Unresponsive Buttons - Easy Fix

Intro

Follow this step-by-step guide to easily repair and/or replace unresponsive buttons on an original Nintendo Game Boy DMG-001 (1989).

Links for the required tools & materials have been provided. Purchasing via the links below supports Restoreo through commission we earn at no extra cost to you.

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

  1.  Tri-wing screwdriver
  2.  Alcohol wipes or rubbing alcohol and cotton buds
  3.  Cloth
  4.  Replacement buttons (optional)
  5.  Silicon button pads (optional, may be required)
  6.  Replacement screen cover (optional)

Video Guide

Step 1

Prepare your workspace:

Ensure your working on a clear, clean, and tidy workspace - a repair mat isn't essential but can be a worthwhile investment
Gather the required tools

    Step 2

    Disassemble the Game Boy:

    Flip your Game Boy over, remove the 6 screws using your tri-wing or Phillips screwdriver - depends on console version
    Carefully separate the two halves, being cautious of the ribbon cable connecting them.
    Unplug the ribbon cable from the back half of the console

    Step 3

    Access the buttons:

    On the half of the gameboy with the screen/buttons remove the 10 screws connecting the board to the housing
    Gently lift the display board upwards to remove from its shell
    Remove the buttons & silicone pads from the board

      Step 4

      Clean the buttons & contacts:

      Using your alcohol wipes or rubbing alcohol and cotton swabs clean the following components and parts:
      Buttons
      Silicone Pads
      The button contact points on the board (PCB) - this is likely where your issue is so ensure you do a thorough job
      Remove any residue from the board and button components, dry with a clean cloth or cotton swab

        Step 5

        Reassemble the Game Boy:

        Tip: Now is a great time to clean the dust and debris off the motherboard, components, and console housing using an air duster or pump. Use isopropyl alcohol to clean any stubborn stains and wipes to refresh the console housing. We recommend unscrewing the 4 screws from back side of the motherboard (the one with the battery terminals) from the housing to do this most effectively.
          Place the buttons and rubber contact pads back in their original positions in the front housing (or replace with your new set) 
          Align the circuit board back into the housing
          Secure the board back in place using the 10 screws you removed earlier
          Plug the ribbon cable back into the back half of the Game Boy (ensure you have reassembled the back half before doing so if you took it apart for cleaning)
          Align the two halves back together and screw the 6 screws for the housing back in place

          Step 6

          Test the Game Boy:

          Insert 4 new AA batteries, a working game cart, and power on the Game Boy
          Verify sound, display, and buttons are functioning correctly.
          Tip: If the buttons still feel unresponsive, you may have missed some dirt on the contacts (double-check) or the console needs troubleshooting further i.e., PCB tracing or worn out rubber pads
          Optionally, replace the screen cover now for new ensuring no dust or dirty is on the screen using an air duster
          Enjoy your refreshed Game Boy!

            Thanks, Accreditation, and References

            YouTube Channel/Video:
            1up Gaming

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