2600/2600 A

VCS DOMESTIC (MD

Field Service
Manual

FD100133
Rev. 02

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 E.C.R. NO. 0021

JR
ATARI, INC.
consumer P r o d u c t Services ENGINEERING CHANGE REQUEST
845 W. Maude Avenue Lat e s t
Sunnyvale, CA 94041 DATE REQUESTER PART NO. R EV.

ATAR~ o~------ 1-21 - 8 3 S . Doyle F i l l 00133 02

P A R T TITLE REASON FOR CHANGE REQUEST:
2 6 0 0 / 2 6 0 0 A VCS DSMZSTIC FSM I Error in Flowcharts and P a r t s Lists

Xeplace pages 4-25, 6-21, 8-3 and 8-7 with t h e attached corrected pages.

R e ~ l a c ec o v e r page with new (Rev. 0 2 ) cover page.

Retain this ECN as a record of these changes.

ENGINEERING CHANGE REQUESTER- PLEASE COMPLETE ABOVE DOTTED LINE * * * * * * ****-• = -

(SEE D ~ s ~ H / ~ ~ l a ~ )

ENGINEERING CHANGE NOTICE I

EmC,Nm
NO. 0021
WHEN
E.C. R.
SIGNATURES A N 0 LC.N.
BECOMES A N E.C.N.
NO. ARE PRESENT THIS
I

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 ATARI

VIDEO COMPUTER SYSTEMTM

FIELD SERVICE MANUAL

MODEL 2600/2600A DOMESTIC (M/N)

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 A t a r i believes t h a t t h e information described in this manual is a c c u r a t e a n d reliable, and much
c a r e h a s been taken in its preparation. However, no responsibility, financial or otherwise, shall
b e a c c e p t e d for any consequences arising o u t of t h e use of this material. Information contained
herein is subject to change. Revisions may be issued t o advise of such changes and/or additions.

Correspondence regarding t h i s d o c u m e n t should b e forwarded to Manager of Technical Support,

Consumer Product Service, Atari, Incorporated, 845 W. Maude Sunnyvale, California 94086.

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Table of Contents
P
Section -
Title Page

INTRODUCTION

THEORY OF OPERATION
Introduction
Overview
Game Console
Outer Casting
Switchboard
:Motherboard
2600A Model Differences - All Revisions
2600A Model Differences - Revisions 14 and 15
2600A Model Differences - Revisions 16 and up
Summary

2 SCHEMATICS AND SILKSCREENS

3 TESTING AND TROUBLESHOOTING

Equipment Requirements
Test Procedures and Methods
2600 Model Modifications
2600A Model Modifications
Testing with the Diagnostic Test Cartridge
(Version 2.6)
Initialization
RAM Test
Color Bar Test
Gray Bar Test
magnostic Matrix Test
Audio Tones Test
Paddle Control Lines Test

2600 DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART

SYMPTOM CHECKLIST
2600 Symptom Checklist
2600A Symptom Checklist

2600A DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART

GAME CONTROLLERS
Overview
Joystick (X-Y)Controller
Joystick (X-Y)Controller Check
Paddle Controller
Paddle Controller Check
Driving Controller
Driving Controller Check
Keyboard Controller
Keyboard Controller Check
ATARI CX2600 (M/N) PARTS LIST
ATARI CX2600A (M/N) PARTS LIST

iii 2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Table of h n t e n t s

Section -
Title Page

9 SERVICE BULLETINS 9-1

List of Illustrations

Figure -
Title Page

2600 Functional Diagram

2600 Game Console
2600 Switchboard and Motherboard Assembly
TV Switchbox
2600A G a m e Console
2600A Board Layout

2600/2600A IC Pinouts
2600 Motherboard Silkscreen
2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Silkscreen
2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Schematic
2600 Channel 2-3 Switchboard Silkscreen
2600 Channel 2-3 Switchboard Schematic
2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 1-1 3 )
2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 14 and 15)
2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 16 and up)

Inserted in Front Pocket of Notebook:

2600 Motherboard Schematic

2600A Motherboard Schematic (Revs. 1-1 3)
2600A Motherboard Schematic (Revs. 14 and 15)
2600A Motherboard Schematic (Revs. 16 and up)

2600 Trigger Circuitry with Static Modification

2600 S t a t i c Modification Zener Diode
Location of Colored Dot Over T r a c e
2600 Switchboard Static Modification
2600A (Revs. 1-1 3 ) Static Modifications
Switch Initialization Positions
Defective R A M P a t t e r n s
Color Bars Screen
Grav Bars Screen
~ i a g n o s t i cMatrix Screen (Shorting Plugs OUT)
Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs IN)
Audio Tone Test Screens

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 List of Illustrations (Continued)

Figure Title Page

Switch Initialization Positions

Color Bars Screen
Defective RAM Patterns
Gray Bars Screen
Defective Gray Bars Screen
Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs OUT)
Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs IN)
Diagnostic Matrix Screen with Defective Pattern
Audio Tone Test Screens
RC Waveforms
STC Address Line Waveforms
STC Data Line Waveforms

Joystick (X-Y)Controller
Joystick (X-Y)Schematic
Paddle Con troller
Paddle Confroller Schema t i c
Driving Controller
Driving Controller Schematic
Keyboard Controller
Keyboard 'Xriring Diagram
Keyboard Schematic

List of Tables

-
Table ~iile Page

4-1 Connected Pins on VCS Motherboard 4-47

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 INTRODUCTION

The Video Computer systemT' (VCS) Field Service Manual is organized in nine
sections:

a THEORY OF OPERATION - overview of how t h e VCS works and w h a t t h e

basic assemblies look like.

a SILKSCREENS AND SCHEMATICS - e l e c t r i c a l drawings and layouts of t h e

printed c i r c u i t boards.

a TESTING AND TROUBLESHOOTING - overview of t h e procedures for

testing and repairing t h e VCS unit.

0 2600 DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART - thorough flowchart enabling t h e

technician t o test and troubleshoot a d e f e c t i v e 2600 unit.

0 SYMPTOM CHECKLIST - for the experienced technician, a list of t h e high

failure parts and t h e flowchart entry point for t h a t particular problem.

a 2600A DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART - thorough flowchart enabling t h e

technician t o test and troubleshoot a d e f e c t i v e 2600A unit.

a GAME CONTROLLERS -
overview of hand controller construction with
electrical schematics and recommended test and repair procedures.

.a PARTS LIST - detailed breakdown of all p a r t s used in both t h e 2600 and

2600A .
a SERVICE BULLETINS - section t o b e used t o hold service bulletins released
by the Manager of Technical Support. These bulletins will include c h a n g e s
in recommended repair procedures and required modifications for units in
t h e field.

T h e manual is designed for use by both experienced and inexperienced s e r v i c e

personnel. The Diagnostic Flowcharts (Sections 4 and 6) provide detailed diagnostic
and repair procedures for technicians who a r e not y e t completely familiar with t h e
VCS. The Symptom Checklist (Section 5 ) provides a f a s t repair reference for t h e m o r e
experienced technician.

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 SECTION 1

THEORY OF OPERATION

There a r e currently four types of ATARI Video Computer Systems. The original model
(2600) is composed of two PC Boards connected by a 12-pin ribbon cable with t h e
motherboard surrounded by a heavy aluminum casting.

The other models (2600A: Revisions 1-13, Revisions 14-15, and Revisions 16 and up)
a r e composed of a single board with a light aluminum shield. The single board models
differ slightly in the video output circuitry. Component differences are:

Revisions 1-1 3 have no diodes on TIA lines LA41 and Sync.

a Revisions 14-15 have diodes and pull-up resistors on TIA lines LMl and
Sync.
e Revisions 16 and up include the above mentioned diodes and resistors as
well a s a timer chip.

The revision level is etched directly on the PC board.

OVERVIEW

The ATARI Video Computer System (VCS) Models 2600/2600A a r e state-of-the-art

microcomputers. They receive instructions for t h e operation of different games from
individual Read-Only-Memory game cartridges and interpret data from t h e players'
hand-held controllers. They also allow game players t o select both a specific version
of each game and t h e player difficulty (on a per player basis). Figure 1-1 is a block
diagram of t h e functional flow of t h e VCS Model 2600. Section 7 describes t h e player
controllers. -

. brar
Ellmcutor
(AX, A d w m r t

1 2 0 VAC

Figure 1 -1. 2600 Functional Diagram

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 GAME CONSOLE

The VCS game console is composed of an outercasting t h a t houses the switchboard and
the R F radiation shielded motherboard.
Outer C a s t inq

The casting consists of t h r e e pieces of plastic (see Figure 1-2). The pieces include t h e
base, which holds t h e switchboard and motherboard assembly; the top; and t h e bezel.

Figure 1-2. 2600 Game Console

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Switchboard

The switchboard assembly holds t h e player option switches, t h e power supply, and t h e
RF modulator (See Figure 1-3).
0 PLAYER OPTION SWITCHES
Switches SlOL thru SL04 a r e double-pole, single-throw. Switches SL05 and
5106 a r e double-pole, double-throw. All switches a r e connected between
t h e switchboard and t h e motherboard by 1 2-conductor flexible ribbon
cable.

POWER SUPPLY
The power supply is composed of a +5 voltage regulator, filter capacitors,
and t h e power on/off switch. Unregulated D C is supplied t o t h e board f r o m
t h e battery eliminator. A supply of +5 volts is routed through a f i l t e r
circuit t o t h e R F modulator. The motherboard also receives i t s power (+5
volts Vcc) from t h e switchboard via t h e s a m e 12-conductor ribbon c a b l e
referenced above.

0 RF MODULATOR
The R F modulator. converts t h e signal received from t h e Television
Interface Adaptor chip on the motherboard t o a frequency t h a t a television
can receive and interpret. D a t a between t h e R F module and t h e Television
Interface Adaptor chip is passed via t h e 12-conductor ribbon cable which
connects t h e motherboard to t h e switchboard. A coaxial cable passes t h i s
siqnal from t h e RF module to the switch box mounted on t h e bac!c of t h e
television.

v mchm
Ilarq- mrd
(Amml
hm.r.1~

Figure 1-3. 2600 Switchboard and Motherboard Assembly

1-3 2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Motherboard

T h e motherboard is composed of a PC board containing a microprocessor (MPU) chip, a

combination Random Access Memory - Input/Output (RAM-110) chip, and a Television
Interface Adaptor (TIA) chip (see Figure 1-3). The board also contains numerous
capacirors, resistors, transistors, and other assorted electronic components. These
p a r t s a r e all listed in Section 8, PARTS LIST.

a MICROPROCESSOR CHIP
The heart of t h e VCS is t h e 6507 microprocessor chip (MPU). This device
makes decisions for the VCS based upon information i t receives from t h e
game cartridge and t h e RAM-I/O (discussed in t h e next paragraph).

RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY-INPUT/OUTPUT CHIP

Temporary storage of d a t a from the MPU is provided by t h e 6532 Random
Access ~ e m o r y - I n p u t / O u t p u t (RAM-1/01 chip. This chip also scans the
option switches and t h e joystick 1 / 0 lines for information and maintains
time accounting for t h e MPU.

0 TELEVISION INTERFACE ADAPTOR CHIP

This ATARI proprietary chip generates audio and video signals which a r e
required by t h e RF modulator. The Television Interface Adaptor (TIA) chip
also contains t h e analog-to-digital converter circuitry t h a t allows the MPU
t o understand signals originating in t h e h a n d h e l d paddle controllers.

TIA outputs a r e processed by additional circuitry into a composite video,

sound, and color signal which is routed to t h e RF module on t h e switch-
board via t h e 12-conductor ribbon cable. The RF module converts the
composite signal t o a R F signal acceptable t o t h e television. A coaxial
cable transmits this R F signal from t h e console t o a selection box t h a t can
be mounted on t h e T.V. This switchbox (Figure 1-41 allows you to display
either a signal received by t h e antenna (for normal T.V. viewing) or a signal
from t h e VCS (for playing a game).

Figure 1-4. TV Switchbox

1-4 2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A MODEL DIFFERENCES - ALL REVISIONS

The major difference between the newer single board VCS (2600A) and t h e original
VCS (2600) is t h a t all of t h e components formerly on t h e switchboard a r e now located
on the motherboard (See Figure 1-5). This includes the player control function
switches (Power ON/OFF, COLOR/BW, GAME SELECT and GAME RESET), RF
modulator and power supply circuitry. The single board design eliminates t h e need for
t h e ribbon cable, which connected t h e switchboard t o t h e motherboard on t h e 2600
VCS.

Gone, too, a r e the luminescence and RF output buffers and t h e two TIA input buffers,
a l l of which were contained in chip A203. In t h e oscillator circuit, one of t h e
transistors and its associated network has been eliminated and R227-R230 (paddle
control lines) are no longer present. C239, going t o pin 7 on J202 and 3203, has been
replaced by C236 and C237 (See Figure 1-6).

Figure 1-5. 2600A G a m e Console

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Figure 1-6. 2600A Board Layout (Revs 1-13)

In addition to the component changes, t h e physical location of several parts has also
been changed. Instead of having t h e right and l e f t difficulty switches placed on top of
t h e game, they a r e located at t h e rear of the console next t o t h e game controller
plugs. The channel selector switch is also located at t h e rear of t h e console. The
game cartridge socket is no longer angled, but is mounted vertically on t h e board.
2600A MODEL DIFFERENCES - REVISIONS 14 AND 15

Revisions 14 and 15 contain t h e model differences described above, and in addition

have new components on t h e TIA lines, LM1 and Sync. There a r e t w o IN914 diodes t o
prevent feedback on t h e lines and two additional pull-up resistors t o insure the signal
is a t +5v. To compensate for any signal loss, R215 and 217 have been changed t o 47K
(R215) and 24K (R217).

2600A MODEL DIFFERENCES - REVISIONS 14 A N D UP

Revisions 16 and up contain the model differences described above; they also include a
t i m e r chip (A205)added to t h e r e s e t circuitry of t h e MPU chip. This chip eliminates
t h e problem of power-on reset failures.

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 SUMMARY

The VCS is a microcomputer t h a t receives its operational instructions from s a m e

cartridges, the game console, and player controllers. The 2600 switchboard and
motherboard assemblies a r e housed within an o u t e r casting and a r e t h e principle
assemblies addressed in t h e remainder of this manual. The boards a r e connected by a
12-conductor ribbon cable which passes not only power, but also d a t a between t h e t w o
boards.

Three chips of t h e n o t h e r b o a r d allow for t h e interaction between t h e game and t h e

player. These chips a r e t h e microprocessor (MPU), t h e Random Access Memory-
Input/Output (RAM I/O), and the Television Interface Adapter (TIA) chips.

The 2600A model differs primarily in t h e location of the components formerly located
on t h e switchboard. They a r e a t t a c h e d directly t o t h e motherboard and eliminate t h e
need for t h e switchboard and the ribbon cable. The 2600A Revisions 14 and up include
even further additional components to improve t h e performance of t h e o u t p u t
circuitry.

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 SECTION 2

SILKSCREENS AND SCHEMATICS

On t h e following pages are representative silkscreens and switchboard schematics for

t h e ATARI Video Computer System. The motherboard schematics for all 2600/2600A
VCS models a r e located in t h e pocket at t h e f r o n t of this binder. Minor variations in
design may be encountered depending on t h e production date of t h e game, but these
schematics provide all details required for an in-depth understanding of all 2600 units,
including the various 2600 A model revisions..

