15 replies to this topic

[scottydu81]

I recently aquired a 2600 console (the all black, four switch model) and it seems to need to actually "warm up" before it works consistently. i have to put cartidge after cartridge in, and all that happens is that the game displays for a few seconds, then the screem either goes to black, or a whole scramble of colors. i keep switching out cartridges until it magically stops doing that.

anyone else experience this?

[ACrystal2011]

Did you try cleaning the cartridge port?

[scottydu81]

not really. but i didnt think that was an issue because it eventually works just fine. just seems like it needs to warm up first.

by the way, whats the best advice for cleaning the cartridge port?

[ACrystal2011]

Check the forums im sure i saw a post about it somewhere i have never done it tho. I just figure maybe the carts not getting a good connection

[scottydu81]

i tried all my NES tricks, but i guess its not the same beast... i dunno, i saw an atari 2600 disassembly video on youtube and it looks easy. maybe ill just crack it open and have a look.

[SlowCoder]

My typical slot cleaning methods is to take a game and wet the connectors with alcohol. Insert the cart multiple times. If that's not sufficient, cut some 1/8 cardboard and douse it with alcohol and gently insert in slot. If THAT doesn't work, fine grit sandpaper. Bit the sandpaper is last ditch effort for me, as while it might work temporarily I think over long term it does more damage than good.

BUT ... based on your description it sounds like you've got a power related problem. One of your chips might be bad. Or you may need to replace the green "chiclet" capacitor near the power switch inside.

[Rex Dart]

Any chance it's the voltage regulator?

[scottydu81]

it works after a while. about a few minutes of switching cartridges, it works just fine for as long as i play. i havent taken it apart yet, though i will soon.

[Sean39]

Hi
I have repaired many of the Atari 2600 units. it sounds like you have a cold or broken solder connection on the Cartridge port. It sounds like sometimes you
are making connection to the main board and other times you are not. I have Several Atari 2600 systems from the Actual year 1977 and cleaning the port
will help. I have notice that Atari are really good about the ports not getting dirty,but they can break solder connections from the force placed on insering
the connector.

Hope this helps out.

Sean

[scottydu81]

i cracked open my console. it has been some years since i worked with any circuit cards (and even then, they were made well after 1977), but i dont see anything that looks burnt out even though its hard to tell one way or the other.

it still works, i guess ill just give it a few minutes warm up when i want to play. i found out i can just kick the power switch on, go get something to eat, come back and play all night.

[ACrystal2011]

Um maybe it doesnt like to work cuz you kick it

[scottydu81]

ill kick it if i want to, fool! i do whut i want!

[ACrystal2011]

LOL

[lushgirl_80]

That also happened the last time I hooked up my Vader. That's why I always play my 4-switch Woodgrain the most.

I need test it again because it did work great for awhile. I remember the colours were much sharper on the Vader 2600.

[Trinity]

I'd check the 7805 voltage regulator for a good 5 volt output.

[31336haxx0r]

Definitely check it and also look out for failing capacitors (dried up, bulged out, etc.).