ColecoVision Expansion module #1 Troubleshoot

[9 volts]

Hello, this is my first post. I recently got a colecovision with an expansion module #1 . The colecovision games work, however when I insert the expander module all I get is a blank screen. I have cleaned all the connections but this has had not effect. I understand basic electronics and am wondering whether I should be testing the expansion unit (basic voltage tests and look for cracked soldering?) or if the problem could be within the actual console. Any advice welcome. Thanks

ps I have searched the forum but as yet have not found any advice.

[SKELETOR68]

Sorry I can not help, but welcome to the forms.

[nanochess]

Welcome to the forums.

 

You'll need to insert an Atari 2600 cartridge in the expansion module #1.

Otherwise you get only a blank screen.

[cOLeCoHiTMan]

Unfortunately for the $10-20 they cost.. I wouldn't spend a lot of time on it if you're looking forward to playing atari on coleco.. if you're into tinkering.. good luck!

Look for the thread about making an expansion standalone Atari..maybe some of those guys could offer suggestions.

[S1500]

I have a dud expander module too. While I haven't done any contacts testing, I have cleaned it to the best of my ability, but nope. Wasn't a big deal to me since I have 2 spare ones, and know where I can get one for $17 easily.

[NIAD]

If the ColecoVision is working properly when playing ColecoVision carts (the Expansion Module #01 is not attached), then either there is an issue with the CV's Expansion Bus or the Expansion Module #01 is bad. You can try cleaning the the Expansion Bus as well as E.M. #01 contacts as well as the cart connector in the E.M. #01 to see if this helps. First use De-Oxit and then follow this with Alcohol.

 

Of course, if you do not have an Atari 2600 game plugged into the E.M. #01, then that would give you the blank screen. Also, is your Atari 2600 cart tested and known to be in working order.

 

If all else fails, the E.M. #01 is a pretty inexpensive item to pickup from numerous sources... loose or CIB (complete in box).

 

BTW, welcome to the Forum!

Edited September 17, 2012 by NIAD

[Yurkie]

I would recommend cleaning the cart slot and and pin connector on the back of the unit with a toothbrush and 99% isopropyl alcohol or if you have or care to buy DeoxIT use it after cleaning the bulk of the grime with alcohol. You can clean the edge connector on the front of the ColecoVision motherboard with alcohol or DeoxIT and a Q-tip(s)

 

Like others are saying if you care to spend the time repairing kudos to you, but they can be found and purchased pretty cheap. I sell extras that I get for $25 that are tested and working if they are loose and with box for $30 or $35.

[9 volts]

Thanks for getting back to me! I will try the recommended cleaning process. I am in Australia it's the postage that boosts up the cost! Still it would be great to get it whole rig up and running, Thanks again, I will keep you posted on progress. It's been great to play donkey kong again ha!

[9 volts]

Well, no luck with the cleaning. Still appears dead. Thanks for the advice.

[SlowCoder]

That's a bummer. Regardless of how easy it is to get another component, its always a shame when one croaks.

[9 volts]

Well I took it a step further but still no luck- looking at the atari service manual it appears as though the riot6532 may be faulty, as I appear to have voltages getting to the places where they should. I might try replacing this down the track - just having a little fun - it does appear to be very similar to the atari inside.

[S1500]

Well I took it a step further but still no luck- looking at the atari service manual it appears as though the riot6532 may be faulty, as I appear to have voltages getting to the places where they should. I might try replacing this down the track - just having a little fun - it does appear to be very similar to the atari inside.

 

I would be curious if this operation(should you decide to take it) pans out, as mine might be beyond simply cleaning the contacts.

 

Is there a market for spare part core rebuilds of these? Ie I send off my dead one + cash and get a tested workin' one? I know it's not a 5200 controller but..