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 VOLTAGE REGULATOR NAT. L.kt3kO
(Tap View) T.I. 78MC5C

A203
(Top View)

win version
(Channel 2 or 3) RF Moduiator
RF Mod. (TOOView)

Figure 2-1. 2600/2600A IC Pinouts

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Figure 2-2. 2600 Motherboard Silkscreen

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 The following variations may appear on t h e 2600 switchboard:

CHANNEL 3 SWITCHBOARD:

C102 may or may not be in place.

C103 and/or C104 may or may not be in place.
C103 and/or ClO4 may be mylar dipped .22 uf.
C103 and/or ClO4 may be c e r a m i c .Oluf (See Figures 2-3 and 2-4).

CHANNEL 2 OR 3 SWITCHBOARD:
The holes on the PC board for t h e CAME RESET and GAME SELECT
switches may not be wide enough a p a r t for the switch legs. To correct this
t h e legs of t h e switch must b e bent in so they fit into the holes (See Figures
2-5 and 2-6).

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Figure 2-3. 2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Silkscreen

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Figure 2-4. 2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Schematic

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 Figure 2-5. 2600 Channel 2-3 Switchboard Silkscreen

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 Figure 2-8. 2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 14 and 15)

2-1 1 2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Figure 2-9. 2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 16 and up)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 SECTION 3

TESTING AND TROUBLESHOOTING

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

You require eight basic pieces of equipment in o r d e r t o analyze failures in t h e

2600/2600A Video Computer Systems (VCS). These i t e m s include:

A 15 MHz oscilloscope

A Video C o m p u t e r System switchboard assembly t h a t is known to be

operating properly (not required for repairing 2600A units)

A Video C o m p u t e r System diagnostic t e s t cartridge, version 2.6 (DTC)

Two blue controller port shorting plugs for use with t h e 2.6 (DTC)
diagnostic c a r t r idge

Signal T r a c i n s C a r t r idqe (STC o r KLUGE)

VCS Field Service Manual for Domestic Model 2600/2600A

Color television s e t (properly adjusted)

Frequency Counter

2600/2600A Domesric VCS

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 TEST PROCEDURES AND METHODS

A t a r i requires e a c h 2600/2600A model returned for s e r v i c e t o b e checked for c e r t a i n

conditions. In some instances, a unit must be modified t o c o n f o r m t o Atari standards.
These changes a r e summarized below.

2600 MODEL MODIFICATIONS

0 Each 2600 model opened must be modified as shown in Figure 3-1 t o

provide additional protection from s t a t i c discharge.. A Zener diode is
connected b e t w e e n t h e trigger lines and ground, and s t a t i c strips a r e
placed on t h e s w i t c h e s on t h e switchboard (See Figures 3-1, 3-2 and 3-41.
These modifications a r e c r u c i a l t o prevent c o m p o n e n t d a m a g e d u e t o s t a t i c
discharge.

Each c o n n e c t o r a n d plug should b e checked for a tight, secure fit.

I n t e r m i t t e n t failures frequently result from a loose c o n n e c t o r or plug.

Connectors 3202 a n d 3203 should b e checked for pushed o r broken pins.

If t h e unit has a green 3200 connector, insert c a r t r i d g e and wiggle it. If

t h e unit shows i n t e r m i t t e n t problems, replace 5200.

Each board with Ltlolex chip sockets with insertion a i d s should have t h e
insertion a i d s removed and t h e chip reinserted.

Check t h a t a l l components (especially those on t h e p&imetei of t h e

motherboard) are properly soldered. Check for broken o r shorted t r a c e
lines.

Check for a n inductor and capacitor over C201 and R206. C u t t h e inductor
and c a p out, being c a r e f u l not t o c u t t h e C201 o r R206 leads.
If unit h a s a standup regulator and heatsink, inspect for hairline f r a c t u r e s
between t h e regulator and switchboard. Also e n s u r e t h a t t h e regulator is
firmly secured t o the heatsink by a Tinnerman clip or rivet.
Ensure t h a t motherboards (Rev. 8 or lower) have a colored dot over t h e
t r a c e on t h e upper-left corner of t h e board. This prevents shortinq t h e
board and t h e c a s t i n g (See Figure 3-3).

Two types of 12-conductor cable assemblies have been used on 2600 model
units, t h e flat-wire type and t h e ribbon type. When a d e f e c t is found in t h e
flat-wire t y p e c a b l e assembly or its male c o n n e c t o r on t h e switchboard,
t h e flat-wire c a b l e assembly should be replaced with t h e ribbon c a b l e
assembly and t h e 12-pin male switchboard c o n n e c t o r should b e replaced
with t h e 1 G i n f e m a l e switchboard socket.

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Figure 3-1. 2600 Trigger Circuitry with S t a t i c Modification

Install t h e s t a t i c modification on all 2600 units. Install CR202 nd CR203

by removing C236 and C237 and inserting the C2361CR202 and
C2371CR203 assemblies in their place (See Figure 3-2). CAUTION:
Observe t h e polarity on CRZ02 and CR203 (the dark band must be toward
t h e 3202/3203 connectors). On t h e switchboard, install t h e static strips as
shown in Figure 3-4.

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 Figure 3-4. 2600 Switchboard S t a t i c Modification

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 2600A MODEL MODIFICATIONS

Each 2600A ( R e v s 1-1 3) model must h a v e s t a t i c s t r i p s placed on t h e f r o n t

panel s w i t c h e s (See Figure 3-51.

a Check each c o n n e c t o r and plug for a tiqht, s e c u r e fit. Intermittent

failures frequently result f r o m a loose c o n n e c t o r o r plug.

a Check t h a t a l l cornponenets are properly soldered, and check for broken o r

shorted trace lines.

e If a unit exhibits RF i n t e r f e r e n c e t h a t d o e s n o t c l e a n up using normal

adjustment methods, o r if a series of lines and bright q r id distortions on t h e
screen are accompanied by a loud hum e v e n when properly adjusted, a
defective o r leaking c a p a c i t o r may be a t fault. Replace C24l (.I
microfarad) and/or C242 (-1 microfarad) located respectively between t h e
power jack and voltage requlator.

ing .

Figure 3-5. 2600A (Revs. 1-13] S t a t i c Slodifications

3-6 2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 TESTING WITH THE DIAGNOSTIC TEST CARTRIDGE (VERSION 2.6)

The 2600 D i a q o s t i c Test Cartridge (version 2.6 DTC) contains a varietv of tests t o
assist t h e service technician in identifying t h e source of problems within the VCS
switchboard and motherboard hardware. The test cartridge is used in conjunction with
t h e equipment listed a t t h e beginning of this section. Each test is reviewed in t h e
remainder of this section. Detailed procedures for use of t h e t e s t s a r e described in
Section 4, 2600 Diagnostic Flowchart, and Section 6, 2600A Diagnostic Flowchart.
The tests available in t h e c a r t r i d g e are:

a RAhi Test
Color Bar Test
a GrayBarTest
Diagnostic Matrix Test
a Audio Tones Test
Paddle Control Lines Test

The technician also has a Signal T r a c e Cartridge (STC or KLUGE) available for
tracking motherboard problems t h a t a r e not repairable with t h e Diagnostic T e s t
Cartridge.

a Purpose: To prepare t h e VCS unit for testinq by t h e diagnostic cartridge.

a Format: Connect VCS unit t o television and battery eliminator. S e t

television t o proper channel (channel 3). Plug in t h e 2.6 diagnostic
cartridge. Set all 2600 switches t o t h e up position. On t h e 2600A, set a l l
front panel switches up and rear panel switches t o the left (See Figure 3-6).

i n i t i a l l y to the l e f t

Figure 3-6. Switch Initialization Positions

3-7 260G/2500A Domestic VCS

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 RAM m T
Purpose: To t e s t t h e 6532 RAM chi0 for proper operation.
Format: On power-up t h e television displays diagonal lines of some type if
t h e RAM is defective. See Figure 3-7 for examples of screens indicating 2
defective RAM.

NOTE: The absence of defective patterns is no assurance that the entire

c h i . is sound, only the RAM. The operation of the I/O and Timer functions
is not verified by this test.

Figure 3-7. Defective RAM P a t t e r n s

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 COLOR BAR TEST

Purpose: To test t h e 6507 microprocessor, 6532 RAM - 1 / 0 chip, and TIA

chip for c o r r e c t operation.
a Format: Set all switches t o initialization position. A screen of horizontal
color bars is displayed (See Figure 3-81. The screen should b e steady and
unchanging. A gray or blue horizontal r e f e r e n c e line runs across t h e s c r e e n
about t h r e e bars from its bottom. This r e f e r e n c e line is thinner than t h e
bars around it. R211 (R213 on t h e 2600A board) should be adjusted so t h e
bars immediately above and below t h e r e f e r e n c e line a r e within o n e shade
of each other. Proper operation of t h e unit is indicated by being a b l e t o
make this adjustment and by consistent color within the entire span of e a c h
bar on t h e screen. Minor glitches on the edges of t h e color b a r s a r e
acceptable. Leave this t e s t on for at least t e n seconds in order t o c a t c h
any intermittent problems, such as a bar momentarily changing colors o r
blanking out.

NOTE: This figure is a black and white representation of a color television screen.

Figure 3-8. Color Bars Screen

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 GRAY BAR TEST

Purpose: To test t h e function of ?he luminescence lines (LLIO, L W , LV2)

from the TIA chip t o t h e RF Module.
Format: Move t h e Color/Black & White switch t o t h e Black and 'White
position. There should be eight horizontal gray bars displayed, going from
black at t h e t o p t o white a t t h e bottom in even gradations (See Figure 3-9).
The screen should be steady and unchanging. fhese lines may have minor
litches on their edges. A thin white line always appears just over the top
Sblack) bar. No color should appear anywhere on t h e screen. The areas
above t h e t o p (black) bar and below t h e b o t t o m (white) bar a r e of no
importance to t h e test. This test should b e l e f t on for at least ten seconds
to ensure t h a t t h e r e is no "flashing" of any color o r shifting of t h e gray
bars.

Figure 3-9. Gray Bars Screen

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 DIAGNOSTIC MATRIX TEST

Puroose: To t e s t t h e proper function of t h e Input-Output ports of t h e VCS

unit.

Format: Set all switches t o t h e initialized position, then move t h e L e f t

Difficulty switch t o t h e "8" position. The test is performed in t w o parts:

1. With t h e blue shorting plugs removed, t h e matrix of nine rectangles

on the screen should look like Figure 3-10.

2. The shorting plugs a r e t h e n inserted and t h e pattern should look like

Figure 3-1 1.

3. Press t h e CAME SELECT switch. If t h e switch is properly

functionins, t h a t a r e a s f t h e matrix will black out. Release t h e
GAME SELECT switch and r e p e a t t h e procedure with t h e G A V E
RESET switch.

The Ciatrix jumps o n c e every second.

Gr u n
Not Und

Plnk a Green
Not used

a, ;o'

Came CIma
kkct Rc¶et
hitch Svltch

Figure 3-1 0. Diagnostic Matrix Screen

(Shorting Plugs OUT)

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 Gem
Not UYed
Pink a Gmr
Not U r d

Gama
R m t
hrltch

Figure 3-1 1. Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs IN)

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 AUDIO TONES TEST

Purpose: To test t h e function of t h e audio tone generation and modulation

circuitry.

0 Format: The VCS unit should be in t h e initialized mode. Move t h e Right

Difficulty switch t o t h e "8" position. The test displays two alternating
patterns on t h e screen (as shown in Figure 3-12) while two alternating
tones a r e heard. The tones change in sync with t h e screen. This test
pattern continues for one full cycle a f t e r t h e Right Difficulty switch has
been returned t o t h e initialized position.

Figure 3-12. Audio Tone Test Screens

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 PADDLE CONTROL LINES TEST
a Purpose: To t e s t t h e proper operation of t h e Paddle Control Lines by viewing
the analog waveforms at t h e analog-to-digital conversion inputs of the TIA
- -
chip.

Format: Pins 37, 38, 39, and 40 of t h e TIA chip are checked with t h e
oscilloscope with t h e VCS unit in Diagnostic Matrix mode and with t h e
shorting plugs in place. This test is required only if t h e r e is a problem with
t h e hand controller lines. The procedure for this test is detailed in Section 4.

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 42a
Tlh
4040

COL

2600 Motherboard Schematic

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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine
 SECTION 4

2600 DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART

The Diagnostic Flowchart is intended t o be easy t o use and t h e primary aid when
troubleshooting the 2600. Follow t h e prompts in t h e order presented. When a quesrion
is asked, follow t h e line from t h a t box which best applies t o t h e unit's condition. The
figures referenced in t h e flowcharts a r e located at t h e end of this section. When a
line terminates with a l e t t e r inside a circle, note t h a t a page number (i.e., pg. 4-31 is
near it. Turn to t h a t page, locate t h e l e t t e r in another circle, and continue t h e
diagnosis. The flowchart leaves nothing t o chance, it tells you when t o perform a
specific test, and when t o replace components, and even when and how long to "burn-
in" t h e unit. "Burn-in" the unit for at least two hours a f t e r completing repairs.

When a problem is extremely difficult t o diagnose, t h e flowchart sends you to t h e

Signal Tracing Cartridge (STC) routine, "D"page 4-47. Due t o t h e repetitive n a t u r e of
t h e STC routine, no flowchart is used. Read and follow t h e instructions as directed.
Should t h e STC procedure fail t o isolate t h e problem, a f t e r carefully inspecting t h e
switchboard and motherboard assemblies for shorted and/or open t r a c e lines, and
solder bridges swap a l l t h r e e chips (6507, 6532, and TIA). Should t h e problem still
persist, call ATARI, Techline Specialist: Inside California a t (800) 672-1466 and
Outside California a t (800) 538-1535. Be certain t o always burn-in t h e unit for t w o
hours a f t e r completing repairs. This helps t o ensure t h a t intermittent problems a r e
found and also greatly increases your customer's satisfaction with your repair work.

SWAP OUT PROCEDURES

Many places in t h e diagnostic flowchart, a box tells you t o "swapout" a chip or a

number of chips in a order. The "swapout" instruction means t h a t you
should replace t h e indicated components one at a t i m e with a known sood component
of t h e same type. The VCS should then be t e s t e d with t h e new, known-good
component in place t o s e e whether t h e "swapout" solved t h e problem being checked. If
t h e swapout did not fix t h e problem, t h e known-good component should be l e f t in, a n d
t h e n e x t component inserted. Once t h e problem is solved, you then place t h e
suspected bad chips o n e by o n e into the system t o d e t e r m i n e whether o r not t h o s e you
pulled o u t a r e truly defective. In this way, you avoid needlessly replacine, gbod
components.
CAUTION
- - - - - - - -

Extreme care should b e taken when handling the integrated circuit chips (A200, A20 1,
AZ02, A203). They are all very sensitive to static electricity and can easily be
damaged by careless handling. Always keep the chips in their plastic carrier tubes or
on conductive foam when not handling them. Make c e r t a i n you are well grounded
when handling the chips. Atari strongly recommends that you wear a conductive
grounding band (which ties from your arm to ground) when handling the chips.

The chips are also susceptible to damage from stress when being removed from or
inserted into t h e sockets Always use a c h i p p u l l e r when removing t h e chips. Do n o t
pry chips out with a screwdriver or any other tool.

Failure t o follow the above guidelines results in unusually high chip failure rates and
extra expense. '

2600/2600A Domestic VCE

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 2600 Diagnostic Flowchart

Connect VCS to
N barmy elimi-
nator. Set TV to

I I
Insert Diagnostic
Catnidge (DTC),in-
it- (Figure 4-11
and aPn on.

