Help with modifying a power supply for use with the 2600

[Help with modifying a power supply for use with the 2600]

BTW, 1A is quite a lot more than 500mA, but should be OK.

 

If you have problems, the afforementioned will have dedicated 9V 500mA DC PSUs with the right connector - or try eBay or myatari for one

[Help with modifying a power supply for use with the 2600]

Please make sure the PSU is REGULATED first! It should be, but if not you risk putting up to 18V into your system!

 

Yes, get a 3.5mm mono connector. As everyone said, use a multimeter or voltmeter to test. You may find your local radio shack guy would let you use his, or tv repair man, if you ask nicely. Mind you, most PSUs have a stripe on one lead.

 

Radio Shack is good, or www.mcmelectronics.com - to name just two of many

 

Good luck with the project - you're gonna need it! e-mail if you have any questions

[is it the system or the games giving me all this trouble?]

Give the games a try on another system that you know is ok. Sounds like it could be the console, but check just in case

[Best atari 2600 model ?]

IMHO, most Atari-supplied leads are no good now. Even if they are, maybe try leaving them in the box, and get a nice new screened jobby?

 

Even better, source a cheap console and have it modded to do composite. I'm looking into better quality outputs when I have some spare minutes

[atari 2600 JR?]

OK, first any computer RF cable (e.g. NES, spectrum, Mega Drive) should be ok to use. I know in America some systems insisted on the atari modulator, but you should be ok.

 

As to the PSU - DON'T USE IT!!!!! Here's why:

 

1. There's a specific voltage and current for the PSU. Yours may have variable voltage, but not likely current (Amps).

 

2. It will be unregulated. You need a regulated supply. This means when you set it to 9V, it could supply only 6, or as much as 18V. Not good!

 

3. The polarity must be set correctly.

 

For a good psu, if you can't find a genuine one (some places sell them such as myatari.com) cheap enough, try an electronics retailer like maplin. e-mail me if you need the specs