Virtual Boy Screen Stopped Working

[Mechblue]

Shortly after I bought my virtual boy I lost all video on one of my screens. Its completely dark and it was actually the better working on the two. I was starting to think my other screen was starting to go out as I was getting a bit of a double image. I used the command to get in to the image adjustment mode and suddenly one of the screens completely turned off.

I've gotten the tools to open it and looked in side, nothing was disconnected as far as I could see and the ribbons don't look like they are separating at all. I've disconnected the cable and reconnected it with no change.

Is it possible that side has simply failed?

[Hobie-wan]

Do you have a dedicated line nut screwdriver that fit down the longer shafts?

[Mechblue]

Do you have a dedicated line nut screwdriver that fit down the longer shafts?

Bought one from the racket boy store. It says it works on the virtual boy but it actually needs some sanding to fit the REALLY deep holes and just barely.

[Jontendo]

From what I understand, it's usually the side of the ribbon that doesn't plug into a receptacle (the bonded end) that loses grip and makes the display go out.

This sounds similar to the original Game Boy screens where the bond between the glass & ribbons broke leaving you with chunks of missing lines.

Lasting repairs on the Game Boys seem pretty near impossible, but the VB looks more hopeful. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQC4c9Lylg4

Granted it looks like a steady hand, patience and a little luck may be needed for success.


P.S.- I also seem to remember a guy on ebay using a heat gun on the cable. I'm not sure how permanent that would be, but may be useful diagnostically before moving on to the soldering iron fix.

[Mechblue]

From what I understand, it's usually the side of the ribbon that doesn't plug into a receptacle (the bonded end) that loses grip and makes the display go out.

Ok, felt like going back and checking it out. I figured it was the ribbon its self separating from the board not that little white strip of glue behind the ribbon.

Uh, yeah this side is completely separated. The other side is completely fine and looks great. With a little pushing and prodding it actually is making a connection again!

It worked for all of maybe 10 mins before it stopped again.

I'll have to bust it out and maybe try the oven trick? Not sure I want to try the heat gun, but may be for the best. That guy in the video you posted is a master solderer! Mad skills.

Anyways, the oven seems easiest as shown by these two videos

www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFQAsEqwh3M
www.youtube.com/watch?v=hllruwzIO9M

At least I've solved this mystery. Thanks for your suggestions.