Atari 2600 VCS Domestic Field Service Manual

2600/2600 A VCS DOMESTIC (MD
Field Service Manual
FD100133 Rev. 02
E.C.R.
NO.
0021
JR ATAR~
ATARI, INC. consumer P r o d u c t Services 845 W. Maude Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94041
ENGINEERING CHANGE REQUEST

Lat e s t
DATE REQUESTER
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REASON
S . Doyle
FOR
CHANGE REQUEST:
PART NO. F i l l 00133
R EV.
02
P A R T TITLE 2 6 0 0 / 2 6 0 0 A VCS DSMZSTIC FSM
I Error
in Flowcharts and P a r t s Lists
Xeplace pages 4-25,
6-21, 8-3 and 8-7 with t h e attached corrected pages.
R e ~ l a c ec o v e r page with new (Rev. 0 2 ) cover page. Retain this ECN as a record of these changes.
ENGINEERING
CHANGE
REQUESTER-
PLEASE
COMPLETE
ABOVE
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WHEN E.C. R.
SIGNATURES A N 0 LC.N. BECOMES A N E.C.N.
NO.
ARE
PRESENT
THIS
I EmC,Nm NO. 0021
ATARI
VIDEO COMPUTER SYSTEMTM
FIELD SERVICE MANUAL
MODEL 2600/2600A
DOMESTIC (M/N)
A t a r i believes t h a t t h e information described in this manual is a c c u r a t e a n d reliable, and much c a r e h a s been taken in its preparation. However, no responsibility, financial or otherwise, shall b e a c c e p t e d for any consequences arising o u t of t h e use of this material. Information contained herein is subject to change. Revisions may be issued t o advise of such changes and/or additions.
Correspondence regarding t h i s d o c u m e n t should b e forwarded to Manager of Technical Support, Consumer Product Service, Atari, Incorporated, 845 W. Maude Sunnyvale, California 94086.
2600/2600A Domestic VCS
Table of Contents
P
Section Title INTRODUCTION
Page
THEORY OF OPERATION Introduction Overview Game Console Outer Casting Switchboard :Motherboard 2600A Model Differences - All Revisions 2600A Model Differences - Revisions 14 and 15 2600A Model Differences - Revisions 16 and up Summary
2 3 SCHEMATICS AND SILKSCREENS TESTING AND TROUBLESHOOTING Equipment Requirements Test Procedures and Methods 2600 Model Modifications 2600A Model Modifications Testing with the Diagnostic Test Cartridge (Version 2.6) Initialization RAM Test Color Bar Test Gray Bar Test magnostic Matrix Test Audio Tones Test Paddle Control Lines Test 2600 DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM CHECKLIST 2600 Symptom Checklist 2600A Symptom Checklist

2600A DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART GAME CONTROLLERS Overview Controller Joystick (X-Y) Controller Check Joystick (X-Y) Paddle Controller Paddle Controller Check Driving Controller Driving Controller Check Keyboard Controller Keyboard Controller Check
ATARI CX2600 (M/N) PARTS LIST ATARI CX2600A (M/N) PARTS LIST
iii 2600/2600A Domestic VCS
Table of h n t e n t s Section
9
Title SERVICE BULLETINS
Page
9-1
List of Illustrations Figure Title 2600 Functional Diagram 2600 Game Console 2600 Switchboard and Motherboard Assembly
Page
TV Switchbox
2600A G a m e Console 2600A Board Layout 2600/2600A IC Pinouts 2600 Motherboard Silkscreen 2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Silkscreen 2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Schematic 2600 Channel 2-3 Switchboard Silkscreen 2600 Channel 2-3 Switchboard Schematic 2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 1-1 3 ) 2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 14 and 15) 2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 16 and up)
Inserted in Front Pocket of Notebook:

2600 Motherboard Schematic 2600A Motherboard Schematic (Revs. 1-1 3) 2600A Motherboard Schematic (Revs. 14 and 15) 2600A Motherboard Schematic (Revs. 16 and up)
2600 Trigger Circuitry with Static Modification 2600 S t a t i c Modification Zener Diode
Location of Colored Dot Over T r a c e 2600 Switchboard Static Modification 2600A (Revs. 1-1 3 ) Static Modifications Switch Initialization Positions Defective R A M P a t t e r n s Color Bars Screen Grav Bars Screen ~iagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs OUT) Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs IN) Audio Tone Test Screens iv
List of Illustrations (Continued)

Figure
Title Switch Initialization Positions Color Bars Screen Defective RAM Patterns Gray Bars Screen Defective Gray Bars Screen Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs OUT) Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs IN) Diagnostic Matrix Screen with Defective Pattern Audio Tone Test Screens RC Waveforms STC Address Line Waveforms STC Data Line Waveforms Joystick (X-Y) Controller Joystick (X-Y) Schematic Paddle Con troller Paddle Confroller Schema t i c Driving Controller Driving Controller Schematic Keyboard Controller Keyboard 'Xriring Diagram Keyboard Schematic
4
Page
List of Tables
Table 4-1
~iile Connected Pins on VCS Motherboard
Page
4-47
2600/2600A Domestic
VCS
INTRODUCTION
The Video Computer systemT' sections:

a
(VCS) Field Service Manual is organized in nine
THEORY OF OPERATION basic assemblies look like.
- overview of
how t h e VCS works and w h a t t h e
SILKSCREENS AND SCHEMATICS - e l e c t r i c a l drawings and layouts of t h e printed c i r c u i t boards.

TESTING AND TROUBLESHOOTING testing and repairing t h e VCS unit.
overview of t h e procedures for
2600 DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART - thorough flowchart enabling t h e technician t o test and troubleshoot a d e f e c t i v e 2600 unit.
SYMPTOM CHECKLIST - for the experienced technician, a list of t h e high failure parts and t h e flowchart entry point for t h a t particular problem.
2600A
DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART - thorough flowchart enabling t h e technician t o test and troubleshoot a d e f e c t i v e 2600A unit.
GAME CONTROLLERS
overview of hand controller construction with electrical schematics and recommended test and repair procedures.
2600A
.a
a
PARTS LIST
- detailed breakdown
of all p a r t s used in both t h e 2600 and
SERVICE BULLETINS - section t o b e used t o hold service bulletins released

by the Manager of Technical Support. These bulletins will include c h a n g e s in recommended repair procedures and required modifications for units in t h e field.
T h e manual is designed for use by both experienced and inexperienced s e r v i c e personnel. The Diagnostic Flowcharts (Sections 4 and 6) provide detailed diagnostic and repair procedures for technicians who a r e not y e t completely familiar with t h e VCS. The Symptom Checklist (Section 5 ) provides a f a s t repair reference for t h e m o r e experienced technician.
2600/2600A Domestic V C S
SECTION 1
THEORY OF OPERATION
There a r e currently four types of ATARI Video Computer Systems. The original model (2600) is composed of two PC Boards connected by a 12-pin ribbon cable with t h e motherboard surrounded by a heavy aluminum casting.
The other models (2600A: Revisions 1-13, Revisions 14-15, and Revisions 16 and up) a r e composed of a single board with a light aluminum shield. The single board models differ slightly in the video output circuitry. Component differences are:
Revisions 1-1 3 have no diodes on TIA lines LA41 and Sync. a
e
Revisions 14-15 have diodes and pull-up resistors on TIA lines LMl and Sync. Revisions 16 and up include the above mentioned diodes and resistors as well a s a timer chip.
The revision level is etched directly on the PC board.
OVERVIEW
The ATARI Video Computer System (VCS) Models 2600/2600A a r e state-of-the-art microcomputers. They receive instructions for t h e operation of different games from individual Read-Only-Memory game cartridges and interpret data from t h e players' hand-held controllers. They also allow game players t o select both a specific version of each game and t h e player difficulty (on a per player basis). Figure 1-1 is a block diagram of t h e functional flow of t h e VCS Model 2600. Section 7 describes t h e player controllers. -
.
Ellmcutor
(AX, A d w m r t
brar
1 2 0 VAC
Figure 1 -1. 2600 Functional Diagram 2600/2600A Domestic V C S
GAME CONSOLE
The VCS game console is composed of an outercasting t h a t houses the switchboard and the R F radiation shielded motherboard.
Outer C a s t inq
The casting consists of t h r e e pieces of plastic (see Figure 1-2). The pieces include t h e
base, which holds t h e switchboard and motherboard assembly; the top; and t h e bezel.
Figure 1-2. 2600 Game Console 2600/2600A Domestic VCS
Switchboard
The switchboard assembly holds t h e player option switches, t h e power supply, and t h e RF modulator (See Figure 1-3).
0
PLAYER OPTION SWITCHES Switches SlOL thru SL04 a r e double-pole, single-throw. Switches SL05 and 5106 a r e double-pole, double-throw. All switches a r e connected between t h e switchboard and t h e motherboard by 1 2-conductor flexible ribbon cable.
POWER SUPPLY The power supply is composed of a +5 voltage regulator, filter capacitors, and t h e power on/off switch. Unregulated D C is supplied t o t h e board f r o m t h e battery eliminator. A supply of +5 volts is routed through a f i l t e r circuit t o t h e R F modulator. The motherboard also receives i t s power (+5 volts Vcc) from t h e switchboard via t h e s a m e 12-conductor ribbon c a b l e referenced above.
RF MODULATOR The R F modulator. converts t h e signal received from t h e Television Interface Adaptor chip on the motherboard t o a frequency t h a t a television can receive and interpret. D a t a between t h e R F module and t h e Television Interface Adaptor chip is passed via t h e 12-conductor ribbon cable which connects t h e motherboard to t h e switchboard. A coaxial cable passes t h i s siqnal from t h e RF module to the switch box mounted on t h e bac!c of t h e television.
Ilarq(Amml
mchm
mrd hm.r.1~
Figure 1-3. 2600 Switchboard and Motherboard Assembly
1-3
Motherboard T h e motherboard is composed of a PC board containing a microprocessor (MPU) chip, a combination Random Access Memory - Input/Output (RAM-110) chip, and a Television The board also contains numerous Interface Adaptor (TIA) chip (see Figure 1-3). capacirors, resistors, transistors, and other assorted electronic components. These p a r t s a r e all listed in Section 8, PARTS LIST.
a
MICROPROCESSOR CHIP The heart of t h e VCS is t h e 6507 microprocessor chip (MPU). This device makes decisions for the VCS based upon information i t receives from t h e game cartridge and t h e RAM-I/O (discussed in t h e next paragraph). RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY-INPUT/OUTPUT CHIP Temporary storage of d a t a from the MPU is provided by t h e 6532 Random Access ~ e m o r y - I n p u t / O u t p u t (RAM-1/01 chip. This chip also scans the option switches and t h e joystick 1 / 0 lines for information and maintains time accounting for t h e MPU.
TELEVISION INTERFACE ADAPTOR CHIP This ATARI proprietary chip generates audio and video signals which a r e required by t h e RF modulator. The Television Interface Adaptor (TIA) chip also contains t h e analog-to-digital converter circuitry t h a t allows the MPU t o understand signals originating in t h e h a n d h e l d paddle controllers.
TIA outputs a r e processed by additional circuitry into a composite video, sound, and color signal which is routed to t h e RF module on t h e switchboard via t h e 12-conductor ribbon cable. The RF module converts the composite signal t o a R F signal acceptable t o t h e television. A coaxial cable transmits this R F signal from t h e console t o a selection box t h a t can be mounted on t h e T.V. This switchbox (Figure 1-41 allows you to display either a signal received by t h e antenna (for normal T.V. viewing) or a signal from t h e VCS (for playing a game).
Figure 1-4. TV Switchbox

1-4
2600A MODEL DIFFERENCES - ALL REVISIONS The major difference between the newer single board VCS (2600A) and t h e original VCS (2600) is t h a t all of t h e components formerly on t h e switchboard a r e now located on the motherboard (See Figure 1-5). This includes the player control function switches (Power ON/OFF, COLOR/BW, GAME SELECT and GAME RESET), RF modulator and power supply circuitry. The single board design eliminates t h e need for t h e ribbon cable, which connected t h e switchboard t o t h e motherboard on t h e 2600 VCS. Gone, too, a r e the luminescence and RF output buffers and t h e two TIA input buffers, a l l of which were contained in chip A203. In t h e oscillator circuit, one of t h e transistors and its associated network has been eliminated and R227-R230 (paddle control lines) are no longer present. C239, going t o pin 7 on J202 and 3203, has been replaced by C236 and C237 (See Figure 1-6).
Figure 1-5. 2600A G a m e Console
2600/2600A Domestic
VCS
Figure 1-6. 2600A Board Layout (Revs 1-13)
In addition to the component changes, t h e physical location of several parts has also been changed. Instead of having t h e right and l e f t difficulty switches placed on top of t h e game, they a r e located at t h e rear of the console next t o t h e game controller plugs. The channel selector switch is also located at t h e rear of t h e console. The game cartridge socket is no longer angled, but is mounted vertically on t h e board.
2600A MODEL DIFFERENCES - REVISIONS 14 AND 15
Revisions 14 and 15 contain t h e model differences described above, and in addition have new components on t h e TIA lines, LM1 and Sync. There a r e t w o IN914 diodes t o prevent feedback on t h e lines and two additional pull-up resistors t o insure the signal is a t +5v. To compensate for any signal loss, R215 and 217 have been changed t o 47K (R215) and 24K (R217).
2600A MODEL DIFFERENCES
- REVISIONS 14 A N D UP
Revisions 16 and up contain the model differences described above; they also include a t i m e r chip (A205)added to t h e r e s e t circuitry of t h e MPU chip. This chip eliminates t h e problem of power-on reset failures.
SUMMARY
The VCS is a microcomputer t h a t receives its operational instructions from s a m e cartridges, the game console, and player controllers. The 2600 switchboard and motherboard assemblies a r e housed within an o u t e r casting and a r e t h e principle assemblies addressed in t h e remainder of this manual. The boards a r e connected by a 12-conductor ribbon cable which passes not only power, but also d a t a between t h e t w o boards. Three chips of t h e n o t h e r b o a r d allow for t h e interaction between t h e game and t h e player. These chips a r e t h e microprocessor (MPU), t h e Random Access MemoryInput/Output (RAM I/O), and the Television Interface Adapter (TIA) chips.
The 2600A model differs primarily in t h e location of the components formerly located on t h e switchboard. They a r e a t t a c h e d directly t o t h e motherboard and eliminate t h e need for t h e switchboard and the ribbon cable. The 2600A Revisions 14 and up include even further additional components to improve t h e performance of t h e o u t p u t circuitry.
2600/2600A Domestic
VCS
SECTION 2
SILKSCREENS AND SCHEMATICS

