How to Build a Vectrex Game Cartridge!

Chapters
0:11 Solder Paste
1:20 Component Placement
1:52 Hot Plate Reflow
2:38 Cleaning
2:58 Rinsing
3:04 Drying
3:28 Programming
4:02 Case & Label
5:27 Testing
6:23 AD: How to order the PCB from PCBWay
www.pcbway.com
Open-source hardware files for my vectrex cartridge design can be found here:
github.com/tec...
(please note: I updated the PCB to v1.4 and corrected the DS2431G+ footprint, and removed R5)
Here's the ultrasonic cleaner I use:
Vevor 6L Ultrasonic Cleaner - amzn.to/40cOSSn
Branson EC can be found at TechniTool. I use 1/2cup (4oz) in 1 gallon (128oz) of distilled water, which is 3% (128oz + 4oz = 132oz. 132 * 0.03 = 4oz. 4oz. is 1/2cup.)
99% Isopropyl Alcohol can be purchased by the gallon at Menards.
• Vectrex Cartridge PCB ...
I use the TL866II+ programmer, and this is the updated version of it that is confirmed to work:
amzn.to/3vEp1ti
How To Apply Vectrex Cartridge Labels Perfectly
• How To Apply Vectrex C...
Clear cart protectors (make sure to select 10pcs - 8.5cm x 8.5cm x 2.5cm):
www.aliexpress...
Cartridge shells from Sean Kelly:
www.vectrexmult...
Case screws I use from McMasterCarr:
www.mcmaster.c...
(Rounded Head Thread-Forming Screws, Torx, Black-Oxide Steel, Number 4 Size, 5/8" Long, Packs of 100, note that Sean does provide screws with the cases, but they are a little long and should be cut with bolt cutters to 5/8" if you'd like to use them)
The solder paste I use is generally good for about a year after purchase, even kept unrefriderated:
www.digikey.co...
You can also get it from amazon: amzn.to/48WNqIR
I didn't use this solder on video, but I did manually solder the DIP switches onto the Telengard carts because I didn't have the stencil made with the DIP switch pads. I wanted to try the new alternative zero ohm resistors instead. They are great for dedicated colors. At any rate, this is the best solder in my opinion for doing larger pads and through hole:
amzn.to/3vCLSp2
Please note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
If you would like to purchase one of the exact games (Rock n Saucers or Telengard) pictured in this video, please watch my eBay store here: www.ebay.com/u...
I will post them for sale on Monday, Jan 15th at 12pm CST (6pm GMT)

[@VoltageGoat]

Damn, this brought back memories. My first game console purchased from ToysRus right next to Chuck-E-Cheese over 40 years ago.

[@50TBRD]

You have some really cool methods that I’d never have thought of.

[@R3TR0R4V3]

SMT is such a giant PITA. I much prefer the first PCBs you made, with good ol' EPROMS and minimal SMT parts. :-)

[@playvectrex]

I totally understand. Through hole EEPROMs are hard to buy with decent quality though... they are usually rebranded old stock, pins trashed and breaking off. So even though the SMT version flash chip is more expensive, it's infinitely easier to source and build. PLUS, makes it easy to order built PCBs... and this PCB can be erased and flashed in-circuit from the cartridge edge connector. That said, v1.2 carts are still available to order in the github repo.

[@QuesadillaPadilla]

So awesome to see this process, I was always curious, thanks for the Vectrex content, where did you find those clear protective cases for the Vectrex games, I would love to get some for my loose carts.

[@playvectrex]

Thanks! That reminded me I needed to stock up while they are on sale. I added the link in the description ;-)

[@QuesadillaPadilla]

Thanks for the link

[@Alainh31]

Hello. Super video, work and KZbin channel. Congrats ! Where we can find cartridges cases (green, blue, red, ...) in which you install pcb ? Thanks in advance.

[@playvectrex]

Thank you :D I've added more links to things in the description.

[@Alainh31]

Thank you 🙏@@playvectrex

[@princesspeach5308]

Great video! Where did you get (or a link to build) the Vectrex programmer adapter?

[@playvectrex]

Thanks! The programmer adapter is a hacked up version of my own design used to backup Vectrex carts (if you look close you'll see it's actually two PCBs and some super glue that make up the adapter). It's modified to work for SST39SF020A flash chips. I need to make a proper revision of that PCB and make this available on my github.

[@theboy181]

This mean you are sending me on?e

[@playvectrex]

Check the bottom of the description ;-)

[@MarkWandRobBobPresent]

Very cool. Thanks for sharing this, @PlayVectrex!