R_Leo_1

"dead" consoles that don't power up usually have a single chip that has gone bad, as a bonus it is off the shelf and as an additional bonus it is typically socketed. and costs like 83 cents.

Look heavily for some kind of adapter to use as a replacement for the original controller. You will not have a good time with the console with that original controller....even if it works. The Wico stuff is expensive and overrated. When I received my 5200 the person I purchased it from made and included an adapter that has the dial pad and accepts a normal Genesis controller (with both buttons mapped to it). This console is REALLY enjoyable with a proper controller.

I would suggest a flea market, but the only one that has an Atari vendor is on Menge Ave. north of Gulfport, MS. Don't know about Florida, however.