On t h e following pages are representative silkscreens and switchboard schematics for t h e ATARI Video Computer System. The motherboard schematics for all 2600/2600A VCS models a r e located in t h e pocket at t h e f r o n t of this binder. Minor variations in design may be encountered depending on t h e production date of t h e game, but these schematics provide all details required for an in-depth understanding of all 2600 units, including the various 2600 A model revisions..
VOLTAGE REGULATOR (Tap View)
NAT. L.kt3kO T.I. 78MC5C
A203
(Top View)
w i n version (Channel 2 or 3)
RF Mod.
RF Moduiator (TOO View)
Figure 2-1.
2600/2600A IC Pinouts
Figure 2-2.
2600 Motherboard Silkscreen
The following variations may appear on t h e 2600 switchboard:
CHANNEL 3 SWITCHBOARD:
C102 may or may not be in place. C103 and/or C104 may or may not be in place. C103 and/or ClO4 may be mylar dipped .22 uf. C103 and/or ClO4 may be c e r a m i c .Oluf (See Figures 2-3 and 2-4).
CHANNEL 2 OR 3 SWITCHBOARD:
The holes on the PC board for t h e CAME RESET and GAME SELECT switches may not be wide enough a p a r t for the switch legs. To correct this t h e legs of t h e switch must b e bent in so they fit into the holes (See Figures 2-5 and 2-6).
Figure 2-3.
2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Silkscreen
Figure 2-4.
2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Schematic
Figure 2-5. 2600 Channel 2-3 Switchboard Silkscreen
Figure 2-8. 2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 14 and 15)

2-1 1 2600/2600A Domestic VCS
Figure 2-9. 2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 16 and up)
SECTION 3
TESTING AND TROUBLESHOOTING
EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
You require eight basic pieces of equipment in o r d e r t o analyze failures in t h e 2600/2600A Video Computer Systems (VCS). These i t e m s include:
A 15 MHz oscilloscope
A Video C o m p u t e r System switchboard assembly t h a t is known to be operating properly (not required for repairing 2600A units) A Video C o m p u t e r System diagnostic t e s t cartridge, version 2.6 (DTC)
Two blue controller port shorting plugs for use with t h e 2.6 (DTC) diagnostic c a r t r idge Signal T r a c i n s C a r t r idqe (STC o r KLUGE) VCS Field Service Manual for Domestic Model 2600/2600A Color television s e t (properly adjusted) Frequency Counter
2600/2600A Domesric VCS
TEST PROCEDURES AND METHODS

A t a r i requires e a c h 2600/2600A model returned for s e r v i c e t o b e checked for c e r t a i n conditions. In some instances, a unit must be modified t o c o n f o r m t o Atari standards. These changes a r e summarized below.
2600 MODEL MODIFICATIONS
Each 2600 model opened must be modified as shown in Figure 3-1 t o provide additional protection from s t a t i c discharge.. A Zener diode is connected b e t w e e n t h e trigger lines and ground, and s t a t i c strips a r e placed on t h e s w i t c h e s on t h e switchboard (See Figures 3-1, 3-2 and 3-41. These modifications a r e c r u c i a l t o prevent c o m p o n e n t d a m a g e d u e t o s t a t i c discharge. Each c o n n e c t o r a n d plug should b e checked for a tight, secure fit. I n t e r m i t t e n t failures frequently result from a loose c o n n e c t o r or plug. Connectors 3202 a n d 3203 should b e checked for pushed o r broken pins. If t h e unit has a green 3200 connector, insert c a r t r i d g e and wiggle it. t h e unit shows i n t e r m i t t e n t problems, replace 5200.
If
Each board with Ltlolex chip sockets with insertion a i d s should have t h e insertion a i d s removed and t h e chip reinserted. Check t h a t a l l components (especially those on t h e p&imetei of t h e motherboard) are properly soldered. Check for broken o r shorted t r a c e lines. Check for a n inductor and capacitor over C201 and R206. C u t t h e inductor and c a p out, being c a r e f u l not t o c u t t h e C201 o r R206 leads.
If unit h a s a standup regulator and heatsink, inspect for hairline f r a c t u r e s between t h e regulator and switchboard. Also e n s u r e t h a t t h e regulator is firmly secured t o the heatsink by a Tinnerman clip or rivet.
Ensure t h a t motherboards (Rev. 8 or lower) have a colored dot over t h e t r a c e on t h e upper-left corner of t h e board. This prevents shortinq t h e board and t h e c a s t i n g (See Figure 3-3).
Two types of 12-conductor cable assemblies have been used on 2600 model units, t h e flat-wire type and t h e ribbon type. When a d e f e c t is found in t h e flat-wire t y p e c a b l e assembly or its male c o n n e c t o r on t h e switchboard, t h e flat-wire c a b l e assembly should be replaced with t h e ribbon c a b l e assembly and t h e 12-pin male switchboard c o n n e c t o r should b e replaced with t h e 1 G i n f e m a l e switchboard socket.
Figure 3-1. 2600 Trigger Circuitry with S t a t i c Modification Install t h e s t a t i c modification on all 2600 units. Install CR202 nd CR203 removing C236 and C237 and inserting the C2361CR202 and CAUTION: C2371CR203 assemblies in their place (See Figure 3-2). Observe t h e polarity on CRZ02 and CR203 (the dark band must be toward t h e 3202/3203 connectors). On t h e switchboard, install t h e static strips as shown in Figure 3-4.
by
Figure 3-4. 2600 Switchboard S t a t i c Modification
2600A MODEL MODIFICATIONS
Each 2600A ( R e v s 1-1 3) model must h a v e s t a t i c s t r i p s placed on t h e f r o n t panel s w i t c h e s (See Figure 3-51.
a
Check each c o n n e c t o r and plug for a tiqht, s e c u r e fit. failures frequently result f r o m a loose c o n n e c t o r o r plug.
Intermittent
Check t h a t a l l cornponenets are properly soldered, and check for broken o r shorted trace lines. If a unit exhibits RF i n t e r f e r e n c e t h a t d o e s n o t c l e a n up using normal adjustment methods, o r if a series of lines and bright q r id distortions on t h e screen are accompanied by a loud hum e v e n when properly adjusted, a defective o r leaking c a p a c i t o r may be a t fault. Replace C24l (.I microfarad) and/or C242 (-1 microfarad) located respectively between t h e power jack and voltage requlator.
ing .
Figure 3-5. 2600A (Revs. 1-13] S t a t i c Slodifications

3-6
TESTING WITH THE DIAGNOSTIC TEST CARTRIDGE (VERSION 2.6)

The 2600 D i a q o s t i c Test Cartridge (version 2.6 DTC) contains a varietv of tests t o assist t h e service technician in identifying t h e source of problems within the VCS switchboard and motherboard hardware. The test cartridge is used in conjunction with t h e equipment listed a t t h e beginning of this section. Each test is reviewed in t h e remainder of this section. Detailed procedures for use of t h e t e s t s a r e described in Section 4, 2600 Diagnostic Flowchart, and Section 6, 2600A Diagnostic Flowchart. The tests available in t h e c a r t r i d g e are: a
a
RAhi Test Color Bar Test GrayBarTest Diagnostic Matrix Test Audio Tones Test Paddle Control Lines Test
The technician also has a Signal T r a c e Cartridge (STC or KLUGE) available for tracking motherboard problems t h a t a r e not repairable with t h e Diagnostic T e s t Cartridge.
a a
Purpose: To prepare t h e VCS unit for testinq by t h e diagnostic cartridge. Format: Connect VCS unit t o television and battery eliminator. S e t television t o proper channel (channel 3). Plug in t h e 2.6 diagnostic cartridge. Set all 2600 switches t o t h e up position. On t h e 2600A, set a l l front panel switches up and rear panel switches t o the left (See Figure 3-6).
i n i t i a l l y to the l e f t
Figure 3-6. Switch Initialization Positions
3-7
260G/2500A Domestic VCS
RAM
m T
Purpose: To t e s t t h e 6532 RAM chi0 for proper operation. Format: On power-up t h e television displays diagonal lines of some type if t h e RAM is defective. See Figure 3-7 for examples of screens indicating 2 defective RAM.
NOTE: The absence of defective patterns i s no assurance that the entire c h i . is sound, only the RAM. The operation of the I/O and Timer functions is not verified by this test.
Figure 3-7. Defective RAM P a t t e r n s
COLOR BAR TEST
Purpose: To test t h e 6507 microprocessor, 6532 RAM chip for c o r r e c t operation.

a
- 1 / 0 chip,
and TIA
Format: Set all switches t o initialization position. A screen of horizontal color bars is displayed (See Figure 3-81. The screen should b e steady and unchanging. A gray or blue horizontal r e f e r e n c e line runs across t h e s c r e e n about t h r e e bars from its bottom. This r e f e r e n c e line is thinner than t h e bars around it. R211 (R213 on t h e 2600A board) should be adjusted so t h e bars immediately above and below t h e r e f e r e n c e line a r e within o n e shade of each other. Proper operation of t h e unit is indicated by being a b l e t o make this adjustment and by consistent color within the entire span of e a c h bar on t h e screen. Minor glitches on the edges of t h e color b a r s a r e acceptable. Leave this t e s t on for at least t e n seconds in order t o c a t c h any intermittent problems, such as a bar momentarily changing colors o r blanking out.
NOTE: This figure is a black and white representation of a color television screen.
Figure 3-8. Color Bars Screen
2600/2600A Domestic
VCS
GRAY BAR TEST

Purpose: To test t h e function of ?he luminescence lines (LLIO, L W , LV2) from the TIA chip t o t h e RF Module. Format: Move t h e Color/Black & White switch t o t h e Black and 'White position. There should be eight horizontal gray bars displayed, going from black at t h e t o p t o white a t t h e bottom in even gradations (See Figure 3-9). The screen should be steady and unchanging. fhese lines may have minor litches on their edges. A thin white line always appears just over the top black) bar. No color should appear anywhere on t h e screen. The areas above t h e t o p (black) bar and below t h e b o t t o m (white) bar a r e of no importance to t h e test. This test should b e l e f t on for at least ten seconds to ensure t h a t t h e r e is no "flashing" of any color o r shifting of t h e gray bars.
Figure 3-9. Gray Bars Screen
DIAGNOSTIC MATRIX TEST
Puroose: To t e s t t h e proper function of t h e Input-Output ports of t h e VCS unit. Format: Set all switches t o t h e initialized position, then move t h e L e f t Difficulty switch t o t h e "8" position. The test is performed in t w o parts:
1.
2.
With t h e blue shorting plugs removed, t h e matrix of nine rectangles on the screen should look like Figure 3-10. The shorting plugs a r e t h e n inserted and t h e pattern should look like Figure 3-1 1. Press t h e CAME SELECT switch. If t h e switch is properly functionins, t h a t a r e a s f t h e matrix will black out. Release t h e GAME SELECT switch and r e p e a t t h e procedure with t h e G A V E RESET switch.
3.
The Ciatrix jumps o n c e every second.
Gr u n
Not Und
Plnk a Green
Not used
a ,
;o'
Came
CIma
Rcet
kkct hitch
Svltch
Figure 3-1 0. Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs OUT)
Pink a G m r
Not U r d
G e m Not UYed
Gama
R m t hrltch
Figure 3-1 1. Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs IN)
AUDIO TONES TEST

Purpose: To test t h e function of t h e audio tone generation and modulation circuitry.
0
Format: The VCS unit should be in t h e initialized mode. Move t h e Right Difficulty switch t o t h e "8" position. The test displays two alternating patterns on t h e screen (as shown in Figure 3-12) while two alternating tones a r e heard. The tones change in sync with t h e screen. This test pattern continues for one full cycle a f t e r t h e Right Difficulty switch has been returned t o t h e initialized position.
Figure 3-12.
Audio Tone Test Screens
PADDLE CONTROL LINES TEST

a
Purpose: To t e s t t h e proper operation of t h e Paddle Control Lines by viewing conversion inputs of the TIA chip.
the analog waveforms at t h e analog-to-digital
Format: Pins 37, 38, 39, and 40 of t h e TIA chip are checked with t h e oscilloscope with t h e VCS unit in Diagnostic Matrix mode and with t h e shorting plugs in place. This test is required only if t h e r e is a problem with t h e hand controller lines. The procedure for this test is detailed in Section 4.
42a Tlh 4040
COL
2600 Motherboard Schematic
SECTION 4
2600 DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART

The Diagnostic Flowchart is intended t o be easy t o use and t h e primary aid when troubleshooting the 2600. Follow t h e prompts in t h e order presented. When a quesrion is asked, follow t h e line from t h a t box which best applies t o t h e unit's condition. The figures referenced in t h e flowcharts a r e located at t h e end of this section. When a line terminates with a l e t t e r inside a circle, note t h a t a page number (i.e., pg. 4-31 is near it. Turn to t h a t page, locate t h e l e t t e r in another circle, and continue t h e diagnosis. The flowchart leaves nothing t o chance, it tells you when t o perform a specific test, and when t o replace components, and even when and how long to "burnin" t h e unit. "Burn-in" the unit for at least two hours a f t e r completing repairs. When a problem is extremely difficult t o diagnose, t h e flowchart sends you to t h e Signal Tracing Cartridge (STC) routine, "D"page 4-47. Due t o t h e repetitive n a t u r e of t h e STC routine, no flowchart is used. Read and follow t h e instructions as directed. Should t h e STC procedure fail t o isolate t h e problem, a f t e r carefully inspecting t h e switchboard and motherboard assemblies for shorted and/or open t r a c e lines, and solder bridges swap a l l t h r e e chips (6507, 6532, and TIA). Should t h e problem still persist, call ATARI, Techline Specialist: Inside California a t (800) 672-1466 and Outside California a t (800) 538-1535. Be certain t o always burn-in t h e unit for t w o hours a f t e r completing repairs. This helps t o ensure t h a t intermittent problems a r e found and also greatly increases your customer's satisfaction with your repair work.
SWAP OUT PROCEDURES
Many places in t h e diagnostic flowchart, a box tells you t o "swapout" a chip or a number of chips in a order. The "swapout" instruction means t h a t you should replace t h e indicated components one at a t i m e with a known sood component of t h e same type. The VCS should then be t e s t e d with t h e new, known-good component in place t o s e e whether t h e "swapout" solved t h e problem being checked. If t h e swapout did not fix t h e problem, t h e known-good component should be l e f t in, a n d t h e n e x t component inserted. Once t h e problem is solved, you then place t h e suspected bad chips o n e by o n e into the system t o d e t e r m i n e whether o r not t h o s e you pulled o u t a r e truly defective. In this way, you avoid needlessly replacine, gbod components. CAUTION Extreme care should b e taken when handling the integrated circuit chips (A200, A20 1, AZ02, A203). They are a l l very sensitive to static electricity and can easily be damaged by careless handling. Always keep the chips in their plastic carrier tubes or on conductive foam when not handling them. Make c e r t a i n you are well grounded when handling the chips. Atari strongly recommends that you wear a conductive grounding band (which ties from your arm to ground) when handling the chips.
-
- -
The chips are also susceptible to damage from stress when being removed from or inserted into t h e sockets Always use a c h i p p u l l e r when removing t h e chips. Do n o t pry chips out with a screwdriver or any other tool.
Failure t o follow the above guidelines results in unusually high chip failure rates and
extra expense.
'
2600/2600A Domestic VCE
2600 Diagnostic Flowchart
Connect VCS to
N barmy eliminator. Set TV to
I
I
Insert Diagnostic Catnidge (DTC), init(Figure 4-11 and aPn on.
I
No
warped and ragged on left side
b C S
MY
fective RAM P . mapQear

muse#r(sec Fig. 4-31.
k picave
of m?
Replace the A 2 0 2
I I
Does unit now ~ I O W the; No cobr bus panem?
A
Y
5 w -
I) A m
2) A202
9howtfitcobr
bars panern?
2600/2600A Domestic
VCS
2600 Diagnostic Flowchart (Continued)
Are color bars present? 'See Figure 4-21.
Yes
b
J
4
I
I
No
Are color bars properly adjusted? (See Figure 4-2) No 1
Yes
r
Is any other test pattern on t h e screen? (See Figure 4-4,

4-694-9)I
,Yes
Check your switch settings. Are they correct?
No
I
w
J
Pg. 4-6
Is there "snow" on the s c r e w ? (no modulation)
No
Is ANY modulation ~ r e s e n on t screen?
w Pg. 4-7
No
Check VCS connections t o TV and
w
Pg. 4-9
Test VCS with known good battery eliminator.
IS "snow"on screen gone?
Yes
Pg. 4-1 1
Bad Video Troubleshooting
procedure KO identify bad.
Bad switchboard
I
I
DotJ A203 have p o d V a (+Sv at pin 8) and ground (at pin 1I?
'
No
Repair open trace.

