Big Atari system problem

[Ite]

I got a Atari off Ebay, and hooked it up. The screen is all fuzzy and there is not much sound because it's all static sounding. I tried shaking the cords and the cord that goes in to the TV. It just won't get to the perfect normal clear. What the heck should I do? Do you think it's an internet wire problem?

[Mindfield]

If you've plugged in with an "internet wire" then you definitely have a problem.

 

But seriously... first of all make sure the TV and unit are both on the same channel. If the unit's on channel 2 and you're using channel 3 you'll get almost no picture (mostly static) and very little sound (also mostly static).

 

Other things to try:

 

1) Try a different RF adapter.

2) Use an RCA-to-Coax adapter -- it gives a much better picture overall.

3) Try a different AC adapter on the unit. Insufficient voltage to the 2600, if there's only just enough to power it up, can result in static in the image and audio.

[Ite]

Sorry I meant internal, not internet.

 

I will keep trying.

[Ite]

When I wiggle the cord the picture changes so it must be the cord u hook to the back of the tv. Is there anyway to buy this cord besides the internet?

[Ite]

This is ABSOLUTELY KILLING ME! I want to play Demon Attack so so very bad.

 

Any more help at all from anyone would be very appreciated.

[Osbo]

maybe u need one of these:

 

http://www.atariage.com/store/product_info...&products_id=42

[Ite]

You hook that right into the black thing that you hook the prongs on?

[Osbo]

no, that one goes in the back of the tv, and then just connect the cable comming out of the 2600 to it. Tune the TV to channel 2 or 3 (the switch is in the console)...

 

If that doesn't work, u can get it modded for Audio/Video (like modern consoles) and forget about RF and all that mess...

[Ite]

So what you are saying is that we don't even have to use the tv/computer box thing for it to work?

[Atari Rescue Group]

Yup, it replaces the switchbox. RF cord from the console to the plug and then to the TV. You can get them at Radio Shack or in the Atari Age Store.

Edited July 24, 2005 by Atari Rescue Group

[Ite]

Thanks a bundle, just go to Radio Shack and ask for what Coaxial (F-Type) to Female RCA Adapter ?

[Steppenwolffan21]

Yes

[Ite]

I actually have two different Ataris to try this with, it's pretty much a given it will work?

[Lost Monkey]

Yes

897295[/snapback]

 

 

PM sent

[Ite]

I haven't got a PM. I will have my full report on this tomorrow.

 

I am dieing to check it out.

[Ite]

Well I went to Radio Shack and the guy COULDN'T FIND THE PART!

 

I'll try the Shack farther away tomorrow.

[Ite]

I got the part today and it works! Thank god for you people, now I can play along with you all!

 

[D.Yancey]

Great! I'm happy you got it to work. Have fun with Demon Attack! It's one of the best shooters.

[Mindfield]

Those coax adapters are great. I've got about a dozen lying around and use them exclusively with all of the systems I have that require RF output. Nice clean picture on most units (though Juniors still get some static) -- works best on a real heavy sixer. Now that's a beautiful sight -- who needs composite?

[Ite]

Not sure where the thread on this is so I will put it here until someone directs me in the right direction.

 

My Collection-

 

Alien

Asteroids

Astroblast

Berzerk

Carnival

Casino

Centipede

Circus Atari

Combat

Cosmic Ark

Dark Cavern

Defender

Demon Attack

Dragster

Eggomania

E.T. The Extra Terrestrial

Fire Fly

Frogs and Flies

Gunslinger

Home Run

Millipede

Missile Command

Pac-Man

Phoenix

Q*Bert

Riddle of the Sphinx

River Raid

Shark Attack

Slot Racers

Space Attack

Space Invaders

Star Ship

Star Voyager

Super Breakout

Super Challenge Football

Warlords

Yar's Revenge

[keilbaca]

Those coax adapters are great.  I've got about a dozen lying around and use them exclusively with all of the systems I have that require RF output.  Nice clean picture on most units (though Juniors still get some static) -- works best on a real heavy sixer.  Now that's a beautiful sight -- who needs composite? 

898317[/snapback]

 

Honestly, I completely agree with you. RCA to Coax adapter with a heavy sixer is as good as composite mods, period.

[Ite]

I got 14 more in the mail, some doubles though.

 

Pole Position

Dig Dug

Donkey Kong

Strawberry Shortcake

Kangaroo

and a few more..