I bought more C64 SID chips from AliExpress! (And some other chips too)
Adrian's Digital Basement・2 minutes read
The video examines purchased chips from China for authenticity, with tools like isopropyl alcohol and acetone used for inspection. Despite some signs of repainting and rebadging, the chips generally proved authentic, underscoring the importance of quality assurance when buying retro computer parts.
Insights
- Chips purchased from China were meticulously examined to determine their authenticity, with detailed scrutiny revealing legitimate date codes and markings, indicating overall authenticity.
- The presence of repainted CPUs raised concerns about potential rebadging, with acetone testing confirming alterations, emphasizing the necessity of thorough inspection and quality assurance when acquiring retro computer parts from sources like AliExpress and eBay.
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Recent questions
How can I determine if computer chips are genuine?
To determine the authenticity of computer chips, it is essential to inspect them closely for legitimate date codes, markings, and overall authenticity. Tools like 70% isopropyl alcohol and 100 acetone can be used to detect potential rebadging. Testing the chips on compatible devices, such as a TI-99 for the CPU and video chip, and a breadbin XIF 64 for the SID chip, can help verify their functionality. Look for signs of repainting or alterations, as these could indicate counterfeit chips. Additionally, researching the market prices of the chips and their scarcity can provide insights into their authenticity.
What are the risks of purchasing computer chips from China?
When purchasing computer chips from China, especially from platforms like AliExpress or eBay, there is a risk of receiving counterfeit or fake chips. Due to the scarcity and unavailability of certain chips in the market, there is a possibility of sellers sourcing them from e-waste recycling in China, where authenticity may be questionable. It is crucial to be cautious and conduct thorough inspections to ensure the chips are genuine before making a purchase.
How do I test the functionality of computer chips?
Testing the functionality of computer chips involves using compatible devices to run specific tests. For example, using a TI-99 for the CPU and video chip, and a breadbin XIF 64 for the SID chip can help verify their performance. Additionally, testing the chips on a Zip64 device can confirm their functionality, with slight differences in sound quality noted. It is important to follow proper testing procedures and look for any signs of repainting or alterations that could indicate counterfeit chips.
What are the common signs of counterfeit computer chips?
Common signs of counterfeit computer chips include repainting, altered markings, and discrepancies in date codes. Fake chips may have fake logos or branding, indicating rebadging to misrepresent their origin. Testing the chips with acetone can reveal if they have been repainted, raising doubts about their authenticity. It is crucial to inspect the chips closely for any inconsistencies or signs of tampering to avoid purchasing counterfeit parts.
How can I ensure the authenticity of retro computer parts?
To ensure the authenticity of retro computer parts, it is essential to conduct thorough inspections, research market prices, and verify the legitimacy of date codes and markings. Using tools like isopropyl alcohol and acetone can help detect potential rebadging or alterations. Testing the chips on compatible devices and comparing their functionality with genuine parts can also help confirm their authenticity. When purchasing retro computer parts from platforms like AliExpress or eBay, it is crucial to prioritize quality assurance to avoid counterfeit or fake components.