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Dreamcast Resetting & Controller Port Cleaning

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2014 6:29 pm
by Wools
I've just picked up a Dreamcast and it's immediately got 2 problems. First is that it sometimes resets to the main menu and the other is that Controller Port 1 is very sensitive to dis-connecting the controller.

I have fixed the resetting problem years ago on my launch machine by taking it apart, removing 1 specific part and cleaning it but I'll be damned if I can remember how to do it now! Also, I'm guessing the controller port may just require some cleaning on the connectors to get it functioning again.

So question is, does anyone know or can give me advice on how to fix the resetting bug and how to get my controller port working again? Many thanks for any help given. :)

Re: Dreamcast Resetting & Controller Port Cleaning

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2014 6:44 pm
by grimmythereaper

Re: Dreamcast Resetting & Controller Port Cleaning

Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2014 5:51 am
by Wools
That's the one for the resetting issue! What brand if cleaner does anyone recommended for cleaning those meatal strips?

So, final question is the controller ports. Do they need cleaning too or something else?

Re: Dreamcast Resetting & Controller Port Cleaning

Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2014 10:35 am
by grimmythereaper
there is a fuse on the controller board that may need to be replaced

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAbcdKF-nkY

also when i clean anything i use rubbing achol and canned air and a q-tip if i have to clean something small

Re: Dreamcast Resetting & Controller Port Cleaning

Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2014 11:21 am
by Wools
Awesome, thanks so much for your help Grimmy!

Re: Dreamcast Resetting & Controller Port Cleaning

Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2014 5:40 pm
by grimmythereaper
no problem wools :)

Re: Dreamcast Resetting & Controller Port Cleaning

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 4:28 pm
by Raen
Does the DC really resets itself or just exists to the menu?

If the console resets itself (the logo animation is shown), the issue are those metal pins.

If the console just suddenly quits the game and goes to the menu, the problem is the lid mechanism that is not pushing the GD-ROM drive lever correctly.