I just unpacked @fiskelandslaget@vivaldi.net’s GameGear. It is dead, and most probably suffers from crappy capacitors. I already have a full replacement set here, so I will post some updates in the next days to weeks. Let’s see if the LCD screen is still viable, or a TFT mod is also required.
#retrogaming #retrocomputing #sega #segagamegear
Quick check inside reveals that this is a very nice VA0 mainboard from mid 1991. Visually it looks to be in excellent condition.
Closer inspections shows signs of corrosion at the capacitors. Yup, we got capacitor plague. No surprise here. This 100uF capacitor near the power connector has corroded terminals.
By the way: if you want to open up a GameGear you need a 4.5mm bit that’s shaped like… a flower…? Not sure what this is called.
@root42@chaos.social it is the same as SMS cartridges? what was it, security screws or something like that?
@reidrac@mastodon.gamedev.place yes, might be the same screws. Definitely a kind of security bit. The smaller 3.8mm variant is I think also used on GameBoy cartridges.
I just want you to know that while the information you’re posting will never have a practical use to me, I greatly appreciate you posting it. The world needs more people like you.
@root42@chaos.social Its called a game bit.
@root42@chaos.social I’ve seen them being called “GameBit”
@root42 The really like to screw people. So annoying.
@root42@chaos.social I’ve always called it a “Nintendo Security Screw”. Didn’t know Sega used it too.