diff --git a/firmware/source/buffer.c b/firmware/source/buffer.c
index 333d637..70e857c 100644
--- a/firmware/source/buffer.c
+++ b/firmware/source/buffer.c
@@ -81,7 +81,7 @@ uint8_t	* buffer_usb_call( setup_packet *spacket, uint8_t *rv, uint8_t *rlen)
 
 		case BUFF_PAYLOADN_MIN ... BUFF_PAYLOADN_MAX:
 		//designate what buffer to fill with miscdata byte
-			rptr = buffer_payload( spacket, called_buff, TRUE, rlen);
+			rptr = buffer_payload( spacket, called_buff, ~FALSE, rlen);
 		//TODO
 		break;
 
@@ -94,7 +94,7 @@ uint8_t	* buffer_usb_call( setup_packet *spacket, uint8_t *rv, uint8_t *rlen)
 
 		case BUFF_PAYLOAD_MIN ... BUFF_PAYLOAD_MAX:
 		//let buffer.c decide what buffer to fill
-			rptr = buffer_payload( spacket, called_buff, ~TRUE, rlen);
+			rptr = buffer_payload( spacket, called_buff, FALSE, rlen);
 		//TODO
 		break;
 
@@ -138,7 +138,7 @@ uint8_t	* buffer_usb_call( setup_packet *spacket, uint8_t *rv, uint8_t *rlen)
 					*rlen = (spacket->wLength);
 				break;
 				case BUFF_PAYLOAD0 ... BUFF_PAYLOAD7:
-					rptr = buffer_payload( spacket, called_buff, TRUE, rlen);
+					rptr = buffer_payload( spacket, called_buff, ~FALSE, rlen);
 				break;
 				default: 
 					rv[RV_ERR_IDX] = ERR_BAD_BUFF_OP_MINMAX;
@@ -296,7 +296,7 @@ uint8_t * buffer_payload( setup_packet *spacket, buffer *buff, uint8_t hostsetbu
 
 	//buffer in use depends on opcode which was decoded prior to calling into hostsetbuff
 	//if buffer number not designated by host buffer.c gets to decide
-	if ( hostsetbuff != TRUE ) {
+	if ( hostsetbuff != ~FALSE ) {
 		//buffer.c gets to decide buffer in use
 		//TODO implement some fancy double buffering code
 		//for now just designate buffer 0
diff --git a/firmware/source/logic.h b/firmware/source/logic.h
index eb7b87e..3c9a268 100644
--- a/firmware/source/logic.h
+++ b/firmware/source/logic.h
@@ -8,8 +8,8 @@
 #define IP 0x00
 #define OP 0xFF
 
-#define TRUE 0x00
-//false is anything besides TRUE
+#define FALSE 0x00
+//TRUE is any value besides zero
 
 //used to indicate when intentionally passing zero because option not used
 #define NILL 0x00
diff --git a/firmware/source/snes.c b/firmware/source/snes.c
index c2976a3..0021914 100644
--- a/firmware/source/snes.c
+++ b/firmware/source/snes.c
@@ -21,13 +21,13 @@ uint8_t snes_opcode_24b_operand( uint8_t opcode, uint8_t addrH, uint8_t addrL, u
 {
 	switch (opcode) { 
 		case SNES_A15_A0_PRGM_WR:	
-			snes_a15_a0_wr( PRGM, TRUE, addrH, addrL, data );
+			snes_a15_a0_wr( PRGM, ~FALSE, addrH, addrL, data );
 			break;
 		case SNES_A15_A0_PLAY_WR:	
-			snes_a15_a0_wr( PLAY, TRUE, addrH, addrL, data );
+			snes_a15_a0_wr( PLAY, ~FALSE, addrH, addrL, data );
 			break;
 		case SNES_A15_A0_NO_ROMSEL_PLAY_WR:	
-			snes_a15_a0_wr( PLAY, ~TRUE, addrH, addrL, data );
+			snes_a15_a0_wr( PLAY, FALSE, addrH, addrL, data );
 			break;
 		default:
 			 //macro doesn't exist
@@ -52,13 +52,13 @@ uint8_t snes_opcode_24b_operand_8b_return(
 {
 	switch (opcode) { 
 		case SNES_PRGM_RD:
-			*data = snes_a15_a0_rd( PRGM, TRUE, addrX, addrH, addrL );
+			*data = snes_a15_a0_rd( PRGM, ~FALSE, addrX, addrH, addrL );
 			break;
 		case SNES_PLAY_RD:
-			*data = snes_a15_a0_rd( PLAY, TRUE, addrX, addrH, addrL );
+			*data = snes_a15_a0_rd( PLAY, ~FALSE, addrX, addrH, addrL );
 			break;
 		case SNES_NO_ROMSEL_PLAY_RD:
-			*data = snes_a15_a0_rd( PLAY, ~TRUE, addrX, addrH, addrL );
+			*data = snes_a15_a0_rd( PLAY, FALSE, addrX, addrH, addrL );
 			break;
 		default:
 			 //macro doesn't exist
@@ -115,7 +115,7 @@ void	snes_a15_a0_wr( uint8_t mode, uint8_t romsel, uint8_t addrH, uint8_t addrL,
 	DATA_OUT = data;
 
 	//let higher level function/caller decide if /ROMSEL is active
-	if ( romsel == TRUE ) {
+	if ( romsel == ~FALSE ) {
 		_ROMSEL_LO();
 	}
 
@@ -187,7 +187,7 @@ uint8_t	snes_a15_a0_rd( uint8_t mode, uint8_t romsel, uint8_t addrX, uint8_t add
 	_DATA_IP();	
 
