Download Article
Download Article
If you’re a retro gamer or you’re feeling nostalgic, you may find yourself needing to clean out an old NES cartridge now and then. While you may be tempted to simply blow into the cartridge like you did back in the day, we’ll show you the right way to do it! In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about cleaning NES cartridges so that you can get back to gaming in no time.
Steps
Community Q&A
Search
-
QuestionMust the window cleaner be clear or will a color solution be just as fine?Jackson QuesinberryCommunity AnswerColor is fine as the color is very minute in these quantities.
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement
Video
Tips
- You can use this method for any cartridge games including SNES, N64, Atari 2600, and even Nintendo DS games.Thanks
- If the system still doesn't work, you may have to fix the 72-pin connector within the console. This involves taking the console apart and either bending the pins back into place so that they will make contact with the game, or replacing the connector entirely (not recommended)Thanks
- If you have some time on your hands you can attempt to bend the pins back into place. To do this safely you will need to look up instructions on how to do this.Thanks
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Advertisement
Warnings
- Avoid blowing into the cartridge contracts. This works as a temporary fix, but in the long run the moisture from your breath will corrode the contacts.Thanks
- Make sure you don't put the circuit board in upside down because you'll mess up your game if you do.Thanks
- Be sure the cartridge contacts are free of window cleaner before inserting it into the game system. This will cause window cleaner to get into the system and eventually corrode the contacts.Thanks
Advertisement
Things You'll Need
- Window Cleaner
- Cotton swabs
References
About This Article
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 101,957 times.
Advertisement