10 replies to this topic

[miaandjohnrule]

I just recently got into collecting Atari. I had an Atari computer (not sure which model) which my dad threw away within the last few years. I got a 2600 with a few games for a good price the other day but I came home to find out that the system doesn't work properly. It's a CX 2600 A. The system powers on okay but all I get is a blank screen. It's not the TV adapter as I already replaced it with a new one. Any help anyone could give me would be appreciated , thanks.

[bjk7382]

Did you try cleaning the contacts on the system and the games?

Usually, when they are dirty, all you will get is a black screen.

[miaandjohnrule]

I've cleaned the games I've been testing on the system. I've been trying to blow it out with canned air and trying to wipe off the contacts with some thin cardboard to no avail. Any tips to clean other ways?

[bjk7382]

Try a q-tip and isoprophal acohol, also an eraser on the back of a pencil will work, but not as good. Also you can use emery cloth (600 grit sandpaper)

[Ian Primus]

If you just get a blank screen, and it's not the cart contacts, it could be a failed chip. The fact that the screen _does_ do something indicates to me that the voltage regulator is still working. (Could be weak or damaged though) Open it up and start measuring voltages. Read some of my earlier posts:
http://www.atariage....pic.php?t=36558

I'm also currently working on an "Atari 2600 Repair 101", since it looks like there are a lot of people that need help with this sort of thing. I can also do repairs for you if you don't feel comfortable/don't have experience/don't have the tools or parts to fix it yourself.

Good luck!

Ian Primus
ian_primus@yahoo.com

[miaandjohnrule]

I'm going to go pick up a volt measurer today , thanks.

[Thomas Jentzsch]

Ian Primus said:

I'm also currently working on an "Atari 2600 Repair 101", since it looks like there are a lot of people that need help with this sort of thing.

Looking forward to this.

I still have my original old 2600 woody, but it is dead.

[Vigo]

@thomas

If you need someone helping to repair it, living only 15 minutes away from Düsseldorf, then contact me.

[Thomas Jentzsch]

Vigo said:

If you need someone helping to repair it, living only 15 minutes away from Düsseldorf, then contact me.

A BIG applause to Vigo :!:

Not only he repaired my good old Woody, but also fixed my Vader's composite mod, modded my Supercharger and fixed Marble Craze.

BTW: @Stan: you are absolutely right, Marble Craze is great!

[bjk7382]

So now you got all the hardware to play your minigames on the 2600. I have been playing both of them on and off, now that I don't play thrust much anymore. (tried Game 4 and found out I will probly NEVER beat that game. Way too hard) But that is how the C64 was and you didn't have anything to do with the levels. I will try now and again, but that game is more or less on the shelf for a while I am thinking about buying marble craze, since everyone says it is so good. (and I think that one has an end to, if I am not mistaken)

[Thomas Jentzsch]

bjk7382 said:

So now you got all the hardware to play your minigames on the 2600.   I have been playing both of them on and off, now that I don't play thrust much anymore. (tried Game 4 and found out I will probly NEVER beat that game. Way too hard) But that is how the C64 was and you didn't have anything to do with the levels.

Well, the last two extra nasty planets on games #2 and #4 have been designed by me.

Quote

I will try now and again, but that game is more or less on the shelf for a while I am thinking about buying marble craze, since everyone says it is so good.

Brilliant choice.