 	//let higher level function/caller decide if /ROMSEL is active
-	if ( romsel == TRUE ) {
+	if ( romsel == ~FALSE ) {
 		_ROMSEL_LO();
 	}
 
diff --git a/firmware/source/usb.h b/firmware/source/usb.h
index 81a2ab6..422e7c8 100644
--- a/firmware/source/usb.h
+++ b/firmware/source/usb.h
@@ -26,11 +26,6 @@
 #define PAYLD_DONE	1
 #define NOT_DONE	0
 
-//TODO these should probably be in shared so host code and utilize them on the other side
-#define RETURN_BUFF_SIZE	8	//number of bytes in generic return buffer
-#define RV_ERR_IDX		0	//(first) index of buffer that contains SUCCESS/ERROR#
-#define RV_DATA0_IDX		RV_ERR_IDX + 1	//first index of return data
-#define RV_DATA_MAX_IDX		RETURN_BUFF_SIZE - 1	//last index available for return data
 
 
 #endif
diff --git a/host/source/cartridge.c b/host/source/cartridge.c
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6b249dc
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/cartridge.c
@@ -0,0 +1,76 @@
+#include "cartridge.h"
+
+int detect_console( cartridge *cart, USBtransfer *transfer ) 
+{
+	//always start with resetting i/o
+	io_reset( transfer );
+
+	//TODO check if can detect a cart inserted backwards before continuing
+
+	//check if NES/Famicom cart 
+	nes_init( transfer );
+
+	//if PPU /A13 is tied to CIRAM /CE we know it's NES/Famicom
+	if ( jumper_ciramce_ppuA13n( transfer ) ) {
+		//NES with 2 screen mirroring
+		debug("CIRAM /CE is jumpered to PPU /A13");
+		cart->console = NES_CART;
+	} else if ( ciramce_inv_ppuA13( transfer ) ) {
+		//some boards including INLXO-ROM boards drive CIRAM /CE with inverse of PPU A13
+		debug("CIRAM /CE is inverse of PPU A13");
+		cart->console = NES_CART;
+	} else {
+		//TODO check if CIRAM on cartridge or NT CHR-ROM
+	}
+
+	//if NES/FC determine which if possible
+	//also possible that this could catch failed detections above which is current case with VRC6
+	//Famicom has audio in and audio out pins connected to each other
+	//For this to pass with a NES cart EXP6 would have to be jumpered to EXP0 for some strange reason
+	//might fail if expansion audio mixing circuitry foils the check above
+	//but worst case we detected NES when famicom which isn't big deal..
+	if ( famicom_sound( transfer ) ) {
+		debug("Famicom audio jumper found");
+		cart->console = FC_CART;
+	}
+
+	//if couldn't detect NES/FC check for SNES cartridge
+	//want to keep from outputting on EXP bus if NES cart was found
+	if ( cart->console == UNKNOWN ) {
+		//only way I can think of is if memory is enabled by certain addresses and control signals
+		snes_init( transfer );
+		if ( snes_mem_visible( transfer, 0x00, 0xFFFC )) {
+			//CHECK for memory visible near NES reset vector
+			debug("SNES memories detected");
+			cart->console = SNES_CART;
+		}
+		//now it's possible that rom is there, but data is 0xFF so above test would fail
+		//one option would be to drive bus low for short period and see if bus can be
+		//driven low.  This could damage pin drivers though, best to create command in 
+		//firmware to perform this to limit to one CPU cycle instead of USB xfr times
+
+		//Prob best to check if able to read flash ID's if reset vector data is 0xFF
+		//Since reset vector being 0xFF prob means it's blank flash cart..
+
+		//playable SNES carts should have data somewhere in reset vector...
+	}
+
+	//always end with resetting i/o
+	io_reset( transfer );
+
+
+	return SUCCESS;
+
+}
+
+
+	//Can detect INL discrete, XO, and possily others with pullup EXP0 test
+	//These carts have pullups on EXP0 so rising edge is faster
+	//Also detecting that CIRAM /CE is driven by inverted PPU A13 is good way to 
+	//detect INLX0-ROM boards.
+
+	//SNES /RESET pin should control whether memory is enabled on original boards
+	//INL SNES boards memory mapping is controlled by /RESET pin
+	//roms are still visible when /RESET low, but SRAM isn't
+
+
diff --git a/host/source/cartridge.h b/host/source/cartridge.h
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..2a61e25
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/cartridge.h
@@ -0,0 +1,55 @@
+#ifndef _cartridge_h
+#define _cartridge_h
+
+#include <stdio.h>
+#include <string.h>
+#include <stdlib.h>
+#include <assert.h>
+#include <errno.h>
+#include <libusb.h>
+
+//include prior to other file includes
+//that way DEBUG can be turned on/off for this file alone
+//uncomment to DEBUG this file alone
+#define DEBUG
+//"make debug" to get DEBUG msgs on entire program
+#include "dbg.h"
+
+#include "usb_operations.h"
+#include "shared_errors.h"
+#include "shared_dictionaries.h"
+#include "dictionary.h"
+#include "types.h"
+
+#include "io.h"
+#include "nes.h"
+#include "snes.h"
+
+//cartridge object/struct
+typedef struct cartridge{
+	int	console;	//console the cart plays in
+	int	mapper;		//mapper number of the board
+	int	submap;
+	int	mapvariant;	
+	int	manf;
+	int	product;
+	int	mirroring;
+	int	sound;
+	memory	*pri_rom;	//main executable rom (PRG-ROM for NES)
+	memory	*sec_rom;	//secondary rom if used (CHR-ROM for NES)
+	memory	*save_mem;	//save data memory
+	memory	*aux_mem;	//additional memory
+	memory	*logic;		//programmable logic
+} cartridge;
+
+//console options
+#define UNKNOWN 	0	
+#define NES_CART 	'N'
+#define FC_CART 	'F'
+#define SNES_CART 	'S'
+#define BKWD_CART 	'B'
+
+int detect_console( cartridge *cart, USBtransfer *transfer );
+
+
+#endif
diff --git a/host/source/dictionary.c b/host/source/dictionary.c
index f777f34..ed4a3cb 100644
--- a/host/source/dictionary.c
+++ b/host/source/dictionary.c
@@ -16,21 +16,22 @@
  */
 
