The iconic Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is highly revered by retro game enthusiasts, mainly attributed to its ergonomic design, excellent functionality, and vivid button colors. However, due to its age, it’s not uncommon for the SNES controller to experience functional problems. If you’re grappling with this challenge, worry not. Here’s your comprehensive guide to fixing a non-functional SNES controller.
Start by diagnosing the issue. Press each of the buttons to identify the specific ones that aren’t working as required. This action will help you verify whether it is an issue with the buttons, the cable or the circuit board. Once you have done this, prepare the necessary tools which include a Phillips head screwdriver (#00), plastic opening tools, deoxIT D5 contact cleaner, and isopropyl alcohol (a minimum of 90% alcohol concentration). Ensure you have a clean, dust-free workspace.
Start the disassembly process by turning over your controller to reveal its back covered with screws. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove all these screws. Always remember the specific spots each screw belongs to. Next, gently open the controller into two halves. Here, the plastic buttons held by membranes should come away quickly. Further, you’ll see the Central Processing Units (CPU) circuit board.
Should the buttons be your problem, clean them by removing each button and rubber pad. Immerse the pieces into warm, soapy water, rub them gently with a cloth, rinse, and allow to dry thoroughly.
However, if the circuit board or cord is the culprit, you must first identify where the problem lies. Inspect the controller cord for any visible cuts or breaks. If you find a cut, you’ll need soldering skills to mend the cable. Strip away the cable insulation at the breakage point. Here, you’ll see five colored wires representing different functions: white for data, yellow for clock, red for power, orange for latch, and brown for ground. Solder the wires together considering color matching. After this, use insulating tape to wrap each soldered wire separately to prevent short circuiting.
In case the issue lies within the SNES controller circuit board, this might be a bit more challenging. Due to continuous use and unfavorable storage conditions, the board can corrode, leading to poor electrical conductivity. For this task, you’ll need the deoxIT D5 contact cleaner and isopropyl alcohol.
Start by spraying the controller’s CPU circuit board with deoxIT D5. This solution is a superlative electronic contact cleaner that dissolves corrosion and leaves a protective layer. Be sure to spray the chip legs and the circuits’ connectors. Leave it for roughly 20 minutes to let the solution dry and remove any corrosion.
Next, use a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol to clean up the deoxIT D5 residues. Isopropyl alcohol plays a twofold role of eliminating the remaining deoxIT residue and further cleaning the circuit board.
Once you’ve meticulously followed these steps, it is time to reassemble your SNES controller. Start with the CPU circuit board, ensuring it fits perfectly in its grooves. Next, replace the rubber pads and buttons in their respective positions. Be sure to check their orientation before placement. Finally, place the front shell onto the back shell and screw back the controller using the Phillips head screwdriver.
In conclusion, with a bit of cleanliness and care, it’s possible to revive your non-functional SNES controller. This in-depth guide provides steps to help you diagnose and fix your faulty SNES controller, thereby saving you the costs of replacement and ensuring that you continue to enjoy the classic games. However, if your controller still doesn’t function properly, then you might need to consider purchasing a new one or getting professional help.
The repairing process might appear daunting at first, but with patience, dedication, and essential tools, fixing your SNES controller can be a manageable task. Good luck and happy gaming!
