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All versions tap directly into the GPU and audio chip to provide a 480p video signal and digital sound that can be digitally upscaled on the board up to 1440p (depending on board user settings).  There are no external dongles/adaptors that can match an internal mod (because the externals go through an analog step first).

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HW0 - Manufactured by hispeedido.  This is an open-source version of an early version of DCDigital (DCHDMI) with a limited menu for picture color and other settings.  1080p with base package.  Quality of signal is noticeably less than the other versions and it is not recommended.

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HW1 - DCDigital (DCHDMI) HW1 – Manufactured by Bitfunx from open-source plans (same creators as the HW2).  Many more menu choices than HW0.  Will give 1080p with base package.  Can also output 480p for direct mode.

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HW2 - DCDigital (DCHDMI) HW2 - Manufactured by PixelFx as a continuation of the HW1.  Proprietary design.  No longer sold.

 

HW3 – Retro GEM – Manufactured by PixelFX.  Proprietary continuation of the DCDigital project.  Board works with many retro consoles and uses custom internal flex cable to adapt to each one.  Note that the “shiny” upgrade is needed for 1080/1440p (basic capped at 720p).​

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Note on scalers and Retro GEM – if you have an HDMI scaler that can upscale 480p to full HD or 4k, then the basic will work perfectly well for you.  You only need the “shiny” if you don’t have a separate scaler.  If you have, or plan to get, a 4k scaler (morph 4k, retrotink 4k, OSSC Pro, etc) to use with other consoles, save the money on the internal HDMI scaler and combine the basic RetroGEM (or DCHDMI HW1) with the scaler to take your 480p up to 4k.