 //default call dictionary without print option
-int dictionary_call( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, uint8_t miscdata, 
-								uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length)
+int dictionary_call( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, 
+			uint8_t miscdata, uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length)
 {
-	return dictionary_call_print_option( ~TRUE, transfer, dictionary, opcode, addr, miscdata, endpoint, buffer, length);
+	return dictionary_call_print_option( FALSE, transfer, dictionary, opcode, addr, miscdata, endpoint, buffer, length);
 }
 
 //debug call dictionary without print option
-int dictionary_call_debug( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, uint8_t miscdata, 
-								uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length)
+int dictionary_call_debug( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, 
+			uint8_t miscdata, uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length)
 {
-	return dictionary_call_print_option( TRUE, transfer, dictionary, opcode, addr, miscdata, endpoint, buffer, length);
+	return dictionary_call_print_option( ~FALSE, transfer, dictionary, opcode, addr, miscdata, 
+						endpoint, buffer, length);
 }
 
-int dictionary_call_print_option( int print_debug, USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, uint8_t miscdata, 
-								uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length)
+int dictionary_call_print_option( int print_debug, USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode,
+			 uint16_t addr, uint8_t miscdata, uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length)
 {
 	transfer->request   = dictionary;	
 	transfer->wValueMSB = miscdata;
@@ -48,21 +49,24 @@ int dictionary_call_print_option( int print_debug, USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_
 	uint8_t rbuf[8];
 
 	if ( buffer == NULL ) {
-		rbuf[0] = 0xA5;
-		rbuf[1] = 0xC3;
-		rbuf[2] = 0xA5;
-		rbuf[3] = 0xC3;
-		rbuf[4] = 0xA5;
-		rbuf[5] = 0xC3;
-		rbuf[6] = 0xA5;
-		rbuf[7] = 0xC3;
+		rbuf[0] = 0xee;
+		rbuf[1] = 0xee;
+		rbuf[2] = 0xee;
+		rbuf[3] = 0xee;
+		rbuf[4] = 0xee;
+		rbuf[5] = 0xee;
+		rbuf[6] = 0xee;
+		rbuf[7] = 0xee;
 		transfer->data = rbuf;
 	} else {
 		transfer->data = buffer;
 	}
 
 	
-	debug("\ndictionary call dict:%d opcode:%d/%x addr:%x data:%x", dictionary, opcode, opcode, addr, miscdata);
+	if (print_debug) {
+		printf("\ndictionary call dict:%d opcode:%dd/%xh addr:%x data:%x\n", 
+			dictionary, opcode, opcode, addr, miscdata);
+	}
 	switch (dictionary) {
 		case PINPORT: debug("dict: PINPORT");
 			//transfer->wLength = 1;
@@ -154,13 +158,13 @@ int dictionary_call_print_option( int print_debug, USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_
 
 	xfr_cnt = usb_transfer( transfer );
 
-	if (print_debug == TRUE) {
+	if (print_debug) {
 		//print transfer details if small xfr
 		if (xfr_cnt <= 8) {
-		printf("						xf: %d   er: %d rv:",xfr_cnt, rbuf[0]);
+		printf("	xf: %d   er: %d rv:",xfr_cnt, transfer->data[0]);
 		int i ;
 		for (i=1; i<xfr_cnt; i++){
-			printf(" %x,", rbuf[i]);
+			printf(" %x,", transfer->data[i]);
 		}
 		printf("\n"); 
 		} else {
@@ -171,7 +175,7 @@ int dictionary_call_print_option( int print_debug, USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_
 	}
 
 	if (xfr_cnt <= 8) {
-		check(rbuf[0] == SUCCESS, "retro programmer had error: %d, dict:%d, opcode:%d/%x, addr:%x, data:%x",rbuf[0], dictionary, opcode, opcode, addr, miscdata)
+		check(transfer->data[0] == SUCCESS, "retro programmer had error: %d, dict:%d, opcode:%d/%x, addr:%x, data:%x",transfer->data[0], dictionary, opcode, opcode, addr, miscdata)
 	}
 
 	return SUCCESS;
diff --git a/host/source/dictionary.h b/host/source/dictionary.h
index 26b10bc..885f70c 100644
--- a/host/source/dictionary.h
+++ b/host/source/dictionary.h
@@ -20,14 +20,15 @@
 #include "shared_dictionaries.h"
 
 //default call dictionary without print option
-int dictionary_call( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, uint8_t miscdata, 
-								uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length);
+int dictionary_call( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, 
+			uint8_t miscdata, uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length);
 
 //debug call dictionary without print option
-int dictionary_call_debug( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, uint8_t miscdata, 
-								uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length);
+int dictionary_call_debug( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, 
+			uint8_t miscdata, uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length);
 
-int dictionary_call_print_option( int print_debug, USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, uint8_t miscdata, 
-								uint8_t endpoint, uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length);
+int dictionary_call_print_option( int print_debug, USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t dictionary, 
+			uint8_t opcode, uint16_t addr, uint8_t miscdata, uint8_t endpoint, 
+			uint8_t *buffer, uint16_t length);
 
