When it comes to vintage gaming, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) holds a significant place. Over time, however, cartridges can become prone to corrosion, which could hinder its performance. In this article, we shall walk you through a comprehensive guide on dealing with SNES cartridge corrosion.
Causes of SNES Cartridge Corrosion
Cartridges are primarily made of metal components that make them susceptible to corrosion over time. The major causes of degradation include:
- Poor Storage Conditions: Exposing the cartridges to fluctuating temperatures or high humidity can speed up the oxidation process that triggers corrosion.
- Contact with Water or Liquid Substances: If the cartridges come into contact with water or any liquid substance, it can cause immediate corrosion.
- Physical Contact: Continual handling, touching, or swapping out your cartridges can transfer acids from your skin to the cartridge contacts, which can contribute to their rusting.
Recognising Cartridge Corrosion
Identifying cartridge corrosion is not often straightforward. The common elements to look out for include discoloration, gunk build-up, random game glitches, game failure to load, or constant freezing. These challenges can severely degrade your gaming experience, making it imperative to address them promptly.
Tools Needed for Cartridge Corrosion Removal
To effectively deal with cartridge rusting, you will require a few essential tools:
- Security Bit Screwdriver: This tool is essential to open up the SNES cartridge and access the inner hardware.
- Isopropyl Alcohol: This acts as a cleaning agent to dissolve the corrosion on the contact points.
- Cotton Swabs: These assist in applying the isopropyl alcohol and scraping off the corroded material.
- Eraser: A pink pearl eraser is instrumental for rubbing off slight corrosion on the contacts.
Steps to Fix SNES Cartridge Corrosion
Now that we understand how cartridge corrosion occurs and the tools required for its removal, let’s delve into the steps to repair and restore your favourite SNES games.
Step 1: Open the Cartridge
Using your security bit screwdriver, open up the cartridge by unscrewing the two security screws found at the back. Carefully pull apart the two halves, ensuring not to damage the cover or the PCB inside.
Step 2: Inspect the Cartridge
Look at the metal contacts for any signs of corrosion. Obvious signs include discoloration, usually green or brown, and a rough texture. At this stage, classifying the severity of the corrosion is important as it dictates the next move.
Step 3: Clean with Isopropyl Alcohol
Soak a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and carefully scrub the contacts. Always scrub in a direction perpendicular to the contacts’ direction to avoid causing scratches. Scrub until you can no longer see any signs of corrosion. Do this for both sides.
Step 4: Use an Eraser for Mild Corrosion
If the signs of corrosion were not severe, you could use an ordinary eraser. Gently rub the eraser over the corroded area. Remember to clean up any leftover eraser shavings using a clean, soft brush or cloth.
Step 5: Dry and Reassemble the Cartridge
After you’ve successfully removed the corrosion, let the cartridge dry completely. Do not skip this step as any remaining isopropyl alcohol can cause further damage. Once dry, put the PCB back in its place and rescrew the cartridge halves back together.
Preserving Your Cartridges Post-Corrosion Cleaning
To ensure the longevity of your cleaned cartridges, adopt these preservation strategies:
- Proper Storage: Store your cartridges in a cool, dry place and avoid exposure to fluctuating temperature or humidity.
- Keep Cartridges Dust-Free: Keeping the cartridge slot clean can prevent dust and dirt accumulation, which can contribute to corrosion.
- Limiting Physical Contact: To reduce risk of spreading corrosive oils from your skin, handle your cartridges as little as possible, focusing on the edges.
Treating and maintaining cartridges is crucial for gamers who have a soft spot for the classics. This comprehensive guide will surely assist you in restoring your timeless SNES collection and secure many more hours of gaming nostalgia. Remember that a little upkeep goes a long way in securing your gaming pleasure.
