at1r+@andrew.cmu.edu (Angelo Trivelli) (11/22/88)
I have an Atari 800 that has been sitting in a closet at home for about 5 years now. The problem is this: When I turn the unit on it behaves normal for about a minute and then crashes spectacularly with brightly colored moving text and graphics on the screen and random noise. I suspect a loose connection somewhere--- has anyone had this problem? How would I go about getting the thing fixed? does atari still repair 800's? any info would be greatly appreciated! ---- Angelo Trivelli at1r@andrew.cmu.edu
Ordania-DM@cup.portal.com (Charles K Hughes) (11/23/88)
I would suggest that you remove the cover of the 800 and pull out and reseat all the boards (memory & OS). Also try testing it with a game cartridge.
hans@umd5.umd.edu (Hans Breitenlohner) (11/24/88)
In article <8XW3wMy00V4=MEh19P@andrew.cmu.edu> at1r+@andrew.cmu.edu (Angelo Trivelli) writes: >I have an Atari 800 that has been sitting in >a closet at home for about 5 years now. > > ... details deleted ... > With most electronic equipment, it is a good idea to theck the power supply first. Ataris are no exception. Beyond that it is very hard to diagnose such a problem from its symptoms. You might try to re-seat all cards and connectors, since the machine has been sitting around for such a long time.
Bob_BobR_Retelle@cup.portal.com (11/24/88)
Angelo Trivelli asks: >does Atari still repair 800's? Atari lists the 800 as part of its exchange program. I don't have the list of the fees involved in front of me right now, but I don't believe it was very expensive. Essentially you return your equipment to Atari with the proper fee, and they'll send you a replacement unit. Try calling Atari's Customer Service department at: (408) 745-2367 and ask for details... Before you do that though, you may want to check the connections on the main board... it the 800 has been unused for so long a time, there may be problems with corrosion on some of the contacts... Turn the unit over and remove the screws holding the case closed, then remove the top of the computer. There are several screws securing the heavy metal shielding to the printed circuit board. Remove them, then remove the shielding (carefully!). Inside the shielding there are several smaller boards mounted vertically in sockets. Gently remove and replace each board to break any corrosion on the contacts and to reseat them in their sockets. Gently press any Integrated Circuits which are in sockets back down firmly into their sockets. Reassemble the shielding and case, and try the computer again. It might be necessary to clean the contact edges of the smaller boards with a solvent to get the best contact. If you're uncomfortable working inside the machine, you might be able to find someone at a local Atari user group who'd be willing to help out... BobR