy-Con straps.
  4. Press the Home Button (⌂) on the Right Joy-Con, or the Power Switch () on top of the Console Tablet to activate the console.
  5. Press A to open Lock Screen.
  6. Press any button on the Right Joy-Con three times to unlock the console.
  7. Select the game from the Home Screen.
    warningATTENTION
    Charging port will be inaccessible while using Tabletop Mode.

Accessing Your Games
Nintendo Switch Home Screen with installed games.
Accessing Your Games

  • Installed games will appear as aThumbnail Icon on the Home Screen.
  • Up to 12 games are displayed at a time.
  • Additional games and software are accessed via theAll Software icon. To view games using the All Software feature, see the following steps:
    All Software button and All Software menu.
    All Software button and All Software menu
  1. Select All Software to view all currently available software.
    1. Press L to group software together.
    2. Press R to sort and filter software.
  2. To play a game, select its thumbnail icon, then select a User Profile.

Updating Your Games
Occasionally, Nintendo Switch games will receive software updates and patches over the console's WiFi connection. Users can check for updates manually:
Nintendo Switch game update screen
Updating Your Games- Step 1

  1. Navigate to a game's thumbnail icon and press the + button.
  2. Select Software Update
  3. Select either Via Internet or Match Version with Local Users.
    Users can also choose to allow Nintendo Switch to automatically update software:
    Nintendo Switch System Settings () Auto-Update option.
    Updating Your Games- Step 2
  4. Navigate to and select System Settings ().
  5. Scroll down to System.
  6. Navigate to Auto-Update Software.
  7. Press A to toggle between On/Off.
    warningATTENTION
    Do not turn off or unplug Nintendo Switch while updating!

Playing Online with Nintendo Switch Online
Some Nintendo Switch games allow online play via the Internet. Online play may be accessed via each game's internal menu system. For more specific information, please refer to your game's instruction manual or help menu. Online play may also be restricted via parental controls.

  1. Ensure your console is connected to the Internet and that you are currently subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online
  2. Select the game from the Home Screen.
  3. Once the game has loaded you may use the game's menu engage in online features.

warningATTENTION
Online interactions are not moderated by Nintendo and are unrated by the ESRB. Parents should supervise children when playing online.

Data Management

Transferring Your Data

If this Nintendo Switch console is intended to replace another Nintendo Switch console, or to be used as a secondary console, you may need to transfer or copy your data. There are also several options for backing up user data (such as saved games) in order to prevent data loss. Please read this section prior to transferring any data between Nintendo Switch consoles or storage devices.

Backup Nintendo Switch Save Data

  1. Navigate to and select System Settings ().
  2. Select Data Management.
  3. Select Save Data Cloud Backup.
  4. Select user data to back up.
  5. Select Back Up Save Data.

Backup Nintendo Switch Data from Software Menu

  1. Select game to back up and press +.
  2. Select Save Data Cloud Backup.
  3. Select User Profile.
  4. Select Back Up Save Data.

warningATTENTION
In order to use cloud save data, the user must have a Nintendo Account and subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online.

Transfer Data Between Consoles
User data can be transferred between consoles over a wireless connection. From the first Nintendo Switch console:

  1. Navigate to and select System Settings ().
  2. Select Users.
  3. Select Transfer Your User Data,
  4. Select Next twice.
  5. Select Source Console to indicate that content will be transferred from this Nintendo Switch console.
  6. Select Continue.
    On the second Nintendo Switch console:
  7. Navigate to and select System Settings ().
  8. Select Users.
  9. Select Transfer Your Data.
  10. Select Next twice.
  11. Select Target Console to indicate that content will be transferred to this Nintendo Switch Console.
  12. Select Sign In.
  13. Sign in with your Nintendo Account or sign-in ID and password and select Sign In, then Next.
    On the first NIntendo Switch Console:
  14. Allow the Nintendo Switch source console to find the target console.
  15. Select Transfer.
  16. Once the process is complete, select End.
  17. Your user information has been transferred to the target console.

warningATTENTION
If there are no more user accounts left on the first Nintendo Switch console, a placeholder account will be automatically created.

Glossary

See the following list of terms and their definitions as they relate to the Nintendo Switch. Please read this section to understand technical terms related to Nintendo Switch.

Term Definition
Player The person using the Nintendo Switch console.
Home Screen The main menu screen of the Nintendo Switch. Shows up when the console is turned on.
Joy-Con One of two controller components shipped with Nintendo Switch. Can be used as an individual unit, as part of a pair, or secured to the console.
Console Tablet The primary component of the Nintendo Switch. Takes the form of a small touchscreen tablet.
Console Dock A plastic cradle into which the Console Tablet can be inserted to charge or connect to a television or other display in TV Mode..
Mode One of the different ways to play Nintendo Switch. Includes:
  • TV Mode (play the console on a television)
  • Handheld Mode (play the console as a handheld)
  • Tabletop Mode (play the console as a freestanding device)
Profile A user account to which the player's information is synchronized and stored.
Nintendo Switch Online A service that allows players to use software online, backup information, and access additional content for certain games.
Nintendo Account A cross-platform account that allows a player to access additional online features of various Nintendo products and software.
Update Additional data added to game data to either fix an issue as well as provide additional content or modify existing software.
Backup Data that has been saved in multiple locations is considered "backed up".

