Not sure what is wrong with your retro console or microcomputer? Our diagnostic service identifies faults quickly and accurately so you know exactly what is wrong before any repair work begins. You also receive a clear indication of the potential cost to restore your console to full working condition.
The diagnostic fee is included in the repair cost if you choose to proceed with one of our recommended repair or maintenance services, such as a mainboard repair or full console service. This keeps total costs predictable and fair.
What is included
- Full inspection of your console or mainboard
- Fault detection for no power, no display, no audio, or unstable systems
- Testing of power, signal paths, and key components
- Clear diagnostic review with photos of identified issues
- Repair recommendations with transparent pricing options
How it works
- Send in your device
- We perform a full diagnostic check
- You receive a detailed report and repair quote
- You decide whether to proceed with repair or request return
Repair time and accepted devices
In general, we aim to return machines within 14 days of arrival, however repair times depend on the type of issue and required work, and may vary depending on complexity and parts availability. After diagnostics, we will provide an estimated timeframe together with your repair options. Simple repairs are often completed quickly, while more complex mainboard-level work may take longer.
We service a wide range of retro systems and hardware, and the consoles and microcomputers listed in our shop simply reflect the most frequently serviced or repaired machines.
Of course, having worked on retro machines for decades, we also support a very large range of less common systems. If your console is not listed, feel free to contact us to ask about our experience with your specific device.
What if your device cannot be repaired
We love repairing machines, however there are cases where repairs are not economically viable due to unavailable or irreparable components. This can include severely damaged chips that are no longer available on the market, or situations where a modern replacement is a more practical and cost-effective solution.
In these cases, the following options are available:
- You can choose to have the device returned to you unrepaired
- Part swaps or modern replacement parts may be offered at a fair, low fee (subject to availability)
- Replacement donor units can be sourced by agreement where applicable
- We can refund the fee and keep the device for parts in return for the time spent on diagnostics
- Or, instead of a refund, we can offer a discount on any consoles or systems available in our shop
Shipping options
To save on shipping costs, you do not need to include cables, controllers, test games, or accessories when sending your console. We typically have all required equipment and testing materials in our workshop. If needed, we can confirm this with you after your order.
Sending only the console or even just the mainboard is recommended, as it reduces weight and size. This can help keep shipping costs lower, since many postal services use weight-based pricing thresholds.
Please make sure your device is securely packed with sufficient bubble wrap and a strong outer box. Good packaging adds some weight but ensures your device is protected during transport.
Shipping to us
After placing your order, you are responsible for shipping your system or mainboard to our workshop using safe and secure packaging. You will receive our shipping details by email. Shipping costs to us are not included in the service price.
Shipping back to you
Return shipping is not included in the service price. Estimated shipping costs are outlined on our shipping page. Final shipping costs are always confirmed with you in advance and calculated fairly based on your location and preferred shipping method.
