TRON problem

pseeds

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So I have a TRON that was working fine and now has started to not boot-up on first power up. Comes up with 'garbage'. Cycle power and it comes up fine. Ran through self-test, etc., and no problems show. Then this odd thing happens once the machine is up and running whether coined up or in attract mode:

When the machine or player uses the joystick to select one of the four games per level, as soon as the 'dot' makes it into the maze, the game freezes. If I let the timer run down from 9 and the machine selects, it does the same thing. The player 1 label continues to flash.

It was converted to a switcher when I got it. Have not checked voltage. I have moved the machine on it's back a couple times. My next step it to press socketed chips, reseat connections, and check power supply output.

Anyone seen this before?
 
Have you replaced the ribbon cables? My tron worked great for a couple of years with the original cables and then started to have all kinds of odd problems. I finally broke down and replaced the ribbon cables when there was a constant picture in the background that changed with the sound. It has never looked better.
 
Have you replaced the ribbon cables? My tron worked great for a couple of years with the original cables and then started to have all kinds of odd problems. I finally broke down and replaced the ribbon cables when there was a constant picture in the background that changed with the sound. It has never looked better.

Nope. Just got this one home. I have a set for another TRON I am working on. Looks like time for another Bob Roberts order for TRON parts. :)

Thanks for the tip. Will replace them as the machine seems solid otherwise. Rebuilding the linear PS in the other TRON.

EDIT: I noticed a glitch in the MCP cone in attract mode that I don't recall seeing before as well.
 
it can be a number of things. When it happen to mine the large caps on the PS were the culprit. Replacing those got it back up and running strong.
 
it can be a number of things. When it happen to mine the large caps on the PS were the culprit. Replacing those got it back up and running strong.

Will add the Caps to my next order. I had them ordered for another TRON. I have three TRONS I am working on now.

EDIT: This one doesn't have the CAPS as it has a switched PS. Good info, though, as the other two TRONS still have the linear PS in them.
 
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I'm sure I have several Z80's around, and I can throw your board on my test rig for video testing if ya want...
 
Well, changed out the ribbon cables and all is well. No more graphics glitch and no more 'hang'.

Thanks for the recommendation. I am going to change them in any TRON from now on if the original ones are installed.
 
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