Colecovision issues, your input will help

[dcescott]

I have a Colecovision. It was working fine and all the sudden it stopped working. I think it's the power connection to the console, the gigantic wallwart is still warm. But I need to know the common issues with a Colecovision to get it working again. I realize that the system is 22 years old, however I have Pongs older than that and they still rock.

[doubledownon11]

How electronically inclined are you. You can test the power supply. Open up the console, check to make sure the proper voltages are getting to their proper location. Check the On/Off switch (usually a big problem). Check the card-edge connector (cartridge slot). Did it stop working while playing it, or did it work, turn it off, try it later then it didn't?

[dcescott]

I'll test it, my father in law has the equipment for that. When I was playing Omega Race, the sound started this "thunder static" issue then the screen goes crazy, like a nes does when the 72 pin doesn't line up right. But I tried to turn it on when I bought a another game... nothin'. :(
Thanks for the advice

[omnedon]

DoubleDown is dead on right. Multimeter test the AC, but you've likely got power switch issues. It (power switch) can be resurfaced and rebuilt, but it's kinda tricky.

[Sniderman]

Yup, the power switch is the most common culprit for a lot of CV problems. Mine was working fine until - last night - every game was coming up corrupted (glitchy graphics, freezing up, bizarre sounds, etc.) Opened up the CV, unsoldered the power switch, disassembled it, and cleaned it up using rubbing alcohol and a Qtip. Soldered it back in place, reassembled the system, and it works like a champ again.

It's not complicated, but it you screw up or lose one of the shims in the switch, you're screwed. Easy fix, but be careful as you go and you'll be fine.