Can this sad broken C64 be saved?
Adrian's Digital Basement・36 minutes read
The text details the meticulous process of repairing a damaged Commodore 64 mainboard through testing, soldering, and chip replacement to isolate and address underlying issues. Troubleshooting leads to suspecting and ultimately replacing the faulty 4066 chip, resolving the black screen issue and showcasing the importance of thorough testing and problem-solving techniques in electronics repair.
Insights
- Extensive testing, soldering, and chip replacement are crucial steps in repairing a damaged Commodore 64 mainboard, requiring meticulous attention to detail to isolate and address underlying issues effectively.
- Troubleshooting a damaged Commodore 64 mainboard involves a systematic approach, including checking voltage regulators, testing all chips in a working machine, examining traces with a multimeter, and identifying potential faulty components like the 4066 chip, showcasing the complexity and thoroughness required in the repair process.
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Recent questions
How is a damaged Commodore 64 mainboard repaired?
The video details the process of repairing a damaged Commodore 64 mainboard obtained from a friend. Initial testing involves checking voltage regulators and removing sensitive chips for testing in another machine. All chips, including RAM, are tested in a working Commodore 64 to ensure functionality. Traces on the damaged board are examined using a multimeter set to continuity to identify damaged areas. Any broken traces are repaired using wire wrap wire and soldering. Troubleshooting continues with testing various components and potential chip replacements until the underlying issues are isolated and addressed.
What is the purpose of the color RAM on the Commodore 64 mainboard?
The color RAM on the motherboard is identified as a static RAM chip that holds color information for the computer. It plays a crucial role in generating the color display output on the Commodore 64. Issues with the color RAM can lead to abnormal display behaviors and may need to be replaced if suspected to be faulty.
What component was identified as causing a data bit issue on the Commodore 64 mainboard?
A potential issue with a 4066 chip affecting data bit 2 was identified during troubleshooting. This led to further testing and potential chip removal to address the issue. Ultimately, replacing the 4066 chip resolved the data bit issue, indicating that it was a faulty component causing the problem.
How was a ripped pin on the U26 chip addressed during the repair process?
Pin 8 on the U26 chip was ripped, impacting the address line on the Commodore 64 mainboard. Checking all pins on U26 with an oscilloscope could reveal the problem and help in addressing the issue. This highlights the importance of thorough inspection and testing of all components during the repair process to ensure proper functionality.
What caused the temporary halt in progress during the repair of the Commodore 64 mainboard?
The ES-100 soldering iron broke during the repair process, causing a temporary halt in progress. This setback emphasizes the importance of having reliable tools and equipment when working on intricate electronic repairs like fixing a damaged Commodore 64 mainboard.
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Summary
00:00
Repairing a Damaged Commodore 64 Mainboard
- The video focuses on repairing a damaged Commodore 64 mainboard obtained from a friend.
- The board displays signs of extensive reworking, with many chips in sockets and traces potentially damaged.
- Initial testing involves checking voltage regulators and removing sensitive chips for testing in another machine.
- All chips, including RAM, are tested in a working Commodore 64 to ensure functionality.
- Traces on the damaged board are examined using a multimeter set to continuity to identify damaged areas.
- A broken trace between RAM chips is discovered and repaired using wire wrap wire and soldering.
- The repaired board is tested with a dead test cartridge, revealing a black screen issue indicating further problems.
- Troubleshooting continues with testing the reset signal, clock generator chip, and data lines on the RAM chips.
- A potential issue with a 4066 chip affecting data bit 2 is identified, leading to further testing and potential chip removal.
- The process involves meticulous testing, soldering, and chip replacement to isolate and address the underlying issues with the damaged Commodore 64 mainboard.
15:30
Identifying and Resolving Computer Component Issues
- Pin 46 on the T6 is checked and found to be in good condition.
- The color RAM on the motherboard is identified as a static RAM chip holding color information for the computer.
- An abnormal signal on a data bit line is noticed during probing with a multimeter.
- After manipulating the data bit line, the computer displays varying behaviors upon power cycling.
- Troubleshooting leads to suspecting either the color RAM or the 4066 chip as the issue.
- The decision is made to replace the color RAM due to suspicions of it being a faulty replacement.
- The ES-100 soldering iron breaks, halting progress temporarily.
- Testing without the color RAM chip results in a single flash, indicating a potential issue.
- Replacement SRAM chips are tested, but the issue persists, leading to suspicion of the 4066 chip.
- Replacing the 4066 chip resolves the issue, indicating a faulty component.
30:38
Troubleshooting U26 Chip Address Line Issue
- Pin 8 on the U26 chip was ripped, impacting the address line.
- Checking all pins on U26 with an oscilloscope could reveal the problem.
- Schematics are crucial in troubleshooting.
- A socket and lifted trace needed repair.
- Bodge wires may be necessary.
- A transistor issue affected the cassette port.
- A Zener diode needed replacement for the cassette port to function properly.
