This is a customizable order form for the Sega CD and the various services offered. Please note that all costs listed are for service only, requiring you to ship not only the console but the mod/upgrade parts you have purchased yourself (with exception to the FRAM, Power Fuse, Battery Mod and Full Recap Service as I will provide new parts/capacitors from Console5)
Region Free BIOS Install
All Sega CD models are region-locked by default so you can only access the library of its native region on a stock/OEM system. Installing a new multi-region BIOS allows you to access the entire SegaCD/MegaCD Library using either real discs or burned games. This service includes removing the stock BIOS and soldering the new region free BIOS onto the mainboard. If you would like the original BIOS kept intact and shipped back to you with the console please let me know when placing the order. There are several places you can buy replacement BIOS chips from and I will perform this service regardless, but I stand by the following sites/providers and cannot be responsible if you order a faulty chip from another source:
CDX
Multi-Region BIOS – Will’s Console Modifications
Model 1 / Model 2 Sega CD
Region Free BIOS Kit – Consoles Unleashed
Region Free BIOS Kit – Will’s Console Modifications
FRAM Chip Install
While the onboard ML2016 battery can be replaced (and have an easily swappable holder installed like the service below) you can go with an even more foolproof method of keeping your saves intact by installing a FRAM chip which means your SegaCD will no longer rely on any kind of battery power. This service involves removing the existing SRAM chip and battery and installing the new 64KB FRAM chip in its place, which will then be formatted and tested after install
Power Fuse Replacement
One of the most common issues if your Sega CD won’t power on is a blown 2.5A Pico fuse on the SubBD power board. This can occur due to power surges/events and more commonly from using incorrect power supplies with the Sega CD system. With this service I will replace the fuse with a brand new one from Console5, included in the cost
Swappable Battery Mod
Do you have a Sega CD that won’t hold your internal game saves? Then your ML2016 battery has lost its ability to hold a charge and should be replaced. Unfortunately Sega made the decision to solder the battery directly to the Main board which makes swapping more difficult. This service will remove the ML2016 and in its place install a coin cell battery holder provided by me (from Digi-Key) and included in the service cost. I will also install a brand new ML2032 in the holder, also included in the cost.
PLEASE NOTE: After receiving this service, any and all battery swaps in the future NEED to be ML2016/2032 rechargeable coin cell batteries, NOT the more standard CR2032
Optical Drive Maintenance
The most important component (and most likely to have issues) is of course your Sega CDs optical drive. Common failure points include the drive belt becoming worn/loose, limiter switches being too dirty to correctly register drive opening/closing, and issues with gear alignment or accumulation of dirt and debris on the rails. With this service I will carefully clean the lens and apply fresh lithium grease to all gears and rails on the drive assembly. Limiter switches will be removed and cleaned, as well as checked for alignment and proper function. Lastly the drive belt will be replaced with a new one from Console5 included in the cost of the service, either to resolve tray opening/closing issues or as preventative maintenance
Full System Recap
Electrolytic Capacitors have an estimated shelf life of about 15 years and many of these old retro gaming systems are long past that time. Prevent unwanted power, video or audio issues by proactively replacing these in your Sega CD system. If your Sega CD is already exhibiting issues a failed capacitor could be the culprit and is usually a good first step in the diagnosis and repair. All capacitors will be replaced on the Sub BD, Main BD and the Optical Drive board with a cap kit from Console5 which I will provide for this service, included in the cost
Full Service Cleaning
After years of heavy use many consoles will exhibit accumulation of dirt, dust and debris and this can not only impact the aesthetic appearance of the system but dirty system components can impact component life and performance. Your console will be completely disassembled and cleaned from the inside out. All PCB and internal electrical components will have dust and debris removed via an electronic air compressor and then be cleaned with 99% isopropyl alcohol and brushed clean. Outer shell and other non-electronic components will be taken apart and soaked in a soap/water mixture and carefully scrubbed to remove stains and debris buildup. Any light markings, scuffs or other blemishes will be safely removed to the best of my ability. Once the console is re-assembled the outer shell will be given a coat of plastic UV protectant to restore shine and prevent UV damage
