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TROUBLESHOOTER GUIDE

This guide came into existence when I was experiencing trouble with my SEGA Saturn unit and tried to find an on-line guide to assist in my repairs… I found none! I took it upon myself to create this one, all information was gleaned from various FAQs and also from researching the news archives on alt.games.video.sega-saturn

At all times when removing the cover, remember to disconnect the Saturn from the mains. Only attempt repairs you feel are within your ability and if in doubt consult a qualified professional.

This Trouble Shooter Guide is intended for information only, information contained herein is neither considered to be complete or accurate. If you think there is any information, which should be in here (or should not), please get in touch.

ERROR MESSAGES

In the event of a problem, error messages appear on screen. Please check the following to identify possible causes.

MESSAGE
REASON
CHECK
DISC UNSUITABLE FOR THIS SYSTEM
Wrong type of disc.
  • Is the type of CD suitable for your SEGA Saturn.
  • Is the surface of the CD dirty.
GAME DISC UNSUITABLE FOR THIS SYSTEM
Wrong type/region of game disc.
  • Is the type of game CD suitable for your SEGA Saturn.
DRIVE EMPTY
Disc detection failed.
  • Is a disc inserted in the SEGA Saturn.
  • Is the disc badly damaged.
  • Is the disc dirty.
  • Is the disc label side up.
  • Is the type of CD suitable for your SEGA Saturn.
DISC REQUIRES SYSTEM APPLICATION
Additional resource required.
  • Do you have the additional hardware or software required to play the disc.

OTHER PROBLEMS

If other problems arise, first try pressing the RESET button or switching the POWER button on and off.

Should the problem remain, follow the instructions below and carefully reset your SEGA Saturn.

PROBLEM
REASON
CHECK
NO PICTURE OR SOUND
Connection problems.
  • Is the TV securely connected to the power source.
  • Is the power to the TV switched on.
  • Is the TV set to Audio/Video mode.
  • Is the power cord securely and correctly connected to the SEGA Saturn.
  • Is the SEGA Saturn POWER button switched on.
  • Is the RF unit set to the correct channel. (If not using SCART connection).
SEGA SATURN CD GAME WILL NOT START
Disc detection failed.
  • Is the disc inserted correctly.
  • Is the disc clean and free from damage.
THE IMAGE DOES NOT LOOK RIGHT
TV settings.
  • Are the TV colour controls set properly.
SOUND IS MONO BUT SHOULD BE STEREO
TV settings.
  • Is the audio output set to mono on the TV.
  • Are the audio sockets properly connected to the TV.
DATE AND TIME REVERT TO DEFAULT
Power interupt.
  • Is the Lithium battery running low. Replace with new CR2032 battery.
  • Have you removed the insulation sheet from the Lithium battery.
CANNOT SAVE
Power interupt.
  • Is the Lithium battery running low. Replace with new CR2032 battery.
  • Have you removed the insulation sheet from the Lithium battery.
SCREEN BLUE OR BLACK
Scart connection.
  • Is the SCART cable correctly inserted.

SYSTEM RESET

If the RESET button fails to function, or the CD Audio Control screen fails to appear after following the operating instructions in the manual. follow the instructions below to reset the SEGA Saturn unit. Note that all internal settings revert to the default, and all internal memory data is erased.
  • Switch off the power to the SEGA Saturn and unplug the power cord from the outlet.
  • Remove the battery cover and remove the Lithium battery.
  • After waiting for one minute, replace the Lithium battery, replace the battery cover, plug in the power cord and turn on the power to the SEGA Saturn unit.

ADVANCED GUIDE

PROBLEM
REASON
CHECK
SEGA SATURN CD GAME WILL NOT START
Disc detection failed.
  • Remove CD and clean using soft cloth, rubbing from inner to outer of CD.
  • Clean the lens with a CD lens cleaner, available from most hi-fi outlets.
  • Ensure the Saturn recognises the lid as being closed.
  • Remove the cover from the SEGA Saturn, unplug and reinsert the two CD drive cables at both ends. There are two cables, a white ribbon data cable and a smaller power cable.
  • Dirty or intermittent connections on these two cables are a very common cause of lockups and crashes
  • There are potentiometers on the laser unit for adjustment. Remove the cover; locate the CD laser unit. Adjust the small orange screw that alters the laser's intensity. This problem is better attempted by a professional, ask at your local hi-fi specialist.
GAMES USING RAM CARTS FREEZE AND/OR HAVE SOUND PROBLEMS
Worn cartridge contacts.
  • Dirty contacts on the RAM cart and/or the Saturn's cartridge slot. Clean with isopropyl alcohol, using an artist’s eraser can also help
SEGA SATURN DOES NOT POWER UP, POWER LIGHT FLASHES ON/OFF
Electrical short circuit.
  • Remove the cover and ensure the PCB isn't touching the metal shielding.
  • Look for any poor solder jobs if someone tried to modify the unit. If any wires/solder points are touching, separate them.
  • Clean thoroughly.
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