Das unit now have a picture?
'
Yes
k a b 5 v pg signal p m c n t a t pin S of A203?
R c p k e A203.
pattern an the N?
Cheek R221, I s it
OK?
Replace RZ21
1 s a picwe
(33K)
now pmmt on
Yes
I
1
Yes
Chcck that the trace line from A201 pin 2 is not droned toanother Line.
0
Pg.
f6-4
I
Is a picture now present on
the TV?
No
Swapout 1) A200 2) A202
b a picture now present on the N?
Yes
No
Pg. 4-2
Gray Bars Test Procedure
Place color/ black & white switch i n BhW

.position.
Did screen pattern change when switch was moved ?
Pg. 4-7
Is proper gray bar pattern

present? (See Figure 4-4).
Is a partial segment missing or is any color

present? (See Figure 4-51
pg. 4-45
2600/2600A Domestic V C
Color Bars Test Procedure
u
and initialhe.
Are color bars mesent on screen?
Pq*4-2
Adjust R211 SO that color is aligned properly. (See Figure 4 2 1 .
I s VCS tunable
to proper shades?
Pg. 4-23
Defective Switch Troubleshooting Procedure
With inqxrative switcb ,in position (open). u prnmt at 3201 pin for that switch?(See Chart)
+Y:
bdvnotwpresent a t the RAM pin for that switch? (see chart)
h there an open No
ktareen 1201 and
Yes
Repair open trace.
Does switch
now chnge ~rm on screen?
Yes
RAM pin?
b
No
Yes
fhes ~witCfinow work?

i
Yes
I
CONNECflON CHART
Pg. 4-7
and White Lait Difficulty Right Difficulty

kkt
Restt
2600/2600A Domestic VC
Defective S w i t c h Troubleshooting Procedure (continued)
Check RAM (A2021 pin for
the switch for +5v. I s it present?
Pg.. 4-9
Check for shorted

trace L i n e . Repair
as necessary.
Does switch now work?
2
Swapout A 2 0 2
Does switch now work?
C h d whether capacitor on that RAM line b shorted to ground Replace as necessary. Does switch now work?
Pg. 4-2
Black or Solid Colored Screen Troubleshooting
Use swapout
procedure to identify which board is bad.
Defective switchboard
Defective .Motherboard
b
I
Pg. 4-16
I s 4-E, p-p d2 signal p r e x n t on A202 pin 392
Yes
Pg. 4-10
I s 4-5v
p-0
o x . signal
present betureen C203 and R203?

I
1) X200 2) Q200 3) 4201
4) Other Clock Circuit Components
Is 4 - j v p-p
o x . signai p r e x n t on pin 11 .4201?
Opm between C203 and pin 1 I

A20 1.
b -
Reoalr
I
L
i
Is (C-5v p-p present on

pin 4 A201?
dO signal
1) A201 2 ) A200
Does unit function?
Pin
b 4-5v p-p
A201 shorted.
do signal
present on pin 27 A200? Yes
I
No
Reoair Openbemeen
Pin 27 A200 and Pin 4 A20 1.
4-5v p-p
d2 signal p r e x n t on pin 28 AMO?
No
Swapout
1) A200 2) A202
Does unit function?
Yes
Pin 28 A200 i s shorted.
b 4-5"
62 signal present on A201 pin 26?
&
N~
Open between Pin 26 A201 and
Pin 28 AZOO.
L
Ooen between Pin 39 A202 and pin 28 A200.
Black or Solid Colored Screen Troubleshooting (Continued)
I s 4-5v p-p
d2 signal present on. pin 26 A201?
L
. No
Open trace between pin 26 A201 and pin 39 A202.
Yes
I s there +5v and ground on all of

AZOO, A201, A202, A203?
No
I
Open on line to +5 or ground.
Reset and ready lines good?
Open or shorted line.
Swapout 1) A200 2) A202
Does unit operate

properly?
Pg* 4-45
n
Repair
Pg. 4-2
Snowy Screen
troubleshoot in^
Motherboard
Procedure,
Use swapout
procedure to identify which board is bad.

I
Bad switchboard.
Bad motherboard.
Pg. 4-18
Pg. 4-12
1 s +5v present at J2Ol Pin I ?

i
Yes
I s there continuity across 5201 pin 2?

i
No
Replice 520 1.
I s modulation evident on the TV screen?

No
r)
Yes
A Yes
I s +7.5-9.0~
present a t 3204
(the power jack)? Check at bottom
Yes
I
Check for open trace line between

J204 and J201.
of board
*
No
1
00
M
pg.4-ll
-Pg.
4-1 1
I s 3204 OK?
I
Yes
4
Voltage shorted to ground.
Repair
b
4
Replace J204.
Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure,
Motherboard, (Continued)
&
I s there
continuity across J201 Pins 1,3,6, 10,l l ? *Caution:
Observe
No
Replace connector.
i
Is modulation evident on the screen?
' Yes
polarity of continuity checker. Do =put + probe on ground.
I
I
Is there continuity between +5V line and ground?*
Is there an open trace on either +5v or ground?

No
Yes
Check for and repair any shorted traces or solder bridges.
Is modulation
the TV screen?
Pg. 4-2
Check for and

rtplace shorted
caps: ~ 2 0 4 , ~ 0 1 , ~ 2 2 0 , C239,C200,CZl'l.
I s modulation evident on the screen?

Yes
Pg. 4-1 1
Pg. 4-2
Bad/No Color, Bad/No Sound Switchboard
I
I s RF mod
output tuned to 61.25 MHz? (Channel 3)
Yes
l i
No
Can unit b e tuned to 61.25 MHz ( 2 -15 MHz)?
No
b
Replace RF modulator.
No
I
(or sound)
Is color
Yes
I
now OK?
I
Short across L 10I. Does color (or sound) reappear?

w '
No
I I
Replace RF modulator.
u
Replace LIOL.
Gray Bars Troubleshooting Procedure
r
I
I
Isthere a 3-5v p-p signai on the A203 side of R222,

R223.R224?
Y e s Ohm meter. Replace any failed or off-value resistors.
Pg.
b45
Do a l l of pins 2, 12, and 15 on A203 have a signai present?
Yes
m
There is an open line between A203 and the resistors. Fix it.
Pg. 4-5
I
Check inputs of A203 (pins 3,11,14).
Yes
Replace A203.
Does each have a signal present?
Pg. 4-2
Do all of pins 5,7,8

on A20 1 have a signal
present?
'll
Check for open linesbetwen A201 and A203. Fix.
Pg. b 1 5
Gray Bars Troubleshooting Procedure (Continued)
Picture Now
OK? (See
Yes
&
Go to matrix
test.
I
Figure 4-4)
I
Make sure 1 1 2 18, R219, R220 have +Iv connected to top side.
I
Check RZl8,RZl9, RZ2O for proper
Inspect traces around LM lines for shorts or opens.
I
L
I s picture now OK? (See Figure 4-4)
Yes
'and then A202.
Is picture now OK? (See Figure 4-41
Yes
Pg. 4-20
Colored Screen Troubleshooting Procedure Switchboard
=?
I s +5v a t JlOl Pin I ? I s RF mod. output tuned to 61.25 MHz (channel 3 , + .I5
MHz)
Bad Switchboard
Pg. 4-17
4
No
B
Tune R F mod.
at adjustment hole.
If RF mod cannot b e tuned to 61.25 MHz, replace it.
Is video signal present at JlOl pin 12?

I
Check for open trace or bad connection between J2Ol and RF

module pin.
Repair,
I s JlOl pin 12 shorted to ground?
. No
~ e f e c t i v 3101. e Replace
C h d c for shorted trace. If none is found, the RF module is shorted and must be replaced.
Pg. 4-2
Colored Screen Troubleshooting Procedure, Switchboard, (Continued)
I s +9v present at JlOl Pin 2?

v
Yes
Is C l O 1 shorted?
yes
L
)
Replace C101.
t
b
shorted to ground.
I I
I
Replace voltage regulator (A10 1).
Check that C10 1, C103, or C106 are not shorted. Replace if shorted
If +9v i s still not present at JlOl pin 2, then r e p h c e the regulator (A101).
Pg. 4-20
Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure,
Switchboard
IS +5v present at 3101 pin 1 on the switchboard?
Pg. 4-19
I
I s +5v at the RF modulator pin 3 (5 pin mod) or pin 2 (3 pin mod)?
Open between A10 1 pin 3 and RF module pin 3-
Repair
t
Does RF modulator pin 1 have continuity to ground?
J
Check for and

repair opens be-
No
r-= I
RF module output i s tuned to 6 1.23 M H z . ( 2 -15 MHz).
If tbere is still . a white screen, check the JlO2 connector. Replace as required.
Yes
RF module pin 1 and 3101 pins 6 and 10 (ground).
r
I
If no modulation,
bad. Replace.
the RF module is
I
A
I s there modulation?
Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure, Switchboard, (Continued)
I s +5v a t the output of the voltage regulator (A101, pin 3)?
I
I
I
Is unregulated 47.5-9v a t voltage regulator input (A101, Pin l)?
Check for bad regulator (AlOl) or open between ground and A101.
-7.5-9v present on the 3101 side of
yes
RephCe SiOl.
D o e s " r h 2 have continuity?
( Yes
I s JlOl pin 2
shorted to ground?
l$l
Replace 5 10 1.
i t r e ( )
u
have not shorted t o ground.
Check that C103 or C106
Pg. 4-2
blatr ix Test Procedure
I
I
Initialize switches, the? push "left" difficuity swltCh down.
Does screen
match Figure 4-6?
Put in shorting plugs.
Does screen
match Figure 4-7?
Pg. 4-23
Push down "Game Select" switch ( 5 106).
Did lower middle block on screen turn bia& i n center?
"Reset" switch (SlOS)
Does lo wet middle block turn black on left and right ends?
Yes
Pg. 4-7
Pg. 4-24
Color Troubleshooting Procedure, ?Jotherboard
tive switchboard.
X200 frequency correct?
1
Defective X200.
Yes
I s color very weak or not present at all?
I
I
With RZll fully countcrciockwix is there 6.5-7.5~ on pin 10 A201?
1 Yes
Pg. 4-22
b there +6-7v on
the cathode of CR201?
Yes
Defective C208,C209,RZll or open trace between CR2Ol and pin LO A201.
No
I
A
1 s there a 3-5v P* signal on cathode
Yes
Detective CR200.
signal on cathode CRZOO?
Defective CR20 1
Open or shorted trace to diodes (CR2OO or CR20 1 )

A
Replace or Repair
Pg. 4-2 2600/2600A Domestic V C S
Color Troubleshooting Procedure, Motherboard, (Continued)
Does screen now have color?
Pg. 4-2
I
I
Is 305-5~ p-p signal present between

C213 and R215?
I
1 z ,Ih
$
b 3.5-5v p-p
signal prescnt
Defective C213
between C212 and C213?
I
4
k 3.5-5v p-p
signal present
Defective C212
shorted to another
I
I
Replace or Repair
Pg. 4-2
Defective Man ix
troubleshoot in^
Procedure
R e s a n e r n may ?ave crrors, 3ur all n m e blocks are sresent

I
I
Yes
P a r t e m LS disrupted
I
(5
blue or black iines are .nusing or some gortlon of m e .UPLX farh to appear a\ me
if
--
N screen.
blue b b c k g r ~ d panern disrupted? (See Fisure 3-8 for example Sad panem)
j w a o ~ t !) A200
L entire
2 ) A202 3) A201
matrix now on %reen?
I3
upper left bbcK on
Pq. G 6
. i r e either me middle lower or the l e f t lower 3 d e f u t r v e ? (See Figure 4-6 or 4-7 for
J
Swapou t 1 ) A202
2 ) A200 3) A201
correct p a n e r n )
Are mtadle-left m a lower-kvet blocks now corr e c t (See Figure a-6 or b 7 ) ?
Yes
'Jo
block d e f e c n v e ?
Pg. L 2 7 Pq. '(-26
Is l o w e r - m ~ d d k block defective?
Pg. b 2 7
Pg. b - 4
u
Pg. '(-20
Audio Test Procedure
Reinitialize switches. Press down the '?right difficulty " switch.
Is there a clear tone?
1
Pg. 4-27
Use scope or frequency counter to measure frequenq at emitter of QZOZ.
I
7)
Tune audio to 5.5 MHz by adjusting L2O 1.
I
Ad just to 2 .06 MHz. Look for stable f r tquency.
Can unit be adjusted is sound clear?
Pg. 4-28
Audio Test Procedure (Continued)
I
Are the two patterns in Figure 4-9 alternating on the screen?
I Yes
D o the patterns alternate with the tones?
Pg. 4-28
Pn. 4-24
yes
I
A
Are both colors and tones consistent each cycle?
No
Swapout I ) A201 2) A200 3) A202
Are patterns now correct?
(As in Figure 4-9)
IYes
-1
Put switches back to initialized positions.

b
VCS will go through o m last cycle before changing to color bar test.
Pg. 4-30
Changed per ECN #0021
1/29/83
Defective 1 / 0 Lines Troubleshooting Procedure
De (ermine which lines a r e defective by referring to
Uefect~ve 202 Cap. ( R A I M ) L ~ ~ ~ N o .No.

