Joystick Interference Question

[WSUCougars]

Hi All,

 

This is my first post, but am a long-time reader of these forums. I've recently dusted off/cleaned up and started using my old 2600 (the same one I've had since X-Mas 1982). I have, however, encountered one small problem. My joysticks (two EPYX 500XJs) seem to be interfering with the video signal to the TV. Whenever I move the stick, or click the fire button, I get static on the monitor, which gets worse the more rapidly I move the device. Just to make sure that it wasn't the EPYX sticks, I tried a working Sega Genesis pad as well, and although the problem is far less visible it's still there. Has anyone else encountered a similar issue? For the record, my system is a 4-switch woodgrain with no modifications and all of the original parts. Everything else seems to work ok (aside from a slightly fuzzy picture), but I would appreciate any suggestions on what I might try. Thank you very much in advance.

 

- Kris

[doubledown]

If it hasn't been used in a while I would say a thorough cleaning would be in order. Are you using a TV/Game switch, or a RF Coaxial adapter. The TV/Game switch could be a big problem. Not to mention how dirty the cartrdige slot may be.

[WSUCougars]

Thanks for the quick reply. Yes, I am using a manual RF switch (this piece, at least, is new - picked one up at Radioshack for my C64) and not the coax adapter (still need to get one of these). The funny thing is that I tried hooking everything up to a different TV, and while the general noise/static went away, the interference from the controller was still there. Really, it's more of an annoyance than anything. The games are still playable and the color/sound are great, but it would still be nice to take care of this last little issue. And yes, you're right, the whole unit could use a thorough cleaning (more than I've given it already, at least). Again, thanks for your help.

 

- Kris