How to Troubleshoot VCS

Troubleshooting a non-working cartridge

• 1

  Check the ROM gold endings for dirt or debris. Clean with cloth. Retry loading the cartridge. If the cartridge still does not work, clean the ROM endings lightly with a pencil eraser.

• 2

  Clean the cartridge port of any dust or debris. Carefully blow out dust using an air blower. Avoid blowing air onto the port.

• 3

  Examine the ROM endings for damage. If endings are missing or damaged, replace the cartridge.

Troubleshoot power problems

• 4

  Check the power supply cord. Remove the power supply adapter from the wall socket. Take out the power supply connector from the console and plug it back in. Then reboot the console. If the cord or ending is damaged, replace the power supply.

• 5

  Examine the power supply cable port on the Atari VCS console. If the power connector port is damaged, then the console will need to be replaced.

• 6

  Test the power supply unit with a Volt / Ohm Meter. If power supply is not working, replace it with another adapter.

Troubleshooting controller problems

• 7

  Examine the controller cord. If the controller cord end has broken pins, replace the controller.

• 8

  Plug in a second controller to the console. If the second controller does not work, replace the console.

• 9

  Replace the joystick controller if the controller stick is broken.

Troubleshoot TV connection problems

• 10

  Check the connections between the console, the RF TV switch, and the television. Make sure all connections are snugly fit.

• 11

  Check the RF TV switch unit and verify that it is set to the correct TV channel. Check the TV to ensure it is set to the same channel.

• 12

  Move the console away from any nearby electronics or even the TV itself. Check to see if TV reception is better.