15
14
Connector PinNo.
3202-Pin u 3202-Pin 3 3202-Pin 2
C235 C234
I3
C233
. Check the lines
indicated as defective for +Sv a t 3202 or 3203 (See chart).
I
A
* H Ih -
Is +5v present on the linds) just checked? I
Yes
Swapout I ) A202 2 ) A200 3) A201
Does Diagnostic Matrix now look

cwrtct
(See
I
Figure 4-6 or 4-7)?
(A2021 pin. I s +5v
p r t x n t there?
berwecn A M 2 pin and the 3203D203.
k 1 I
(~hcd< trace lined.
I
I
Check trace l i n d s ) from defective pin(s) for rhora t o ground. Are there any shorn?
Yes
Yes
Repair
Is +5v now present a t t h e

A202 pin?
Replace the
capacitor on that line (see chard.
I
Does the Diagnostic Matrix screen now ook correct (see Fig. b-6) Swapout 1) A200 2) A201
l Yes
2600/2600A Domestic VC5
Trigger Line Troubleshooting Procedure
I
l s +5v a t pin 6
of 3203 (right) trigger) or 1202 (left trigger)?
No
.IYes
I
Check/repair trace lines from: R225 to 3203, pin 6 (right), R226 to 3202, pin 6 (left). A
Check for VMOD (+Sv) a t top of R225 (right) or R226 (left)
L trigger Line
now operatins
correctly?
A
1
Yes
1s +Sv a t A203 pin 7 (right
*
t
trigger) and pin 9 (left trigger)
No
Repair open trace from: R225 t o A203
(right) R226 to A203 (left)
I s trigger Line now operating properly?

I
) Yes
I
1
L
b 4.5-5v at
A203 pin 6 (right) and in 10 (left)?
N o
Swapout A203.
Is trigger l i n e
n o r operating cofrectly?
Yes
L
Swapout A201
I
Docs trigger
line now work
I
Yes
swapout I ) A200 2) A202

4
I
Does trigger line now W Q d pmperly?
'
Yes
Check/Rtpair C236,CRZOZ
(left)
C237,CR203
(right)
Audio Troubleshooting Procedure, .Motherboard
Switchboard
to isolate the bad board.
I
I
BA mmcrbovd
b
pg.
e 13
Isrhuea2vp-p square wave whrd alternates betweal two frequencies on Pin 13 of A201?
_r
i
b one frequencY aPWarh5 at the pin?
,.No
Is +5v at the top

of R2081
NO
Repair open trace between 320 1 pin 1 and R201.
Yes
b there continuity
Swapout A20 I.
I
_I
from R208 to A201 pin 131

I
No
Rep%r open between R208 & A201
Pin 13.
Yes
Swapart A20 I.
Pg. 4-24
L
D o n square
wave siqnal appear at C210?
Fix open trace line betareen C210 and pin 12/13 or A201.
b
AD
Pg. 4-24
k there a 4.5 MHz, m d u h t d 1 -2v p-p audio signal a t C2 1 1 (either side)?

h
No
Pg. 4-29
L
Y er
9
Replace 1) all
Is there now an alter-
nating audio tone from

the
21 RZ16
N?
Pg. 4-2
Audio Troubleshooting Procedure, Motherboard, (Continued)
I s there +5v at one end of L20 1?
Repair trace
from VMOD (+5v) to 1201.
Check that L201 i s good (has continuity and isn't
shoned or cracked).
1
J
If audio is still dead, check the trace lines around C211

for opens and strons:
Is there now an alternating audio tone from the TV?
Yes
Pg. 4-2
Pg. 4-28
2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VCS
Cartridge Test Procedure
DTC works,
but VCS unit
Plug in customer cartridge, if

available.
w
Not Available
Pg. 4-31
Available
Connect, initialize, and turn VCS on with

customer's game
cartridge.
video pattern for that game appear?

i
Do&
correct
No
A
Yes
I
Play game. Does it

play OK?
No
,' Yes
L
Pg. 4-31
I
Check customer cartridge on known good game. I s it OK?
Yes
Swapout I) A201 2 ) A200 3) A202

b
Yes Does game now operate properly with game cartridge?

I
rn
Replace with
good cartridge.
Pg. 4-45
Pg. 4-31
Burn-In Procedure
Place customer cartridge in game, if available. Otherwise, use other game cartridge.
Run game for 2 hours, minimum. Do not turn off during this period.
Check game's operation.
I s game working properly?
Pg. 4-2
Defective Switch Troubleshooting Procedure
Put inoperative switch in up (open) position.
3201 pin for that switch (see connection chart)?

Yes
I s trace line shorted to groud?
P
Repair
b dv now present on J2Ol pin for that switch (see chart)?
I s o n side of switch tied ,to ground as Shown in schematic?
2 '
i
Replace switch
CONNECTION CHART
Does panun on Screen change when switch b flipped?
Switch
lad< h White
11 01 Pin No.
4
Left Difficulty Right Difficulty select Reset
S
7 9 8
Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure

a
Is there dv on J201 pin 12?

I
No
r
I s there an open Line between pin 20 and +5v? Yes
L
I s there +5v on pin 20 of

AZOI?
1
NO
Repair.
I
. Yes
Yes
I
Swapout A201.
w
4
Is there modulation?
1
L there continuity across 5201 pin 12?

I
No
Replace J20 1
s
y e sJ Are C221 or R223 shorted to ground?
Is J20l pin 12
shorted to ground? (check continuity) '
Yes
Replace
&
I
No
1 No
Check for
Swapout A20 1.
I
solder bridges or trace shorts.

b
Repair
I
Yes
No
Swapout 1 ) A200 2) A202
2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V C S
Paddle Lines T e s t
Put shorting plugs in. Put VCS into Diagnostic Matrix mode.
1
Checx 3202/3203 for RC waveform (see Fig. 4-10). Yes Is waveform present on each of the pins shorn i n char??
- '~c.~:~~~2~~~t &
#
shown in the chart?
tiepav open trace between A201 and 12021 3293.
DO paddle lines now work OK?
2
b
I
Swapout 0 A201 2) A200 3) A202
Is there continuity between the 1202 or 3203 pin (see chart) and the A20 I?
No
Check n a c e lines and

resistors for opens
Yes
kR C waveform
appear
Yes
rn
on the appropriate J202 o r J203 l i e ? (Set Chart)
Yes
Line now work?
or shorted.
Repair
Connection Chart
pg. 4-2
Cap
Plaver 1 2 3 4
Pin A201 40 39 38
37
3202 203 5 9 5 - 9
P i n
P i
CZ15 C216 C217 C218
NOTE: T h e following f i g u r e s a r e r e f e r e n c e d in t h e 2600/2600A Diagnosric Flowcharts,

Sections 4 and 6, and a r e included h e r e for your convenience. in Section 3, w h e r e t h e tests a r e described in m o r e detail. They c a n a l s o Se found
i n i t i a l l y to t h e l e f t
Figure 4-1. Switch Initialization Positions
Figure 4-2. Color Bars Screen
NDTE: Set all switches t o initialized position. A screen of horizontal color bars is displayed (see Figure 4-2). T h e screen should b e steady and unchanging. A gray or blue horizontal r e f e r e n c e line runs across t h e screen about t h r e e bars from i t s bottom. This reference line is thinner t h a n t h e bars around it. R211 (R213 on t h e 2600A board) should be adjusted so t h e bars immediately above and below t h e r e f e r e n c e line a r e within o n e shade of e a c h other. Proper operation of t h e unit is indicated by being able t o make this adjustment and by consistent color within t h e e n t i r e span of e a c h bar on t h e screen. Minor glitches on t h e e d g e s of t h e color bars a r e acceptable. Leave this test on for a t least t e n seconds in order t o c a t c h any i n t e r m i t t e n t problems, such as a bar momentarily changing colors or blanking out.
2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VCZ
ANY DIAGONAL LINES

(A2'02).
ON THE SCREEN INDICATE A FAILURE IN
THE RAlU CHIP
Figure 4 - 3 . Defective RAM Patterns
Figure 4-4.
Gray Bars Screen
descending order) a s going f r o m black t o white in even steps. The s c r e e n may not have a n y color in it. All e i g h t b a r s must b e consistent in their shade across t h e e n t i r e bar. -. lhe a r e a of t h e screen outside t h e bars is irrelevant. The white line immediately a b o v e t h e top bar (black) is normal. This screen tests t h e operation of t h e chip set, especially t h e TIA (A202).
--
The gray bars screen h a s e i g h t horizontal shaded bars. I t is normal for t h e bars t o have some uneven a r e a s on their upper and lower edges. The bars must appear (in
Figure 4-5. Defective Gray Bars Screen
This screen shows an example of a defective gray bars test screen. The appearance of a black rectangle in t h e middle of a light gray bar means t h a t t h e data for t h a t p a r t of t h e screen has failed t o be translated properly t o the TV. Any disruption of t h e standard gray bars pattern (See Figure 4-4) or any color in the gray bars screen indicates a failure.
Gem
Not Urd
Figure 4-6. Diagnostic Matrix Screen (Shorting Plugs OUT) The Diagnostic Matrix Screen appears a s above, on a black background, when the shorting plugs are not inserted. The three left rectangles and the blue/black grid joinin them indicate t h e status of the 1 1 0 line connections to the 6532 RAM chip
(A2028.
Cr een Not Used
Pink a Getn Not U d
Cunc
Switch
R e t
Came kka
Switch
Game
R e xt
Switch
G e m
Not U A
Figure 4-8. Diagnostic Va t r ix Screen with Defective P a t t e r n Any missing grid lines or disrupted rectangles indicate an I/O line failure (see page 4-26). Any missing or disrupted blue o r black reference lines indicate t h a t t h e r e has probably been a microprocessor failure (see page 4-23).
Figure 4-9. Audio Tone Test Screens The test displays two alternating patterns on the screen (as shown in Figure 4-9) w h i l e two alternating tones a r e heard. The tones change in sync with the screen. This test pattern continues for one full cycle a f t e r t h e Right Difficulty switch has been switched to stop t h e test.
2ms/div. Iv/div
P i n 37 and P i n 39
Zms/div. Iv/div. Pin 38 and P i n 40
Figure 4-10.
RC Waveforms
The Signal Tracing C a r t r i d g e (STC) is used t o l o c a t e easily open o r shorted t r a c e s in t h e address and d a t a lines of t h e 2600/2600A. The STC c a u s e s t h e 6507 microprocessor (AZOO) t o c y c l e through the e n t i r e memory space while executing "no operation" instructions. This is valuable because it puts a known signal on e a c h address and d a t a line. Then t h e signal c a n be t r a c e d through t o t h e JZOO connector, t h e TIA and RAM-I/O chips. Since t h e STC procedure is n o t easily reduced t o a flowchart, i t is presented as a series o f w r i t t e n instructions and illustrations on t h e following pages.
CAUTION: The STC procedure requires t h r e e known-good chips and a working clock circuit. The STC should only be used after all o t h e r procedures have been tried.
GETTING STARTED Insert t h e STC into t h e 2600/2600A. Turn on t h e unit. T h e television screen should b e g r a y o r black. If it is "snowy" it indicates t h a t you should return t o t h e s t a r t of t h e Diasnostic Flowchart. S e t t h e scope sweep t o .5 microsec/division and s e t t h e v e r t i c a l t o 1 volt/division. ADDRESS LINES AB@- AB12 C h e c k t h e address lines a t - t h e microprocessor (H200). Check address lines, s t a r t i n s wirh pin 5. A signal with a waveform similar t o those shown in Figure 4-1 1 should b e s e e n on t h e address lines, with e a c h succeeding address line's waveform having a frequency half t h a t of t h e line before it. For example, A1 should b e half t h e frequency of .A@. If o n e o r m o r e of t h e address lines shows no signal, it is likely t h a t t h e line is either open or shorted t o ground or +5v. Check all t r a c e s and pins for shorts. If you have a d e f e c t i v e address line and it is not open o r shorted, swapout t h e A200, A202 and A201, in t h a t order. If a l l address lines have signals, t r a c e those signals t o t h e JZOO and t h e o t h e r chips. Table 4-1 illustrates which address lines c o n n e c t t o which pins on 3200, 6532, and t h e A . The signal present on e a c h address line of t h e microprocessor should also b e p r e s e n t on each pin of 3200, 6532, and t h e TIA c o n n e c t e d t o t h a t line. If t h e s a m e signal is not found, t h e t r a c e line and/or solder joints between t h e microprocessor and t h e dead pink) is (are) broken. Check t h e t r a c e lines carefully t o locate t h e break. DATA LINES DBO-7 S e t t h e v ~ r t i c a on l your scope t o Zv/division. T h e d a t a lines a r e t e s t e d very much like t h e address lines. The only d i f f e r e n c e is t h a t t h e waveform seen on t h e d a t a lines is different. The signals you should s e e a r e illustrated in Figure 4-12. If any d a t a lines a r e completely inactive (simply remaining a c o n s t a n t voltage), i t probably means t h a t t h e line is either open or shorted t o ground or +5v. Check t h e t r a c e s and pins f o r shorts. If none a r e found, o n e of t h e t h r e e chips or t h e STC itself probably has a n internal short. Try swapping o u t t h e 6532, TIA, and t h e microprocessor. Also carefully check J2OO for s h o r t s b e t w e e n pins. 4-45 2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V C S
If a l l d a t a lines have signals, t r a c e those signals t o JZOG and t h e o t h e r chips. Table 4-1 illustrates which lines c o n n e c t t o which pins of 3200, 6532 and t h e TIA. The signal p r e s e n t on e a c h data line of t h e microprocessor should also b e p r e s e n t on each pin of 3200, 6532 and the TIA c o n n e c t e d t o t h a t line. If t h e s a m e signal is not found, t h e t r a c e line and/or solder joints b e t w e e n t h e microprocessor and t h e dead pin(s) i d a r e ) broken. Check t h e t r a c e l i n e s carefully t o locate t h e break.
Address lines @, 7-12 1vldivision
Address Lines 1-6 1v/division
Figure 4-1 1 . STC Address Line Waveforms
I
t
.
,
I
'
D a t a Lines 0,2, and 4 2v/division 2 ms./division Figure 4-12.
D a t a Lines 1,3,5-7 2v/division 2ms./division
STC D a t a Line Waveforms
TABLE 4-1
Connected Pins on Motherboard
ADDRESS LINES ABO
A20 2 (TIA)
A202 (RAM)
7
5200 Connector
8
32
DATA LINES:
DBO 25
14
33
9
-- Indicates no connection
on that line
2600/2600A D o m e s t i c VC5
SECTION 5
SYMPTOM CHECKLIST
The Symptom Checklist is designed to assist t h e experienced technician arrive at a The checklist is not intended t o replace t h e rapid diagnosis of VCS problems. Diagnostic Flowchart as the primary troubleshooting guide, b u t is designed t o supplement t h e flowchart. Symptoms have been divided into six general categories of failure: Logic Video
a
a
Color Audio Controller
Other
Each symptom is accompanied by some possible cuases and t h e best point t o e n t e r - t h e Diagnostic Flowchart t o locate t h e problem.
2600 FAILURES
LOGIC FAILURES
SYMPTOM
POSSIBLE CAUSE (mother board) A200, A202, TIA X200, 4200, 4201, open o r shorted Address or D a t a line ,4200, A201, A202, 5200, open or shorted Address or Data line
POSSIBLE CAUSE (switchboard) A101,RFModule
DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART
ENTRY POINT
J,pg.4-9
Solid colored screen
Vertical lines
J, pg. 4-9
VIDEO FAILURES
ENTRY POINT
L, pg. 4-1 1 X,pg.4-18
SYMPTOM
Snowy screen
POSSIBLE CAUSE (mother board) no power, A203 5201, J204

