What MAME 'best available' means in an Android audit
Best available means the files match the best dump evidence currently described by that exact MAME build, even when a device is marked BAD_DUMP or NO_DUMP. It is not the same as a clean archival result, full emulation quality, or permission to obtain the files. Record the build, machine short name, complete audit text, and dump flags before deciding whether the result is expected or repairable.
Do this in order
- 01
Record the port, upstream MAME revision, machine short name, lawful set source, and checksum receipt.
- 02
Run the build's exposed media audit and preserve the full result, including BAD_DUMP, NO_DUMP, optional, device, parent, BIOS, and disk lines.
- 03
Compare each flagged item with that same revision's machine definition rather than a web bundle or another MAME release.
- 04
Treat known bad or undumped items as evidence limits; do not rename substitutes or download a repair pack.
- 05
Test startup separately and record working/imperfect flags, because an audit result does not predict every emulation limitation.
- 06
Re-audit unchanged after any lawful correction and keep rights evidence beside, but separate from, technical evidence.
Decision and diagnostic table
| Audit state | Meaning | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Correct | Expected known bytes present | Continue to runtime test |
| Best available | Known evidence limit remains | Record flags; do not invent a repair |
| Incorrect | Required known data mismatch | Check revision and lawful source |
| Not found | No matching set discovered | Check rompath before contents |
Evidence can have a ceiling
MAME can document that no verified dump exists. An audit cannot manufacture better source evidence.
Audit and runtime answer different questions
File identity may be best available while video, sound, protection, or controls remain imperfect.
Rights remain a separate receipt
A technically accepted hash says nothing about copyright permission or distribution scope.
Use only game, firmware, artwork, and configuration files you created, dumped lawfully, or received under permission covering your use. Compatibility does not grant content rights; never use unauthorized ROM, BIOS, CHD, artwork, or music mirrors.