FAQ

New players may have questions that have not been addressed earlier in the manual. Please read this section of frequently asked questions to find additional answers. If your question is not listed here, please contact us at support.nintendo.com.

Q: Do I need to connect to WiFi to use my Nintendo Switch? A: No, you do not need to connect to WiFi to use Nintendo Switch, however, some features, such as the Nintendo eShop, are only available while connected to WiFi.

Do I need a Nintendo Account to play games?

A: No, you do not need a Nintendo Account to play games, however, a Nintendo Account is required to play games online or access the eShop.
Q: Do I need to update my games in order to play them? A: No, you can play games without updating to the latest software version, however, online features may be restricted if a game is not updated regularly.
Q: Do I need to turn the console off to change between modes (TV/Handheld/Tabletop) A: No, Nintendo Switch transitions seamlessly between all modes of play. Simply remove the Tablet from the Dock or vice versa to change modes of play.
Q: Can I switch between multiple games at the same time? A: No, unfortunately, Nintendo Switch does not allow multitasking between applications.

How many users can play downloaded games?

A: Games the Nintendo eShop can be played by all user accounts on the Nintendo Switch system. Purchases are locked to the system, rather than to a specific account.
Q: How many games can I install to my Nintendo Switch? A: The number of games installed depends on the amount of available storage. Nintendo Switch ships with 32 Gigabytes GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 2 Terabytes (TB) through MicroSD expansion cards.
Q: Can I play with Nintendo Switch while it is charging? A: Yes, you can play Nintendo Switch while the console charges, however, it will take longer for the console to reach its full charge.

How do I charge my Joy-Cons?

A: Joy-Cons charge while they are connected to the Console Tablet. Separate charging units may be purchased from https://store.nintendo.com.
Q: How many players does Nintendo Switch support at the same time? A: Depending on the game, Nintendo Switch can support up to 8 players at the same time. Games that offer local multiplayer functionality will indicate the number of players allowed.

Troubleshooting

If you experience any issues during setup of your Nintendo Switch console, please refer to this troubleshooting guide first. If issues persist after troubleshooting, please visit support.nintendo.com. If components are damaged or in need of repair, you may need set up a repair with our support division. Please read this section and perform troubleshooting steps prior to contacting Nintendo Support.

Issue Solution

Controllers not synchronizing

  • Slide Joy-Con controllers into tablet rails, and power system on. Joy-Cons should synchronize and allow control.
    OR
  • Select Controllers menu from the Home Screen
  • Select Change Grip Order
  • Press and hold synchronization button on each Joy-Con.

Button or stick input is incorrectly registered

  • Visit System Settings ()/Controllers and Sensors to update Joy-Cons, or calibrate controls.

Nintendo Switch won't charge

  • Plug Nintendo Switch directly into power cable.
    If this does not work, check the Tablet Dock.
  • Ensure Nintendo Switch is properly inserted intoTablet Dock.
  • EnsureUSB-C Power Cord is plugged into Tablet Dock and working outlet.
  • Ensure Nintendo Switchcharge port is clean and free of debris.

Nintendo Switch won't turn on

  • Ensure Nintendo Switch is fully charged or charging (Nintendo Switch requires at least 1% charge to power on).
  • Ensure HDMI cable is properly connected to television.
  • Press power () switch or home button () to wake console.
  • If system still won't turn on, press and hold the power switch for 20 seconds to perform a hard reset.

Game Card won't register or play

  • Ensure content is not restricted by parental controls.
  • Ensure Game Card is inserted correctly.
  • Ensure Game Card and slot connecters are clean and free of debris.

Can't connect to the Internet

  • Ensure you are within range of a WiFi hotspot.
  • Ensure your router and internet are working correctly.
  • Ensure you have correctly input the network'ssecurity information.
  • Ensure your Nintendo Switchsystem software is up to date via System Settings ()/System/System Update.

Forgot password for Nintendo eShop

  • To reset your password, visit my.nintendo.com ○ Go to Sign In/Forgot Password

GENERAL SAFETY INFORMATION

shock hazardElectric Shock Warning

Temperature Risk

Choking Hazard

Explosive Risk

  • Do not submerge Nintendo Switch in water.
  • Clean Nintendo Switch with damp cloth if needed.
  • Do not expose Nintendo Switch to extreme temperatures.
  • Do not charge on soft surfaces.
  • Improper storage of Nintendo Switch can cause overheating, leakages, bursts, explosions, fires, or injuries.
  • Nintendo Game Cards could present a choking hazard. Keep away from infants and children under 4.

For additional Health and Safety information, visit support.nintendo.com/switch/help or see "Support/Health & Safety" from the Nintendo Switch System Settings () Menu ().

Documents / Resources

References

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Nintendo SWITCH, HAC-001 Manual

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