h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I went to a convention and purchased a used atari 2600 console with some controllers and a library of 37 compatible games from some fellow for a sizable discount. I noticed on unpacking it though that the machine did not come with an RF modulator and am going to go to RadioShack to buy the parts to make a new one as a DIY project. It will be hard to tell if the machine works or not without being able to connect it to a television or a vcr. This little refurbishing project a friend of mine and I are going to undertake has set me back so far about $30 (USD) and will hopefully not require an expensive RF Demodulator ($100-110 USD). If I just buy an adapter ($3-5) and a 300-75 Ohm transformer ($3-5?) and a game/television switcher with either coaxial switching or duplex/multiplexing ($3-7) perhaps we can use that to bring the machine back to life without having to do too much taking apart and soldering.

Unfortunately my VCR appears to only have component video instead of composite so I'm just hoping if I and he noodle with the set-up just right we can get the audio and video signals to separate or at least transmit coherently, without having to buy a big expensive demodulator box to attach a modulator to which feels like going around in a big loop/circle.

I think there's something wrong with the power input connection. Will likely have to take it apart and resolder the contacts for the switches too.

Hope you get it fixed.
Don't you want to write an Entry about it when it's done? We're kind of lacking good computer and console game Entries. I already try to fill this gap.

That might be a good idea. Hey, do you want to write that one together?

Unfortunately I have no idea about the Atari but I think I can help you, yes.

That might be good. I haven't gotten the one I bought to work yet but I've been researching it about how to refurbish them a bit and I don't know about europe but it's one of the lengua francas of old American videogames because since so many people bought them at the height of popularity almost everybody has or knows a relative that has some games for those consoles and cartridges are an infamous staple at swap meets and garage sales.

I'm afraid I don't know anyone who owned one. I only know people with a Super Nintendo, but that one came later of course.

Well we coulod talk a bit about sega vs nintendo and how the super nintendo was a step up from the regular nintendo too if you like provided there isn't already an article or entry on here about the console wars...

I only remember one in PR recently (or is it still there?) about Sega and it also mentioned Nintendo. I'd have to look if there are more edited Entries.

You're right thoough... if there's a hole in the early history of videogames, that could be an ideal niche for some entries.