 #endif
diff --git a/host/source/erase.h b/host/source/erase.h
index b140863..a8d1c03 100644
--- a/host/source/erase.h
+++ b/host/source/erase.h
@@ -20,10 +20,6 @@
 #include "shared_dictionaries.h"
 #include "dictionary.h"
 
-//uncomment to DEBUG this file alone
-#define DEBUG
-//"make debug" to get DEBUG msgs on entire program
-#include "dbg.h"
 
 int erase_nes( USBtransfer *transfer );
 
diff --git a/host/source/inlprog.c b/host/source/inlprog.c
index 92c6da0..8ec64b8 100644
--- a/host/source/inlprog.c
+++ b/host/source/inlprog.c
@@ -12,11 +12,12 @@
 //"make debug" to get DEBUG msgs on entire program
 #include "dbg.h"
 
+#include "shared_dictionaries.h"
 #include "usb_operations.h"
 #include "write_operations.h"
 #include "erase.h"
 #include "test.h"
-#include "shared_dictionaries.h"
+#include "cartridge.h"
 
 
 int main(int argc, char *argv[]) 
@@ -151,23 +152,30 @@ int main(int argc, char *argv[])
 	//libusb_device_handle *rprog_handle = NULL;
 	transfer->handle = NULL;
 
-	//open INL retro prog with firmware version 2.0 or greater
 	//command line arg L_value to set different LIBUSB debugging options
 	//any value > 0 also prints debug statements in open_usb_device function
 	int libusb_log = LIBUSB_LOG_LEVEL_NONE;	// 0: default no msgs ever printed
 	if (L_value != NULL) {
-		check( isdigit(L_value[0]), "Invalid LIBUSB_LOG_LEVEL: %s, only single digit allowed", L_value);
-		check( strlen(L_value) == 1, "Invalid LIBUSB_LOG_LEVEL: %s, only single digit allowed", L_value);
+		check( isdigit(L_value[0]), 
+			"Invalid LIBUSB_LOG_LEVEL: %s, only single digit allowed", L_value);
+		check( strlen(L_value) == 1, 
+			"Invalid LIBUSB_LOG_LEVEL: %s, only single digit allowed", L_value);
 		libusb_log = atoi(L_value);
 		check( ((libusb_log >= LIBUSB_LOG_LEVEL_NONE) && (libusb_log <=LIBUSB_LOG_LEVEL_DEBUG)), 
 		    "Invalid LIBUSB_LOG_LEVEL: %d, must be from 0 to 4", libusb_log );
 		printf("setting LIBUSB_LOG_LEVEL to: %d\n", libusb_log);
-		if (libusb_log == 0) { printf("\tNONE: default no messages ever printed by library\n"); }
-		if (libusb_log == 1) { printf("\tERROR: error messages are printed to stderr\n"); }
-		if (libusb_log == 2) { printf("\tWARNING: warning and error messages are printed to stderr\n"); }
-		if (libusb_log == 3) { printf("\tINFO: informational, warning, & error messages are printed to stdout\n"); }
-		if (libusb_log == 4) { printf("\tDEBUG: debug, info, warning, & error messages are printed to stdout\n"); }
+		if (libusb_log == 0) { 
+			printf("\tNONE: default no messages ever printed by library\n"); }
+		if (libusb_log == 1) { 
+			printf("\tERROR: error messages are printed to stderr\n"); }
+		if (libusb_log == 2) { 
+			printf("\tWARNING: warning and error messages are printed to stderr\n"); }
+		if (libusb_log == 3) { 
+			printf("\tINFO: informational, warning, & error messages are printed to stdout\n"); }
+		if (libusb_log == 4) { 
+			printf("\tDEBUG: debug, info, warning, & error messages are printed to stdout\n"); }
 	}
+	//open INL retro prog with firmware version 2.0 or greater
 	if (K_value != NULL) {
 		//TODO take K_value option to connect to different version kazzo
 	}
@@ -177,18 +185,44 @@ int main(int argc, char *argv[])
 	//report successful connection to INL retro-prog
 	printf("Successfully found and connected to INL retro-prog with firmware version 2.0\n");
 
+	//TEST flag for development use to provide means to only call test.c functions
+	if (T_flag) {
+		test_function( transfer );
+		goto close;
+	}
+
 	//create board object/struct 
+	cartridge *cart = malloc( sizeof(cartridge));	
+	check_mem(cart);
 
 	//attempt to detect board inserted in device
+	cart->console = UNKNOWN;
 	// -x flag turns off all autodection
 	if (!x_flag) {
 		printf("attempting to detect cartridge...\n");
+		detect_console( cart, transfer );	
+		switch (cart->console) {
+			case NES_CART: printf("NES cartridge detected!\n");	
+				break;
+			case FC_CART: printf("Famicom cartridge detected!\n");	
+				break;
+			case SNES_CART: printf("SNES cartridge detected!\n");	
+				break;
+			case BKWD_CART: log_err("CARTRIDGE INSERTED BACKWARDS!!!\n");	
+				break;
+			case UNKNOWN: printf("Unable to detect cartridge...\n");
+				break;
+			default:
+				sentinel("cartridge console element got set to something unsupported.");
+		}
 	} else {
 		printf("auto-detection turned off\n");
 	}
 
-	if (e_flag) erase_nes( transfer );
-	if (T_flag) test_function( transfer );
+	//forced to erase board regardless of current status
+	if (e_flag) {
+		erase_nes( transfer );
+	}
 
 
 	//handle simple LED ON/OFF within main for now
@@ -224,7 +258,7 @@ int main(int argc, char *argv[])
 	}
 
