A SELF-TEST FOR DIAGNOSIS
Atari games introduced since October,
I 976, include an easy-to-use self-test
system to assist in diagnosing technical
problems. The test takes approximately
30 seconds to I minute to complete on
any game and checks 75 to 80% of the
solid-state circuitry, player controls,
switches, and lights on the game. The test
should be implemented whenever the
game is opened for collections or
servicing; the self-test can indicate
potential future problems as well as
helping to pinpoint current problem
areas.
This system has been designed to give
operators a simple way to diagnose
problems without needing special training
in sotid,state-1:echnology or- any
additional equipment. A switch inside the
coin door is used to put the game into
test mode. The video display together
with audio checks indicates where any
problems are located.
A section in the technical manual on
each game gives a list of how to interpret
problem indicators on the self-test. Most
games· sdf-test includes two phases, one
to check the solid state circuitry and
another to check the controls and
switches. Newer games also include
checks for alignment and adjustment of
the player controls.
For example, the following describes
the self-test on Pool Shark™.
I. Place self-test switch in ON
position.
2. "Test OK" means no problem with
computer memory. "Test A, B, C,
D, E, or F" means there may be a
circuit board problem ; check page 4
of manual for further identification.
3. "Pot I Aligned" tests X axis of left
joystick control. "Push Start 2" to
continue to check Pot 2, 3, and 4
(X & Y axis for left and right
controls) for alignment. If any pot
is "Not Aligned" it can easily be
adjusted by rotating the indicated
potentiometer on the PC board.
4. "Test Complete" displayed, all
lights on the game flash as it is
ready for the lamp and switch test.
Start and coin switches are depres-
sed and an audio sound indicates
proper operation of the circuit.
5. Return self-test switch to OFF and
the game will return to the attract
mode for play.
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Drag RaceTM, and Starship I™ have
similar test procedures. The Atarians™
and Time 20()()TM games also haw a
complete self-test system built-in to
check all solid-state and electro-mechan-
ical parts on the game.
Atari engineering division is working
(Continued on b11ck pog~)
TECHNICAL TIPS
SPRINT 2TM ROM TEST
In the self-test system on Sprint 2,
after the RAl\I test is complete the ROM
test and game structuring is displayed. If
a ROM is not operating properly. black
numbers will appear in the center of the
screen. TI1ese numbers indicate which
ROM needs replacing as shown in the
following chart.
Number
0 or l
2 or 3
4 or 5
6 or 7
ROM Location
A-1
C-1
0-1
E-1
ATARI GIVES
RELIABILIT!:::I
Atari tests games for reliability at
various stages in the production cycle.
Each game is tested individually to assure
maximum quality and, in turn, minimize
service needs once the product is on
location.
"DurastressTM tested solid state cir-
cuitry" describes Atari's thorough testing
technique used to insure all printed
circuit boards put into the games will
operate properly for an extended time
period. TI1e PC boards arc placed in large
ovens with the power on to identify and
replace any components which arc
sensitive to heat or subject to car!y
failures. This procedure is referred to as
the "burn-in process" and is used by most
quality conscious computer and elec-
tronic product companies.
John Petlansky , Production Manager
of Atari's PC facility, said, " The Dura-
stress proccSs was instituted and
expanded at substantial cost to provide
Atari's customers with increased elec-
tronics reliability by burning-in the
circuit board at 60°C for 24 to 48 hours,
thereby identifying and replacing those
components and devices that would fail
in the early life of the electronics." The
ovens used in this procedure have the
capability of testing almost 400 PC
boards at a time. After the Durastress
procedure is complete, each board is
re-tested individually to assure proper
operation.
Player controls designed for each game
are also tested for durability and
reliability. The controls are put through
both mechanical and human testing
procedures. They are tested in all stages
of engineering development, in on-
location field tests and again in the
production cycle.
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