SMS software error

[vanderveen88]

I'm having an issue with an SMS Power Base I purchased a couple of years ago. Until recently it worked fine. I had put it away in storage about a month ago when I moved, and when I unpacked it and connected it again today, I received the "software error" message with every cartridge I tried.

 

I tried cleaning a couple of games and using them, and I also tried cleaning the cartridge slot. The card slot works fine, so I have concluded that it must be an issue with the cartridge slot, and likely not a matter of it being dirty.

 

I realize I could track down another SMS to replace this one, but I'd prefer to try to salvage it if possible. Does anyone here have any suggestions or advice?

 

Thanks in advance.

[vanderveen88]

A quick update: with the top of the system and the metal plate removed, I have determined that the cartridges will successfully load if I press them slightly forward while I boot the system. It looks like the issue is similar to what this user mentioned:

 

http://www.fixya.com/support/t480748-sega_master_system_cartridge_issues

 

If anyone can offer any suggestions on what I should do in this case, I would be most appreciative.

[Osgeld]

put a shim behind the cart whenever you want to use it, sounds like something jarred the contacts or solder is cracked

Edited May 26, 2013 by Osgeld

[ApolloBoy]

put a shim behind the cart whenever you want to use it, sounds like something jarred the contacts or solder is cracked

In that case, reflowing the solder joints on the cart port is a better idea than using a shim.

[bust3dstr8]

You can also try to retension the cart slot with a small blade screwdriver or tweezers.

[vanderveen88]

Thanks to all for your suggestions. I attempted to fix the tension on the cart slot, initially with no success. Then a friend who has some expertise with soldering came over and took a look at the system. We concluded that wasn't the problem area, and he took a turn adjusting the slot pins.

 

After he worked at it a little while, we connected the system and found that his adjustments had worked. The system powered up and booted fine. A couple of hours later, though, I tried putting in another game and found that it didn't work. It seemed to be just a temporary fix.

 

Does anyone know if a replacement slot can be purchased somewhere online, or if there's any way to make a more permanent fix? ApolloBoy, can you perform this kind of repair on Master Systems?

[Keatah]

Might be a cracked solder joint close to, but not on, the connector itself. A pro technician will inspect not only the connector, but the immediate area around it.