800xl power supply - how to open?

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PeteW
Posts: 99
Joined: Wed Jul 25, 2018 8:09 pm

800xl power supply - how to open?

Post by PeteW »

Got a power supply for my 800xl. It's an original Atari one but seems to put out 0v on all pins. I want to open the case up but there are no visible screws. I wondered if anyone had some insight into how to open it with minimal damage?

I suspect I'll replace the insides with a usb charger, but would like to keep the look of the original brick

Appreciate the help!

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PeteW
Posts: 99
Joined: Wed Jul 25, 2018 8:09 pm

Re: 800xl power supply - how to open?

Post by PeteW »

Ok I'll answer my own question in case it helps someone else. The PSU is potted (encased in resin), so the base of the casing has posts on it that are embedded in the resin.

I used a chisel to break those off from the inside and then by soaking the main PSU in boiling water several times and applying reasonable levels of brute force, was able to remove the resin block and hollow out the case.

There's now plenty of space to hide a usb charger and the connections to the original cables inside, so it will look original, even if the PSU itself is modern
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PhilC
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Re: 800xl power supply - how to open?

Post by PhilC »

Nicely done @PeteW , all tips welcome.
If it ain't broke, test it to Destruction.
tzok
Posts: 337
Joined: Sat Dec 30, 2017 2:27 pm

Re: 800xl power supply - how to open?

Post by tzok »

I have drilled a hole from top to help to remove the resin block from the inside. Then I've put a LED in that hole ;)
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