I
I
b C S MY
fective RAM
P.mapQear
muse#r(sec
-
No
k picave
warped and ragged
on left side
of m?
Fig. 4-31.

Replace the A 2 0 2

II
Does unit now ~ I O W the; No
cobr bus panem?
5w-
I) A m
2) A202
- 9howtfitcobr
bars panern?
A
Y

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600 Diagnostic Flowchart (Continued)

i
P 2
Are color bars Are color bars
present? Yes properly adjusted? r
Yes
'See Figure 4-21. (See Figure 4-2)
b J m
I No No 1
Pg. 4-6
I

Is any other test

pattern on t h e
screen?
,Yes
4

Check your
switch settings. I
No
J
w
Are they correct?
(See Figure 4-4,
4-694-9)-
I

A a w
Pg. 4-7
Is there "snow" No Is ANY
on the s c r e w ? modulation
(no modulation) ~ r e s e n on
t screen? No

I
1

Check VCS
connections
1 w Pg. 4-9
t o TV and

Test VCS with

known good -
battery eliminator.

I IS "snow"on
screen gone?
Yes

Pg. 4-1 1

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 Bad Video Troubleshooting

procedure KO Bad switchboard

identify bad.

-
I
DotJ A203 have No Repair open trace. Yes
'
p o d V a (+Sv at Das unit now have
pin 8) and ground a picture?
(at pin 1I? ' b

I k a b 5 v pg
signal p m c n t
a t pin S of A203?
R c p k e A203.

pattern an the N?

Cheek R221, Is it Replace RZ21 1s a p i c w e

I Yes
OK? (33K) now pmmt on
b

I Yes

1
Chcck that
the trace line
from A201 pin 2
is not droned
toanother Line.

I
0 Pg. f6-4

Is a picture
now present on
the TV?
-
No Swapout
1) A200
2) A202
- b a picture now
present on the N? - Yes

No

Pg. 4-2

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 Gray Bars Test Procedure

Place color/
black & white
switch in B h W
.position.

Did screen pattern

change when switch Pg. 4-7
was moved ?

Is proper gray
bar pattern
present? (See
Figure 4-4).

Is a partial
segment missing
or is any color pg. 4-45
present? (See
Figure 4-51

2600/2600A Domestic V C

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 Color Bars Test Procedure

u and initialhe.

I Are color bars

mesent on screen?

Pq*4-2

Adjust R211 SO
that color is aligned
properly. (See
Figure 4-21. I
Is VCS tunable
to proper shades?

Pg. 4-23

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

-
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 Defective Switch Troubleshooting Procedure

With inqxrative
switcb ,in position
(open). u+Y: prnmt
at 3201 pin for that
switch?(See Chart)

bdvnotwpresent
a t the RAM pin No
h there an open
ktareen 1201 and
-
Yes
Repair open trace. - Does switch
now chnge
Yes

RAM pin? ~rm

for that switch? on screen?
(see chart) b
No I b

Yes

Yes
fhes ~witCfinow work? I

CONNECflON CHART

Pg. 4-7 and White

Lait Difficulty
Right Difficulty
kkt
Restt

2600/2600A Domestic VC

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 Defective S w i t c h Troubleshooting Procedure (continued)

Check RAM
(A2021 pin for
the switch for
+5v. Is it
present?
Pg.. 4-9

Check for shorted

trace Line. Repair
as necessary.

Does switch now

work?

2 Swapout A 2 0 2

Does switch
now work?

C h d whether capa-
citor on that RAM
line b shorted to
ground Replace as
necessary. Does switch
now work?

Pg. 4-2

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 Black or Solid Colored Screen Troubleshooting

Use swapout Defective switchboard

procedure to
identify which
board is bad.
Pg. 4-16
Defective .Motherboard
I
b J
Is 4-E, p-p
d2 signal Yes
p r e x n t on
A202 pin 392
Pg. 4-10

Is 4-5v p-0 1) X200

o x . signal 2) Q200
present betureen 3) 4201
C203 and R203? 4) Other Clock
Circuit Components
I
# v b -
Is 4 - j v p-p
o x . signai
p r e x n t on
pin 11 .4201?
0 Opm between
C203 and pin 1 I
A20 1.
- Reoalr -

I
Is (C-5v p-p
dO signal Does unit function?
1) A201
present on
pin 4 A201? 2 ) A200

I
L
Pin Q A201 shorted.
b
b 4-5v p-p Reoair
do signal
present on
pin 27 A200?
-
No Openbemeen
Pin 27 A200
and Pin 4 A20 1.
I

i b

Yes
I

b 4-5v p-p
d2 signal
p r e x n t on
-
No Swapout
1) A200
2) A202
- Does unit function? -
Yes

pin 28 AMO?

Pin 28 A200 is shorted.

b 4-5" & b

62 signal present
on A201 pin 26? -
N~ Open between
Pin 26 A201 and
Pin 28 AZOO.
L

I Ooen between
Pin 39 A202 and
pin 28 A200.

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 Black or Solid Colored Screen Troubleshooting (Continued)

I
a d
Is 4-5v p-p Open trace
. No
d2 signal I between pin 26
present on. A201 and pin 39
pin 26 A201? A202.
L b

Yes

Is there +5v and No

ground on all of I I
Open on line
AZOO, A201, A202, to +5 or ground. t
A203?
I

I Reset and ready

lines good? Open or shorted line.
t
Swapout
1) A200
2) A202

Does unit operate Pg* 4-45

properly?

n Repair

Pg. 4-2

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Snowy Screen troubleshoot in^ Procedure,
Motherboard

I
Use swapout Bad switchboard.
procedure to
. identify which
board is bad.
Pg. 4-18 Pg. 4-12
Bad motherboard.
I
Yes
1s +5v present
at J2Ol Pin I ?
i

L 4 J
No
Is there continuity Replice 520 1. Is modulation Yes
across 5201 pin 2? evident on
the TV screen?
i A
Yes No
r)
Check for open

00
Is +7.5-9.0~ Yes
present a t 3204 I trace line between I M
(the power jack)? J204 and J201.
Check at bottom
of board pg.4-ll -Pg. 4-1 1
*
No
1
d 7
Is 3204 OK? Yes Voltage shorted I I
Repair
to ground.
4 t b
I

4 Replace J204.

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 Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure,
Motherboard, (Continued)

& h b ' Yes

Is there No Replace connector. , I Is modulation
continuity evident on
across J201 i the screen?
Pins 1,3,6,
10,l l ?

*Caution:
Observe

I W
polarity of Is there Is there an
continuity continuity open trace on
checker. Do between +5V either +5v
=put + line and ground?* or ground?
I
probe on ground.
I Yes
No 1

Check for and

repair any shorted
traces or solder
bridges.

Is modulation
the TV screen?
Pg. 4-2

Check for and

rtplace shorted . I
I
caps: ~ 2 0 4 , ~ 0 1 , ~ 2 2 0 ,
C239,C200,CZl'l.

Is modulation
evident on Pg. 4-1 1
the screen?

Yes

Pg. 4-2

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 Bad/No Color, Bad/No Sound
Switchboard

b
I l
i L 1
Is RF mod Can unit b e
output tuned No tuned to No Replace RF I

to 61.25 MHz? 61.25 MHz modulator.

(Channel 3) ( 2 -15 MHz)?
b

Yes

No Is color Yes
I (or sound) I

now OK?
J
I
4 L

Short across
L 10I. Does color No Replace RF
I I I
(or sound) re- modulator.
appear?
w' L

u Replace LIOL.

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 Gray Bars Troubleshooting Procedure

r Isthere a 3-5v
p-p signai on the
A203 side of R222,
R223.R224?
-
Y e s Ohm meter. Replace any
failed or off-value
resistors.
Pg. b45

I Do a l l of pins 2,
12, and 15 on A203
have a signai present?
-
Yes There is an open line
between A203 and the
resistors. Fix it.

Pg. 4-5
I
I m
Check inputs of Yes
A203 (pins 3,11,14). Replace A203.
Does each have a 1
signal present?
Pg. 4-2

I
Do all of pins 5,7,8
on A20 1 have a signal
present?
'll Check for open
linesbetwen A201
and A203. Fix.
I

Pg. b 1 5

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 Gray Bars Troubleshooting Procedure (Continued)

& J
Picture Now Yes Go to matrix
OK? (See test. I

Figure 4-4)
I
A

Make sure 11218,

R219, R220 have
+Iv connected to
top side.

I
Check RZl8,RZl9,
RZ2O for proper

Inspect traces around

LM lines for shorts
or opens.

I Is picture now OK?

(See Figure 4-4)
Yes

'and then A202.

I
L J

Is picture now OK? Yes

(See Figure 4-41

Pg. 4-20

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 Colored Screen Troubleshooting Procedure
Switchboard

=? Bad Switchboard

Is +5v a t JlOl
Pin I ?

Pg. 4-17
4

Is RF mod. output Tune R F mod. If RF mod cannot b e

tuned to 61.25 MHz No at adjustment tuned to 61.25 MHz,
(channel 3 , + .I5 hole. replace it.
MHz) B
b

Is video Check for open trace

signal pre- or bad connection be-
sent at JlOl tween J2Ol and RF
pin 12? module pin.
Repair,

Is JlOl pin
12 shorted to . No ~ e f e c t i v 3101.
e
ground? Replace
P I

C h d c for shorted trace.

If none is found, the
RF module is shorted
and must be replaced.

Pg. 4-2

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 Colored Screen Troubleshooting Procedure,
Switchboard, (Continued)

)
Is +9v present Yes yes
at JlOl Pin 2?
Is ClO 1 shorted? L Replace C101.

-
v t b

I
I I Replace voltage
regulator (A10 1).
shorted to ground.
I

I
Check that C10 1,
C103, or C106
are not shorted.
Replace if shorted

P
If +9v is still
not present at
JlOl pin 2,
then r e p h c e
the regulator
(A101).

Pg. 4-20

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 Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure,
Switchboard

IS +5v present
at 3101 pin 1
on the switchboard?

Pg. 4-19
I

A 4
Is +5v at the RF Open between A10 1
modulator pin 3 pin 3 and RF Repair
(5 pin mod) module pin 3-
or pin 2 (3 pin mod)?

t Check for and

Does RF modulator
pin 1 have con-
No repair opens be-
RF module pin 1
and 3101 pins 6
-
tinuity to ground?
J L * and 10 (ground).
Yes

r-=
I RF module output
is tuned to 6 1.23
M H z . ( 2 -15 MHz).

If tbere is still .
a white screen, check
the JlO2 connector.
Replace as required.

r If no modulation,
the RF module is
bad. Replace.

I
I
Is there modulation?

-
A

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 Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure,
Switchboard, (Continued)

I
Is +5v a t the
output of the voltage
regulator (A101, pin 3)?

I
Is unregulated Check for
47.5-9v a t voltage bad regulator
regulator input (AlOl) or open
(A101, Pin l)? between ground
and A101.

-
I

-7.5-9v present yes

RephCe SiOl.
on the 3101 side of

I D o e s " r h
2 have
continuity?
( Yes

I Is JlOl pin 2
shorted to ground? l$l Replace 5 10 1.

Check that C103 or C106

u have not shorted to

ground.

i t r e ( )
Is there modulation?

0 Pg. 4-2

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 blatr ix Test Procedure

I
Initialize switches,
the? push "left"
difficuity swltCh
down.

I Does screen
match Figure 4-6?

Put in shorting
plugs.

Does screen
match Figure 4-7?

Pg. 4-23
Push down
"Game Select"
switch ( 5 106).
.

I
Did lower middle
block on screen
turn bia& in center?

"Reset"
switch (SlOS)

Does lo wet middle

block turn black on
left and right ends?
Pg. 4-7
Yes

Pg. 4-24

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 Color Troubleshooting Procedure,
?Jotherboard

tive switchboard.

X200 frequency 1
correct? Defective X200.

1 Yes

Is color very
weak or not present
at all?

1 Yes

-
Pg. 4-22

I
With RZll fully
countcrciockwix
is there 6.5-7.5~
on pin 10 A201?

b there +6-7v on Yes

I Defective
C208,C209,RZll
the cathode of CR201? or open trace
between CR2Ol
8 and pin LO A201.
No
I I

I 1s there a 3-5v P*
signal on cathode
Yes
A

Detective CR200. -
P

I signal on cathode
CRZOO?
Defective
CR20 1

Open or shorted
trace to diodes Replace or Repair
(CR2OO or CR20 1 )
A I Pg. 4-2

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 Color Troubleshooting Procedure,
Motherboard, (Continued)

Does screen
now have Pg. 4-2
color?

I
Is 305-5~
p-p signal pre-
sent between
C213 and R215?
1z,-Ih
I

b 3.5-5v p-p
signal prescnt
between C212
Defective C213 -
$

I and C213?
I

I k 3.5-5v p-p
signal present 4 Defective C212 u

shorted to another I

I Replace or Repair
I

Pg. 4-2

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 Defective Man ix troubleshoot in^ Procedure

R e s a n e r n may ?ave crrors,

3ur all n m e blocks are sresent
I
I
9
P a r t e m LS disrupted
blue or black iines
I
+
-- blue b b c k g r ~ dpanern
if (5 j w a o ~ t Yes
are .nusing or some disrupted? (See Fisure !) A200 L entirematrix
gortlon of m e .UPLX 3-8 for example Sad 2 ) A202 now on %reen?
farh to appear a\ me panem) 3) A201
N screen.

I3 upper left bbcK on

Pq. G 6

b
. i r e either me middle Swapou t
J
Are mtadle-left
lower or the l e f t lower 1 ) A202 m a lower-kvet
Yes
3- d e f u t r v e ? (See 2 ) A200 blocks now cor-
Figure 4-6 or 4-7 for 3) A201 r e c t (See Figure
correct p a n e r n ) a-6 or b 7 ) ?

'Jo

block d e f e c n v e ?

Pg. L 2 7 Pq. '(-26

I Is l o w e r - m ~ d d k
block defective?

Pg. b 2 7
-
A
Pg. b - 4

u
Pg. '(-20

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Audio Test Procedure

I
Reinitialize
switches. Press
down the '?right
difficulty " switch.

Is there a
clear tone?

1 Pg. 4-27

I
Use scope or
frequency counter
to measure frequenq at
emitter of QZOZ.

7)

Tune audio to
5.5 MHz by ad-
justing L2O 1.
h

I
Ad just to 2 .06 MHz.
Look for stable
f r tquency.

Can unit be
adjusted is
sound clear?

Pg. 4-28

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 Audio Test Procedure (Continued)

I Are the two

patterns in
Figure 4-9
alternating on
the screen?
Pg. 4-28
I Yes Pn. 4-24

Do the patterns
alternate with
the tones?

1 yes I I
A J b

Are both colors Swapout Are patterns

and tones con- I ) A201 I now correct?
sistent each No 2) A200
3) A202 (As in Figure 4-9)
cycle?

IYes
-1

Put switches
back to initialized
positions.
b

VCS will go
through o m last
cycle before changing
to color bar test.

Pg. 4-30

2600/2600A Domestic V C S
Changed per
ECN #0021
1/29/83
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 D e f e c t i v e 1/0Lines Troubleshooting Procedure

U e f e c t ~ v e2 0 2 Cap. Connector
De (ermine ( R A I M ) L ~ ~ ~ N o .No. PinNo.
which lines a r e 15 C235 3202-Pin u
defective by 14 C234 3202-Pin 3
referring to I3 C233 3202-Pin 2

. Check the lines

indicated as
defective for +Sv
a t 3202 or 3203
(See chart).

