this post was submitted on 13 Feb 2025
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Retro Gaming

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I just unpacked @[email protected]'s GameGear. It is dead, and most probably suffers from crappy capacitors. I already have a full replacement set here, so I will post some updates in the next days to weeks. Let's see if the LCD screen is still viable, or a TFT mod is also required.
#retrogaming #retrocomputing #sega #segagamegear

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[–] [email protected] 11 points 5 months ago (1 children)

Quick check inside reveals that this is a very nice VA0 mainboard from mid 1991. Visually it looks to be in excellent condition.

Opened GameGear exposing the mainboard with the large cartridge connector and metallized shield for the flourescent tube of the LCD.

[–] [email protected] 8 points 5 months ago (1 children)

Closer inspections shows signs of corrosion at the capacitors. Yup, we got capacitor plague. No surprise here. This 100uF capacitor near the power connector has corroded terminals.

Closeup showing a black electrolytic capacitor in plastic package near a blue connector and a green transformer.

[–] [email protected] 10 points 5 months ago (5 children)

By the way: if you want to open up a GameGear you need a 4.5mm bit that’s shaped like… a flower…? Not sure what this is called.

Some screws and a screwdriver with a flower shaped bit

[–] [email protected] 3 points 5 months ago

@[email protected] The really like to screw people. So annoying.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 5 months ago (1 children)

@[email protected] it is the same as SMS cartridges? what was it, security screws or something like that?

[–] [email protected] 2 points 5 months ago (1 children)

@[email protected] yes, might be the same screws. Definitely a kind of security bit. The smaller 3.8mm variant is I think also used on GameBoy cartridges.

[–] [email protected] 4 points 5 months ago

I just want you to know that while the information you're posting will never have a practical use to me, I greatly appreciate you posting it. The world needs more people like you.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 5 months ago
[–] [email protected] 2 points 5 months ago

@[email protected] I've seen them being called "GameBit"

[–] [email protected] 1 points 5 months ago

@[email protected] I’ve always called it a “Nintendo Security Screw”. Didn’t know Sega used it too.