32X black and blue screen problem.

Hello guys,

I just got a new/mint condition JPN unit 32x. Today I also received RetroGameCave X2 AC that allows you to use the CDX + 32X. However, upon hooking up the whole thing I get get the sound and picture working but everything is in black and blue. Anyone knows the cause of this ?

I opened the 32X and reseated the ribbons. No caps leaking or anything.
Everything looks great as far as I can tell.

Help please ?

 

Ok this is just weird, tried Chaotix and the characters have color. But the backgrounds are still the same.
Is one of the CDX or 32X video gone bad or something ?

 

That's because the 32X works by superimposing it's own video on top of the video output by the Mega Drive unit connected to it. Check the cables, try the 32X with a different Mega Drive console or a SEGA GENESIS unit (the Japanese 32X will take USA 32X cartridges and if you have a Genesis connected to it the games will play just fine as the 32x itself only cares about the video mode being PAL or NTSC).

 

Sadly I only have a CDX. I tried 2 cables already. Both work fine on the CDX but with the 32X I get blue lines still.
Looks like I have to try and sell it now.

 

I don't think the 32X is what is broken ... lol

 

I personally have no idea at all.

This is my 3rd 32X so far and none have been working correctly or at all.
Regarding the CDX well, it's working fine so far. Maybe a recap ? It's almost 20 yrs now since release...

 

I'm telling you the fault is at the CDX RGB output.

 

As l_oliveira says, receiving RGB is mandatory for the 32X. Internally it doesn't use composite (wiring a custom cable to try that will have problems).

In any case this isn't normal behavior.

 

I see. Thank you for answering. (l_oliveira & Lum)
Do you know anyone who can fix it ? Any recommended shops/ repair services ?

 

Where are you based? This is an International site

 

I had a Genesis model 2 with the same problem, i fixed it replacing the sony CXA-1145 RGB Encoder.

 

Thank you for narrowing it down to the exact part! Glad you were able to fix it as well.
It's gonna be much easier now to fix once I find the right person.

 

Not necessarily - especially with a part that's no longer manufactured.

As I explained to you before, you need to state your country to find a repair person. You don't need to tell us what town you live in, but country would be handy.

 

Don't forget to check the circuit continuity with a multimeter, maybe you don't need to replace the encoder.

If you need to replace the encoder you need someone qualified in Surface Mount Soldering, it's a bit tricky to do. You can find the proper Sony CXA1145 replacement in eBay, check this link http://www.ebay.com/itm/CXA1145M-SONY-SOP-24-/190694828664?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2c664c2a78

Good luck, let's save this beautiful console!

 

Those guys aren't too difficult to remove and replace if you have a steady hand. If you're in the US I can help or jinn might be able to handle it. Bad_Ad84 would be the one to ask if you're in Europe but I'm not sure if he is taking on additional work right now.

 

APE would you be interested in fixing it ? Replacing mechanical parts is one thing, soldering and such is way outta my league.
I thought I wrote this but, the CD lens or motor is failing. Can you fix that as well ?
Please do let me know in PM so I can send it to you Ok ?