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Guide on How to Replace the Batteries in GBA Cartridges

Older cartridge-based video games often use internal batteries to store saved data. When these batteries die, you can lose the ability to save any new information. Depending on the game, a dead cartridge battery may even cause your existing data to be erased. If you've noticed that your GBA games are no longer saving properly, you may need to install a new battery in the cartridge. While many officially licensed GBA games now use other methods for handling save data, some older games or pirated cartridges may rely entirely on easily replaced watch batteries to maintain your data.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Watch battery
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Instructions

    • 1

      Examine the back of the game cartridge to determine what kind of screwdriver you'll need. The screws on most newer officially licensed GBA cartridges require a miniature Y-head screwdriver for removal. Older games and pirated copies tend to require a small Philips-head screwdriver instead.

    • 2

      Remove all screws from the back of the cartridge. Store these screws in a safe place so you don't lose track of them.

    • 3

      Pull away the back cover of the cartridge once all the screws have been removed.

    • 4

      Locate the watch battery. It should be nestled into a circular compartment in the middle of the circuitry. Take note of the polarity of the battery before removing it. Watch batteries have the polarity etched into the surface of the battery. You will install the replacement battery with the same side facing up.

    • 5

      Remove the old battery. You may need to slightly bend the connector to loosen the battery. Look on the rear face of the battery for an identification number. You will need this number when looking for a replacement battery, as button-style watch batteries come in multiple voltages.

    • 6

      Fit the replacement battery into the battery compartment. If you bent the connector to remove the old battery, make sure that it is bent back into place with the metal contacts touching the new battery.

    • 7

      Slide the rear cover of the cartridge back into place, then replace the screws. Your GBA cartridge should now save properly.

Game Boy
Game Boy

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