N/ A
POSSIBLE CAUSE (switchboard) A101, L101, R F Module, J 10 1 LlOl,RFModule, RF Cable
Weak picture
Wronrg Gray Bars
A201, A203, R 2 18-R220
P, pg.
4-14
2600 FAILURES (Continued)

CDLOR FAILURES
SYMPTOM No color Only t h e reference bar appears Color won't ad just V e a k color
I
POSSIBLE CAUSE (motherboard)
POSSIBLE CAUSE (switchboard) L101, RF Module RF Cable
ENTRY POINT
AA, pg. 4-21
C208, R211
N/ A
RA, pg. 4-21
R211, C208, C209

C212, C213, R215
N/A
AA, pg. 4-21
RF Module, LlOl R F Cable
AA, pg. 4-21
AUDIO FAILURES
SYMPTOM
No audio
POSSIBLE CAUSE (motherboard)

C206, C207, L201 adjustment, 4 2 0 2 ,4201, C206, C207, L201 adjustment, C20 1 .42C11, A200, A202
POSSIBLE CAUSE (switchboard)
DLAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART
ENTRY POINT
AH, pg. 4-25
RF module adjustment XF module adjustment
'Afeak audio
AH, pg. 4-28
DTC audio
test fails
N/ A
AD, pg. 4-24
2600 FAXLURFc (Continued)

CONTROLLER FAILURES
DIAGNOSTIC
POSSIBLE CAUSE
SYMPTOM
F i r e button does not work Joystick does not work
Dr ivin? Cunlroiier s
(motherboard)
A203, 5202, 5203, defective Controller A202, 5202, 3203, defective Joystick A202, J202, 5203 defective Con troller A20 1, C215-C218, 5202 - 3203, defective controller
POSSIBLE 'CAUSE (switchboard)

N/A
FLOWCHART
ENTRY POINT
AG, pg. 4-27
N/A
AF, pg. 4-26
N/ A
AF, pg. 4-26
Paddle Controllers
N/ A
pg. 4-34
OTHER FAILURES DIAGNOSTIC
POSSIBLE CAUSE SYMPTOM

Switches not working
POSSIBLE CAUSE
(switchboard)
S102-S106, JIOl
(motherboard)
A202, C222-C227
FLOWCHART ENTRY POINT

AL, pg. 4-32
2600A FAILURES
LOGIC F.ULURES (2600A)
DIAGNOSTIC
FLOWCHART
SYMPTOM
Solid colored screen Vertical lines
POSSIBLE CAUSE
A200, A202, A20 1, X200, 4200, RF Module
A200, A201, A202,
ENTRY POINT
I, pg. 6-10
I ,pg. 6-10
3200, open or shorted Address or Data line
VIDEO FAILURES (2600A)

DIAGNOSTIC
SYMPTOM
Snowy screen Weak picture Vrong Gray Bars Revisions 1-1 3 Wrong Gray Bars Revision 14
POSSIBLE CAUSE A203, 5201, RF Vodule, L205
FLOWCHART ENTRY POINT

K, pg. 6-12
RF Module, RF Cable
K, pg. 6-12
M, pg. 6-14
N, pg. 6-15
Warped picture Revisions 1-13 Warped picture Revision 14
C, pg. 6-4
C l , pg. 6-5
..
2600j2600A Domestic VCS
2600A FAILURES (Continued)
COLOR FAILURES (2600A)

DIAGNOSTIC FLOW CHART ENTRY POINT
SYMPTOM
No color
POSSIBLE CAUSES
X200, A201, C210, C211 RF Cable
P, pg. 6-16
Only t h e reference bar appears
Color won't
a d just
P, pg. 6-16
Weak color
RF Module, C210, C211, RtlO, RF Cable

AUDIO FAILURES (2600A)
SYMPTOM
POSSIBLE CAUSES
C206, . C207, 4 2 0 1, R F Module ad just ment
A201, C208, R207, C2O6, C207,
No audio
4
Weak audio
X, pg. 6-24
R F Module adjustment
Diagnostic test cartridge audio test fails
X, pg. 6-24
2600A FAILURES (Continued) CONTROLLER FAILURES (2600A)
SYMPTOM
Fire Button does n o t work Joystick does not work Driving Controllers Paddle Controllers
POSSIBLE CAUSES
5202, 5203 Defective Controller A202, 5202, 5203, Defective Joystick A202, 5202, 3203, Defective Controller 3202, 3203, Defective Controller

W, pg. 6-23 V, pg. 6-22 V, pg. 6-22
pg. 6-29
OTHER FAILURES (2600A)

G, pg. 6-8
SYMPTOM
Switches not working
POSSIBLE CAUSES
2600/2600A Domestic VCS-
SECTION 6
2600A DIAGNOSTIC
FLOWCHART
T h e Diagnostic Flowchart is intended t o be easy t o use and t h e primary aid when troubleshooting t h e 2600A. Follow t h e prompts in t h e order presented. The figures r e f e r e n c e d in t h e flowcharts a r e located a t t h e end of Section 4, beginning on page 4-37. 'When a question is asked, follow t h e line from t h a t box which best applies t o t h e unit's situation. When a line t e r m i n a t e s with a l e t t e r inside a circle, n o t e t h a t a page number (i.e., pg. 6-3) is near it. Turn t o t h a t page, l o c a t e t h e l e t t e r in a n o t h e r circle, and continue t h e diagnosis. The flowchart leaves nothing t o chance, i t tells you when t o perform a specific t e s t , and when t o replace components, and even when and how long t o "burn-in" t h e unit. "Burn-in" t h e unit for a t least t w o hours a f t e r completing repairs. When a problem is e x t r e m e l y difficult t o diagnose, t h e flowchart sends you t o t h e Signal Tracing Cartridge (STC) routine, "D",page 4-47. Due t o t h e repetitive n a t u r e of t h e STC routine, no flowchart is used. Read and follow t h e instructions as directed. Should t h e STC procedure fail t o isolate t h e problem, a f t e r carefully inspecting t h e motherboard assembly for shorted and/or ooen t r a c e lines a n d solder bridges, s w a p a l l t h r e e chips (6507, 6532, and TIA). Should t h e problem still persist, call ATARI, Techline Specialist: Inside California a t (800) 672-1 466 and Outside California a t (800) 538-1 535. Be c e r t a i n t o always burn-in t h e unit for two hours a f t e r completing repairs. This helps t o e n s u r e t h a t i n t e r m i t t e n t problems a r e found and also greatly increases your c u s t o m e r ' s satisfaction with your repair work. SWAP OUT PROCEDURES Many places in t h e diagnostic flowchart; a box tells you t o "swapout" a chip or a number of chips in a particular order. The "swapout" instruction means t h a t you should r e p l a c e t h e indicated components one a t a t i m e with a known good component of t h e s a m e type. The VCS should then be t e s t e d with t h e new, known-good c o m ~ o n e n tin place t o s e e w h e t h e r t h e "swapout" solved t h e problem being checked. If t h e s w a p o u t did not fix t h e ~ r o b l e r n ,t h e known-good c o m p o n e n t should be l e f t in, and the- next component inserted. O n c e t h e problem is solved, you t h e n place t h e suspected bad chips one by o n e into t h e s y s t e m t o determine whether or not those you pulled o u t a r e truly defective. In t h i s way, you avoid needlessly replacing good components.
CAUTION:
Extreme care should be taken when handling the intergrated circuit chips (A200, A201, A202, AZ03). They are all very sensitive t o static electricity and c a n easily be damaged by careless handling. Always keep the chips in their plastic carrier tubes or on conductive foam when not handling them. Make certain you are well grounded when handling the chips. Atari strongly recommends that you wear a conductive grounding band (which ties from your arm to ground) when handling the chips.
The c h i p s are also susceptible t o damage from stress when being removed from or inserted into the sockets. Always use a chip-puller when removing the chips. Do not pty chips out with a screwdriver or any other tool.
Failure to follow the above guidelines results in unusually high chip failure rates and
extra expense.
2600A Diagnostic Flowchart
Visually
i n &
switches,
I
n
jacks and connectors Makeccnainno rhocted oc opn traces or solder bridg- are on the
board(s1.
T f bancry eliminator. Set TV t o
I n Diagnostic Caruidge (DTC), initialize (Figure b-1)
Does any dtP a m appeu

onxsmn(xt
I s picture
on left side of sixem? Pg. 6-5 C - 2600A R e v s 1-L3 C1 2600A Revs 14 and up
Fig. 4-31.
I
~unitnow&owthc color bars pattun?
I
>
No
8
&
swapout
1) A200 2) A202
Does u n i t now show the color
No
bars pattern?
I .
2600A Diagnostic Flowchart (Continue?)

Pg. 6-7
- Are color bars present? (See Figure 4-21.

4
.Yes
h
Are color bars properly adjusted? (See Figure 11-21
Pg. 6-6
No
I s any other test pattern on the screen? ( S e e Figure 4-4,

44,409).
, Yes
Check your switch seeings. Are they correct?
No
present on screen?
1
'
Yes
Check VCS connections to N and cfiannel setting.
I
I
Yes
r
Pg. 6-10
Test VCS with known good battery eliminator.
IS -"snow"on screen gone?
2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V C S
2600A Bad Video Troubleshooting (Loss of Sync.) (Revisions 1-1 3)
R F module tuned to
61.25 MHz? (Channel 3)
Can R F module
properly tuned?
Yes
1
be
Replace R F module
Yes
Tune R F module
3.5-5VP-Psignal on A201 side of R217.

v'
a
Yesp
I
Defective R217 or
bad ,4201.
Good video
Yes
No
Defective
R22 1
n
Rep lace
2600A Bad Video Troubleshooting (Loss of Sync.) (Revisions 1 4 and up)
R F module tuned to No 6 1.25 MHz, Channel 3 ; ''

Yes
Can R F module b e properly tuned?
No
I
Replace R F module.
Tune R F module.
3.5-5V P-P signal on A201 side of R217.

d
Yes
D e f e c t i v e R217 or d e f e c t i v e CR203. or d e f e c t i v e A20 1.
'
+
Defective R221 o r R23(
Swapout 1) A201 2) A200 3) A202
Good video: Yes
2600A Gray Bars Test Procedure
Place color/ black & white switch in B&W posit ion.
Did screen pattern change when switch was moved ?

Yes
L
Pg. 6-8
I s proper gray bar pattern present? (See Figure 4-4).
Pg. 6-13
Is a partial segment missing or i s any color present? (See - Figure 4-51
Pg. 4-45
Pg. 6-14 or 6-15

M 2600A Revs. 1-13 N 2600A Revs. 14 and up
2600A Color Bars Test Procedure
Reconnect VCS
and initialize.
I
Pg. 6-2
Are color bars present on screen?
( yea
Adjust R213 so that color
I
6
&
is aligned properiy (See figure 4-2).
I
4
1s VCS tunable
to proper shades?
b
No
Pg. 6-6
Pg. 6-14 or 6-15 M - 2600A Revs. 1-1 3 N 2600A Revs. 14 and up
2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V C S
2600A Defective Switcn Troubleshooting
CONNECTION CHART
A202
With inoperative switch in open position, i s there +5v present at the A202 side of it?
Switch Pin No. Color/~lack and White 21 Left Difficulty 17 Right Difficulty 16 Select 23 Reset 24
9 Pg. 6-9
Close the switch.
Is there an open between A201 and that switch?

fl
1s switch connected to ground on other side?
Yes
Replace switch.
Yes
0
Repair trace.
2600A D e f e c t i v e Switch Troubleshooting ( C o n t i n u e d )
I s switch internally shorted?

I
Yes
Replace switch.
&
I
L
Is cap on that line shorted ,Yes t o ground? (See chart)
/Is there +5v on the RAM pin for that switch? (See chart)
Swapout
1) A202
2) A200 3) A201
CONNECTION CHART
Switch
lack
A202 Pin No.
and
White
Left Difficulty Right Difficulty Select Reset
Open between RAM pin
and inoperative switch.

d
21 17 16 23 24
0
Repair
Pg. 6-2
2600/260014 D o m e s t i c VC:
2600A SoLid Colored Screen Troubleshootinq
!s L-lv p+ QO siqnal
?resent on pm
i AZOl?
Swapout 1) A200 2) 4202
Does unit ~W-IO~?

I
No
Pin b A201 snorted.

I
Yes
Pg. 6-2
1 s 4-Sv p-p slqnal xesent on DUI 27 A2OO?
I
1
pen between pm 27 .+ZOO;, and pm A201.
Reoav
'
Swapour 1 ) A201 2) ,420fl
IS b-sv p+ S)Z siqnal x e m r on pm ZS .4200?
Does unit function?
'
Yes
Yes
Pin !S AZOO saortcd to ground. Reoair.
Is J S -v p-p 9 2 signal aresent on pin 26 A2011

ye5
2
I J
beween Pm 26 A201 and pin 28 A2(XI.
Open oerwccn pin 39 A202

and pm 29 A200.
h
2600A Solid Colored Screen Troubleshooting (Continued)
Is 4-5v p-p @2 signal present on A201 pin 26? Yes Is there +5v and ground on a l l of A200, A201,
A202, A203?
Open t r a c e between pin 26 A201 and pin 39 A202.
t
J
+
NO
'
Open on Line to +5v or ground, or bad regulator.
Reset ready Lines good?
No
Open or shorted l i n e .
Swapout liAZ00
Does unit operate proper fy ?
r
Repair
I yes
pg. 4-45
260012600A Domestic V C S
2600A Snowy Screen Troubleshooting Procedure
1s - 5 v present on ourpur of .\203?

b
1 s there
+jv
on in b
RF module!
kr
h
~205 defective?
yo
Jpen b e w e e n A203 ourput and RF moaule pin 4.
Yes
b
b
R e p l a c e RF module or bad R F cable?
,
D
No
I
RepLace L205.
J
A
Repair
L
7.5 unrequiated on 3201?

