3DS System Transfer Timer

[rgrekejin]

So, after many years of happily gaming away on my loyal 3DS XL, I've upgraded to a New 3DS. The thing is much more of a fingerprint magnet than the old version, but I want to play Xenoblade Chronicles, so I'll live with it.

My question is about the convoluted "system transfer" system Nintendo has set up. I googled the instructions for data transfer from an old 3DS to a New 3DS. My data transferred fine - I have no complaints on that front.

I do, however, have complaints about the fact that Nintendo has a mandatory 7-day cool-down period in between system transfers. That is - after a system has been used in a system transfer, it must wait 7 days before it can be used in another one. I had assumed when I read it in the terms and conditions agreement that it meant that you can only perform one transfer per week with your Nintendo ID, which would make sense. But no - it's a lock placed on the actual hardware.

This is somewhat annoying, as my girlfriend has a 2DS, and we wanted to do a system transfer from her 2DS to my old 3DS XL. She has a different Nintendo ID, so I didn't think it would be a problem. But nope. Old system is locked for a week.

I guess I have two questions here -

First, does anyone know of a way to circumvent the system transfer lock timer?

Second, why is this a thing? What possible problem is Nintendo hoping to prevent by implementing this system? Is it just a big "F you" to their customers? I've wracked my brain, and I can't figure out why Nintendo seems to think this is necessary.

 

[Bellvedere]

Apparently you can call Nintendo and they might be able to waive the cool down period. I've heard it's hit and miss. If it doesn't work out you're stuck waiting.

No idea why it exists. It's probably the "F you" to customers one though, keeping in theme of all their account systems.

 

[J Tyran]

First, does anyone know of a way to circumvent the system transfer lock timer?

Remove and then replace the CMOS battery? That will reset the internal clock and any timed lockout, its at your own risk though so if you brick it or lose data thats on you (system data might be kept in volatile memory). I don't see why it would though, it would mean Nintendo are using something I have never heard of before if the 3DS gets upset over replacement of the internal battery. They are a "consumable" part and generally are considered replaceable.

 

[rgrekejin]

First, does anyone know of a way to circumvent the system transfer lock timer?

Remove and then replace the CMOS battery? That will reset the internal clock and any timed lockout, its at your own risk though so if you brick it or lose data thats on you (system data might be kept in volatile memory). I don't see why it would though, it would mean Nintendo are using something I have never heard of before if the 3DS gets upset over replacement of the internal battery. They are a "consumable" part and generally are considered replaceable.

I thought of that. Thing is, you can progress to the transfer procedure up until the 3DS connects to the internet, at which point it informs you you're locked out. So I suspect the timer isn't administered locally, but on some Nintendo server somewhere.

 

[J Tyran]

First, does anyone know of a way to circumvent the system transfer lock timer?

Remove and then replace the CMOS battery? That will reset the internal clock and any timed lockout, its at your own risk though so if you brick it or lose data thats on you (system data might be kept in volatile memory). I don't see why it would though, it would mean Nintendo are using something I have never heard of before if the 3DS gets upset over replacement of the internal battery. They are a "consumable" part and generally are considered replaceable.

I thought of that. Thing is, you can progress to the transfer procedure up until the 3DS connects to the internet, at which point it informs you you're locked out. So I suspect the timer isn't administered locally, but on some Nintendo server somewhere.

That's annoying, never had to transfer anything to/from a 3DS so I didn't know that. Nintendo do some to go the extra mile when it comes to making their systems and account handling needlessly irritating don't they?