Uploaded January 2024 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Chapters
0:11 Solder Paste
1:20 Component Placement
1:52 Hot Plate Reflow
2:38 Cleaning
2:58 Rinsing
3:04 Drying
3:28 Programming
4:02 Case & Label
5:27 Testing
6:23 AD: How to order the PCB from PCBWay
pcbway.com
Open-source hardware files for my vectrex cartridge design can be found here:
github.com/technobly/vectrex-cartridge
(please note: I updated the PCB to v1.4 and corrected the DS2431G+ footprint, and removed R5)
Here's the ultrasonic cleaner I use:
Vevor 6L Ultrasonic Cleaner - amzn.to/40cOSSn
Branson EC can be found at TechniTool. I use 1/2cup (4oz) in 1 gallon (128oz) of distilled water, which is 3% (128oz + 4oz = 132oz. 132 * 0.03 = 4oz. 4oz. is 1/2cup.)
99% Isopropyl Alcohol can be purchased by the gallon at Menards.
youtu.be/dJhbyKZ9AfY
I use the TL866II+ programmer, and this is the updated version of it that is confirmed to work:
amzn.to/3vEp1ti
How To Apply Vectrex Cartridge Labels Perfectly
youtu.be/EaHwFFtAmbA
Clear cart protectors (make sure to select 10pcs - 8.5cm x 8.5cm x 2.5cm):
aliexpress.us/item/3256804536665163.html
Cartridge shells from Sean Kelly:
vectrexmulti.com/order2.html#!/Vectrex-Empty-Cartridge-Shells/c/38886086/offset=0&sort=normal
Case screws I use from McMasterCarr:
mcmaster.com/99512A659
(Rounded Head Thread-Forming Screws, Torx, Black-Oxide Steel, Number 4 Size, 5/8" Long, Packs of 100, note that Sean does provide screws with the cases, but they are a little long and should be cut with bolt cutters to 5/8" if you'd like to use them)
The solder paste I use is generally good for about a year after purchase, even kept unrefriderated:
digikey.com/en/products/detail/chip-quik-inc/SMD291AX50T3/5130159
You can also get it from amazon: amzn.to/48WNqIR
I didn't use this solder on video, but I did manually solder the DIP switches onto the Telengard carts because I didn't have the stencil made with the DIP switch pads. I wanted to try the new alternative zero ohm resistors instead. They are great for dedicated colors. At any rate, this is the best solder in my opinion for doing larger pads and through hole:
amzn.to/3vCLSp2
Please note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
If you would like to purchase one of the exact games (Rock n Saucers or Telengard) pictured in this video, please watch my eBay store here: ebay.com/usr/ductape
I will post them for sale on Monday, Jan 15th at 12pm CST (6pm GMT)
Chapters
0:11 Solder Paste
1:20 Component Placement
1:52 Hot Plate Reflow
2:38 Cleaning
2:58 Rinsing
3:04 Drying
3:28 Programming
4:02 Case & Label
5:27 Testing
6:23 AD: How to order the PCB from PCBWay
pcbway.com
Open-source hardware files for my vectrex cartridge design can be found here:
github.com/technobly/vectrex-cartridge
(please note: I updated the PCB to v1.4 and corrected the DS2431G+ footprint, and removed R5)
Here's the ultrasonic cleaner I use:
Vevor 6L Ultrasonic Cleaner - amzn.to/40cOSSn
Branson EC can be found at TechniTool. I use 1/2cup (4oz) in 1 gallon (128oz) of distilled water, which is 3% (128oz + 4oz = 132oz. 132 * 0.03 = 4oz. 4oz. is 1/2cup.)
99% Isopropyl Alcohol can be purchased by the gallon at Menards.
youtu.be/dJhbyKZ9AfY
I use the TL866II+ programmer, and this is the updated version of it that is confirmed to work:
amzn.to/3vEp1ti
How To Apply Vectrex Cartridge Labels Perfectly
youtu.be/EaHwFFtAmbA
Clear cart protectors (make sure to select 10pcs - 8.5cm x 8.5cm x 2.5cm):
aliexpress.us/item/3256804536665163.html
Cartridge shells from Sean Kelly:
vectrexmulti.com/order2.html#!/Vectrex-Empty-Cartridge-Shells/c/38886086/offset=0&sort=normal
Case screws I use from McMasterCarr:
mcmaster.com/99512A659
(Rounded Head Thread-Forming Screws, Torx, Black-Oxide Steel, Number 4 Size, 5/8" Long, Packs of 100, note that Sean does provide screws with the cases, but they are a little long and should be cut with bolt cutters to 5/8" if you'd like to use them)
The solder paste I use is generally good for about a year after purchase, even kept unrefriderated:
digikey.com/en/products/detail/chip-quik-inc/SMD291AX50T3/5130159
You can also get it from amazon: amzn.to/48WNqIR
I didn't use this solder on video, but I did manually solder the DIP switches onto the Telengard carts because I didn't have the stencil made with the DIP switch pads. I wanted to try the new alternative zero ohm resistors instead. They are great for dedicated colors. At any rate, this is the best solder in my opinion for doing larger pads and through hole:
amzn.to/3vCLSp2
Please note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
If you would like to purchase one of the exact games (Rock n Saucers or Telengard) pictured in this video, please watch my eBay store here: ebay.com/usr/ductape
I will post them for sale on Monday, Jan 15th at 12pm CST (6pm GMT)
