Atari 800 Keyboard issue

[paul773car]

Hi all, i have been searching though old posts trying to find an answer to my current problem with my recently aquired Atari 800. It appears i have found 1/2 the solution but need a little bit more help.

The issue is, the keyboard does not respond (only the break key works nothing else). I have checked the keyboard itself and tested with a multimeter, all tracks and keys appear fine. Keyboard connector is fine (continuity tested).

Searching on here I was directed to the CD4051 chips and then if not those the POKEY. My question is can I use the chips and pokey from another Atari machine, if so which would work OK or all they all OK? I have a couple of dead 2600's and a dead XEGS and 65XE knocking around but just wanted to check the compatibility before I start. If not where would I get these from in the Uk is there a supplier anyone can recommend?

Thanks for the help, and apologies that the first post is a question.

Thanks

Paul

[Urzu402]

Sorry that I can't help but I just recently sold an Atari 800 with a broken keyboard to someone, and I wonder if it was you?

[paul773car]

Sorry that I can't help but I just recently sold an Atari 800 with a broken keyboard to someone, and I wonder if it was you?

I doubt it though you never know. I only bought it yesterday at a boot sale! I'm sure if someone resembling your Avatar had sold it to me I'd have remembered.

Thanks

Paul

[ApolloBoy]

Yes, you can swap out the POKEY with no problems, since it was the same chip for all the Atari 8-bits. Same with the CD4051 chips since those are standard chips and not custom chips like the POKEY.

[paul773car]

Yes, you can swap out the POKEY with no problems, since it was the same chip for all the Atari 8-bits. Same with the CD4051 chips since those are standard chips and not custom chips like the POKEY.

Thank you! I have had a look and the 65 XE looks to be the easiest one to remove them from, any tips on how to de-solder, Braid or solder sucker?

Paul

[ApolloBoy]

Thank you! I have had a look and the 65 XE looks to be the easiest one to remove them from, any tips on how to de-solder, Braid or solder sucker?

Paul

I personally prefer the desoldering braid as it's easier to work with. Be very careful with the 65XE though, as the motherboard was cheaply made and you might wind up lifting a trace or pad if you're not careful.