I
b
pen between 3201 and put A203.
i n
Repair
No
- 5 v h o r r e d ro qround?
Repair
Swawut 1) ,4201 21 A200 3) A202
Yes
.Anv modulation?
Defective 220 1.
u
Replace
Pg. 6-2
2600A klatrix Test Procedure
teen push "left" dlff~culty rw~tch .
Does screen match Figure rb?
Put i n shortin3
1I
Does screen match Figure 4-7? Pg. 6-16

"Came Select"
Did Lower middle block on screen nun black i n center?
Push down
"9eset" switch (SLOS)
b
Does lower middle block turn black on

Pg. 6-8
Pg. 6-17
2600A Gray Bar Troubleshooting Procedure (Rev isions 1-1 3)
signal on t h e A20 1 side of R214, R215, and R216?
Yes
Check R214, R15, and

R216 with meter for correct value. Replace any defective
I
I
L
f s there 3-5v P-P signal on the A20 1 pin corresponding to t h e resistor that had no signal?
yes
Open between A2I 1 and that resistor.
Repair
Check pullup resistor R218, R219, or R220

on that line to insure resistor is good and one side is connected to +5v.
I
Resistor Defective?
Replace
Yes
Pg. 6-2
2600A Gray Bars Troubleshooting Procedures (Xevisions 1 4 and up)
I
a
sideofR210,R215, and ~ 2 1 6 ?
signal on the A20 1
K L d~ with
n
--I-
R214, R15, and meter for correct value. c e any defective components.
'(
u
Check pullup resistors
R218, R219, or R229 on that line t o insure resistor is good and one side is connected to +5V. Resistor Defective?
I
Is there 3-5v P-P signal on the A20 1 pin corresponding to the resistor that had no signal?
Open between A201 and that resistor or defective Cii202 if L.M 1 is bad.
Repair
Yes
J
I
Replace
Pg. 4-45
Pg. 6-2
2600/2600A D o m e s t i c V
2600A Color T r o u b i e s h o o t i n ~ (Continued)
5wa~our
Does voltaqe vary beween 2 4 5 v o n o m !C) of vnen R213 u rotarea?
w
Yes
'
Is V290 frlnutncy
3.5795 MHz?
Yes
!)
A291
2 ) 4290 3 ) A292
8
Turn a213 fuUv clockwise..
.
I
t L
3tolace YZPO.
1
r
!s tnere 6 v on anode of C.9290?
Yes
i)e:ec:lve
D c W m
R213 or ooen R7 me AZOl.
Reuar or Replace
.'
Yes
5 . 5 ~on anoae of CRZO 1 ?
Is
a212 ~ood?
Yes
Defecnve CBZOO.
&
h e n xrween - 5 h CX201
Repau x Replace
26G012600A Domestic VC,C
2600A Color Troubleshooting (Continued)
Y Y O frquencv
3 . 5 ' 9 5 : . : O k
V~
D e fecrive 1 ) Y200 2 ) Q200 dr Q20

b
Replace
b
J
1
Yes
t
Can RF Module be tuned properly?
b
Is
RF frequency
61.25 WHz 5 .IS?
'40
Replace RF module.
I
Yes
i
f une RF module.
I s XF cabk good?
I
No
Reohct
2600/2600A Domestic VC:
2600A Defective Matrix Troubleshooting Procedure
The panern may i a v e errors, but all nine bloc~s are xesent on screen.
4
?artern LS disrupted if blue or black lines are missing or some portmn of the Mauix faiis TO appear on the
I s blue black grid panern dhrupfed? (See Figure b 8 for example bad
pattern)
i
d
Swapout 1) A200 2) A202 3) A20 1
k entire mauix now on screen?

b
4
Yes
TV
screen.
Is upper Left block on

screen defective? ( S e t Figure 4-6 or 4-7 ior correct oartern)
Pg. 6-22
0
Pg. 4-45
1 Yo
I s upper-m iddle b b c k defecrive?

Pg. 6-23
1s middle-middle block aefecrive?
a
J
6
Pg. 6-22
1) A200
Swapour
21 A202 3) A201
Yes
[S
block now OK?

I
middle-middle
k lower-middle block defective?

Pg. w 5
Pg. 6-13
2600A Audio Test Procedure
Reinitialize switches. Slide the right difficulty switch to the right.
I s there a clear tone?
I
4
Use scope or frequency counter to measure frequency a t emitter of 4201.
Tone audio to 4.5 MHz by adjusting L2O I.
I
Ad just to 2.06 MHz.
Look for stable frequency
I
I
Can unit be adjusted g & is sound clear?
/-
Pg. 6-24
2600A Audio Test Procedure (Continued)
Are the two
patterns in Figure 4-9

alternating on the screen?
I Yes
Do t h e panems
alternate wirt.1 the tones?
Are bath colors and tones consistent each
Swapout 1 ) A201
No 2) A200 3) A202
A t e patterns now correct? (As in Figure 4-91
cyde?
I Yes
I
Put switches
back to initialized
positions.
b
Pg. 4-45
VCS w i l l go through one last cyde before changing to color bar test.
Pg. 6-27
2600/2600A Domestic VCS Changed per E C N #0021 1/29/83
2600A Defective I/O Lines Troubleshooting Procedure
Determine which lines are def cctive by referring to Figure b 7 .
Defective ,4202
(RAM) Line No. 15 14
No.
C236 C229
Cap.
Connecror
Pin No.
m nk
3202-Pin 3
Check the lines

indicated as defective for -5v at J202 or 1203 (See chart).
I
Is +5v present on the tinds)
just chcckec'"
I
Yes Swapout
L ) A202
II
Does Diagnostic
Matrix now look

corrccr (see
Yes
Check the RAM (A2021 pin. Is +5v p m m t theft?

I
b
II
I
Check tract l i d s ) from defecrive pinh) for h m to ground.

Arc them any-shorts?
Repair
Repair open trace beween A202 pin and tht J20311203.
shoned t o +5v (Check trace l i n e s ) .
[5 ~ 5 now v present ar the
Yes
A202 pin?
I
Replace the
capacitor on
that
line (see chart).
Docs the Diagnostic Matrix screen now look correct (see Fig. 4-61
Swapout
1) A200 2 ) A201
2600A Trigger Line Troubleshooting Procedure
Is there +5v at pin 6 of 1202 (Left Trigger) or J203 (Right Trigger)?
Yes
Swapout 1) A201 2 ) A200 3) A202
Does trigger line work properly now?

I
No
R223 or R226 is shorted
1 Yes
Are 2226 (Left Trigger) R223 (Right Trigger)

goacl and connece to
C ~ V ?
No
2
Replace defective resistor.

b
benvetn
Chetk continuity %Pins (3202 & 5203) and resistors (R225 and R224).
I
I
Cantinuity good?
No
Repair Trace
1
Open R224, R225 or shorted (2216, C217.
Pg. 6-2
2600/2600A Domestic VC
2600A Audio Troubleshooting
k RF module tuned to
61.25 MHz? (Channel 3)
Is only one audio

tone present?
ye,
J
I s there a defective A20 1 or open A201 pin 12 and A201 pin 13?
Yes
Repair
rn
i #
Pg. 6-2
I s there a 2v p p square
wave that alternates
between nvo frequencies on pin 13 of A201?
Is there a 4.5 M H z ,
Does quare wave S ~ J M ~ appear at C208?
signal at C211 (either side)
Yes
Fix open trace line

betwtcn C208 and
Pin 12/13 of AZO1.
Replace 1) a i l 2) R207
I s there now an alternating audio tone from the TV?
2600A .Audio Troubleshooting (Continued)
Can
RF module be
Yes Tune R F module.
properly tuned?
Is + 5 present at the slde of R206 closest to LZOI?
pen between - 5 & R206
rRephcc RF module.
Yes
IS there c o n t ~ n u i t yfrom R206 to AZOL pin 13?
Repair open b e t w e e n R206 and A20 1 pin 13.
1 1
Swapout AZOl.
2600A Audio Troubleshooting (Continued)
Fix open r a c e line t r t t w m C201 and Pin 12/13 o f A2Gl.
Check mat L201 i s good ( H a cantlnurry and u nat

shorred or cracked.)
If audio is still dead.
~ C C K
!or opens and shors&
Is there now an alternatlng auaia tone from :he TV7
2600/2600A Domestic VC!
2600A Cartridge Test Procedure
DTC works, but VCS unit is still suspect.
Plug in c u t o r n e r
cartridge, if availabie.
Not Available
A
Available
Connect, initialize, and nrrn VCS on with customer's game cartridge.
Does correcr video pattern for that game

appear?
rn
Pg. 6-28
Yes
:
Chedc customer cartridge on known good game. Is it OK?
Swapout 1) A201
2) A200 3) A202
b
Does game now o p e r a t e properly wirh game cartridge?

rn
Replace with good cartridge.
Pg.
4-45
2600/2600A Domestic VC5
2600A Burn-In Procedure
I
I
I
Place customer cariridge in game, if available. Otherwise, use other game cartridge.
I
End of .test sequence.
Run game for 2

hours, minimum.
Do not turn off during this period.
Check game's
operation.
Is game working properly ?
Pg. 6-2
2600A Paddle Lines Test
4
Put snorting ?lugs in. Put VCS into Diagnostic Mauix mode.
7
I
m
No
Repar open
I
Check'22/3203 for RC ~ o e waveform s appear a t No waveform (see Fig. 4-10). Yes each of the ~ 2 0 1 pi,,s k waveform present on shown in the chart? each of the pins shown b in chart? 1
trace between A20 1 and 12021
Do paddle lines now work OK?
Yes
I
1203.
I1
& there continuity between the 3202 or 3203 pin (see chart) and the A20 l?
Check trace lines and resistors for opens
Repair
on the failed line.
Dges RC waveform appear yes on the appropriatt 3202 ' or 3203 Line? (See Chart)
Line now work?
.
Repair
A
Player
1
Connection Chart
Pin Pin A201 3202 40 5 3 9 9 38 3 7
203 No.
5 9
Pin
Cap
2 3
C215
C216
CZ17 C218
SECTION 7
GAME CONTROLLERS
OVERVIEW
T h e following pages contain descriptions, schematics, and t e s t procedures for t h e four g a m e controllers used with t h e Video Computer System. JOYSTICK (X-Y) CONTROLLER Inside e a c h joystick is a small PC board t h a t has five calculator-type keypads mounted on it. Two ;&ions of the P C board exist in c u r r e n t joystick models; s e e Figure 7-1. Four of t h e keypads a r e positioned beneath t h e stick in a square shaped pattern, and t h e f i f t h is located beneath t h e pushbutton. When t h e stick is pushed forward, t h e bottom surface of t h e stick presses against t h e forward keypad, causinq it t o m a k e c o n t a c t , and complete t h e c i r c u i t t h a t is c o n n e c t e d t o it. In t h e s a m e way, pushing t h e stick back, l e f t and right causes t h e respective keypad underneath t h a t position t o close and complete t h e circuit.
NOTE: The earliest models of the joystick had five spring-loaded buttons instead of the present configurations. These earlier models cannot be repaired.
Earlier Version
Fi~ure 7-1. Joystick (X-Y) Controllers

If t h e s t i c k is gushed f o r w a r d and t o t h e r i s h t a t t h e s a m e t i m e (tha: is, in a n o r t h e a s t e r n direction), both t h e forward and rignt keypad c l o s e s i ~ u l t a n e o u s l y ,which c a u s e s t h e 6532 t o see t w o s w i t c h c!osures happening a t once. The result is t h a t t h e o b j e c t being controlled o n t h e s c r e e n moves diagonally. With t h e four keypads, 8 d i f f e r e n t directions can b e attained. The pushbutton d e t e r m i n e s w h e t h e r t h e keypad b e n e a t h it is e i t h e r open o r closed. S e e F i g u r e 7-2 for Joystick Schematics.
F i g u r e 7-2. Joystick S c h e m a t i c
2 6 0 0 / 2 6 0 0 h Domestic VCS
JOYSTICK ( X - Y CGNTXCLLEI?) CHEC;<

Zquiornent Needed
e T.V. s e t
a Known good VCS unit

a Combat cartridge
Procedure
1. Check for c o s m e t i c damage.
2. P!ug in cartridse a n d plug c o n t r o l l e r t o h e tested into t h e l e f t "!aver port.
3. Turn on unit and p r e s s GAME SELECT until g a m e i .l S appears.

4.
Press G.A.\IIE RESET.
5. Push t h e joystick handle a w a y f r o m you a n d t h e plane should go dourn.

6 . Pull ;he joystick handle t o w a r d you and t h e plane should go up.
7. Move t h e joystick r i g h t and plane should meed up. should slow down. 3. Push t h e Red b u t t o n and t h e plane should fire. 9. This c o m p l e t e s t h e (X-Yc o n t r o l l e r ) check.
l o v e it Left a n d p l a n e
26C0/2600A Dom'estic VCS
P.ADDLE CONTROLLER
t a c h g a m e paddle consists of a 1 Megohm p o t e n t i o m e t e r t h a t , when varied, causes d i f f e r e n t values t o be seen a n d a c t e d upon by t h e TIA. Also c o n t a i n e d in t h e paddle is a s i m p l e spring loaded push-to-make pushbutton switch. T h e r e a r e t w o g a m e paddles c o n n e c t e d t o e a c h I/O plug. F i g u r e 7-3 i l l u s t r a t e s t h e paddle c o n t r o l l e r assembly and F i g u r e 7-4 t h e paddle c o n t r o l l e r s c h e m a t i c .
8
F i g u r e 7-3. Paddle Controller
WrrON CGNTROL I
PIN 4 PIN 5
Figure 7-4. Paddle Controller Schemaric
P,+DDLE CSrU'TXOLLER CHECK

E a u i ~ r n e n tYeeded
T.V. Set
0
Known good VCS unit casinoT'; c a r t r idqe
Procedure
1. Check for cosmetic damage.
2. Plug in cartridge and plug controllers t o be tested into the left player port.
3. Press game reset.
L.
Press the button on one of the controllers. A air of numbers shouid appear.
5. When you turn the knob, one set of numbers should 70 between 20 and 2QO by steps of 20. T h e numbers should not advance r e a t e r than a step of 2'3.
6. Repeat steps 3, 4 , Jc 5 for the other controller.
DRIVING CONTROLLER
T h e h e a r t of t h e driving c o n t r o l l e r is a switching d e v i c e t h a t g e n e r a t e s a full two-bit g r a y c o d e for each q u a r t e r t u r n of t h e c o n t r o l l e r knob. The o u t p u t of both t h e g r a y c o d e g e n e r a t o r and t h e pushbutton switch is d e t e c t e d by t h e 6532, causing t h e program to respond accordingly. r a n g e of t h e knob. Unlike the non-linear resistive g a m e paddles, t h e driving c o n t r o l l e r gives t h e user p r e c i s e linear positional c o n t r o l o v e r t h e c o m p l e t e turning As w i t h t h e game paddles, t h e r e is a s i m p l e push-to-make ~ u s h b u t t o n switch l o c a t e d on t h e side of t h e controller.
The driving controller
in F i g u r e 7-6. assembly is illustrated in F i g u r e 7-5; t h e seL-.: :-..?tic
Figure 7-5. Driving Controller
TRUTH TABLE
I ,
F i g u r e 7-6. Driving Controller S c h e m a t i c
DRIVING CONTROLLER CHECK

Equipment Needed
0
T.V. s e t
Known good VCS unit Indy 500 c a r t r i d g e
Procedure 1. Plug in Indy 500 c a r t r i d g e and plug in driving controller t o b e t e s t e d in l e f t hand port.
2. P r e s s game r e s e t switch. 3. Turn controller knob and insure t h a t c a r t u r n s in t h e s a m e direction as t h e knob. Insure t h a t c a r doesn't skip position o r wobble between positions* There should b e 16 d i f f e r e n t positions for t h e c a r .
4. Press down on t h e knob and lightly wiggle i t back and forth. T h e c a r should not move a t all.
5. Press down on t h e r e d button. The car should m o v e forward.