 
-
+close:
 	close_usb( context, transfer->handle);	
 	
 	return 0;
diff --git a/host/source/io.c b/host/source/io.c
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..266f2f8
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/io.c
@@ -0,0 +1,37 @@
+#include "io.h"
+
+/* Desc:disable all possible outputs and float EXP0
+ * Pre: 
+ * Post:all memories disabled data bus clear
+ * Rtn: 
+ */
+void io_reset( USBtransfer *transfer ) 
+{
+	dictionary_call( transfer,	IO,	IO_RESET,		0,	0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+}
+
+/* Desc:initialize NES I/P and O/P
+ * Pre: 
+ * Post:memories disabled data bus clear
+ * Rtn: 
+ */
+void nes_init( USBtransfer *transfer ) 
+{
+	dictionary_call( transfer,	IO,	NES_INIT,		0,	0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+}
+
+
+/* Desc:initialize SNES I/P and O/P
+ * Pre: 
+ * Post:memories disabled data bus clear
+ * Rtn: 
+ */
+void snes_init( USBtransfer *transfer ) 
+{
+	dictionary_call( transfer,	IO,	SNES_INIT,		0,	0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+}
+
+
diff --git a/host/source/io.h b/host/source/io.h
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4a809aa
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/io.h
@@ -0,0 +1,26 @@
+#ifndef _io_h
+#define _io_h
+
+#include <stdio.h>
+#include <string.h>
+#include <stdlib.h>
+#include <assert.h>
+#include <errno.h>
+#include <libusb.h>
+
+//include prior to other file includes
+//that way DEBUG can be turned on/off for this file alone
+//uncomment to DEBUG this file alone
+#define DEBUG
+//"make debug" to get DEBUG msgs on entire program
+#include "dbg.h"
+
+#include "shared_errors.h"
+#include "shared_dictionaries.h"
+#include "dictionary.h"
+
+void io_reset( USBtransfer *transfer );
+void nes_init( USBtransfer *transfer );
+void snes_init( USBtransfer *transfer );
+
+#endif
diff --git a/host/source/nes.c b/host/source/nes.c
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b9edb93
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/nes.c
@@ -0,0 +1,170 @@
+#include "nes.h"
+
+/* Desc:check if PPU /A13 -> CIRAM /CE jumper present
+ *	Does NOT check if PPU A13 is inverted and then drives CIRAM /CE
+ * Pre: nes_init() been called to setup i/o
+ * Post:PPU /A13 left high (disabled), all other ADDRH signals low
+ * Rtn: FALSE if jumper is not set
+ */
+int jumper_ciramce_ppuA13n( USBtransfer *transfer ) 
+{
+	uint8_t rv[RV_DATA0_IDX+1];
+
+	//check that we can clear CIRAM /CE with PPU /A13
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	ADDRH_SET,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//read CIRAM /CE pin
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	CICE_RD,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		rv,	RV_DATA0_IDX+1);
+
+	//CIRAM /CE's port PIN register contents are now in rv[RV_DATA_IDX]
+	//need to mask out the CIRAM /CE pin
+	if ( rv[RV_DATA0_IDX] & CICE_MSK ) {
+		//CIRAM /CE pin was always high regardless of PPU /A13
+		debug("CIRAM /CE high when /A13 low ");
+		return FALSE;
+	}
+
+	//set PPU /A13 high
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	ADDRH_SET,	PPU_A13N_MSK,	0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//read CIRAM /CE pin
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	CICE_RD,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		rv,	RV_DATA0_IDX+1);
+
+	//CIRAM /CE's port PIN register contents are now in rv[RV_DATA_IDX]
+	//need to mask out the CIRAM /CE pin
+	if ( (rv[RV_DATA0_IDX] & CICE_MSK) == 0 ) {
+		//CICE jumper not present
+		debug("CIRAM /CE low when /A13 high ");
+		return FALSE;
+	}
+
+	//CICE low jumper appears to be present
+	debug("CIRAM /CE <- PPU /A13 jumper present");
+	return ~FALSE;
+
+}
+
+/* Desc:check if PPU A13 is inverted then drives CIRAM /CE 
+ *	Some mappers may do this including INLXO-ROM boards
+ *	Does NOT check if PPU /A13 is drives CIRAM /CE
+ * Pre: nes_init() been called to setup i/o
+ * Post:PPU A13 left disabled (hi)
+ * Rtn: FALSE if inverted PPU A13 doesn't drive CIRAM /CE
+ */
+int ciramce_inv_ppuA13( USBtransfer *transfer ) 
+{
+	uint8_t rv[RV_DATA0_IDX+1];
+
+	//set PPU /A13 low
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	ADDRH_SET,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//read CIRAM /CE pin
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	CICE_RD,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		rv,	RV_DATA0_IDX+1);
+
+	// CIRAM /CE should be high if inverted A13 is what drives it
+	if ( (rv[RV_DATA0_IDX] & CICE_MSK) == 0 ) {
+		//CICE jumper not present
+		debug("CIRAM /CE low when /A13 low ");
+		return FALSE;
+	}
+
+	//check that we can clear CIRAM /CE with PPU /A13 high
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	ADDRH_SET,	PPU_A13_MSK,	0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//read CIRAM /CE pin
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	CICE_RD,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		rv,	RV_DATA0_IDX+1);
+
+	// CIRAM /CE should be low if inverted A13 is what drives it
+	if ( rv[RV_DATA0_IDX] & CICE_MSK ) {
+		//CIRAM /CE pin was always high regardless of PPU /A13
+		debug("CIRAM /CE high when /A13 high ");
+		return FALSE;
+	}
+
+
+	//CICE low jumper appears to be present
+	debug("CIRAM /CE <- inverse PPU /A13");
+	return ~FALSE;
+
+}
+
+
+/* Desc:check for famicom audio in->out jumper
+ *	This drives EXP6 (RF out) -> EXP0 (APU in) which is backwards..
+ *	not much can do about that for current kazzo designs
+ *	There are probably caps/resistors for synth carts anyway
+ *	but to be safe only apply short pulses.
+ *	While we typically don't want to apply 5v to EXP port on NES carts,
+ *	this only does so for EXP6 which is safe on current designs.
+ *	All other EXP1-8 pins are only driven low.
+ * Pre: nes_init() been called to setup i/o
+ *	which makes EXP0 floating i/p
+ * Post:EXP FF left disabled and EXP0 floating
+ *	AXLOE pin returned to input with pullup
+ * Rtn: FALSE if jumper/connection is not present