I
- -
b
J Swapout Does Diagnostic
Is +5v present Yes I ) A202 Matrix now look
on the linds)
A
just checked?
I
L
2 ) A200
3) A201
. cwrtct (See
Figure 4-6 or 4-7)?
I

*H
Ih- (A2021 pin. Is +5v
p r t x n t there?
berwecn A M 2 pin
and the 3203D203.
k1
-
( ~ h c d <trace lined.

-
I
Check trace l i n d s )
from defective pin(s) Yes
for rhora t o ground. Repair I

Are there any shorn?

Is +5v now Yes

present a t t h e
I A202 pin?
1
Replace the
capacitor on
that line (see chard.

I
Does the Diagnostic Swapout
Matrix screen now 1) A200
ook correct (see Fig. b-6) 2) A201

l Yes

2600/2600A Domestic VC5

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 Trigger Line Troubleshooting Procedure

I
-
L
3

-
b
ls +5v a t pin 6
of 3203 (right)
trigger) or 1202
- No
Check/repair trace lines
from: R225 to 3203, pin 6
(right), R226 to 3202,
Check for VMOD
(+Sv) a t top of
R225 (right) or
- L trigger Line
now operatins
correctly?
Yes

(left trigger)? pin 6 (left). R226 (left)

A A 1

.IYes
I
C

Repair open trace from:

1s +Sv a t A203
pin 7 (right
trigger) and pin 9
- No R225 t o A203
(right)
R226 to A203
- Is trigger Line
now operating
properly?
(left trigger)
(left)
* A i

-
I

) Yes 1
A I

I
1

-
t L 9 J
b 4.5-5v at Is trigger line
A203 pin 6 Swapout A203. n o r operating
(right) and No cofrectly?
in 10 (left)? I

Yes
L

Swapout A201
I

I
Docs trigger Yes
line now work I

swapout
I ) A200
2) A202
4 I

I
I Does trigger line
now W Q d pmperly?
'
Yes

Check/Rtpair
C236,CRZOZ
(left)
C237,CR203
(right)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Audio Troubleshooting Procedure,
.Motherboard

Switchboard

to isolate the bad board.

I BA mmcrbovd pg. e 13
J J

Isrhuea2vp-p
b
i
square wave whrd
alternates betweal
two frequencies on
- b one fre-
quencY aPWarh5
at the pin?
,.No Is +5v at the top
of R2081
NO Repair open trace
between 320 1 pin 1
and R201.
Pin 13 of A201?
I

Yes

Swapout A20 I.
b there continuity
from R208 to A201
pin 131
-
No Rep%r open between
R208 & A201
Pin 13.
-
_r _I L
I I
Yes
Swapart
A20 I.
Pg. 4-24
.
L

D o n square Fix open trace line

wave siqnal appear betareen C210 and AD
at C210? pin 12/13 or A201.
b

Pg. 4-24

k there a 4.5 MHz,

m d u h t d 1 -2v p-p No
audio signal a t C2 1 1
(either side)?
h
Pg. 4-29
Y er
I L
9
Is there now an alter-
Replace
1) all nating audio tone from
the N?
21 RZ16
Pg. 4-2

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Audio Troubleshooting Procedure,
Motherboard, (Continued)

I
Is there +5v
at one end of
L20 1?
W Repair trace
from VMOD (+5v)
to 1201. I
Check that L201
is good (has con-
tinuity and isn't
shoned or cracked). 1

I
If audio is still
dead, check the trace
lines around C211
for opens and strons:

Is there now
an alternating Yes
audio tone from
the TV?
Pg. 4-2

Pg. 4-28

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VCS

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 Cartridge Test Procedure

DTC works,
but VCS unit

I
P
Plug in customer Not Available
cartridge, if
available.
w 6
I Pg. 4-31
Available

Connect, initialize,
and turn VCS on with
customer's game
cartridge.

Do& correct
No
video pattern A

for that game

appear?
i
Yes
I
Play game. Does it ,' Yes
play OK?
a L

No Yes
Pg. 4-31 A

Swapout Does game

Check customer Yes I) A201 now operate
cartridge on known I
2 ) A200
I
properly with
good game. Is it OK? 3) A202 game cartridge?
rn b v
I

Replace with
good cartridge.

Pg. 4-45

Pg. 4-31

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Burn-In Procedure

Place customer cartridge

in game, if available.
Otherwise, use other
game cartridge.

Run game for 2

hours, minimum.
Do not turn off
during this period.

Check game's
operation.

I
Is game
working
properly? I
Pg. 4-2

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Defective Switch Troubleshooting Procedure

Put inoper-
ative switch in
up (open)
position.

I3201 pin for that switch

(see connection chart)?

Yes
Is trace
line shorted
to groud?
P Repair

b dv now
present on
J2Ol pin for
that switch
(see chart)?

I
Is o n side of
switch tied ,to
ground as Shown 2' Replace switch
in schematic? i

CONNECTION CHART
Does panun Switch 11 01 Pin No.
on Screen lad< h White 4
change when Left Difficulty S
switch b Right Difficulty 7
flipped? select 9
Reset 8

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure
a

9
Is there dv No
on J201
pin 12?

I
h
r
Is there +5v
NO
Is there
an open Line Yes Repair.
I
on pin 20 of I L

AZOI? between pin

20 and +5v?
J
1 I

Yes
I

Swapout A201. I w Is there

modulation?
A . Yes
m 4
1

L there continuity No
across 5201 pin 12? Replace J20 1

I
J s
Is J20l pin 12 Are C221 or
shorted to y e sJ Yes Replace
R223 shorted I
ground? (check to ground?
continuity) '
L t c h
I I
&
( No 1 No J

Check for
Swapout A20 1. solder bridges I I Repair I

or trace
shorts.
I b J

I
Swapout
Is there No 1 ) A200
modulation? 2) A202

Yes

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V C S

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 Paddle Lines T e s t

Put shorting
plugs in. Put
VCS into
Diagnostic
Matrix mode.

1
J

- '~c.~:~~~2~~~t &
#
Checx 3202/3203 for RC tiepav open
waveform (see Fig. 4-10). Yes
Is waveform present on
trace between
A201 and 12021
DO paddle lines now
work OK?
2
shown in the chart?
each of the pins shorn 3293. b b
in char??
I
Swapout
0 A201
2) A200
.
3) A202

I
Is there con-
tinuity between
the 1202 or 3203
pin (see chart)
-
No Check n a c e lines and
resistors for opens
and the A20 I? b

I Yes

kR C waveform appear Yes

rn
on the appropriate J202
o r J203 l i e ? (Set Chart)

Yes a
Line now work?

Repair r
or shorted.

pg. 4-2
Connection Chart

Pin Pin Pi Cap

-
Plaver
1
A201
40
-3202 203
5 - CZ15
2
3
4
39
38
37
-- -95
9 C216
C217
C218

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 NOTE: T h e following f i g u r e s a r e r e f e r e n c e d in t h e 2600/2600A Diagnosric Flowcharts,
Sections 4 and 6, and a r e included h e r e for your convenience. They c a n a l s o Se found
in Section 3, w h e r e t h e tests a r e described in m o r e detail.

i n i t i a l l y to t h e l e f t

Figure 4-1. Switch Initialization Positions

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 Figure 4-2. Color Bars Screen

NDTE: Set all switches t o initialized position. A screen of horizontal color bars is
displayed (see Figure 4-2). T h e screen should b e steady and unchanging. A gray or
blue horizontal r e f e r e n c e line runs across t h e screen about t h r e e bars from i t s bottom.
This reference line is thinner t h a n t h e bars around it. R211 (R213 on t h e 2600A board)
should be adjusted so t h e bars immediately above and below t h e r e f e r e n c e line a r e
within o n e shade of e a c h other. Proper operation of t h e unit is indicated by being able
t o make this adjustment and by consistent color within t h e e n t i r e span of e a c h bar on
t h e screen. Minor glitches on t h e e d g e s of t h e color bars a r e acceptable. Leave this
test on for a t least t e n seconds in order t o c a t c h any i n t e r m i t t e n t problems, such as a
bar momentarily changing colors or blanking out.

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VCZ

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 ANY DIAGONAL LINES ON THE SCREEN INDICATE A FAILURE IN THE RAlU CHIP
(A2'02).

Figure 4 - 3 . Defective RAM Patterns

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Figure 4-4. Gray Bars Screen

The gray bars screen h a s e i g h t horizontal shaded bars. I t is normal for t h e bars t o
have some uneven a r e a s on their upper and lower edges. The bars must appear (in
descending order) a s going f r o m black t o white in even steps. The s c r e e n may not have
a n y color in it. All e i g h t b a r s must b e consistent in their shade across t h e e n t i r e bar.
-. --

lhe a r e a of t h e screen outside t h e bars is irrelevant. The white line immediately

a b o v e t h e top bar (black) is normal. This screen tests t h e operation of t h e chip set,
especially t h e TIA (A202).

2500/2600A Domestic VCS

-
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 Figure 4-5. Defective Gray Bars Screen

This screen shows an example of a defective gray bars test screen. The appearance of
a black rectangle in t h e middle of a light gray bar means t h a t t h e data for t h a t p a r t of
t h e screen has failed t o be translated properly t o the TV. Any disruption of t h e
standard gray bars pattern (See Figure 4-4) or any color in the gray bars screen
indicates a failure.

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Gem
Not Urd

Figure 4-6. Diagnostic Matrix Screen

(Shorting Plugs OUT)

The Diagnostic Matrix Screen appears a s above, on a black background, when the
shorting plugs are not inserted. The three left rectangles and the blue/black grid
joinin them indicate t h e status of the 110 line connections to the 6532 RAM chip
(A2028.

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine
 Cr een
Not Used

Pink a Getn
Not U d

Cunc Came Game Gem

R e t kka R e xt Not U A
Switch Switch Switch

Figure 4-8. Diagnostic Va t r ix Screen

with Defective P a t t e r n

Any missing grid lines or disrupted rectangles indicate an I/O line failure (see page 4-26).
Any missing or disrupted blue o r black reference lines indicate t h a t t h e r e has probably
been a microprocessor failure (see page 4-23).

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 Figure 4-9. Audio Tone Test Screens

The test displays two alternating patterns on the screen (as shown in Figure 4-9) w h i l e
two alternating tones a r e heard. The tones change in sync with the screen. This test
pattern continues for one full cycle a f t e r t h e Right Difficulty switch has been
switched to stop t h e test.

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 2ms/div.
Iv/div .
P i n 37 and P i n 39

Zms/div.
Iv/div.
Pin 38 and P i n 40

Figure 4-10. RC Waveforms

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 The Signal Tracing C a r t r i d g e (STC) is used t o l o c a t e easily open o r shorted t r a c e s in
t h e address and d a t a lines of t h e 2600/2600A. The STC c a u s e s t h e 6507
microprocessor (AZOO) t o c y c l e through the e n t i r e memory space while executing "no
operation" instructions. This is valuable because it puts a known signal on e a c h
address and d a t a line. Then t h e signal c a n be t r a c e d through t o t h e JZOO connector,
t h e TIA and RAM-I/O chips.

Since t h e STC procedure is n o t easily reduced t o a flowchart, i t is presented as a

series o f w r i t t e n instructions and illustrations on t h e following pages.

CAUTION: The STC procedure requires t h r e e known-good chips and a working clock
circuit. The STC should only be used after all o t h e r procedures have been tried.

GETTING STARTED

Insert t h e STC into t h e 2600/2600A. Turn on t h e unit. T h e television screen should b e

g r a y o r black. If it is "snowy" it indicates t h a t you should return t o t h e s t a r t of t h e
Diasnostic Flowchart. S e t t h e scope sweep t o .5 microsec/division and s e t t h e v e r t i c a l
t o 1 volt/division.

ADDRESS LINES AB@- AB12

C h e c k t h e address lines a t - t h e microprocessor (H200). Check address lines, s t a r t i n s

wirh pin 5. A signal with a waveform similar t o those shown in Figure 4-1 1 should b e
s e e n on t h e address lines, with e a c h succeeding address line's waveform having a
frequency half t h a t of t h e line before it. For example, A1 should b e half t h e
frequency of .A@. If o n e o r m o r e of t h e address lines shows no signal, it is likely t h a t
t h e line is either open or shorted t o ground or +5v. Check all t r a c e s and pins for
shorts.

If you have a d e f e c t i v e address line and it is not open o r shorted, swapout t h e A200,
A202 and A201, in t h a t order.

If a l l address lines have signals, t r a c e those signals t o t h e JZOO and t h e o t h e r chips.

Table 4-1 illustrates which address lines c o n n e c t t o which pins on 3200, 6532, and t h e
A . The signal present on e a c h address line of t h e microprocessor should also b e
p r e s e n t on each pin of 3200, 6532, and t h e TIA c o n n e c t e d t o t h a t line. If t h e s a m e
signal is not found, t h e t r a c e line and/or solder joints between t h e microprocessor and
t h e dead pink) is (are) broken. Check t h e t r a c e lines carefully t o locate t h e break.

DATA LINES DBO-7

S e t t h e v ~ r t i c a on
l your scope t o Zv/division. T h e d a t a lines a r e t e s t e d very much like
t h e address lines. The only d i f f e r e n c e is t h a t t h e waveform seen on t h e d a t a lines is
different. The signals you should s e e a r e illustrated in Figure 4-12. If any d a t a lines
a r e completely inactive (simply remaining a c o n s t a n t voltage), i t probably means t h a t
t h e line is either open or shorted t o ground or +5v. Check t h e t r a c e s and pins f o r
shorts. If none a r e found, o n e of t h e t h r e e chips or t h e STC itself probably has a n
P internal short. Try swapping o u t t h e 6532, TIA, and t h e microprocessor. Also
carefully check J2OO for s h o r t s b e t w e e n pins.

4-45 2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V C S

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 If a l l d a t a lines have signals, t r a c e those signals t o JZOG and t h e o t h e r chips. Table 4-1
illustrates which lines c o n n e c t t o which pins of 3200, 6532 and t h e TIA. The signal
p r e s e n t on e a c h data line of t h e microprocessor should also b e p r e s e n t on each pin of
3200, 6532 and the TIA c o n n e c t e d t o t h a t line. If t h e s a m e signal is not found, t h e
t r a c e line and/or solder joints b e t w e e n t h e microprocessor and t h e dead pin(s) i d a r e )
broken. Check t h e t r a c e l i n e s carefully t o locate t h e break.

Address lines @, 7-12 Address Lines 1-6

1vldivision 1v/division

Figure 4-1 1 . STC Address Line Waveforms

I
'
I

t 1
. , I ! ,

D a t a Lines 0,2, and 4 D a t a Lines 1,3,5-7

2v/division 2v/division
2 ms./division 2ms./division

Figure 4-12. STC D a t a Line Waveforms

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 TABLE 4-1

Connected Pins on Motherboard

ADDRESS A20 2 A202 5200

LINES (TIA) (RAM) Connector

ABO . 5 32 7 8

DATA LINES:

DBO 25 14 33 9

-- Indicates no connection on that line

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VC5

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 SECTION 5

SYMPTOM CHECKLIST

The Symptom Checklist is designed to assist t h e experienced technician arrive at a

rapid diagnosis of VCS problems. The checklist is not intended t o replace t h e
Diagnostic Flowchart as the primary troubleshooting guide, b u t is designed t o
supplement t h e flowchart.

