Jaguar Display Issue

[strygo]

Hey all, I recently posted in the Questions thread about a problem I was experiencing with an Atari Jaguar. I had connected it via a Retro Gaming Cables csync cable to my setup and observed artifacts in the image that I don't quite know how to describe. I've since picked up a Retro Access csync (recently added to their store). The cable itself is great and the 3D printed head is very nice (it's more robust than the RGC one and has teeth to prevent improper insertion). Unfortunately, the problem persists. Does anyone know what might be causing this? Bad power supply? Problem console? csync? Input is appreciated.

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[Syntax]

Best to use composite video for sync on a Sony consumer Tv.
They all have an inbuilt stripper. If you have a good composite video for sync cable then interference is not a worry.
Csync can cause all types of issues with these Sony sets.

[Bratwurst]

It would be best to go with luma or composite video as sync for the Atari Jaguar when you're using a display with non-TTL inputs as a general rule... I've seen the Jag csync do crazy things to Framemeister setups as well.

[strygo]

I actually realized the system actually came with an s-video cable (doh). I gave that one a try direct to my Sony consumer CRT and the problem is still there. On the plus side, this rules out csync as the culprit. The power supply is an Atari original. Could a power supply produce this effect? If it isn't that, my question would be - does the Jaguar console itself degrade in some way that could produce this effect?

[Hoagtech]

The Atari uses electrolytic capacitors in a time of poor capacitor production.

You can upgrade to ceramic by replacing with the same microfarad (uF readings on the side of each capacitor)

I would open it up and look for plump ones, bulges, and corrosion around them.

When in doubt you could also buy a full cap kit and replace them all or send them in to a modded to be soldered

[strygo]

I had a chance to open up the console. I'm not an expert but nothing seemed out of the ordinary or particularly problematic. Maybe some slight discoloration on one of the components somewhat near the power plug but I actually don't think so.

I was excited to see a voltage on the AC adapter similar to other consoles so I could try their adapters, but I noticed the Jaguar's polarity is opposite, so I don't have another to test at the moment.

I'll be trying to track down another console if I can find one for the right price. Thanks for the tips so far.

[PFG 9000]

You can use a Sega Genesis adapter in the Jag and JagCD. I don't know if every model of the Genesis used the same adapter, but I have one that's the exact same physical shape as the Jag's and the same specs, and it's interchangeable.

[strygo]

Oh, really? I swear the polarity of the adapter seemed the opposite between a Genesis and Jaguar.

[Bratwurst]

The Genesis 1 power supply is center negative (Just like the Jaguar's power plug) and is the one you want to use. The Genesis 2 power supply is center positive, don't use that one.

[strygo]

Got it, thanks! I only checked my Genesis 2 one. I think I have a Genesis 1 lurking somewhere.

[strygo]

That was it! I used my Genesis 1 AC adapter and the screen artifacts are completely gone. Success. Thanks all for your suggestions.

[strygo]

For anyone else who may be seeking a replacement adapter, I was able to get new Jaguar AC adapter from Best Electronics (http://www.best-electronics-ca.com/) along with some other NOS Jaguar items for very competitive prices. Definitely check the site out if you're interested in anything Jaguar or Atari related.

[Johnpv]

Just a note about best electronics, you need to spend minimum 20 bucks per order.