Faulty Power Connector/Adapter - Re-solder & Fix
Intro
Follow this step-by-step guide to restore power to an Atari 2600 by re-soldering the power connection.
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Watch the video and tick off the steps as you go.
Disclaimer: this guide is for educational purposes. Repairs may void your warranty. Perform repairs at your own risk and disconnect from power before starting. We are not liable for damage, injury, or loss. Use proper safety precautions and dispose of components responsibly.
Materials Needed
Video Guide
Step 1
Test the power supply:
Test your AC adapter is working - connect to a power supply and use a multimeter to confirm voltage.Confirm if the voltage matches the expected 9V when under load (note: the output may vary when unloaded).
Step 2
Disassemble the Atari 2600:
Remove the 4 corner screws securing the case.Flip the console back over and lift the housing up - take care not to damage internal components.
Identify the voltage regulator (7805) and the internal power connections.
Remove the 2 screws from the board - either side of the metal housing
Tip: Take a picture of the board here to ensure you plug the connections back in the correct way when re-assembling.
Flip the bottom housing over and remove the 2 remaining screws
Locate the power connection
Step 3
Inspect the power connection:
Examine the power connector for damage or broken solder joints.Test continuity between the power connector, the pins and the circuit board.
Identify any cracked solder joints that may prevent proper power flow. (it is very common for the 3 joints on the power connector to be in poor condition)
Step 4
Repair the broken solder joints:
Clean and prepare the area around the power supply connection using isopropyl alcohol and a cloth or cotton budUse a soldering iron to remove old solder from the damaged joints using solder wick (braid) or a solder sucker
Tip: Leave 1 of the 3 connection points in place at any one time to ensure the component does not fall out.
Apply fresh solder to reestablish a solid connection.
Inspect nearby joints and re-solder if necessary.
Re-test the connection using your multimeter in continuity mode to ensure the connection is good.
Step 5
Clean the console:
Use isopropyl alcohol and a brush to clean the circuit board and internal components. Be sure to clean the re-soldered power connection throughly.Clean the exterior and interior case with wipes or isopropyl alcohol to remove dust and dirt.
Step 6
Reassemble the Atari 2600:
Follow Step 2's instructions in reverse order to reassemble the console.Verify the alignment of all components carefully, and ensure the screws are secure.
Step 7
Test the Atari 2600:
Connect the console to a TV and to tune it to an analog channel.Insert a game cartridge and check for video and audio output.
Verify controller functionality and overall operation.
Enjoy your refreshed Atari 2600!
Tip: If the console does not power on, recheck solder joints and power supply output for inconsistencies. A common issue can be the RF modulator.