Symptoms have been divided into six general categories of failure:

Logic

Video

a Color

a Audio

Controller

a Other

Each symptom is accompanied by some possible cuases and t h e best point t o e n t e r - t h e

Diagnostic Flowchart t o locate t h e problem.

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600 FAILURES

LOGIC FAILURES

DIAGNOSTIC
POSSIBLE CAUSE POSSIBLE CAUSE FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM (mother board) (switchboard) ENTRY POINT

Solid colored A200, A202, TIA A101,RFModule J,pg.4-9

screen X200, 4200, 4201,
open o r shorted
Address or D a t a line

Vertical lines ,4200, A201, A202, J, pg. 4-9

5200, open or
shorted Address or
Data line

VIDEO FAILURES

DIAGNOSTIC
POSSIBLE CAUSE POSSIBLE CAUSE FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM (mother board) (switchboard) ENTRY POINT

Snowy screen no power, A203 A101, L101, R F L, pg. 4-1 1

5201, J204 Module, J 10 1
Weak picture N/ A LlOl,RFModule, X,pg.4-18
RF Cable
Wronrg Gray Bars A201, A203, P, pg. 4-14
R 2 18-R220

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600 FAILURES (Continued)

CDLOR FAILURES

DIAGNOSTIC
POSSIBLE CAUSE POSSIBLE CAUSE FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM (motherboard) (switchboard) ENTRY POINT
No color L101, RF Module AA, pg. 4-21
RF Cable
Only t h e C208, R211 N/ A RA, pg. 4-21
reference
bar appears

Color won't R211, C208, C209 N/A AA, pg. 4-21

ad just

V e a k color C212, C213, R215 RF Module, LlOl AA, pg. 4-21

I
R F Cable

AUDIO FAILURES

DLAGNOSTIC
POSSIBLE CAUSE POSSIBLE CAUSE FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM (motherboard) (switchboard) ENTRY POINT
No audio C206, C207, L201 RF module AH, pg. 4-25
adjustment, 4 2 0 2 adjustment

'Afeak audio ,4201, C206, C207, XF module AH, pg. 4-28

L201 adjustment, adjustment
C20 1

DTC audio .42C11, A200, A202 N/ A AD, pg. 4-24

test fails

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600 FAXLURFc (Continued)

CONTROLLER FAILURES

DIAGNOSTIC
POSSIBLE CAUSE POSSIBLE 'CAUSE FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM (motherboard) (switchboard) ENTRY POINT
F i r e button A203, 5202, 5203, N/A AG, pg. 4-27
does not work defective Controller

Joystick does A202, 5202, 3203, N/A AF, pg. 4-26

not work defective Joystick

Dr ivin? A202, J202, 5203 N/ A AF, pg. 4-26

Cunlroiier s defective Con troller

Paddle A20 1, C215-C218, N/ A pg. 4-34

Controllers 5202 - 3203,
defective controller

OTHER FAILURES

DIAGNOSTIC
POSSIBLE CAUSE POSSIBLE CAUSE FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM (motherboard) (switchboard) ENTRY POINT
Switches A202, C222-C227 S102-S106, JIOl AL, pg. 4-32
not working

2600/2600A Domestic V C S
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 2600A FAILURES

LOGIC F.ULURES (2600A)

DIAGNOSTIC
FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSE ENTRY POINT

Solid colored A200, A202, A20 1, I, pg. 6-10

screen X200, 4200,
RF Module

Vertical lines A200, A201, A202, I,pg. 6-10

3200, open or
shorted Address or
Data line

VIDEO FAILURES (2600A)

DIAGNOSTIC
FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSE ENTRY POINT

Snowy screen A203, 5201, K, pg. 6-12

RF Vodule, L205

Weak picture RF Module, RF Cable K, pg. 6-12

Vrong Gray Bars M, pg. 6-14

Revisions 1-1 3

Wrong Gray Bars N, pg. 6-15

Revision 14

Warped picture C, pg. 6-4

Revisions 1-13

Warped picture C l , pg. 6-5

Revision 14

.. 2600j2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A FAILURES (Continued)

COLOR FAILURES (2600A)

DIAGNOSTIC
FLOW CHART
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSES ENTRY POINT

No color X200, A201, C210, C211 P, pg. 6-16

RF Cable

Only t h e
reference bar appears

Color won't P, pg. 6-16

a d just

Weak color RF Module, C210,

C211, RtlO, RF Cable

AUDIO FAILURES (2600A)

DIAGNOSTIC
FLOW CHART
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSES ENTRY POINT
No audio C206, . C207, 4 2 0 1,
4
R F Module ad just ment
Weak audio A201, C208, R207, X, pg. 6-24
C2O6, C207,
R F Module adjustment
Diagnostic test X, pg. 6-24
cartridge audio
test fails

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 2600A FAILURES (Continued)

CONTROLLER FAILURES (2600A)

DIAGNOSTIC
FLOW CHART
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSES ENTRY POINT
Fire Button 5202, 5203 W, pg. 6-23
does n o t work Defective Controller

Joystick does A202, 5202, 5203, V, pg. 6-22

not work Defective Joystick

Driving A202, 5202, 3203, V, pg. 6-22

Controllers Defective Controller

Paddle pg. 6-29

Controllers 3202, 3203,
Defective Controller

OTHER FAILURES (2600A)

DIAGNOSTIC
FLOW CHART
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSES ENTRY POINT

Switches G, pg. 6-8

not working

2600/2600A Domestic VCS-

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 SECTION 6
2600A DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART

T h e Diagnostic Flowchart is intended t o be easy t o use and t h e primary aid when

troubleshooting t h e 2600A. Follow t h e prompts in t h e order presented. The figures
r e f e r e n c e d in t h e flowcharts a r e located a t t h e end of Section 4, beginning on page 4-37.
'When a question is asked, follow t h e line from t h a t box which best applies t o t h e unit's
situation. When a line t e r m i n a t e s with a l e t t e r inside a circle, n o t e t h a t a page number
(i.e., pg. 6-3) is near it. Turn t o t h a t page, l o c a t e t h e l e t t e r in a n o t h e r circle, and
continue t h e diagnosis. The flowchart leaves nothing t o chance, i t tells you when t o
perform a specific t e s t , and when t o replace components, and even when and how long t o
"burn-in" t h e unit. "Burn-in" t h e unit for a t least t w o hours a f t e r completing repairs.

When a problem is e x t r e m e l y difficult t o diagnose, t h e flowchart sends you t o t h e Signal

Tracing Cartridge (STC) routine, "D",page 4-47. Due t o t h e repetitive n a t u r e of t h e
STC routine, no flowchart is used. Read and follow t h e instructions as directed. Should
t h e STC procedure fail t o isolate t h e problem, a f t e r carefully inspecting t h e
motherboard assembly for shorted and/or ooen t r a c e lines a n d solder bridges, s w a p a l l
t h r e e chips (6507, 6532, and TIA). Should t h e problem still persist, call ATARI, Techline
Specialist: Inside California a t (800) 672-1 466 and Outside California a t (800) 538-1 535.
Be c e r t a i n t o always burn-in t h e unit for two hours a f t e r completing repairs. This helps
t o e n s u r e t h a t i n t e r m i t t e n t problems a r e found and also greatly increases your
c u s t o m e r ' s satisfaction with your repair work. ,

SWAP OUT PROCEDURES

Many places in t h e diagnostic flowchart; a box tells you t o "swapout" a chip or a number
of chips in a particular order. The "swapout" instruction means t h a t you should r e p l a c e
t h e indicated components one a t a t i m e with a known good component of t h e s a m e type.
The VCS should then be t e s t e d with t h e new, known-good c o m ~ o n e n tin place t o s e e
w h e t h e r t h e "swapout" solved t h e problem being checked. If t h e s w a p o u t did not fix t h e
~ r o b l e r n ,t h e known-good c o m p o n e n t should be l e f t in, and the- next component inserted.
O n c e t h e problem is solved, you t h e n place t h e suspected bad chips one by o n e into t h e
s y s t e m t o determine whether or not those you pulled o u t a r e truly defective. In t h i s
way, you avoid needlessly replacing good components.

CAUTION:

Extreme care should be taken when handling the intergrated circuit chips (A200, A201,
A202, AZ03). They are all very sensitive t o static electricity and c a n easily be damaged
by careless handling. Always keep the chips in their plastic carrier tubes or on
conductive foam when not handling them. Make certain you are well grounded when
handling the chips. Atari strongly recommends that you wear a conductive grounding
band (which ties from your arm to ground) when handling the chips.

The c h i p s are also susceptible t o damage from stress when being removed from or
inserted into the sockets. Always use a chip-puller when removing the chips. Do not pty
chips out with a screwdriver or any other tool.

Failure to follow the above guidelines results in unusually high chip failure rates and
extra expense.
P

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VCS

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 2600A Diagnostic Flowchart

Visually in& switches,

I
jacks and connectors
Makeccnainno rhocted
oc opn traces or solder
bridg- are on the
board(s1.

T
f bancry elimi-
nator. Set TV t o

n
In- Diagnostic
Caruidge (DTC), in-
itialize (Figure b-1)

Does any dt-

Is picture
P a m appeu on left side Pg. 6-5
onxsmn(xt
Fig. 4-31. of sixem?
C - 2600A R e v s 1-L3
-
C1 2600A Revs 14 and up

I
~unitnow&owthc
color bars pattun?
>
No
b

swapout
1) A200
2) A202
- Does unit now
show the color
bars pattern?
J
No

I
8 & b I .

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A Diagnostic Flowchart (Continue?)

Pg. 6-7

- Are color bars Are color bars

present? .Yes properly adjusted? Pg. 6-6
(See Figure 4-21. (See Figure 11-21
4 h
No

Is any other test Check your No

pattern on the , Yes switch seeings.
screen? Are they correct?
( S e e Figure 4-4,
44,409).

present on screen?

1 Yes

I
Check VCS
' connections Pg. 6-10
to N and
cfiannel setting.

Test VCS with

known good -
battery eliminator.

I
I
IS -"snow"on Yes
r
screen gone?

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V C S

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 2600A Bad Video Troubleshooting (Loss of Sync.)
(Revisions 1-1 3)

R F module tuned to Can R F module be

61.25 MHz? (Channel 3) properly tuned? Replace R F module

Yes Yes
1

Tune R F module

I
a J

3.5-5VP-Psignal Yesp Defective R217 or

on A201 side of R217. I
bad ,4201.
v'
a

Yes
Good video

No

Defective
R22 1
I b
I
n Rep lace

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 2600A Bad Video Troubleshooting (Loss of Sync.)
(Revisions 1 4 and up)

I
R F module tuned to
6 1.25 MHz, Channel 3 ;' '
No Can R F module b e
properly tuned?
No
Replace R F module. -
I
Yes

Tune R F module.

'
T
b b

3.5-5V P-P signal Yes D e f e c t i v e R217 or

on A201 side of R217. d e f e c t i v e CR203.
or d e f e c t i v e A20 1.
d

Swapout

+
1) A201
2) A200
3) A202

Good video: Yes - ,

Defective
R221 o r R23(

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 2600A Gray Bars Test Procedure

Place color/
black & white
switch in B&W
posit ion.

Did screen pattern

change when switch Pg. 6-8
was moved ?

Yes
L

Is proper gray
bar pattern Pg. 6-13
present? (See
Figure 4-4).

Is a partial
segment missing
or is any color Pg. 4-45
present? (See
- Figure 4-51

-
Pg. 6-14 or 6-15
M 2600A Revs. 1-13
-
N 2600A Revs. 14 and up

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A Color Bars Test Procedure

Reconnect VCS
and initialize.
I
Are color bars
present on screen?

( yea Pg. 6-2

I Adjust R213 so that color I

I I
is aligned properiy
(See figure 4-2).

6 4
1s VCS tunable
to proper shades?
& b

No
Pg. 6-6

Pg. 6-14 or 6-15

M - 2600A Revs. 1-1 3
-
N 2600A Revs. 14 and up

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V C S

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 2600A Defective Switcn Troubleshooting

CONNECTION CHART
A202
Switch Pin No.
Color/~lack and
White 21
Left Difficulty 17
With inoperative switch Right Difficulty 16
in open position, is there Select 23
+5v present at the A202 Reset 24
side of it?
9Pg. 6-9

1 Close the switch.

I

Is there an open between 1s switch connected to Yes r

A201 and that switch? ground on other side?

I
Replace switch.

fl

Yes

0 Repair trace.

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A D e f e c t i v e Switch Troubleshooting ( C o n t i n u e d )

Is switch internally Yes

shorted? Replace switch.
I
&

I Is cap on that line shorted ,Yes

t o ground? (See chart)

/Is there +5v on the RAM Swapout

pin for that switch? 1) A202
(See chart) 2) A200
3) A201 CONNECTION CHART
A202
Switch Pin No.
lack and
I White 21
L
I Left Difficulty 17
Right Difficulty 16
Open between RAM pin Select 23
and inoperative switch. Reset 24

d A

0 Repair

Pg. 6-2

2600/260014 D o m e s t i c VC:

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 2600A SoLid Colored Screen Troubleshootinq

-
I

-
4 1 L

!s L-lv p+ QO siqnal Swapout No

?resent on pm i AZOl?
1) A200 Does unit ~W-IO~? Pin b A201 snorted.
. J
2) 4202
I
I J
I
b

Yes

Pg. 6-2
I
1s 4-Sv p-p slqnal
xesent on DUI 27 A2OO?
pen between pm 27 .+ZOO;,
and pm A201.
1 Reoav -
J

1 J

IS b-sv p+ S)Z siqnal

x e m r on pm ZS .4200?
1
2
'
Swapour
1 ) A201
2) ,420fl
- Does unit function? '
Yes

Yes
Pin !S AZOO saortcd ,
to ground. Reoair.
I
Is JS-v p-p 9 2 signal
aresent on pin 26 A2011
2 beween Pm 26
A201 and pin 28 A2(XI.

ye5
J

Open oerwccn pin 39 A202

and pm 29 A200.
h

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 2600A Solid Colored Screen Troubleshooting (Continued)

I Is 4-5v p-p @2 signal

present on A201 pin 26?

Yes
Open t r a c e between pin
26 A201 and pin 39 A202.
t
+ J

Is there +5v and ground NO Open on Line to +5v or

on all of A200, A201, ' ground, or bad regulator.
A202, A203?

1 L r
No
Reset ready Lines good? Open or shorted line.

I Swapout
liAZ00 I

Does unit
operate proper fy ?

I yes pg. 4-45

r Repair

260012600A Domestic V C S

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 2600A Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure

1
-
? J +

yo Jpen b e w e e n A203
1s - 5 v present on ourpur 1s there +jv on in b kr ~205
defective? ourput and RF moaule I i
of .\203? RF module! pin 4.
b h b
Yes
b b
R e p l a c e RF module or , Repair
bad R F cable? RepLace L205.
No J
I D A L
1 I

4
pen between 3201 and in
7.5 unrequiated on 3201? put A203. Repair
b
I
No

- 5 v h o r r e d ro qround? Repair

Swawut
1) ,4201
21 A200
3) A202

Yes
.Anv modulation?

Defective 220 1.
A
i

u Replace

Pg. 6-2

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 2600A klatrix Test Procedure

teen push "left"

dlff~cultyr w ~ t c h.

Does screen
match Figure rb?

Put in shortin3 1I

Does screen
match Figure 4-7?

Pg. 6-16

"Came Select"

Did Lower middle

block on screen
nun black in center?