+ * Test:Works on non-expansion sound carts obviously
+ *	Works on VRC6 and VRC7
+ *	Others untested
+ */
+int famicom_sound( USBtransfer *transfer ) 
+{
+	uint8_t rv[RV_DATA0_IDX+1];
+
+	//EXP0 should be floating input
+	//AXLOE pin needs to be set as output and
+	//EXP FF needs enabled before we can clock it, 
+	//but don't leave it enabled before exiting function
+
+	//set AXLOE to output
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	AXLOE_OP,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//enable EXP FF
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	EXPFF_OP,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//Latch low first
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	ADDRX_SET,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//read EXP0 Famicom APU audio pin
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	FC_APU_RD,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		rv,	RV_DATA0_IDX+1);
+
+	//need to mask out the pin
+	if ( rv[RV_DATA0_IDX] & FC_APU_MSK ) {
+		debug("RF audio out (EXP6) didn't drive APU audio in (EXP0) low");
+		//disable EXP FF
+		dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	EXPFF_FLT,	0,		0,	
+						USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+		//retun AXLOE to input
+		dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	AXLOE_IP,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+		return FALSE;
+	}
+
+	//Latch pin high 
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	ADDRX_SET,	FC_RF_MSK,	0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//read EXP0 Famicom APU audio pin
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	FC_APU_RD,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		rv,	RV_DATA0_IDX+1);
+	//disable EXP FF
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	EXPFF_FLT,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//retun AXLOE to input
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	AXLOE_IP,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+
+	//mask pin from byte
+	if ( (rv[RV_DATA0_IDX] & FC_APU_MSK) == 0 ) {
+		debug("RF audio out (EXP6) didn't drive APU audio in (EXP0) high");
+		return FALSE;
+	}
+
+	//CICE low jumper appears to be present
+	debug("RF audio out (EXP6) is connected to APU audio in (EXP0)");
+	return ~FALSE;
+
+}
diff --git a/host/source/nes.h b/host/source/nes.h
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6691c79
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/nes.h
@@ -0,0 +1,26 @@
+#ifndef _nes_h
+#define _nes_h
+
+#include <stdio.h>
+#include <stdlib.h>
+#include <assert.h>
+#include <errno.h>
+
+//include prior to other file includes
+//that way DEBUG can be turned on/off for this file alone
+//uncomment to DEBUG this file alone
+//#define DEBUG
+//"make debug" to get DEBUG msgs on entire program
+#include "dbg.h"
+
+#include "shared_errors.h"
+#include "shared_dictionaries.h"
+#include "dictionary.h"
+
+#include "pindef.h"
+
+int jumper_ciramce_ppuA13n( USBtransfer *transfer );
+int ciramce_inv_ppuA13( USBtransfer *transfer );
+int famicom_sound( USBtransfer *transfer );
+
+#endif
diff --git a/host/source/pindef.h b/host/source/pindef.h
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0aaba2c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/pindef.h
@@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+#ifndef _pindef_h
+#define _pindef_h
+
+//--------------------------------------------------
+//	PIN and PORT Definitions
+//	gives easier/more abstract access
+//	to I/O reading on host
+//	the dictionaries only provide access to 
+//	read a byte wide port for speed and simplicity
+//	of code on firmware.  The host must decode
+//	these bytes to get desired pin data
+//	these are copied from firmware pinport.h
+//	then adjusted to work in host setting
+//--------------------------------------------------
+
+//To utilize these macros first make a dictionary call and provide the <PIN>_RD opcode
+//This is effectively just using the CTL_RD/AUX_RD opcode but easier bc you don't have 
+//to remember what pin is on which port.
+//Store the result of that dictionary call in a byte
+//This is currently the second byte returned as the first one is the error code
+//Then mask the return data byte with <PIN>_MSK
+//If result is 0 pin is low, if equal to <PIN>_MSK (not zero) pin is high
+
+
+//first make it so we don't have to remember what port the io resides on
+//these don't work if the ddr wasn't set to i/p before hand
+//these are simply macros to call the dictionary entry in shared_dict_pinport.h
+//these become new opcodes which the host can use to call the underlying PIN READ
+//they will return the byte wide PIN register which then must be masked to get
+//the specific io desired
+#define	M2_RD		CTL_RD
+#define	ROMSEL_RD	CTL_RD
+//#define	PRGRW_RD	CTL_RD	broke due to redefine PRGRW_RD sets pin low
+#define	FREE_RD		CTL_RD
+#define	CSRD_RD		CTL_RD
+#define	CSWR_RD		CTL_RD
+#define	CICE_RD		CTL_RD
+#define	AHL_RD		CTL_RD	
+
+#define	EXP0_RD		AUX_RD
+#define	FC_APU_RD	AUX_RD
+#define	TDO_RD		AUX_RD
+#define	SRST_RD		AUX_RD
+#define	LED_RD		AUX_RD
+#define	EXP9_RD		AUX_RD
+#define	IRQ_RD		AUX_RD
+#define	CIA10_RD	AUX_RD
+#define	BL_RD		AUX_RD
+#define	AXLOE_RD	AUX_RD
+
+
+
+//Now we need a mask for the io's place in the return byte
+//This was copied from firmware's pinport.h
+//then _MSK prefix to pin name to make the fact this is a mask obvious
+//in place of PC#/PD# which only makes sense to avr-gcc place the hex mask equivalent
+//============================
+//CTL PORTC
+//============================
+#define M2_MSK		0x01	//PC0	//NES, FC, & SNES (SYSCLK)
+#define ROMSEL_MSK	0x02	//PC1	//(aka PRG/CE) NES, FC, & SNES 
+#define PRGRW_MSK	0x04	//PC2	//PRG R/W on NES & FC 
+
+//#ifdef PURPLE_KAZZO
+#define p_AXL_MSK	0x08	//PC3	//EXP FF CLK on purple boards
+//#else
+#define FREE_MSK	0x08	//PC3	//Free pin on all other boards
+//#endif
+
