Neo-Geo repair log: not recognizing 2nd slot of 2-slot PCB

mc300baud

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Neo-Geo repair log: not recognizing 2nd slot of 2-slot PCB

just to help people with future searches, since i didn't find any that matched this issue. then again, my search-fu might have been weak.

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symptom: dedicated Neo-Geo 2-slot board does not recognize any cart in the second slot. carts work fine in first slot.

study: carts in slot 1 reboot when cart change switch is pressed, so not a wiring issue. carts in slot 2 do not show up in BOOKKEEPING, so likely a PCB issue. careful examination of the PCB shows possible broken solder joints on the slot 2 edge connector to PCB connections. they all appear to be on the last row of pins closest to the edge of the PCB.

repair: reflow existing and add new solder to entire row of pins. pins are small and close together so a fine-tipped soldering iron is a good idea. my Weller WESD51 with the standard tip worked just dandy.

result: both slots now working, switching between is fine. both slots show up in BOOKKEEPING with correct designations.

notes: i don't have a nice desoldering gun so i decided not to remove existing solder, but it wouldn't be a bad idea to do this if you do, or don't mind taking the time with a more manual method. i also clipped off the battery that was starting to corrode; it still seems to work fine though i'd bet it won't hold auditing information without it.
 
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