Retro-Bit Retro Duo Troubleshooting

Video Display is Black or Distorted

Ensure all cables are connected to their respective ports. Try unplugging and replugging each cable.

Make sure your television is on. If the power is on, test another television input.

Insert the game cartridge such that the triangle on the cartridge and the console line up. Sometimes the game will not register if you insert the game after the console is already on. If this happens, press the Reset button. Make sure that the power switch is on the right game type: 8-bit vs 16-bit.

Some or all of the controller’s input are not registered correctly.

Make sure that the controller is fully inserted into the controller port on the console.

The controller ports can get dusty over time, which can prevent the controllers from being properly connected. Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from the console and controller ports. If the port is wet, dry out excess liquid with paper towels and cotton swabs, then let it air dry completely before plugging in a controller.

The controllers can fail from damage or normal wear-and-tear. To test this, unplug the affected controller and test a different controller. If the second controller works, the problem lies within the first one. If only certain buttons do not work, follow this GUIDE to replace the button pads.

The controller ports can fail from damage or wear-and-tear. Test both ports by connecting a working controller. If the controller(s) fail(s) when using a specific port, then the issue is isolated. Follow this GUIDE to disassemble the controller.

It is possible that debris (like dust, food pieces, and liquid) entered the controller and caused a malfunction. Follow this disassembly GUIDE to remove debris. Handle the circuit board carefully and make sure that it does not come in contact with any liquid. Let the controller dry completely before reassembling.

The Reset button and/or Power Switch are not functioning as expected.

Similar to the buttons on the controllers, the button and switch on the console may not function correctly if there is debris in the console. Follow this GUIDE to disassemble the console. Clean out dust, using a can of compressed air, and any large debris. Use a cotton swab to carefully swab any hard-to-reach places and/or to dry out moist areas. Let the console dry completely before reassembling the device.

If the Reset Button and/or Power Switch still does not function correctly, follow this GUIDE to replace the Reset Button and Power Switch.

Nothing happens when the power switch is turned on.

Verify the power adapter is connected to the gaming console and a working outlet. Unplug and replug the power adapter into the outlet and console.

The power adapter, like other parts of the device, can break down over time due to wear and tear and/or other reasons. Verify that the adapter and cable is intact and that there are no tears. Sometimes, the problem can be internal and not visible. Try using another 5V adapter.

The game cartridge appears to be stuck in the cartridge lock.

If the power is on, there is a small clip that holds the game in place. Move the Power Switch to the “Off” position before attempting to remove the game cartridge.

Dust and other debris can build up inside your console and even the connectors over time. Refer to this GUIDE to disassemble and clean out the inside of the console and to replace the cartridge doors if necessary. Use a NES/SNES cleaning kit or cotton swabs dipped in denatured or rubbing alcohol to gently wipe the pin connectors. Make sure that no cotton fuzz is stuck in the connectors and that they are completely dry before reassembling the console.

If the problem persists, the pin connectors may need replacing.

The game cartridge appears to not remain seated in the cartridge lock.

There is a little plastic hook that pops out to catch the cartridge tray to make sure the game stays in place. The hook may be worn out or not extending far enough. Follow this GUIDE to disassemble the console to see the issue with the hook.

Dust and other debris can build up inside your console and even the connectors over time. Refer to this GUIDE to disassemble and clean out the inside of the console and replace the cartridge doors if necessary. Use a NES/SNES cleaning kit or cotton swabs dipped in denatured or rubbing alcohol to gently wipe the pin connectors. Make sure that no cotton fuzz is stuck in the connectors and that they are completely dry before reassembling the console.

If the problem persists, the pin connectors may need replacing.

The game does not appear on the screen at all despite being inserted. Television and console is connected and powered on correctly.

The console can play both NES and SNES games. Verify that the Power Switch is on and that the correct system is selected. To do this, turn the Power Switch to the “Off” position and select the correct system for the specific game.

Dust and other debris can build up inside your game cartridge over time and prevent it from connecting to your console correctly. Use a NES/SNES cleaning kit or cotton swabs dipped in denatured or rubbing alcohol to gently wipe the contact points in the game cartridge. Be sure to let the cartridge dry completely before inserting it into the console.

Dust and other debris can build up inside your console and even the connectors over time. Refer to this GUIDE to disassemble and clean out the inside of the console. Use a NES/SNES cleaning kit or use cotton swabs dipped in denatured or rubbing alcohol to gently wipe the pin connectors. Make sure that no cotton fuzz is stuck in the connectors and that they are completely dry before reassembling the console.

If the problem persists, the pin connectors may need replacing.