+#define CSRD_MSK	0x10	//PC4	//NES & FC CHR /RD, SNES /RD
+#define CSWR_MSK	0x20	//PC5	//NES & FC CHR /WR, SNES /WR
+#define CICE_MSK 	0x40	//PC6	//NES & FC CIRAM /CE, most carts are 2screen tying this to CHR /A13 making this an I/P
+
+//#ifdef GREEN_KAZZO
+#define g_AXHL_MSK	0x80	//PC7	//Both ADDR_MID & EXP/ADDRHI FF CLK on green prototype
+//#else
+#define AHL_MSK		0x80	//PC7	//ADDR MID FF CLK per orig kazzo design
+//#endif
+
+
+
+//============================
+//AUX PORTD
+//============================
+#define EXP0_MSK	0x01	//PD0	//NES EXP0 controls a number of varying flash cart features...
+#define FC_APU_MSK	0x01	//PD0	//FC Audio in cart from 2A03 APU
+#define TDO_MSK		0x01	//PD0	//CPLD JTAG on INL-ROM NES/FC boards released after ~Oct2016
+#define SRST_MSK	0x01	//PD0	//SNES /RESET pin used for CPLD prgm/play mode and SRAM CE
+
+#define LED_MSK		0x02	//PD1	//LED on INL retro prog-dumper
+#define EXP9_MSK	0x02	//PD1	//NES dual purposed pin
+
+#define USBP_MSK	0x04	//PD2	//USB D+ don't touch this pin!
+#define IRQ_MSK		0x08	//PD3	//Connected to NES, FC, & SNES
+#define USBM_MSK	0x10	//PD4	//USB D- don't touch this pin!
+#define CIA10_MSK	0x20	//PD5	//NES & FC CIRAM A10 (aka VRAM A10)
+#define BL_MSK		0x40	//PD6	//Bootloader switch BL->GND, RUN->float
+
+//#ifdef PURPLE_KAZZO
+#define pg_XOE_MSK	0x80	//PD7	//EXP/ADDRHI FF /OE pin on purple and green boards
+//#endif
+//#ifdef GREEN_KAZZO
+#define pg_XOE_MSK	0x80	//PD7	//EXP/ADDRHI FF /OE pin on purple and green boards
+//#endif
+//#ifndef pg_XOE	//FINAL_DESIGN
+#define AXLOE_MSK	0x80	//PD7	//EXP/ADDRHI FF CLK & /OE pin on final board versions
+//#endif
+
+
+
+//The following macros help locate control signals behind flipflops
+//To set/clear these signals call the dictionary flipflop's opcode with this value
+//note all 8 pins get set at once must and/or in values to a host variable
+//if trying to maintain value of other signals
+
+//pin masks for where signal resides on ADDRH flipflop
+#define PPU_A13N_MSK	0x80
+#define PPU_A13_MSK	0x20
+
+//EXP FF connects D7:0 to EXP8:1 so everything is shifted one bit
+//0b8765 4321
+#define EXP8_MSK	0x80
+#define EXP7_MSK	0x40
+
+#define FC_RF_MSK	0x20	
+#define EXP6_MSK	0x20
+
+#define EXP5_MSK	0x10
+#define EXP4_MSK	0x08
+#define EXP3_MSK	0x04
+#define EXP2_MSK	0x02
+#define EXP1_MSK	0x01
+
+
+#endif
diff --git a/host/source/snes.c b/host/source/snes.c
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f62b401
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/snes.c
@@ -0,0 +1,50 @@
+#include "snes.h"
+
+/* Desc:check if ROM visible at provided address
+ * Pre: snes_init() been called to setup i/o
+ * Post:Address left on bus memories disabled
+ * Rtn: FALSE if memory not found
+ */
+int snes_mem_visible( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t bank, uint16_t addr ) 
+{
+	uint8_t rv[RV_DATA0_IDX+1];
+
+	//place address on bus
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	ADDR24_SET,	addr,		bank,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//ensure data bus is pulled up 
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	DATA_HI,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//read data bus
+	dictionary_call_debug( transfer, PINPORT, 	DATA_RD,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		rv,	RV_DATA0_IDX+1);
+	if ( rv[RV_DATA0_IDX] != 0xFF ) {
+		debug("Can't pull up data bus in attempt to detect SNES cart");
+		return FALSE;
+	}
+
+	//enable rom control signals
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	SRST_HI,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	CSRD_LO,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	ROMSEL_LO,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	//read data bus
+	dictionary_call_debug( transfer, PINPORT, 	DATA_RD,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		rv,	RV_DATA0_IDX+1);
+	//clear data bus
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	SRST_LO,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	CSRD_HI,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	dictionary_call( transfer, PINPORT, 	ROMSEL_HI,	0,		0,	
+					USB_IN,		NULL,	1);
+	if ( rv[RV_DATA0_IDX] != 0xFF ) {
+		debug("Found memory with SNES control signals");
+		return ~FALSE;
+	}
+	
+	return FALSE;
+}
+
diff --git a/host/source/snes.h b/host/source/snes.h
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9a4ac24
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/snes.h
@@ -0,0 +1,24 @@
+#ifndef _snes_h
+#define _snes_h
+
+#include <stdio.h>
+#include <stdlib.h>
+#include <assert.h>
+#include <errno.h>
+
+//include prior to other file includes
+//that way DEBUG can be turned on/off for this file alone
+//uncomment to DEBUG this file alone
+#define DEBUG
+//"make debug" to get DEBUG msgs on entire program
+#include "dbg.h"
+
+#include "shared_errors.h"
+#include "shared_dictionaries.h"
+#include "dictionary.h"
+
+#include "pindef.h"
+
+int snes_mem_visible( USBtransfer *transfer, uint8_t bank, uint16_t addr );
+
+#endif
diff --git a/host/source/types.h b/host/source/types.h
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..048aa45
--- /dev/null
+++ b/host/source/types.h
@@ -0,0 +1,19 @@
+#ifndef _types_h
+#define _types_h
+
+//memory object/struct
+typedef struct memory{
+	int	manf;
+	int	partnum;
+	int	volatility;	//sram no batt vs batt, mask rom, erasability, etc
+	int	size;		//size of the actual memory excluding grounded address pins etc
+	int	addressable;	//addressable size of the memory including grounded address pins etc
+	int	width;		//width of data bus as configured
+	int	protocol;	//parallel, SPI, I2C, JTAG, custom etc.
+	int	sector_size;	//minimum eraseable size in bytes
+} memory;
+
+
+
+
+#endif
diff --git a/host/source/write_operations.h b/host/source/write_operations.h
index ab05bee..ea45932 100644
--- a/host/source/write_operations.h
+++ b/host/source/write_operations.h
@@ -1,6 +1,11 @@
 #ifndef _write_operations_h
 #define _write_operations_h
 
