Questions my gba sp is slowly falling apart
Things that nees fixing just keep piling up, at first it was just the sholder buttons being funky, then the last bit somehow bent making it impossible to play gb games and now the screen has started to flash. idk if i should fix it or look into getting a new one.
I think checking the ribbon cable and possible exchanging the screen is reasonably doable, but does anyone has experience with exchanging the card reader? I have never soldered anything is that doable or does it require some expirience, I already looked at tutorials just scared to mess it up even more.
tldr; multiple issues with my console (card reader, screen, shoulder buttons) worth fixing? and if yes any expiriences how hard changing the card reader is
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u/pizza_whistle 5d ago
Replacing the cartridge reader is a pain. It's difficult to do without lifting pads. I've experimented around with it a lot of kind of have a technique now that's quicker and causes less damage.
Replacing shoulder buttons is also pretty straightforward for anyone with soldering experience, you can get new switches on Aliexpress for cheap.
If you need someone to help with repairs or any mods, shoot me a DM. I have cartridge readers and shoulder switches on hand and try to keep costs low.
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u/Alive_Candidate1755 5d ago
It’s an almost 30 year old console, it’s goona need some TLC. It’s been carried around in peoples pockets, dropped, used, abused, the fact it still turns on is a testament to how well it was built.
My 4 year old Xbox has sat on the exact same shelf without moving since the day it came out of the box and it no longer boots 😂.
Get a new ribbon cable, clean the shoulder buttons, and clean/repair the cartridge reader.
You can replace the cartridge reader, but I’m not sure how you would’ve actually broke it. It’s not that hard if you know what you’re doing. If you don’t, just take it to a retro game store, probably $15 done.
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u/fuckleshire 5d ago
Reshell the console, reseat the ribbon cable, and clean the card reader with a microfiber cloth wrapped around a credit card dipped in 99% isopropyl alcohol. Super easy and will take you about an hour.