![How to Clean an N64 Cartridge? [Quick & Easy Steps]](https://nexttechera.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-clean-a-n64-cartridge.jpg "How to Clean an N64 Cartridge? [Quick & Easy Steps]")
N64 are cartridge-based games, and you might still be a huge fan of it. To experience endless gaming experiences, you will need to know how to maintain the cartridge well because cartridges hardly can be seen in the market at present due to the arrival of CD-based consoles. So, if you are looking for a way to clean it, join us today because we are going to reveal to you how to clean an n64 cartridge preciously. This small task can be easily done by yourself using a few tools within a couple of minutes; no need for deep tech skills.
Do Game Cartridges Last Forever?
In general, the life expectancy of a game cartridge is 50 years. But if you maintain it properly and replace the battery when it is necessary, it will last more than 50 years. Anyways, there are different kinds of cartridges, so the longevity of each may vary depending on its materials. To protect them from dirt or corrosion, you will need to keep them in a clean and safe place when you do not use them. And also, the liquids such as water should be avoided in the area where the cartridge has been placed.
Can you Clean N64 Cartridges?
Certainly! The cleanliness of your n64 cartridge ensures its better function if only you do it properly. Sometimes, it may be difficult to clean the cartridge due to its configuration. And blowing into the cartridge to remove the dust is not a good idea because it may cause to push the dust into the other components further.
Therefore, you have to do the cleaning of n64 with careful hand to ensure its longevity. Besides, those are not made at present, so you do not have a chance to replace a new one. Thus, adhere to the method mentioned below.
What Can you Use to Clean Game Cartridges?
Before moving to the process, let’s see what you will need to clean. There are three methods to clean the cartridge. Mainly, isopropyl alcohol can be used to clean the cartridge; this kind of alcohol is also known as rubbing alcohol in everyday language. A small amount of alcohol will be enough.
In addition, you can buy a can of compressed air for this task. They are available in any supermarket. Besides, you can use an air duster or an electronic dust remover as well. As the third method, we suggest you a metal polish. Depending on the current condition of your cartridge, you can choose whatever method. If the cartridge has not been cleaned for a long time, it would be best to use something effective like rubbing alcohol.
Apart from those things, you will need some tools to disassemble the cartridge. Namely, a 3.8mm gamebit screwdriver and cotton swabs will be needed.
How to Clean an N64 Cartridge?
The cartridge is responsible for storing data of the game you play. Therefore, its cleanliness is a must for continuous playing.
First and foremost, you have to disassemble the cartridge by removing the shell with the gamebit screwdriver. Then separate the plastic shield of the cartridge. After that, you can follow one of these three methods to clean the cartridge. The methods have been listed from the least strong one to the strongest. So, depending on the condition of the cartridge, choose a method.
- Air Duster/Compressed Air – blow the air duster or compressed air on the circuit board for a few seconds until it becomes clear. This method is the basic one but still efficient and safe to remove any dirt and dust. If you have tried to blow the dust with your mouth so far, you will see the air duster do the job more successfully.
- Rubbing Alcohol – dip the cotton swab in some alcohol and wipe the copper contacts on the circuit board gently. When the cotton becomes filthy, replace a new one. When the cleaning is over, let the component dry before you set the parts.
- Metal Polish – use heavy-duty metal polish if you still cannot clean the cartridge. Take some metal polish like Brasso and wipe the surface without pressurizing. Do not use too much or wipe firmly because the polish is stronger than other methods. If your cartridge is too filthy, the metal polish would be the best option.
Can you Use Hydrogen Peroxide to Clean N64 Games?
It is not a wise idea to clean n64 games with hydrogen peroxide. The reason why, hydrogen peroxide will damage the cartridge due to its corrosive nature. It is too strong for cleaning any sensitive electronic equipment since hydrogen peroxide act as an oxidizing agent.
In other words, there is a high chance for hydrogen peroxide to react badly with some delicate materials. Consequently, the material will be corroded. Therefore, use something less reactive than hydrogen peroxide to clean game cartridges or any other electronic equipment.
Can you Clean N64 Games Alcohol?
Yes, of course! It is the most appropriate way to clean game cartridges. And it is cheap but effective when you want to remove all the debris from the surfaces. Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is the most suitable for cleaning game cartridges because it has the ability to kill microorganisms. But make sure to use a small quantity of alcohol because the cartridge may be damaged if you use too much. If you are unsure about the tartness of the alcohol you are going to use, distil it with some water.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Cartridges?
Basically, there are some things people often misunderstand when cleaning cartridges. Some may try to use Windex to clean them, but most of the time, you will see that the residue is still on the contacts. Therefore, it is hard for you to clean with Windex. Similarly, some tend to use sandpapers, but they should also be avoided when cleaning cartridges. Yes, sometimes it may take a longer time to clean with cotton swabs but do not use something harsh on the cartridges, especially abrasives. Cleaning is a good habit for the longevity of the cartridge, but if you do it improperly, you will get worse results.
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