Push down
"9eset"
switch (SLOS)
b

Does lower middle

block turn black on

Pg. 6-8

Pg. 6-17

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A Gray Bar Troubleshooting Procedure
(Rev isions 1-1 3)

Check R214, R15, and

signal on t h e A20 1
side of R214, R215,
and R216?
-
Yes R216 with meter for
correct value.
Replace any defective

{
I
fs there 3-5v P-P yes Open between A2I 1 Repair
signal on the A20 1 and that resistor.
pin corresponding to
t h e resistor that had
no signal?
I

Check pullup resistor

R218, R219, or R220
on that line to insure
resistor is good and
one side is connected
to +5v.

I
L P
Resistor Replace
Defective?

Yes

Pg. 6-2

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A Gray Bars Troubleshooting Procedures
(Xevisions 1 4 and up)

R214, R15, and

'(

a I signal on the A20 1

sideofR210,R215,
and ~ 2 1 6 ?
n
K L d~ with meter for
correct value.
--I-
c e any defective
components.

Is there 3-5v P-P

signal on the A20 1
Open between A201
and that resistor or
defective Cii202
Repair -
;

1 pin corresponding to
I if L.M 1 is bad.
I
u the resistor that had
no signal?

Check pullup resistors

R218, R219, or R229
on that line t o insure
resistor is good and
one side is connected
to +5V.

J
Resistor I
Yes I Replace
Defective?

Pg. 4-45

Pg. 6-2

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V

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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine
 2600A Color T r o u b i e s h o o t i n ~(Continued)

5wa~our
Does voltaqe vary beween Yes Is V290 frlnutncy Yes !) A291
2 4 5 v o n o m !C) of ' , 3.5795 MHz? 2 ) 4290
vnen R213 u rotarea? 3 ) A292

w 8 i A

t-L
* I

Turn a213 fuUv clockwise.. 3tolace YZPO.

i .
I
4 1 r L w

Yes
!s tnere 6 v on anode of i)e:ec:lve R213 or ooen Reuar or Replace
C.9290? D c W m R7 me AZOl.

.' I

5 . 5 ~on anoae of CRZO 1 ?

Yes
Is a212 ~ood?
. Yes
Defecnve CBZOO.

A b

I I
&

h e n xrween - 5 h CX201 Repau x Replace

J J I
1

26G012600A Domestic VC,C

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 2600A Color Troubleshooting (Continued)

1 J

Y Y O frquencv
3.5'95 :.:Ok ?
V~ ,
D e fecrive
1 ) Y200
2 ) Q200 dr Q20
Replace -
b b
1
J Yes
I
i t b J

'40
Is RF frequency Can RF Module be
Replace RF module.
61.25 WHz 5 .IS? tuned properly?

i b
I
Yes

-
i f une RF module.

Is XF cabk good?
I Reohct
No

2600/2600A Domestic VC:

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 2600A Defective Matrix Troubleshooting Procedure

The panern may i a v e errors,

but all nine bloc~sare xesent
on screen.
4

?artern LS disrupted
if blue or black lines Is blue black grid panern Swapout Yes
k entire mauix
are missing or some dhrupfed? (See Figure 1) A200 now on screen?
portmn of the Mauix b 8 for example bad 2) A202
faiis TO appear on the pattern) 3) A20 1
i b 4
TV screen. d
1 1 Yo

Is upper Left block on

screen defective?
( S e t Figure 4-6 or 4-7
ior correct oartern)
Pg. 6-22
0Pg. 4-45

Is upper-m iddle
b b c k defecrive?

Pg. 6-23
6Pg. 6-22

1s middle-middle
block aefecrive?
Swapour
1) A200
21 A202
- [S middle-middle
block now OK?
Yes

3) A201
a J
I

k lower-middle
block defective?

Pg. w5

Pg. 6-13

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A Audio Test Procedure

Reinitialize switches.
Slide the right
difficulty switch to
the right.

Is there a
clear tone?

I I
Use scope or
frequency counter
to measure frequency
a t emitter of 4201.

Tone audio to 4.5 MHz

by adjusting L2O I.

I
I Ad just to 2.06 MHz.
Look for stable
frequency

I
.

I Can unit be
adjusted g& is
. - /-
sound clear?

Pg. 6-24

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A Audio Test Procedure (Continued)

Are the two

patterns in
Figure 4-9
alternating on
the screen?

I Yes
Do t h e panems
alternate wirt.1
the tones?

I I
b

Are bath colors Swapout A t e patterns

and tones con- I
1 ) A201 I now correct?
sistent each No 2) A200 (As in Figure 4-91
cyde? 3) A202

I Yes
I
J
Put switches
back to initialized
positions.
b
Pg. 4-45

I VCS w i l l go
through one last
cyde before changing
to color bar test.

Pg. 6-27

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

Changed per
E C N #0021
1/29/83
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 2600A Defective I/O Lines Troubleshooting Procedure

Defective ,4202 Cap. Connecror

Determine (RAM) Line No. No. Pin No.
which lines are 15 C236 m nk
def cctive by 14 C229 3202-Pin 3
referring to
Figure b 7 .

I
Check the lines
indicated as
defective for -5v
at J202 or 1203
(See chart).

I
Is +5v present
on the tinds)
just chcckec'"
Yes
Swapout
L ) A202 II Does Diagnostic
Matrix now look
corrccr (see
Yes

Check the RAM Repair open trace

-
(A2021 pin. Is +5v beween A202 pin shoned to +5v
p m m t theft? and tht J20311203. (Check trace lines).
b
I

II Check tract l i d s )
from defecrive pinh)
for h m to ground.
Arc them any-shorts?
I
Repair

I [5 ~ 5 now
v
present ar the
Yes

I A202 pin?
I
I
Replace the
capacitor on
that line (see chart).

Docs the Diagnostic Swapout

Matrix screen now 1) A200
look correct (see Fig. 4-61 2 ) A201

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A Trigger Line Troubleshooting Procedure

- I
h

Is there +5v at pin 6 of

1202 (Left Trigger) or
Yes
Swapout
1) A201
2 ) A200
3) A202
- Does trigger line work
properly now?
No R223 or R226 is shorted

J203 (Right Trigger)? i

I
1 Yes I

-
I -

No Replace
Are 2226 (Left Trigger)
R223 (Right Trigger) defective resistor.
goacl and connece to 2 b

C ~ V ?

I
Chetk continuity
benvetn %Pins (3202 &
5203) and resistors
(R225 and R224).
A

I
I

I
Cantinuity good? -
A
No
Repair Trace

P 1

Open R224, R225 or

shorted (2216, C217.

Pg. 6-2

2600/2600A Domestic VC

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 2600A Audio Troubleshooting

k RF module tuned to
61.25 MHz?
(Channel 3)

Is only one audio

tone present?
-
ye, Is there a defective A20 1
or open A201 pin 12 and
A201 pin 13?
-
Yes
Repair

J rn Pg. 6-2
1 i#

Is there a 2v p p square
wave that alternates
between nvo frequencies
on pin 13 of A201?

Is there a 4.5 M H z ,
Does quare wave S ~ J M ~
appear at C208? signal at C211 (either side)

Yes

Fix open trace line Replace

betwtcn C208 and 1) a i l
Pin 12/13 of AZO1. 2) R207

I
Is there now an
alternating audio tone
from the TV?

2600/2600A Domestic V C S

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 2600A .Audio Troubleshooting (Continued)

Can RF module be Yes Is + 5 present at the slde of

properly tuned? Tune R F module. R206 closest to LZOI? pen between - 5 & R206

*
I

r-
Yes

IS there c o n t ~ n u i t yfrom Repair open b e t w e e n

Rephcc RF module.
R206 to AZOL pin 13? R206 and A20 1
pin 13.

11 Swapout AZOl.

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VCS

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 2600A Audio Troubleshooting (Continued)

I
Fix open r a c e line
t r t t w m C201 and Pin
12/13 o f A2Gl.

Check mat L201 is g o o d

( H a cantlnurry and u nat
shorred or cracked.)

If audio is still dead. ~ C C K

!or opens and shors&

Is there now an
alternatlng auaia tone
from :he TV7

2600/2600A Domestic VC!

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 2600A Cartridge Test Procedure

DTC works,
but VCS unit
is still suspect.

b v

Plug in c u t o r n e r Not Available

cartridge, if
availabie.
I

A Available

Connect, initialize,
and nrrn VCS on with
customer's game
cartridge.

Does correcr
video pattern
for that game
appear?

1 I
rn Pg. 6-28 9
Swapout Does game
Chedc customer Yes now o p e r a t e
1) A201
cartridge on known 2) A200
I
properly wirh
good game. Is it OK? 3) A202 game cartridge?
: b I rn

Replace with
good cartridge.

Pg. 4-45

2600/2600A Domestic VC5

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 2600A Burn-In Procedure

I I
Place customer cariridge
in game, if available.
Otherwise, use other
game cartridge.

I
Run game for 2
hours, minimum.
Do not turn off
during this period.

Check game's
operation.

I
Is game
working
properly ?
End of .test sequence.
I
Pg. 6-2

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 2600A Paddle Lines Test

4
I
7

Put snorting
?lugs in. Put
VCS into
Diagnostic
Mauix mode.

I
m
-
A

No
P I 4
Check'2°2/3203 for RC
waveform (see Fig. 4-10). Yes
k waveform present on
each of the pins shown
b
-
~ o e waveform
s appear a t
each of the ~ 2 0 1pi,,s
shown in the chart?
No
I
Repar open
trace between
A20 1 and 12021
1203.
Do paddle lines now
work OK? I
Yes

in chart? 1

I1 & there con-

tinuity between
the 3202 or 3203
pin (see chart)
Check trace lines and
resistors for opens - Repair

and the A20 l?

on the failed line.

Dges RC waveform appear yes

on the appropriatt 3202 '
or 3203 Line? (See Chart)

Line now work?

.
I Repair
A
- Connection Chart

Pin Pin Pin Cap

Player A201 3202 203 No.
1 40 5 - C215
2 3 9 9 - C216
3 38 - 5 CZ17
u 37 - 9 C218

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 SECTION 7

GAME CONTROLLERS

OVERVIEW

T h e following pages contain descriptions, schematics, and t e s t procedures for t h e four

g a m e controllers used with t h e Video Computer System.

JOYSTICK (X-Y) CONTROLLER

Inside e a c h joystick is a small PC board t h a t has five calculator-type keypads mounted
on it. Two ;&ions of the P C board exist in c u r r e n t joystick models; s e e Figure 7-1.
Four of t h e keypads a r e positioned beneath t h e stick in a square shaped pattern, and
t h e f i f t h is located beneath t h e pushbutton. When t h e stick is pushed forward, t h e
bottom surface of t h e stick presses against t h e forward keypad, causinq it t o m a k e
c o n t a c t , and complete t h e c i r c u i t t h a t is c o n n e c t e d t o it. In t h e s a m e way, pushing
t h e stick back, l e f t and right causes t h e respective keypad underneath t h a t position t o
close and complete t h e circuit.

NOTE: The earliest models of the joystick had five spring-loaded buttons instead of
the present configurations. These earlier models cannot be repaired.

Earlier Version F i ~ u r e7-1. Joystick (X-Y) Controllers

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VCS

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 If t h e s t i c k is gushed f o r w a r d and t o t h e r i s h t a t t h e s a m e t i m e (tha: is, in a
n o r t h e a s t e r n direction), both t h e forward and rignt keypad c l o s e s i ~ u l t a n e o u s l y ,which
c a u s e s t h e 6532 t o see t w o s w i t c h c!osures happening a t once. The result is t h a t t h e
o b j e c t being controlled o n t h e s c r e e n moves diagonally. With t h e four keypads, 8
d i f f e r e n t directions can b e attained. The pushbutton d e t e r m i n e s w h e t h e r t h e keypad
b e n e a t h it is e i t h e r open o r closed. S e e F i g u r e 7-2 for Joystick Schematics.

F i g u r e 7-2. Joystick S c h e m a t i c

2 6 0 0 / 2 6 0 0 h Domestic VCS

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 JOYSTICK ( X - Y CGNTXCLLEI?) CHEC;<

Zquiornent Needed

e T.V. s e t

a Known good VCS unit

a Combat cartridge

Procedure

1. Check for c o s m e t i c damage.

2. P!ug in cartridse a n d plug c o n t r o l l e r t o h e tested into t h e l e f t "!aver port.

3. Turn on unit and p r e s s GAME SELECT until g a m e i .l S appears.

4. Press G.A.\IIE RESET.

5. Push t h e joystick handle a w a y f r o m you a n d t h e plane should go dourn.

6 . Pull ;he joystick handle t o w a r d you and t h e plane should go up.

7. Move t h e joystick r i g h t and plane should meed up. l o v e it Left a n d p l a n e

should slow down.

3. Push t h e Red b u t t o n and t h e plane should fire.

9. This c o m p l e t e s t h e (X-Yc o n t r o l l e r ) check.

26C0/2600A Dom'estic VCS

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 P.ADDLE CONTROLLER

t a c h g a m e paddle consists of a 1 Megohm p o t e n t i o m e t e r t h a t , when varied, causes

d i f f e r e n t values t o be seen a n d a c t e d upon by t h e TIA. Also c o n t a i n e d in t h e paddle is
a s i m p l e spring loaded push-to-make pushbutton switch. T h e r e a r e t w o g a m e paddles
c o n n e c t e d t o e a c h I/O plug. F i g u r e 7-3 i l l u s t r a t e s t h e paddle c o n t r o l l e r assembly and
F i g u r e 7-4 t h e paddle c o n t r o l l e r s c h e m a t i c .

I
8
F i g u r e 7-3. Paddle Controller

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VCS

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 WrrON
CGNTROL I

PIN 4
PIN 5

Figure 7-4. Paddle Controller Schemaric

P,+DDLE CSrU'TXOLLER CHECK

E a u i ~ r n e n tYeeded

T.V. Set
0 Known good VCS unit

casinoT'; c a r t r idqe

Procedure

1. Check for cosmetic damage.

2. Plug in cartridge and plug controllers t o be tested into the left player port.

3. Press game reset.

L. Press the button on one of the controllers. A air of numbers shouid appear.

5. When you turn the knob, one set of numbers should 70 between 20 and 2QO by
steps of 20. T h e numbers should not advance r e a t e r than a step of 2'3.

6. Repeat steps 3, 4 , Jc 5 for the other controller.

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 DRIVING CONTROLLER

T h e h e a r t of t h e driving c o n t r o l l e r is a switching d e v i c e t h a t g e n e r a t e s a full two-bit

g r a y c o d e for each q u a r t e r t u r n of t h e c o n t r o l l e r knob. The o u t p u t of both t h e g r a y
c o d e g e n e r a t o r and t h e pushbutton switch is d e t e c t e d by t h e 6532, causing t h e program
to respond accordingly. Unlike the non-linear resistive g a m e paddles, t h e driving
c o n t r o l l e r gives t h e user p r e c i s e linear positional c o n t r o l o v e r t h e c o m p l e t e turning
r a n g e of t h e knob. As w i t h t h e game paddles, t h e r e is a s i m p l e push-to-make
~ u s h b u t t o n switch l o c a t e d on t h e side of t h e controller. The driving controller
assembly is illustrated in F i g u r e 7-5; t h e seL-.: :-..?ticin F i g u r e 7-6.

Figure 7-5. Driving Controller

2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VCS
-
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 TRUTH TABLE I , i A

F i g u r e 7-6. Driving Controller S c h e m a t i c

DRIVING CONTROLLER CHECK

Equipment Needed

0 T.V. s e t

Known good VCS unit

Indy 500 c a r t r i d g e

Procedure

1. Plug in Indy 500 c a r t r i d g e and plug in driving controller t o b e t e s t e d in l e f t

hand port.

