Repairing Asteroids PCB's

Asteroids PCB Repair

for your Asteroids video game

Computer Aided Testing System

When the testing device / software application loads the test table for Asteroids, the hardware interface unit switches to the 6502 type microprocessor, and the various sections of circuitry which make up the Asteroids game PCB can be examined and verified.

The tests begin with determining that the correct program is installed, by running a pre-determined set of routines to insure each one of the four ROMs match with the master data reference files. There are 3 program chips, and 1 Vector ROM chip. Any chip which fails during these tests is replaced. The four sockets which contain these IC's are also tested, as the chips are examined and verified as they exist on the circuit board.

If a program chip read error is found, and further in-depth analysis is required, then this interface can be used. The address bus and / or the Prom select signals can be adjusted to any possible condition. A similar schematic / interface can be selected for Vector Rom problems.

The next step in the testing procedure is to verify the integrity of the 6 RAM chips. Random data is written into these rams, read back, and compared.

Error analysis determines the failing ram chip, if an error in detected. Further testing can reveal failing support chips in the circuit, eliminating unnecessary IC replacement.

The purpose of this interface is to display all dip switch positions, coin, and control panel inputs in real time. In this example, the Hyperspace, Self-test, and Rotate right inputs are activated.

This test can also be run in the "stay on" mode, meaning once a switch has been activated, it will remain highlighted. The purpose of this mode is to catch any intermittent errors which may occur while the screen is not being watched.

For example, say there is an intermittent coin in condition - this interface will show coin in as being activated, when it shouldn't have been.

The "stay on" mode is also useful for finding intermittent Dip Switch operation. The blackened positions on the dipswitch will show as red if any dip switches have been detected as changing position.

The output ports will be tested using this interface screen. In this example, the watchdog reset in being applied, (so as to not reset all of the ports), the first player start LED is on, the signals for the explosion sound, a "medium" thump frequency is applied, the smaller saucer sound is on, and the players ship fire sound is enabled.

Any failures can be zeroed in on, and additional screens can be selected to troubleshoot the corresponding circuitry. This interface is very useful, for example it is not necessary to play the game to have the ship fire sound.

   Sometimes failure does not occur until this process is performed. During this testing phase, slight vibration is introduced to the Asteroids PCB, and re-testing is performed. If this test fails, the activity is recorded. Intermittent connections are captured, explored, and then analyzed. (If a board works OK until you tap on it, it's not fixed correctly, unacceptable.)
      Faults are highlighted while viewing the "Error Analysis" screen, and the possible causes are listed by probability.

Error Analysis utilizing the GLS1 Electronics
Computer Aided Testing System

            Boards are burned in for a minimum of 72 hours. Note that if your board does not pass burn-in, (and about 25% of boards received do not pass burn-in), they will start this burn-in process over. I find that 72+ consecutive hours of error-free operation increases the reliability of these boards to the point I feel confident the board will function well beyond the 90-day warranty, which I provide.
        Boards submitted for repair must be complete, (all custom IC's) and in repairable condition, (not physically damaged).
        The price for this testing & repair service is US $115.00.

     If your Asteroids PCB is missing parts, it can still    be repaired, send in PCB for estimate, or contact GLS1 Electronics beforehand.

This information on this page was last updated on May 26th, 2008.


	*Shipping Address*

	GLS1 Electronics
	238 North 10th St #4
	Cottage Grove OR 97424

      Payment by check is acceptable, please enclose check inside box with Asteroids game PCB when shipping. When paying by check, please include return shipping of $12.00. Also please include your email address, this makes it easier for me to contact you when your board arrives. Paypal is also accepted, please contact me for information.
      All return shipping from this shop is done USPS priority mail, which usually means a 2-3 day delivery time.
     GLS1 Electronics will also consider non-working Asteroids PCB trade-ins as payment for repair services.

Contact me at: gls1@gls1electronics.com for more information regarding Asteroids PCB repair.

	Galaga or Ms Pacman PCB's also tested and repaired using computer.


	System Description
	Asteroids Deluxe
	Troubleshooting Notes
	Index of Links