6 . If t h e c o n t r o l l e r fails any of t h e a b o v e t e s t s i t is d e f e c t i v e .
KEY BOARD CONTXOLLER

T h e keyboard controller (Figure 7-71 is a 12 button calculator-type switch array that functions like a small computer keyboard. When one of t h e pushbuttons is pressed, the corresponding s e t of sense lines is closed, completing t h e circuit. illustrates the keyboard wiring and Figure 7-9 the keyboard schematic. The closure is Figure 7-8 d e t e c t e d by t h e 6532 and appropriate action is taken by t h e program.
Figure 7-7. Keyboard Controller
Figure 7-5.
Keyboard Wiring Diagram
PIN 2
0'
PIN3
F i g u r e 7-9. Keyboard S c h e m a t i c
2600/260GA D o m e s t i c VCS
K E Y B O A R D CONTROLLER CHECK E q u i p m e n t Needed
T.V. set
Known good VCS unit Brain G a m e s c a r t r i d g e
a One good keyboard c o n t r o l l e r
Procedure
1. Check for c o s m e t i c d a m a g e .
2. Plug in Brain Games c a r t r i d g e and plug t h e known good keyboard into t h e right -hand plug.
3. Plug t h e c o n t r o l l e r t o b e t e s t e d into the left-hand plug.

4. Press g a m e s e l e c t until g a m e 819 a p p e a r s and p r e s s g a m e r e s e t .
5. If an audio tone sounds, t h e c o n t r o l l e r is defective.

6 . S t a r t i n g with t h e "I" key, press t h e keys in t h e following order: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 , 6 ? 7, 3, 9 , *, 0, I/. E a c h key should g e n e r a t e a t o n e lower t h a n t h e key before it. 7. Test completed.
2600/26GOA Domestic VCS
SECTION 8
CX2600 DOMESTIC (M/N) VCS
PARTS LIST
Part No.
Bezel Console Console Console Console Final Final Final Final Final Final Final Final Final Final Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother .Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother CA018200-01
Description
Bezel Assy Rubber F e e t Console Top Console Base Console Base Assy AC Power Adaptor TV Switch Box CX2600 VCS Keyboard Controller Driving Controller Paddle Controller X-Y Controller AC Power Adaptor
A C Power Adaptor
Locator
TV Switch Box Resistor 1/4W 100 Ohm Resistor 1/4 W 1K Resistor 1/4W 10K Resistor 1/ 4 W 12K Resistor 1/4W 1800 Ohm Resistor 1/4W 18K Resistor 1/4W 220 Ohm Resistor 1/4W 24K Resistor 1/4W 27 Ohm Resistor 1/4W 3300 Ohm Resistor 1/4W 470 Ohm Resistor 1/4 W 4700 Ohm Resistor 1/ 4 W 47K Resistor 1/4W 680 Ohm Resistor 1/4W 6800 Ohm Resistor 1/4W 9100 Ohm Resistor Variable 5OOK Cap. Mylar Dipped .luF (1OOV) Cap. Ceramic Disc 47pF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Disc 22pF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Disc 220pF (50V) 2B-007 Cap. Ceramic Disc. OluF (50V)
Not Packaged Not Packaged Not packaged Packaged Packaged Packaged Packaged Packaged (Alternate listed) Packaged (Alternate for PIN CA014034) Packaged (CX262 Pack) R202,205 R208,212,214 R225,226,234 R222 R203,216,227-321 R209,233 R204 R206,217,223 R200 R218-221 R20 1 R207,232 R224 R213 R215 R210 R211 C204 C211,212 C213 C236,237 (Alternate for P/N C014180-05) C200,202,205,208, 21 4,223-227,239,240
PARTS LIST (Continued)

Part No. Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Nlother iMother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother 2B-008 Description Cap. Ceramic Disc .001 uF (5OV) Cap. Ceramic Disc 150pF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Disc. l uF (50V) Diode IN914 . Transistor 2N3906 Transistor 2N3563 Transistor MPS3563 Jack CX2600 PC Board . Cartridge Socket Assy Zener ~ i o d e / A x i a l Wrap Assy Crystal 3.579575 Mhz Socket Cartridge Cap. Electrolytic 4.7uF (35V) IC TIA Socket Controller (9 Pin) Socket Controller (9 Pin) IC CPU (6507) IC RAM (6532) Dust Cover Socket Connector (12/24) Pad Cartridge Socket IC Hex Buffer (4050B) Cap. Polystyrene 820pF (50V) Inductor 2 uF Inductor 12 112 Turn Socket Assy (AID) Cable Ribbon ( 12 conductor) Cap. Axial 200pF (50V) Locator C203,209,222,228235,238 C22 1 C210,219,220 CR200,20 1 Q200,20 1 4202 (Alternate Listed) 4202 (Alternate for P/N 34-2N3563) 3204
X200 (Alternate Listed) C20 1 A20 1 3202,203 (Alternate Listed) 3202,203 (Alternate for PIN C010448) A200 A202
.r4
Cap. Epoxy Dipped .068uF (100V) Ferrite Bead Socket IC (28 Pin) Socket IC (40 Pin) Crystal 3.579575 Mhz
Rivet Diode Zener 1N4736 (6.2V) Transistor 2N3906 CX2600 PC Board (MOTHER)
C236,237 (Alternate listed) C215-218 L200,203 A200 A20 1,202 X200 (Alternate for P/N C010177)

Part No.
Mother Mother Mother Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle P addle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch Switch C012242 C014348 C014372 C014373 CO 14778-03 C017294 C017297 C019025 Description Electronic Module Assy Cartridge Socket Assy Zener DiodeIAxial Wrap Assy Speed Clip Fastener Nut Lockwasher Knob Resistor Variable 1 Meg Top Cover Bottom Cover Fire Button Cable Y Control Sleeve Paddle Label Control Knob Assy Control Cable Assy Paddle Control Assy Switch Resistor 2 W 680 Ohm Cap. Poly Film .22uF (IOOV) Cap. Ceramic Disc .OluF (50V) Heat Sink Socket Phono Jumper (1 IAWC) Switch Slide Switch DPST - Spring Return Switch Dust Cover Inductor l5uH Heat Sink Switch SPDT Switch SPDT Regulator 78MO5 (TO-220)
Locator
RlO 1 (Ch 3 version) C103,104 C101,102 (Ch 3 version) 5102 S101-104 (Alternate listed) S105,106 (Alternate listed) L101,102
(Ch2-3 version)
S107 (Alternate listed) 5107 (Alternate for P/N C012241) listed) A101 ClO5 C106 JlOl S10 1-1 04 (Alternate for P/N C0 10373)
Cap. Electrolytic 4.7 uF (35V) Cap. Elect Axial 2200uF (16V) Socket (12 Pin in-line) 3 Switch Static Strip 2 Switch Static Strip Switch Slide
2600/2600A Domestic VCS Changed per ECN lr(0021

1 /79/27

Part No.
Switch Switch Switch Switch X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl CO 19026 CA012174 CA012175 CA012233 C010726 CO12107-02 C012108-02 C012109 C012110 C012114 C012116 C012951 CAO 15396 CAOl674l
Description
Switch DPST RF Module Assy RF Module Assy
Locator
5105,106 (Alternate for PIN C0 10388) 5 Pin (Ch 2-3 version) 3 Pin (Ch 3 version)
PC Board Assy (Switch)

Cable Top Cover Bottom Case Boot . Retainer Ring Fire Button Handle Spring PC Board (Two-Edged Connection) PC Board (Single-Edge Connection)
CX2600A DOMESTIC (MINI VCS
PARTS LIST
Part No.
Bezel Bezel Bezel Console Console Console Console Console Fina4 Final Final Final Final Final Final Final Final Final Final Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother
Description Bezel Bezel Label Bezel Assy Rubber F e e t Console Top Console Base Console Base Console Base Assy AC Power Adaptor TV Switch Box Key board Controller Dr iv ing Controller Paddle Controller X-Y Controller AC Power Adaptor CX2600A VCS CX2600A VCS AC Power Adaptor TV Switch Box Resistor 114W 1 K Resistor 1/4W 10K Resistor 1/4W 11OK Resistor 1/4 W 15K Resistor 1/4W 1.8K Resistor 1/4W 18K Resistor 14W 220 Ohm Resistor 1/4 W 2.2K Resistor 1/4W 240 Ohm Resistor 1/4 W 24K Resistor 1/4W 27K Resistor 1/4W 3300 Ohm Resistor 1/4 W 4.7 K Resistor 1/4W 47 Ohm Resistor l/4W 470K Resistor l/4W 6800 Ohm Resistor 1/4W 820 Ohm Resistor 1/4W 91 Ohm Resistor 1/4W 9100 Ohm Resistor Variable 500K Cap. Poly Film .luF (100V) Cap. Poly Film .22uF (100V) Cap. Ceramic Disc 1OpF (50V)
Locator
(Alternate listed) (Alternate for P/N C016398) (Not Packaged) (Not Packaged) (Packaged) (Packaged) (Packaged) (Packaged) Packaged (Alternate listed) (Packaged) (Not packaged) Packaged (Alternate for PIN CA014034) Packaged (CX262 Pack) R202,206,211,228 R223,226,229,230 R216 R222 R209 R207 R204,224,225,232 R203 R205 R217,227 R214 R218,220 R201,212,219,221 R215 R233 R210 R234 R23 1 R208 R213 C241 C204 C202 (Alternate listed)
CX2600A DOMESTIC (M/N) VCS
PARTS LIST (Continued) Part No. Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother 2A-008 2A-018 2B-003 2B-007 2B-008 2~-009 2C-001 !Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother 31-lN914 34-2N3563 79-5903 79-591 8 A003647 C010177 C010373 C010388 C010444 C010448 C010727 C010745 C010750 C010776 COl0812 C010813 C010821 C010823 C01224l C014179-01 C014179-03 C014179-05 CO14180-04
Description
Cap. Ceramic Disc 47pF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Axial 22pF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Disc 470pF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Disc .OluF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Disc -001uF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Disc 150pF (50V)
Locator
C209,210 C211 (Alternate listed) C216,217 (Alternate listed) C2O3,2O5,212,236, 237,240,244 (Alternate listed) C213,223-235 (Alternate listed) C2 15 (Alternate listed) C200,208,222,238, 239,245 (Alternate listed) CR200-203 4202 3204 J2O 1
,-
Cap. Ceramic Disc .luF (50V)

Diode 1N9l4 Transistor 2N3563 Connector Phono Jack Connector Jack (3.5mm) R F Cable Assy Crystal 3.579575 Mhz Switch Slide (DPDT) Switch Slide (DP Spring Return) IC TIA Socket Controller (9 Pin) Socket Controller (9 Pin)
I C MPU (6507)
IC (6532) Dust Cover Socket Pad Cartridge Socket Dust Cover Cap. Polystyrene 820pF (50V) Inductor Variable 0.85-l..2uH Switch Slide (PCB) Cap. Ceramic Axial 22pF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Axial lOpF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Axial 47pF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Axial 150pF (50V)
X200 (Alternate for PIN COl55lO) S201,204 S202,203 A20 1 3202,203 (Alternate listed) J202,203 (Alternate for P/N C0 10448) A200 A202 3200 (Part of) 3200 (Part of) Used on Switches C206,207 L20 1 S200,205,206 C211 (Alternate for P/N 2A-018) C202 (Alternate for P/N 2A-003) C209,210 (Alternate for PIN 2A-008) C215 (Alternate for PIN 2B-009)
CX2600A DOMESTIC (M/N) VCS
& Y
Mother Mother Mother
Part No.
CO14180-07 C014181-01 CO14181-02
Description Cap. Ceramic Axial 470pF (50V) Cap. Ceramic Axial .001uF (25V) Cap. Ceramic Axial .O 1uF (25V)
Locator
C216,217 (Alternate for P/N 2B-003) C213,223-235 (Alternate for P / N 2B-008) C2O3,ZO5,212,236, 237,240,244 (Alternate for P/N 2B-007) C200,208,222,238, 239,242,245 (Alternate for P/N 2C-001) A203 C2 18-22 1 C214 C243 L200,203-205 XA200 XA20 1,202 X200 (Alternate listed) (Use Rev 16 or above) 5200 (Part of) L202 3200 (Part of) S200,205,206, (Alternate for P/N C012241) 4200,201 A205 5 Pin Version 5200
Mother
CO14181-03
Cap. Ceramic Axial .luf (25V)
Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother Mother mother Mother Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle
C014348 C014353 C014369 C014373 C014384 CO14386-08 CO14386-09 C015510 C015519 C013 5 7 3 CO 1.5574 CO 1.5575 CO1.5752 C01.5902 CO 1 .7297 CO I.7549
Voltage Regulator 78M05 (5V) Cap. Epoxy Dipped .068uF (IOOV) Cap. Elec 4.7uF (35V) Cap. Elec 22OOuF (16V) Inductor Ferrite Bead Socket IC (28 Pin) Socket IC (40 Pin) Crystal 3.579575 Mhz P C Board Socket Cartridge Shield Top Shield Bottom Inductor 1.8uH Connector 12114 2 Switch Static Strip Switch Slide (PCB) Transistor 2N3906 IC Timer (555) Dust Cover Assy R F Module Socket Assy (Cartridge) CX2600A PC Board Assy PCB/Shield Assy Zener Diode/Axial Wrap Assy Speed Clip Fastener Nut Lockwasher
Knob
Resistor Variable 1 Meg 2600/2600A Domestic VCS Changed per ECN #0021
1
/39/R3
CX2600A DOMESnC (MIN) VCS
Assv
Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle Paddle X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl X-Y Cntl
Part No. C010737 C010738 C010739 COl08lO C010970 COl2766 CA010837 CA010933 CA0 10953-03 CAO 11620-0 1 C010726 C012107-02 C012108-02 C012109 C012110 C012ll4 C012116 C012951 CAOlS396 CAO16741
Description
Cover Top Cover Bottom Fire Button Cable Y Control Sleeve Label Paddle Control Knob Assy Control Cable Assy Paddle Control Assy Switch Cable Cover Top Case Bottom Boot Retainer Ring Fire Button Handle Spring PC Board (Two-Edged Connection) PC Board (Single-Edge Connection)
Locator
SECTION 6
INDEX AUDIO TONES BATTERY ELIMINATOR BLOCK DIAGRAM COLOR BAR TEST CONSOLE DEFECTIVE RAM PROCEDURES DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART DIAGNOSTIC MATRIX DIAGNOSTIC MATRIX TEST DISPLAY, NO DRIVING CONTROLLER GAME PADDLE GRAY BAR TEST JOYSTICK KEYBOARD CONTROLLER MOTHER BOARD
mu
OPTION SWITCHES PADDLE CONTROL LINES PADDLE CONTROLLER PADDLE LINES TEST PARTS LIST POWER SUPPLY RAM, DEFECTIVE PROCEDURES
RAM, I/O RF CABLE
RF MODULE RIBBON CABLE STATIC MODIFICATIONS
NTSC
SECTION 7
TECHNICAL TIPS
TECH TIP 1 1 '1