2. P r e s s game r e s e t switch.

3. Turn controller knob and insure t h a t c a r t u r n s in t h e s a m e direction as t h e

knob. Insure t h a t c a r doesn't skip position o r wobble between positions*
There should b e 16 d i f f e r e n t positions for t h e c a r .

4. Press down on t h e knob and lightly wiggle i t back and forth. T h e c a r should
not move a t all.

5. Press down on t h e r e d button. The car should m o v e forward.

6 . If t h e c o n t r o l l e r fails any of t h e a b o v e t e s t s i t is d e f e c t i v e .

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 KEY BOARD CONTXOLLER

T h e keyboard controller (Figure 7-71 is a 12 button calculator-type switch array that

functions like a small computer keyboard. When one of t h e pushbuttons is pressed, the
corresponding s e t of sense lines is closed, completing t h e circuit. The closure is
d e t e c t e d by t h e 6532 and appropriate action is taken by t h e program. Figure 7-8
illustrates the keyboard wiring and Figure 7-9 the keyboard schematic.

Figure 7-7. Keyboard Controller

2500/2600A Domestic VCS

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 Figure 7-5. Keyboard Wiring Diagram

PIN 2 0'

PIN3

F i g u r e 7-9. Keyboard S c h e m a t i c

2600/260GA D o m e s t i c VCS

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 K E Y B O A R D CONTROLLER CHECK

E q u i p m e n t Needed
T.V. set

Known good VCS unit

Brain G a m e s c a r t r i d g e

a One good keyboard c o n t r o l l e r

Procedure

1. Check for c o s m e t i c d a m a g e .
2. Plug in Brain Games c a r t r i d g e and plug t h e known good keyboard into t h e
right -hand plug.

3. Plug t h e c o n t r o l l e r t o b e t e s t e d into the left-hand plug.

4. Press g a m e s e l e c t until g a m e 819 a p p e a r s and p r e s s g a m e r e s e t .

5. If an audio tone sounds, t h e c o n t r o l l e r is defective.

6 . S t a r t i n g with t h e "I" key, press t h e keys in t h e following order: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 ,

6 ? 7, 3, 9 , *, 0, I/. E a c h key should g e n e r a t e a t o n e lower t h a n t h e key before
it.

7. Test completed.

2600/26GOA Domestic VCS

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 SECTION 8

CX2600 DOMESTIC (M/N) VCS

PARTS LIST

Part No. Description Locator

Bezel Bezel Assy

Console Rubber F e e t
Console Console Top
Console Console Base
Console Console Base Assy
Final AC Power Adaptor Not Packaged
Final TV Switch Box Not Packaged
Final CX2600 VCS Not packaged
Final Keyboard Controller Packaged
Final Driving Controller Packaged
Final Paddle Controller Packaged
Final X-Y Controller Packaged
Final AC Power Adaptor Packaged (Alternate
listed)
Final CA018200-01 A C Power Adaptor Packaged (Alternate
for PIN CA014034)
Final TV Switch Box Packaged (CX262 Pack)
Mother Resistor 1/4W 100 Ohm R202,205
Mother Resistor 1/4 W 1K R208,212,214
P Mother Resistor 1/4W 10K R225,226,234
Mother Resistor 1/ 4 W 12K R222
Mother . Resistor 1/4W 1800 Ohm R203,216,227-321
Mother Resistor 1/4W 18K R209,233
Mother Resistor 1/4W 220 Ohm R204
Mother Resistor 1/4W 24K R206,217,223
Mother Resistor 1/4W 27 Ohm R200
Mother Resistor 1/4W 3300 Ohm R218-221
.Mother Resistor 1/4W 470 Ohm R20 1
Mother Resistor 1/4 W 4700 Ohm R207,232
Mother Resistor 1/ 4 W 47K R224
Mother Resistor 1/4W 680 Ohm R213
Mother Resistor 1/4W 6800 Ohm R215
Mother Resistor 1/4W 9100 Ohm R210
Mother Resistor Variable 5OOK R211
Mother Cap. Mylar Dipped .luF (1OOV) C204
Mother Cap. Ceramic Disc 47pF (50V) C211,212
Mother Cap. Ceramic Disc 22pF (50V) C213
Mother Cap. Ceramic Disc 220pF (50V) C236,237
(Alternate for
P/N C014180-05)
Mother 2B-007 Cap. Ceramic Disc. OluF (50V) C200,202,205,208,
21 4,223-227,239,240

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 CX2600 DOMESTIC (M/N) VCS
PARTS LIST (Continued)

Part No. Description Locator

Mother 2B-008 Cap. Ceramic Disc .001 uF (5OV) C203,209,222,228-

235,238
Mother Cap. Ceramic Disc 150pF (50V) C22 1
Mother Cap. Ceramic Disc. l uF (50V) C210,219,220
Mother Diode IN914 . CR200,20 1
Mother Transistor 2N3906 Q200,20 1
Mother Transistor 2N3563 4202
(Alternate Listed)
Mother Transistor MPS3563 4202 (Alternate for
P/N 34-2N3563)
Mother Jack 3204
Mother CX2600 PC Board .
Mother Cartridge Socket Assy
Mother Zener ~ i o d e / A x i a lWrap Assy
Nlother Crystal 3.579575 Mhz X200 (Alternate
Listed)
iMother Socket Cartridge
Mother Cap. Electrolytic 4.7uF (35V) C20 1
Mother IC TIA A20 1
Mother Socket Controller (9 Pin) 3202,203 (Alternate
Listed)
Mother Socket Controller (9 Pin) 3202,203 (Alternate .r4
for PIN C010448)
Mother IC CPU (6507) A200
Mother IC RAM (6532) A202
Mother Dust Cover Socket
Mother Connector (12/24)
Mother Pad Cartridge Socket
Mother IC Hex Buffer (4050B)
Mother Cap. Polystyrene 820pF (50V)
Mother Inductor 2 uF
Mother Inductor 12 112 Turn
Mother Socket Assy (AID)
Mother Cable Ribbon ( 12 conductor)
Mother Cap. Axial 200pF (50V) C236,237 (Alternate
listed)
Mother Cap. Epoxy Dipped .068uF (100V) C215-218
Mother Ferrite Bead L200,203
Mother Socket IC (28 Pin) A200
Mother Socket IC (40 Pin) A20 1,202
Mother Crystal 3.579575 Mhz X200 (Alternate for
P/N C010177)
Mother Rivet
Mother Diode Zener 1N4736 (6.2V)
Mother Transistor 2N3906
Mother CX2600 PC Board (MOTHER)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 CX2600 DOMESTIC (M/N) VCS

PARTS LIST (Continued)

Part No. Description Locator

Mother Electronic Module Assy
Mother Cartridge Socket Assy
Mother Zener DiodeIAxial Wrap Assy
Paddle Speed Clip Fastener
Paddle Nut
Paddle Lockwasher
Paddle Knob
Paddle Resistor Variable 1 Meg
P addle Top Cover
Paddle Bottom Cover
Paddle Fire Button
Paddle Cable Y Control
Paddle Sleeve
Paddle Paddle Label
Paddle Control Knob Assy
Paddle Control Cable Assy
Paddle Paddle Control Assy
Paddle Switch
Switch Resistor 2 W 680 Ohm RlO 1 (Ch 3 version)
Switch Cap. Poly Film .22uF (IOOV) C103,104
Switch Cap. Ceramic Disc .OluF (50V) C101,102
Switch Heat Sink (Ch 3 version)
Switch Socket Phono 5102
Switch Jumper (1 IAWC)
Switch Switch Slide S101-104 (Alternate
listed)
Switch Switch DPST - Spring Return S105,106 (Alternate
listed)
Switch Switch Dust Cover
Switch Inductor l5uH L101,102
Switch Heat Sink (Ch2-3 version)
Switch Switch SPDT S107 (Alternate
listed)

Switch C012242 Switch SPDT 5107 (Alternate

for P/N C012241)
listed)
Switch C014348 Regulator 78MO5 (TO-220) A101

Switch C014372 Cap. Electrolytic 4.7 uF (35V) ClO5

Switch C014373 Cap. Elect Axial 2200uF (16V) C106
Switch CO 14778-03 Socket (12 Pin in-line) JlOl
Switch C017294 3 Switch Static Strip
Switch C017297 2 Switch Static Strip
Switch C019025 Switch Slide S10 1-1 04 (Alternate
for P/N C0 10373)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

Changed per
ECN lr(0021
1 /79/27
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 CX2600 DOMESTIC (M/N)VCS

PARTS LIST (Continued)

Part No. Description Locator

Switch CO 19026 Switch DPST 5105,106 (Alternate
for PIN C0 10388)
Switch CA012174 RF Module Assy 5 Pin (Ch 2-3
version)
Switch CA012175 RF Module Assy 3 Pin (Ch 3
version)
Switch CA012233 PC Board Assy (Switch)

X-Y Cntl C010726 Cable

X-Y Cntl CO12107-02 Top Cover
X-Y Cntl C012108-02 Bottom Case
X-Y Cntl C012109 Boot
X-Y Cntl C012110 Retainer Ring .

. X-Y Cntl C012114 Fire Button

X-Y Cntl C012116 Handle
X-Y Cntl C012951 Spring
X-Y Cntl CAO 15396 PC Board (Two-Edged Connection)
X-Y Cntl CAOl674l PC Board (Single-Edge Connection)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 CX2600A DOMESTIC (MINI VCS

PARTS LIST

Part No. Description Locator

Bezel Bezel
Bezel Bezel Label
Bezel Bezel Assy
Console Rubber F e e t
Console Console Top
Console Console Base (Alternate listed)
Console Console Base (Alternate for
P/N C016398)
Console Console Base Assy
Fina4 AC Power Adaptor (Not Packaged)
Final TV Switch Box (Not Packaged)
Final Key board Controller (Packaged)
Final Dr iv ing Controller (Packaged)
Final Paddle Controller (Packaged)
Final X-Y Controller (Packaged)
Final AC Power Adaptor Packaged (Alternate
listed)
Final CX2600A VCS (Packaged)
Final CX2600A VCS (Not packaged)
AC Power Adaptor Packaged (Alternate
p Final for PIN CA014034)
Final TV Switch Box Packaged (CX262 Pack)
Mother Resistor 114W 1 K R202,206,211,228
Mother Resistor 1/4W 10K R223,226,229,230
Mother Resistor 1/4W 11OK R216
Mother Resistor 1/4 W 15K R222
Mother Resistor 1/4W 1.8K R209
Mother Resistor 1/4W 18K R207
Mother Resistor 14W 220 Ohm R204,224,225,232
Mother Resistor 1/4 W 2.2K R203
Mother Resistor 1/4W 240 Ohm R205
Mother Resistor 1/4 W 24K R217,227
Mother Resistor 1/4W 27K R214
Mother Resistor 1/4W 3300 Ohm R218,220
Mother Resistor 1/4 W 4.7 K R201,212,219,221
Mother Resistor 1/4W 47 Ohm R215
Mother Resistor l/4W 470K R233
Mother Resistor l/4W 6800 Ohm R210
Mother Resistor 1/4W 820 Ohm R234
Mother Resistor 1/4W 91 Ohm R23 1
Mother Resistor 1/4W 9100 Ohm R208
Mother Resistor Variable 500K R213
Mother Cap. Poly Film .luF (100V) C241
Mother Cap. Poly Film .22uF (100V) C204
Mother Cap. Ceramic Disc 1OpF (50V) C202 (Alternate
listed)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 CX2600A DOMESTIC (M/N) VCS

PARTS LIST (Continued)

Part No. Description Locator

Mother 2A-008 Cap. Ceramic Disc 47pF (50V) C209,210

Mother 2A-018 Cap. Ceramic Axial 22pF (50V) C211 (Alternate
listed)
Mother 2B-003 Cap. Ceramic Disc 470pF (50V) C216,217 (Alternate
listed)
Mother 2B-007 Cap. Ceramic Disc .OluF (50V) C2O3,2O5,212,236,
237,240,244
(Alternate listed)
Mother 2B-008 Cap. Ceramic Disc -001uF (50V) C213,223-235
(Alternate listed)
Mother 2~-009 Cap. Ceramic Disc 150pF (50V) C2 15 (Alternate
listed)
2C-001 Cap. Ceramic Disc .luF (50V) C200,208,222,238,
239,245 (Alternate
listed)
!Mother 31-lN914 Diode 1N9l4 CR200-203
Mother 34-2N3563 Transistor 2N3563 4202
Mother 79-5903 Connector Phono Jack 3204
Mother 79-591 8 Connector Jack (3.5mm) J2O 1
,-
Mother A003647 R F Cable Assy
Mother C010177 Crystal 3.579575 Mhz X200 (Alternate for
PIN COl55lO)
Mother C010373 Switch Slide (DPDT) S201,204
Mother C010388 Switch Slide (DP Spring Return) S202,203
Mother C010444 IC TIA A20 1
Mother C010448 Socket Controller (9 Pin) 3202,203 (Alternate
listed)
Mother C010727 Socket Controller (9 Pin) J202,203 (Alternate
for P/N C0 10448)
Mother C010745 IC MPU (6507) A200
Mother C010750 IC (6532) A202
Mother C010776 Dust Cover Socket 3200 (Part of)
Mother COl0812 Pad Cartridge Socket 3200 (Part of)
Mother C010813 Dust Cover Used on Switches
Mother C010821 Cap. Polystyrene 820pF (50V) C206,207
Mother C010823 Inductor Variable 0.85-l..2uH L20 1
Mother C01224l Switch Slide (PCB) S200,205,206
Mother C014179-01 Cap. Ceramic Axial 22pF (50V) C211 (Alternate for
P/N 2A-018)
Mother C014179-03 Cap. Ceramic Axial lOpF (50V) C202 (Alternate for
P/N 2A-003)

-
Mother C014179-05 Cap. Ceramic Axial 47pF (50V) C209,210 (Alternate
for PIN 2A-008)
Mother CO14180-04 Cap. Ceramic Axial 150pF (50V) C215 (Alternate for
PIN 2B-009)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 CX2600A DOMESTIC (M/N) VCS

PARTS LIST (Continued)

&Y Part No. Description Locator

Mother CO14180-07 Cap. Ceramic Axial 470pF (50V) C216,217 (Alternate

for P/N 2B-003)
Mother C014181-01 Cap. Ceramic Axial .001uF (25V) C213,223-235
(Alternate for P / N
2B-008)
Mother CO14181-02 Cap. Ceramic Axial .O 1uF (25V) C2O3,ZO5,212,236,
237,240,244
(Alternate for P/N
2B-007)
Mother CO14181-03 Cap. Ceramic Axial .luf (25V) C200,208,222,238,
239,242,245
(Alternate for
P/N 2C-001)
Mother C014348 Voltage Regulator 78M05 (5V) A203

