What you'll need

What You'll Need

The right kit makes NES work painless. You do not need a full electronics bench for most jobs, but a few specific items matter. Gather these before you start.

For cleaning and connector repair

• Security bit (3.8mm): Nintendo's tamper-resistant screws need this driver. A standard Phillips will not fit the case screws.
• Phillips screwdriver: for the internal screws once the case is open.
• Isopropyl alcohol (90%+): for cleaning cartridge edges and connector pins.
• Cotton swabs and a soft brush: for lifting grime without scratching.
• Replacement 72-pin connector: if cleaning and refurbishing do not restore reliable contact.

For mods

• Flashcart: an EverDrive N8 Pro plus a quality SD card for the no-solder library upgrade.
• 72-to-60-pin adapter: required to play Famicom carts in an NES or vice versa.
• Soldering iron, solder, and flux: needed only for NESRGB or expansion audio mods.
• Multimeter: handy for diagnosing power and continuity issues.