How To: Spare Parts for Arcade Games

On first inspection, repairing a spare parts for arcade games that is not functioning correctly or is completely dead might seem like a bit of a challenge. There are PCB boards, plenty of wires and a general feeling of unfamiliarity for anyone more accustomed to repairing say a PC. Still, this is no reason to stop you trying to fix what a reasonably expensive machine is most likely, and if you are anything like me it can become a bit of a hobby!

Firstly, a disclaimer: Some of the tips I’ll be sharing today include checking mains voltages, so if you are unfamiliar with working with mains voltages I’d definitely advise you ask a qualified electrician to check these areas for you – we want to fix your arcade, not get you electrocuted!

Now that’s out of the way, let’s take a look at what’s wrong with the machine and how we can fix it. Today I’ll be focusing on Jamma-based arcade machines (more on what a Jamma arcade is here). As these are some of the most common types of cabinets in people’s homes, it seems a fair place to start.

Outside the machine

·         Is the machine actually turned on? Many arcade machines have what is generally referred to as a ‘rocker’ switch, normally next to where the power cord plugs into the machine. These can be hard to see, and even harder to tell which state (on/off) they are in – so first of all check to see if this switch is set to the off position. Sounds simple, but you’d be surprised how many times this can turn out to be the issue.

·         Does the plug socket the machine is plugged into work correctly? Try the machine with a known working socket.

·         Check the mains lead. (Note: this may not apply to older machines as they may simply have a lead going straight into the back) If available, try another mains lead – normally these are the ‘kettle lead’ Euro plugs (at least here in the EU they are!), so finding one to borrow for a minute shouldn’t be too hard.

·         Check any fuses that are accessible on the back of the machine – these can be found near where the mains lead plugs in, and near to where the ‘rocker’ switch will also be. Use an ohmmeter to check the fuses are functioning correctly. If you don’t have an ohmmeter available, you could try replacing the fuses to see if that helps matters. However please note that these fuses are not likely to be the same ones you have lying around your house, they vary by machine and come in many different sizes and types, so it’s more likely than not that you won’t have a spare compatible fuse (that’s not to say you can’t go buy one though!)

For more details: Spare part for toy crane