Mother C014353 Cap. Epoxy Dipped .068uF (IOOV) C2 18-22 1

Mother C014369 Cap. Elec 4.7uF (35V) C214
Mother C014373 Cap. Elec 22OOuF (16V) C243
Mother C014384 Inductor Ferrite Bead L200,203-205
Mother CO14386-08 Socket IC (28 Pin) XA200
p Mother CO14386-09 Socket IC (40 Pin) XA20 1,202
Mother C015510 Crystal 3.579575 Mhz X200 (Alternate
listed)
Mother C015519 P C Board (Use Rev 16 or
above)
Mother C013 5 7 3 Socket Cartridge 5200 (Part of)
Mother CO 1.5574 Shield Top
Mother CO 1.5575 Shield Bottom
Mother CO1.5752 Inductor 1.8uH L202
Mother C01.5902 Connector 12114 3200 (Part of)
Mother CO 1.7297 2 Switch Static Strip
Mother CO I.7549 Switch Slide (PCB) S200,205,206,
(Alternate for
P/N C012241)
Mother Transistor 2N3906 4200,201
Mother IC Timer (555) A205
Mother Dust Cover Assy
Mother R F Module 5 Pin Version
Mother Socket Assy (Cartridge) 5200
Mother CX2600A PC Board Assy
mother PCB/Shield Assy
Mother Zener Diode/Axial Wrap Assy
Paddle Speed Clip Fastener
Paddle Nut
Paddle Lockwasher
Paddle Knob
p Paddle Resistor Variable 1 Meg

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

Changed per
ECN #0021
1 /39/R3
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 CX2600A DOMESnC (MIN) VCS

PARTS LIST (Continued)

Assv Part No. Description Locator

Paddle C010737 Cover Top
Paddle C010738 Cover Bottom
Paddle C010739 Fire Button
Paddle COl08lO Cable Y Control
Paddle C010970 Sleeve
Paddle COl2766 Label Paddle
Paddle CA010837 Control Knob Assy
Paddle CA010933 Control Cable Assy
Paddle CA0 10953-03 Paddle Control Assy
Paddle CAO 11620-0 1 Switch
X-Y Cntl C010726 Cable
X-Y Cntl C012107-02 Cover Top
X-Y Cntl C012108-02 Case Bottom
X-Y Cntl C012109 Boot
X-Y Cntl C012110 Retainer Ring
X-Y Cntl C012ll4 Fire Button
X-Y Cntl C012116 Handle
X-Y Cntl C012951 Spring
X-Y Cntl CAOlS396 PC Board (Two-Edged Connection)
X-Y Cntl CAO16741 PC Board (Single-Edge Connection)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

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 SECTION 6

INDEX

AUDIO TONES
BATTERY ELIMINATOR
BLOCK DIAGRAM
COLOR BAR TEST
CONSOLE
DEFECTIVE RAM PROCEDURES
DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART
DIAGNOSTIC MATRIX
DIAGNOSTIC MATRIX TEST
DISPLAY, NO
DRIVING CONTROLLER
GAME PADDLE
GRAY BAR TEST
JOYSTICK
KEYBOARD CONTROLLER
MOTHER BOARD
mu
OPTION SWITCHES
PADDLE CONTROL LINES
PADDLE CONTROLLER
PADDLE LINES TEST
PARTS LIST
POWER SUPPLY
RAM, DEFECTIVE PROCEDURES
RAM, I/O
RF CABLE
RF MODULE
RIBBON CABLE
STATIC MODIFICATIONS

NTSC

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 SECTION 7

TECHNICAL TIPS

TECH TIP 11
'1

Green 5200

On e a r l y production 2 6 0 0 ' s t h e 5200 i s g r e e n . We found t h a t it i s a very

u n r e l i a b l e connector a f t e r many i n s e r t i o n s . T h i s appears t o you as a
game t h a t sometimes does n o t work w i t h a c a r t r i d g e . Replace t h e
connector.

TECH TIP #2

Audio F a i l u r e s

On Audio F a i l u r e s t h e primary s u s p e c t s a r e t h e two polystyrene caps

C206/C207. By p u t t i n g p r e s s u r e on t h e sound caps t h e audio may come on
a g a i n . Always r e p l a c e b o t h caps when you r e p l a c e one.

TECH TIP #3

Kludge

I n some o f t h e e a r l y p r o d u c t i o n games you n o t i c e a inductor and cap o v e r

C201 & R206. This was t o cure a problem on a c a r t r i d g e then, b u t i s now
no l o n g e r needed- Cut t h e i n d u c t o r and cap o u t being c a r e f u l n o t t o c u t
t h e R206 l e a d .

TECH TIP 114

Molex Sockets

Chip s o c k e t s made by Molex have a low r e t e n t i o n v a l u e i n some c a s e s .

This may cause an i n t e r m i t t e n t c o l o r o r g r a p h i c s problem. A l l s o c k e t s
with i n s e r t i o n a i d s should have. t h e i n s e r t i o n a i d removed and t h e c h i p
reinserted.

NTS C

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 TECH TIP jfi5

F l o a t i n a Ground on 2600

If t h e ground s i g n a l has a l o t o f n o i s e on it (approx. 1 v.) check

c o n t i n u i t y on p i n s 3 , 6 , and 10 on the 5101.

TECH T I P 86

L e f t Paddle F a i l u r e

E a r l y p r o d u c t i o n 2600 mother b o a r d s (Rev 8 and l o w e r ) had an artwork

e r r o r which was c o r r e c t e d by p l a c i n g a d o t o v e r t h e t r a c e . This
i n s u l a t e s t h e t r a c e from t h e c a s t i n g and should always b e on the board.
The dot i s l o c a t e d under t h e 5200 upper l e f t c o r n e r , and the t r a c e should
be completely covered.

TECH T I P i1/7

Indy 500

I f a u n i t works on everything except Indy 500 then p i n 23 o f the A202 i s

probably s h o r t e d t o a d a t a l i n e .

TECH TIP #8

Power Jacks

A l l power jacks s h o u l d be t e s t e d f o r a snug f i t . When t h e game i s on,

l i g h t l y move power p l u g i n a s m a l l c i r c l e , i f the p i c t u r e goes o f f ,
r e p l a c e t h e j a c k with a new one.

TECH T I P #9

Check a l l 9-Pin connectors (5202, 5203) f o r pushed o r broken pins.

Replace a l l showing problems.

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 TECH TIP #10

R-220

Check t h a t R220 i s p r o p e r l y s o l d e r e d . If t h e y a r e n ' t , t h e y w i l l cause

i n t e r m i t t e n t g r a y b a r problems.

TECH TIP #Ill

Solder Check

Check s o l d e r on t h e f o l l o w i n g components: C210, C211, C203, C220, C212,

C208, and C209. Long miscues on t h e s e caps prevented them from b e i n g
s o l d e r e d p r o p e r l y , c a u s i n g i n t e r m i t t e n t problems on t h e board.

TECH TIP #12

Hex Buffers

The 4050 (A203) on t h e 2600 should be one of t h e f i r s t t h i n g s checked for

any of t h e f o l l o w i n g problems: any t r i g g e r problem, no Sync., l o s e of
lum l i n e s . T h i s i s t h e reason f o r a high percentage of r e t u r n s .

TECH TIP ill3

5201 and JlOl on t h e 2600

Both of t h e s e c o n n e c t o r s should be checked f o r a good, s e c u r e fit.

TECH T I P #14

Crooked Switches

I n s p e c t switches on 2600 switchboard t o i n s u r e t h a t they s e t f l a t and

perpendicular t o t h e board. Reset a l l switches which are n o t .

NTSC

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 TECH TIP #15

L200 and C h i c k l e t s on 2600/2600A

Be sure when assembling t h e mother board i n t o t h e c a s t i n g t h a t the- L200

and c h i c k l e t s a r e back under t h e shroud of t h e c a s t i n g .

TECH TIP #16

Make s u r e the, L201 core has a snug fit o r e l s e when 4.5 MHz i s s e t , t h e
c o r e can s l i p i n handling. Also, some L201 cores be frozen o r cracked i n
the j a c k e t . Replacement i s necessary o n l y if t h e audio c a r r i e r frequency
cannot be a d j u s t e d t o 4 . 5 H E h .

TECH TIP 1/17

Reassembly

When assembling t h e 2600 mother board i n t o c a s t i n g make s u r e C220 and

C239 a r e pushed away from 5200 shroud.

TECH TIP 7\18

Excess Lead Length

Check lead length on model 2600 Taiwan games. Trim excessive l e a d length
on t h e bottom of t h e mother board t o avoid s h o r t i n g on casting.

TECH TIP 819

Regulator

On e a r l y p r o d u c t i o n 2600 u n i t s with standup r e g u l a t o r and h e a t s i n k

a s s e m b l i e s , i n s p e c t f o r h a i r l i n e f r a c t u r e s between t h e r e g u l a t o r and t h e
switchboard. Also i n s u r e t h a t on e a r l y d o m e s t i c a l l y produced u n i t s t h e
r e g u l a t o r i s f i r m l y secured t o t h e h e a t s i n k by a t i m e r m a n c l i p .

NTSC

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 Consumer Product Service
Manager
- of Tehnical Support
- -

TECH TIP number 2

SUBJEm.
Blanking Resistor
DESCRIPTION:
T h e Rev. 4 CX2800 P C B h a s a n 820 Ohm resistor soldered across pins 6 and 9 of U2
(TIA) on t h e soldered s i d e (bottom). This resistor improves t h e g a m e color and m u s t
n- o t- be removed. Rev. 5 and above CX2800 PCB have this resistor incorporated in
t h e i r design.

DIFFICULTY REPORTING:
If you need further clarification concerning t h i s Tech Tip, call t h e ATARI Tech-Line
Specialist.

Inside California
(800) 672-1 466

Outside California
(800) 538-1 535

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 Consumer Product Service
Manager o f Tehnical Support
TECH TIP number -3-
MODEL: DATE:
rX78MI

SUBJECT:
Switchcaps

DESCRIPTION:
If a t power-up two switches a r e activated a t t h e s a m e t i m e (indicated by both the
Joystick and Paddle, or Novice and Expert LED'S "on" at t h e s a m e time), you must
shorten t h e switchcap hand ends with sand paper, to eliminate binding.

If t h e switchcaps seem to b e binding when 'activated on Rev. 4 PCBs, tilt t h e

momentary switches (S2-S9) toward t h e player port side of t h e board so t h a t t h e r e is a
.030 inch gap between t h e board and t h e leading edge of t h e switch bottom (a manual
approximation is usually successful). Some Rev. 4 PCB's have a shim glued t o t h e PCB
t o c o r r e c t this problem.

DIFFICULTY EPORTING:

If you need further clarification concerning this Tech Tip, call t h e ATARI Tech-Line
Specialist:

Inside California
(800) 672-1466

Outside California
(800) 538-1535

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 Consumer Product Service
Manager ofaTehnical Support
TECH TIP -
number
-- --- - --
4
- -
.
MODEL: DATE:
OOA 1 /17/87

Blanking Resistor

Some 2600A PCBs have an 820 1/4 W 5% resistor (P/N 14-5821) installed on t h e
solder side (bottom). The resistor is located between pins 6 and 9 of A201 (TIA) and
improves t h e color reproduction of t h e unit.

T h e resistor may b e added t o existing 2600A units at your discretion and t h e

customer's expense. The addition will result in improved color saturation.

Rev. 16 PCBs and above will have t h e resistor incorporated into their design.

DIFFICULTY REPORTING:

If you need further clarification concerning this Tech Tip, call t h e ATARI Tech-Line
Specialist:

Inside California
(800) 672-1466

Outside California
(800) 538-1535

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 Consumer Product Service
Manager o f Tehnical Support
TECH TIP number 5
MODEL:
CX2800 I DATE: 11/17/82

SUBJECT:

Switch Shorting

T h e Rev. 4 CX2800 PCB s w i t c h S 1 (On/Off) has a m e t a l standoff t h a t may short t o t h e

t r a c e beneath t h e switch. T o prevent shorting, place a small piece of insulating t a p e
on t h e board beneath t h e switch. PCB t o Rev. 4 and above have t h e t r a c e s rerouted.

DIFFICULTY REPORTING:

If you need further clarification concerning this Tech Tip, call t h e ATARI Tech-Line
Specialist:

Inside California
(800) 672-1466

Outside California
(800) 538-1535

-Metal Standoff

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 Consumer Product Service
VCS Manager of Technical Support

ATARI" SER ICE BULLETIN

,

MODEL: 2600 V i d e o C o m p u t e r S y s t e m DATE:DEC 9 , 1 9 8 1

PROBLEM
C o m p a t a b i l i t y problems between t h e cable and c o n n e c t o r s l i n k i n g
2600 Mother Board t o t h e s w i t c h b o a r d .

CAUSE
Two types o f 1 2 - c o n d u c t o r c a b l e a s s e m b l i e s h a v e b e e n used o n
Model 2 6 0 0 u n i t s :

" A flat-wire t y p e c a b l e , w i t h female c o n n e c t o r ( s e e F i g u r e

8-11 w h i c h p l u g s i n t o a male 1 2 - p i n i n - l i n e c o n n e c t o r o n
the switch board.

" A r i b b o n c a b l e w i t h a male c o n n e c t o r which p l u g s i n t o a

female, 12-pin i n - l i n e s o c k e t on t h e switch board.

F i g u r e 8-1. Flat-wire
Type Cable

SOLUTION
When a defect . i s f c u n d i n t h e f l a t - w i r e t y p e c a b l e a s s e m b l y or
i t s male c o n n e c t o r o n t h e s w i t c h b o a r d , t h e f l a t - w i r e c a b l e
a s s e m b l y s h o u l d be r e p l a c e d w i t h t h e r i b b o n c a b l e a s s e m b l y ( p a r t
number C012776) a n d t h e 1 2 - p i n m a l e s w i t c h b o a r d c o n n e c t o r s h o u l d
be r e p l a c e d w i t h t h e 1 2 - p i n f e m a l e s w i t c h b o a r d s o c k e t ( p a r t
number C 0 1 4 7 7 8 - 0 3 ) .

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 Consumer Product Service

Jh
ATARI"
VCS Manager of Technical Support

SERVICE BULLETIN
MODEL: /
2600A Video Computer System DATE: February V , 1982

PROBLEM - -

-- RF Interference t h a t does not c l e a r up using normal a d j u s t m e n t methods.

-- A series of lines and bright grid distortions o n t h e s c r e e n accompanied by a
loud hum on t h e audio c a r r i e r even when t h e audio and video a r e properly
adjusted.

T h e above problems m a y temporarily disappear when t h e unit is turned off f o r

a few minutes and then turned on again.

CAUSE
These 2600A problems have been diagnosed by A t a r i as being caused by a
leaking o r d e f e c t i v e C24l (.I microfarad) a n d l o r C242 (.I microfarad) l o c a t e d
between t h e power jack and voltage regulator.

SOLUTION
Replace t h e d e f e c t i v e components with o n e s f r o m your kit. Make certain t h e
replacement components a r e r a t e d a t a v a l u e 50V o r greater.

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 Consumer Product Service

Jh
ATARI"
VCS Manager of Technical Support

SERVICE BULLETIN
MODEL: 2600 Video Computer System I DATE: February 18,1982

PROBLEM

Damage t o Hex Buffer, and other components

CAUSE

S t a t i c discharge

SOLUTION

To provide protection from s t a t i c discharge a Zener diode must be placed between

t h e trigger lines and ground. Also, s t a t i c strips must b e placed on the switches of
the switchboard. (Refer t o pages 3-3 thru 3-5 of your ATARI VIDEO COMPUTER
FIELD SERVICE MANUAL DOMESTIC MODEL 2600/2600A.)

T h e p a r t number f o r t h e Zener ~ i o d e / A x i a lCap. Assembly is CA018263 and can b e

ordered (at no charge to you) from Sales Order Processing, Sunnyvale, a f t e r March
8, 1982.

You should have the static strips (Part Numbers C017294 and C017297) in c u r r e n t
p a r t s inventory. If you d o not, please order t h e m when you order t h e Zener/Axial
Assembly.

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