4 replies to this topic

[Schenley]

OK, after a LONG time away from the 2600, I just rediscovered it!

I bought a 2600 on Ebay, only to find out it was a PAL unit. So, I bought another one - this one the joystick port doesn't work right. I need to jiggle the hell out of the plug to get it to work.

I just spent a couple minutes (not enough, I know) reading some of the posts in here, and I apologize if this has been discussed before.

Can I:

(a) Convert the PAL to NTSC?
(b) fix the controller ports?
© use the controller ports from the PAL unit in the other one?

I don't have much experience soldering, so hopefully the answers don't involve soldering - but I guess I could learn.

Thanks in advance!

BTW, I can't even remember if I used to own a 2600 or just played my friends' - but I DO remember the screenshots of most of the games!

[Mitch]

Option B is the best choice. Usually the solder joints for the joystick port become cracked and it's fairly simple to fix if you or a friend have basic soldering skills.

Mitch

[Esc]

If the pins are still connected (not broken) then you can simply just re-heat the 9 solder points to make sure it makes good contact with the board. That usually fixes the problem and is very simple to do if you have basic soldering skills.

Removing and replacing the 9 pin port requires a bit more skill, and the use of a solder-sucker (desoldering tool). Sometimes you may have to do this if any of the pins are broken.

[Schenley]

Thanks! I looked at it from the top (without taking the board out) and it appears tight, so resoldering the points will probably take care of it. Thanks!

[bjk7382]

I replaced one of the pins in my Atari 400 SIO port with a piece of paper clip. It is a much bigger port and is easier to work with. It works fine though.

Soldering isn't as hard as it may seem. All you do is melt soft metal with an iron. simple