+//uncomment to DEBUG this file alone
+#define DEBUG
+//"make debug" to get DEBUG msgs on entire program
+#include "dbg.h"
+
 #include <stdio.h>
 #include <string.h>
 #include <stdlib.h>
@@ -10,10 +15,6 @@
 
 #include "usb_operations.h"
 
-//uncomment to DEBUG this file alone
-#define DEBUG
-//"make debug" to get DEBUG msgs on entire program
-#include "dbg.h"
 
 
 int write_file( libusb_device_handle *usbhandle, char *filename, char *ines_mapper, char *board_config );
diff --git a/shared/shared_dict_pinport.h b/shared/shared_dict_pinport.h
index a402a91..30e6922 100644
--- a/shared/shared_dict_pinport.h
+++ b/shared/shared_dict_pinport.h
@@ -361,6 +361,8 @@
 //ADDR[23:0]	(ADDRX:ADDRH:ADDR) SNES full address bus
 //Sets SNES 24 bit address but to value of 24bit operand
 //No control signals are modified
+//wIndex contains lower 16bits
+//wValue upper (miscdata) contains upper 8bits
 #define	ADDR24_SET	0xB0
 
 
diff --git a/shared/shared_dict_usb.h b/shared/shared_dict_usb.h
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6e432f9
--- /dev/null
+++ b/shared/shared_dict_usb.h
@@ -0,0 +1,23 @@
+#ifndef _shared_dict_usb_h
+#define _shared_dict_usb_h
+
+//define dictionary's reference number in the shared_dictionaries.h file
+//then include this dictionary file in shared_dictionaries.h
+//The dictionary number is literally used as usb transfer request field
+//the opcodes and operands in this dictionary are fed directly into usb setup packet's wValue wIndex fields
+
+#define RETURN_BUFF_SIZE	8	//number of bytes in generic return buffer
+#define RV_ERR_IDX		0	//(first) index of buffer that contains SUCCESS/ERROR#
+#define RV_DATA0_IDX		RV_ERR_IDX + 1	//first index of return data
+#define RV_DATA_MAX_IDX		RETURN_BUFF_SIZE - 1	//last index available for return data
+
+//=============================================================================================
+//=============================================================================================
+// USB DICTIONARY
+//
+// opcodes contained in this dictionary must be implemented in firmware/source/io.c
+//
+//=============================================================================================
+//=============================================================================================
+
+#endif
diff --git a/shared/shared_dictionaries.h b/shared/shared_dictionaries.h
index 430f516..2417aaf 100644
--- a/shared/shared_dictionaries.h
+++ b/shared/shared_dictionaries.h
@@ -122,8 +122,10 @@
 //=============================================================================================
 //=============================================================================================
 #define USB 6
+#include "shared_dict_usb.h"
 //currently no actual dictionary as there are no opcodes.
 //just used to return status of usbfunctions in event of a transfer error. 
+//contains definitions of data transactions between host and firmware
 //=============================================================================================
 //=============================================================================================
 
diff --git a/shared/shared_errors.h b/shared/shared_errors.h
index bdd201a..29b2522 100644
--- a/shared/shared_errors.h
+++ b/shared/shared_errors.h
@@ -2,6 +2,7 @@
 #define _error_codes_h
 
 #define SUCCESS 			0
+#define FALSE				0
 
 //greater than 128 are possible avr return codes
 #define ERR_UNKN_DICTIONARY 		128