Game Boy, the gaming console from Nintendo, has been reigning supreme due to its simplicity, convenience, and nostalgia. However, owing to its age and usage, it’s not uncommon to face issues with its buttons not working. But, before you consider replacing your loved Game Boy, arm yourself with these easy fixes to troubleshoot and repair non-functioning buttons.
Cleaning Game Boy Buttons
A primary reason for Game Boy buttons not working is the accumulated dirt and grime on the buttons and under the button membrane.
Disassembling the Game Boy: The first step toward cleaning the Game Boy buttons is to unscrew and open the device carefully. Once opened, take off the motherboard and the rubber pads holding up the buttons.
Cleaning the buttons and rubber pads: A toothpick can come in handy while removing the debris stuck between the small indents of the buttons. Subsequently, a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol can swipe clean any dirt on the buttons. The same method applies to the rubber pads, ensuring the rubber fulcrums are cleaned well.
Inspecting and Cleaning the internal button contacts: The next step involves cleaning the button contacts on the Game Boy’s main PCB board. Again, a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol can help clean any oxidization or dirt on the contacts. The cleaned contacts get left to dry for a few hours.
Reassembling the Game Boy: Once sufficiently dry, the device gets meticulously reassembled. Post this process, typically, the Game Boy buttons start functioning accurately.
Adjusting the Button Pads
Another solution to fix the Game Boy’s malfunctioning buttons would be to adjust or replace the rubber button pads.
Inspecting the rubber button pads: On disassembling the Game Boy, the rubber pads supporting the buttons need careful examination. Often, due to excessive usage or age, these pads might lose their springiness, leading to non-functioning buttons.
Stretching the rubber button pads: A simple hack is to stretch the rubber pads a bit. Stretching the rubber pads can help to restore their elasticity and thus their responsiveness.
Replacing the rubber button pads: If stretching doesn’t solve the problem, replacement becomes the only option. New pads are easily available online and are affordable.
Re-soldering the Button Contacts
In instances where cleaning or replacing the rubber button pads doesn’t fix the issue, the button contacts could be the problem. Over time, the soldering joint connecting the button contacts to the motherboard may weaken, causing the buttons to fail.
Disassembling the Game Boy: The Game Boy needs to be disassembled again. The motherboard gets separated, and the button contacts are to be closely inspected.
Re-soldering the button contacts: Firstly, using a solder sucker or wick, the old solder gets removed. Following this, fresh solder wire is laid over the contacts, ensuring a secure connection.
Reassembling the Game Boy: Once the soldering cools, the device is ready to be reassembled and checked for its operational performance.
Help look after your gadgets by regularly cleaning and maintaining them. Moreover, such familiarity with fixing your Game Boy might even bring you a step closer to understanding and appreciating its ingenious engineering.
In the event you do not wish to fix it manually or the problem persists, consider approaching a professional repair shop. However, with patience and precision, most minor issues with Game Boy buttons can be easily resolved at home.
