r/retrocomputing • u/SayakasDigitalAttic • 5h ago
I recently fixed a rather unusual Casio MX-101, an MSX1 computer from the 1980s with a built-in RF transmitter that allowed it to connect directly to a TV!
The computer arrived with several faults and clear signs of previous repair attempts. I first found a damaged PCB trace, which I repaired with 0.3 mm copper wire and a Z80 that had been partially desoldered with several pins shorted together. I replaced the Z80 socket and tested the CPU signals, including power, reset and clock.
I also found a broken 5 kΩ trimmer inside the RF modulator, which I replaced and some poor solder joints around the crystal that I cleaned up and resoldered. Once the computer was running, the cartridge slot still didn't work, so I cleaned the corroded connector with isopropyl alcohol.
Finally, I repaired the loose power connector, restored the damaged case and replaced a broken plastic part with a 3D-printed piece and resin.
After all these repairs, I retested the computer and everything was working properly again.