Green 5200 On e a r l y production 2 6 0 0 ' s t h e 5200 i s g r e e n . W e found t h a t it i s a very u n r e l i a b l e connector a f t e r many i n s e r t i o n s . T h i s appears t o you as a game t h a t sometimes does n o t work w i t h a c a r t r i d g e . Replace t h e connector.
TECH TIP #2
Audio F a i l u r e s On Audio F a i l u r e s t h e primary s u s p e c t s a r e t h e two polystyrene caps C206/C207. By p u t t i n g p r e s s u r e on t h e sound caps t h e audio may come on a g a i n . Always r e p l a c e b o t h caps when you r e p l a c e one.
TECH TIP #3
Kludge I n some o f t h e e a r l y p r o d u c t i o n games you n o t i c e a inductor and cap o v e r C201 & R206. This was t o cure a problem on a c a r t r i d g e then, b u t i s now no l o n g e r needed- Cut t h e i n d u c t o r and cap o u t being c a r e f u l n o t t o c u t t h e R206 l e a d .
TECH TIP 114

Molex Sockets Chip s o c k e t s made by Molex have a low r e t e n t i o n v a l u e i n some c a s e s . This may cause an i n t e r m i t t e n t c o l o r o r g r a p h i c s problem. A l l s o c k e t s with i n s e r t i o n a i d s should have. t h e i n s e r t i o n a i d removed and t h e c h i p reinserted.
NTS C
TECH TIP jfi5

F l o a t i n a Ground on 2600 If t h e ground s i g n a l has a l o t o f n o i s e on it (approx. 1 v.) check c o n t i n u i t y on p i n s 3 , 6 , and 10 on the 5101.
TECH T I P 86
L e f t Paddle F a i l u r e E a r l y p r o d u c t i o n 2600 mother e r r o r which was c o r r e c t e d by i n s u l a t e s t h e t r a c e from t h e The dot i s l o c a t e d under t h e be completely covered. b o a r d s (Rev 8 and l o w e r ) had an artwork p l a c i n g a d o t o v e r t h e t r a c e . This c a s t i n g and should always b e on the board. 5200 upper l e f t c o r n e r , and the t r a c e should
TECH T I P i1/7
Indy 500
I f a u n i t works on everything except Indy 500 then p i n 23 o f the A202 i s probably s h o r t e d t o a d a t a l i n e .
TECH TIP #8
Power Jacks
A l l power jacks s h o u l d be t e s t e d f o r a snug f i t . When t h e game i s on, l i g h t l y move power p l u g i n a s m a l l c i r c l e , i f the p i c t u r e goes o f f , r e p l a c e t h e j a c k with a new one.
TECH T I P #9
Check a l l 9-Pin connectors (5202, 5203) f o r pushed o r broken pins. Replace a l l showing problems.
TECH TIP #10

R-220 Check t h a t R220 i s p r o p e r l y s o l d e r e d . i n t e r m i t t e n t g r a y b a r problems.
If t h e y a r e n ' t , t h e y w i l l cause
TECH TIP #Ill Solder Check Check s o l d e r on t h e f o l l o w i n g components: C210, C211, C203, C220, C212, C208, and C209. Long miscues on t h e s e caps prevented them from b e i n g s o l d e r e d p r o p e r l y , c a u s i n g i n t e r m i t t e n t problems on t h e board.
TECH TIP #12

Hex Buffers The 4050 (A203) on t h e 2600 should be one of t h e f i r s t t h i n g s checked for any of t h e f o l l o w i n g problems: any t r i g g e r problem, no Sync., l o s e of lum l i n e s . T h i s i s t h e reason f o r a high percentage of r e t u r n s .
TECH TIP ill3

5201 and JlOl on t h e 2600 Both of t h e s e c o n n e c t o r s should be checked f o r a good, s e c u r e fit.
TECH T I P #14
Crooked Switches I n s p e c t switches on 2600 switchboard t o i n s u r e t h a t they s e t f l a t and perpendicular t o t h e board. Reset a l l switches which are n o t .
NTSC
TECH TIP #15

L200 and C h i c k l e t s on 2600/2600A
Be sure when assembling t h e mother board i n t o t h e c a s t i n g t h a t the- L200 and c h i c k l e t s a r e back under t h e shroud of t h e c a s t i n g .
TECH TIP #16
Make s u r e the, L201 core has a snug fit o r e l s e when 4.5 M H z i s set, the c o r e can s l i p i n handling. Also, some L201 cores be frozen o r cracked i n the j a c k e t . Replacement i s necessary o n l y if t h e audio c a r r i e r frequency cannot be a d j u s t e d t o 4 . 5 H E h .
TECH TIP 1/17

Reassembly When assembling t h e 2600 mother board i n t o c a s t i n g make s u r e C220 and C239 a r e pushed away from 5200 shroud.
TECH TIP 7\18

Excess Lead Length Check lead length on model 2600 Taiwan games. Trim excessive l e a d length on t h e bottom of t h e mother board t o avoid s h o r t i n g on casting.
TECH TIP 819

Regulator On e a r l y p r o d u c t i o n 2600 u n i t s with standup r e g u l a t o r and h e a t s i n k a s s e m b l i e s , i n s p e c t f o r h a i r l i n e f r a c t u r e s between t h e r e g u l a t o r and t h e switchboard. Also i n s u r e t h a t on e a r l y d o m e s t i c a l l y produced u n i t s t h e r e g u l a t o r i s f i r m l y secured t o t h e h e a t s i n k by a t i m e r m a n c l i p .
NTSC
Consumer Product Service

Manager of Tehnical Support - -
TECH TIP
SUBJEm.
Blanking Resistor
number
DESCRIPTION:
T h e Rev. 4 CX2800 P C B h a s a n 820 Ohm resistor soldered across pins 6 and 9 of U2 (TIA) on t h e soldered s i d e (bottom). This resistor improves t h e g a m e color and m u s t n o tbe removed. Rev. 5 and above CX2800 PCB have this resistor incorporated in t h e i r design.
DIFFICULTY REPORTING:
If you need further clarification concerning t h i s Tech Tip, call t h e ATARI Tech-Line Specialist. Inside California (800) 672-1 466 Outside California (800) 538-1 535
Consumer Product Service Manager o f Tehnical Support
TECH TIP
MODEL:
rX78MI
number
DATE:
3 -
SUBJECT:
Switchcaps
DESCRIPTION:
If a t power-up two switches a r e activated a t t h e s a m e t i m e (indicated by both the Joystick and Paddle, or Novice and Expert LED'S "on" at t h e s a m e time), you must shorten t h e switchcap hand ends with sand paper, to eliminate binding.
If t h e switchcaps seem to b e binding when 'activated on Rev. 4 PCBs, tilt t h e momentary switches (S2-S9) toward t h e player port side of t h e board so t h a t t h e r e is a .030 inch gap between t h e board and t h e leading edge of t h e switch bottom (a manual approximation is usually successful). Some Rev. 4 PCB's have a shim glued t o t h e PCB t o c o r r e c t this problem.
DIFFICULTY EPORTING:
If you need further clarification concerning this Tech Tip, call t h e ATARI Tech-Line Specialist:
Inside California (800) 672-1466 Outside California (800) 538-1535
Consumer Product Service Manager ofa Tehnical Support
TECH TIP
MODEL:
number
- -
4
- -
OOA
DATE:
1 /17/87
Blanking Resistor
Some 2600A PCBs have an 820 1/4 W 5% resistor (P/N 14-5821) installed on t h e solder side (bottom). The resistor is located between pins 6 and 9 of A201 (TIA) and improves t h e color reproduction of t h e unit. T h e resistor may b e added t o existing 2600A units at your discretion and t h e customer's expense. The addition will result in improved color saturation. Rev. 16 PCBs and above will have t h e resistor incorporated into their design.
If you need further clarification concerning this Tech Tip, call t h e ATARI Tech-Line Specialist:
Inside California (800) 672-1466 Outside California (800) 538-1535
Consumer Product Service Manager o f Tehnical Support
TECH TIP
MODEL:
CX2800
number
DATE:
11/17/82
SUBJECT:
Switch Shorting
T h e Rev. 4 CX2800 PCB s w i t c h S 1 (On/Off) has a m e t a l standoff t h a t may short t o t h e t r a c e beneath t h e switch. T o prevent shorting, place a small piece of insulating t a p e on t h e board beneath t h e switch. PCB t o Rev. 4 and above have t h e t r a c e s rerouted.
If you need further clarification concerning this Tech Tip, call t h e ATARI Tech-Line Specialist: Inside California (800) 672-1466 Outside California (800) 538-1535
-Metal
Standoff
Consumer Product Service
VCS Manager of Technical Support
ATARI"
MODEL:
SER ICE BULLETIN

,
2600 V i d e o C o m p u t e r S y s t e m
DATE:DEC 9 , 1 9 8 1
PROBLEM C o m p a t a b i l i t y problems between t h e cable and c o n n e c t o r s l i n k i n g 2600 Mother Board t o t h e s w i t c h b o a r d .

CAUSE
Two types o f 1 2 - c o n d u c t o r c a b l e a s s e m b l i e s h a v e b e e n used o n Model 2 6 0 0 u n i t s :

"
A flat-wire
t y p e c a b l e , w i t h female c o n n e c t o r ( s e e F i g u r e 8-11 w h i c h p l u g s i n t o a male 1 2 - p i n i n - l i n e c o n n e c t o r o n the switch board.
"
A r i b b o n c a b l e w i t h a male c o n n e c t o r which p l u g s i n t o a female, 12-pin i n - l i n e s o c k e t on t h e switch board.
F i g u r e 8-1.
Flat-wire Type Cable
SOLUTION
When a defect . i s f c u n d i n t h e f l a t - w i r e t y p e c a b l e a s s e m b l y i t s male c o n n e c t o r o n t h e s w i t c h b o a r d , t h e f l a t - w i r e c a b l e a s s e m b l y s h o u l d be r e p l a c e d w i t h t h e r i b b o n c a b l e a s s e m b l y ( p a r t number C012776) a n d t h e 1 2 - p i n m a l e s w i t c h b o a r d c o n n e c t o r s h o u l d be r e p l a c e d w i t h t h e 1 2 - p i n f e m a l e s w i t c h b o a r d s o c k e t ( p a r t number C 0 1 4 7 7 8 - 0 3 ) .
or
Jh ATARI"
MODEL:
Consumer Product Service VCS Manager of Technical Support
2600A Video Computer System
SERVICE BULLETIN /
DATE: February V , 1982
PROBLEM
-
---
RF Interference t h a t does not c l e a r up using normal a d j u s t m e n t methods.

A series of lines and bright grid distortions o n t h e s c r e e n accompanied by a loud hum on t h e audio c a r r i e r even when t h e audio and video a r e properly adjusted.
T h e above problems m a y temporarily disappear when t h e unit is turned off f o r a few minutes and then turned on again.
CAUSE
These 2600A problems have been diagnosed by A t a r i as being caused by a leaking o r d e f e c t i v e C24l (.I microfarad) a n d l o r C242 (.I microfarad) l o c a t e d between t h e power jack and voltage regulator.
SOLUTION
Replace t h e d e f e c t i v e components with o n e s f r o m your kit. Make certain t h e replacement components a r e r a t e d a t a v a l u e 50V o r greater.
Jh ATARI"
MODEL:
Consumer Product Service VCS Manager of Technical Support
SERVICE BULLETIN
2600 Video Computer System
I DATE:
February 18,1982
PROBLEM Damage t o Hex Buffer, and other components
CAUSE
S t a t i c discharge SOLUTION To provide protection from s t a t i c discharge a Zener diode must be placed between t h e trigger lines and ground. Also, s t a t i c strips must b e placed on the switches of the switchboard. (Refer t o pages 3-3 thru 3-5 of your ATARI VIDEO COMPUTER FIELD SERVICE MANUAL DOMESTIC MODEL 2600/2600A.) T h e p a r t number f o r t h e Zener ~ i o d e / A x i a lCap. Assembly is CA018263 and can b e ordered (at no charge to you) from Sales Order Processing, Sunnyvale, a f t e r March 8, 1982.
You should have the static strips (Part Numbers C017294 and C017297) in c u r r e n t p a r t s inventory. If you d o not, please order t h e m when you order t h e Zener/Axial Assembly.

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2600/2600 A VCS DOMESTIC (MD

Field Service Manual

ATARI, INC. consumer P r o d u c t Services 845 W. Maude Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94041

ENGINEERING CHANGE REQUEST

PART NO. F i l l 00133

P A R T TITLE 2 6 0 0 / 2 6 0 0 A VCS DSMZSTIC FSM

in Flowcharts and P a r t s Lists

Xeplace pages 4-25,

6-21, 8-3 and 8-7 with t h e attached corrected pages.

ENGINEERING CHANGE NOTICE

SIGNATURES A N 0 LC.N. BECOMES A N E.C.N.

I EmC,Nm NO. 0021

VIDEO COMPUTER SYSTEMTM

FIELD SERVICE MANUAL

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

SYMPTOM CHECKLIST 2600 Symptom Checklist 2600A Symptom Checklist

Title SERVICE BULLETINS

Inserted in Front Pocket of Notebook:

List of Illustrations (Continued)

~iile Connected Pins on VCS Motherboard

The Video Computer systemT' sections:

(VCS) Field Service Manual is organized in nine

THEORY OF OPERATION basic assemblies look like.

how t h e VCS works and w h a t t h e

SILKSCREENS AND SCHEMATICS - e l e c t r i c a l drawings and layouts of t h e printed c i r c u i t boards.

overview of t h e procedures for

of all p a r t s used in both t h e 2600 and

SERVICE BULLETINS - section t o b e used t o hold service bulletins released

The revision level is etched directly on the PC board.

Figure 1 -1. 2600 Functional Diagram 2600/2600A Domestic V C S

Figure 1-2. 2600 Game Console 2600/2600A Domestic VCS

Figure 1-3. 2600 Switchboard and Motherboard Assembly

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

Figure 1-4. TV Switchbox

Figure 1-5. 2600A G a m e Console

Figure 1-6. 2600A Board Layout (Revs 1-13)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

SILKSCREENS AND SCHEMATICS

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

VOLTAGE REGULATOR (Tap View)

NAT. L.kt3kO T.I. 78MC5C

RF Moduiator (TOO View)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

2600 Motherboard Silkscreen

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

The following variations may appear on t h e 2600 switchboard:

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Silkscreen

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

2600 Channel 3 Switchboard Schematic

Figure 2-5. 2600 Channel 2-3 Switchboard Silkscreen

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

Figure 2-8. 2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 14 and 15)

Figure 2-9. 2600A Motherboard Silkscreen (Revs. 16 and up)

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

TESTING AND TROUBLESHOOTING

2600/2600A Domesric VCS

TEST PROCEDURES AND METHODS

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

2600/2600A Domestic VCS

Figure 3-4. 2600 Switchboard S t a t i c Modification

2600A MODEL MODIFICATIONS

Figure 3-5. 2600A (Revs. 1-13] S t a t i c Slodifications

TESTING WITH THE DIAGNOSTIC TEST CARTRIDGE (VERSION 2.6)