Saving Two Broken Sega Mega Drives / Genesis!

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of rescuing two broken Sega Mega Drives, also known as Sega Genesis in North America. This step-by-step guide covers cleaning, diagnostics, and hardware repair, drawing from firsthand experience. Note that this process involves handling electrical components, so safety precautions are essential.

Step 1: Assess the Condition of the Consoles

• Find the Consoles: Locate the two Sega Mega Drives at a flea market or similar venue.
• Visual Inspection: Examine the exterior for physical damage or missing parts.
• Check Connections: Ensure the power and AV connections are intact.

Step 2: Open the First Mega Drive

• Gather Tools: You will need a screwdriver that fits the console screws.
• Remove Screws: Carefully unscrew the casing to access the internal components.
• Lift Off the Cover: Gently remove the top part of the console.

Step 3: Clean and Inspect Internally

• Use Compressed Air: Blow out dust and debris from the internal components.
• Inspect for Corrosion: Look for any signs of rust or corrosion on circuit boards.
• Check Capacitors: Identify any bulging or leaking capacitors that may need replacement.

Step 4: Test the Console

• Initial Power Test: Plug in the console and see if it powers on.
• Observe Output: Check for video and audio output on your TV.
• Note Any Issues: Record any irregularities for later troubleshooting.

Step 5: Diagnose Voltage Regulators

• Locate Voltage Regulators: Identify the voltage regulators on the motherboard.
• Test Voltage Output: Use a multimeter to measure the voltage output.
• Determine Replacement Needs: If the output is incorrect, prepare to replace the regulators.

Step 6: Replace the Regulators

• Desolder Old Regulators: Carefully desolder the faulty voltage regulators using a desoldering station.
• Install New Regulators: Position the new regulators and solder them in place.
• Recheck Connections: Ensure all connections are secure before proceeding.

Step 7: Final Testing of the First Console

• Power Up Again: Turn on the console to check if the changes worked.
• Test with Games: Insert a game cartridge to verify functionality.
• Confirm Success: Ensure both video and audio are functioning correctly.

Step 8: Open the Second Mega Drive

• Repeat Opening Steps: Use the same approach as with the first console to access the internals.
• Conduct Initial Inspection: Look for visible issues and clean as necessary.

Step 9: Identify and Address Issues

• Document Problems: Note any specific issues found during the inspection.
• Follow Similar Repair Steps: Apply the same cleaning, testing, and replacing methods as done on the first console.

Step 10: Conduct Final Tests on Both Consoles

• Power Up Both Consoles: Ensure both units are functioning properly.
• Run Multiple Games: Test with different game cartridges for reliability.
• Evaluate Performance: Make sure both consoles run smoothly without any glitches.

Conclusion

You've successfully rescued two Sega Mega Drives through careful cleaning and repair. This process not only revives classic gaming consoles but also enhances your understanding of electronics. If you encounter persistent issues, consider seeking assistance from an expert or exploring detailed repair manuals for further guidance. Enjoy your revived gaming experience!