Japanese Sega Saturn, faulty?

Around a year ago I picked up a "Clear This Cool" Japanese Sega Saturn which worked perfectly up until a few weeks ago when the screen would randomly flicker sometimes during gameplay. Now, there is no picture or sound at all. When I start the system up, the tv is receiving a signal because there is a slight jump when turned on and the cd is spinning, there is just no image. I have tried an AV cable and S-video cable and the same problem occurs.

Yesterday, i took it apart but couldn't really see any problems with dirt or anything and when I put it back together it magically worked again. Now today I turn it on and the same problem is happening? Any ideas on how to save? I can pick up a cheap white saturn but I prefer the clear shell. If the unit is kerput would it be easy to transfer the guts from another model 2 unit?


Cheers

 

x

 

Probably a bad solder joint somewhere. Shame diagnosing these things isn't a cost effective process yet.

 

It's cost effective if you're doing it yourself.

Check the PSU is giving out the correct voltages under load first.

 

Retro, it worked!! I tried a different PSU (one from my bluray) cable and everything seems okay? What the heck, doesn't seem like there is anything wrong with the cable as it now working perfectly with my bluray player?

 

GGGGrrrrr, and now it has gone again. Guess I will just pick up another unit. One final question, is it possible to take everything out and put it all back in with just a screwdriver...?

 

So I took a look at the PSU and there seems to be dry brown gunk leaking from that yellow thing? Will this be the culprit?





I guess I can just order another model 2 and swap the PSU? Thanks for your help, really appreciated.

 

AFAIK this is simply GE-style varnish, some kind of glue to hold the wires of the coil in place. If so, it should be plastic-hard to the touch. It's not a sign of an issue.

 

That thing is a transformer, btw.

 

sounds like a poor connection / dry joint somewhere as stated above, or maybe just a faulty power board / poor connection between power board and motherboard.

could possibly be an easy fix

 

How would one go about repairing it if that was the case, are there any obvious signs? I have ordered one replacement white Saturn but I would prefer not to just throw the psu away if it can be saved. Thanks again