I bought a 128x16 RGB PIN2DMD, but it’s not working at all with my TMNT pinball machine. HEELP PLEASE LEONARDO!

[joaquingnr]

Hello everyone,
I have a 1991 Data East Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles pinball machine. While restoring it, the original DMD still powered on and worked for a few minutes before failing, but at least it was partially functional.

I decided to purchase this new 128x16 RGB PIN2DMD (which I’ve already activated and paid for — it wasn’t cheap, especially considering I’m located in Buenos Aires, Argentina).

 

The issue is that I’m powering the new PIN2DMD with a 12V PC power supply, using only the two power wires (12V and GND). I also connected the 26-pin ribbon cable, which is oriented correctly. The display powers up perfectly, but it doesn’t receive any data from the pinball — it just stays on the default screen.

I already disabled the Enhancer option and checked all the display settings. I’m wondering if I’m missing another cable for the power or data connection. The original DMD still works (it powers on and shows information for a few minutes before failing), so the machine itself is sending data correctly. It’s like the new display is simply not receiving the signal.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

 

 

[Terranigma]

You will need to set it to auto in the display config or data east x16 (not data east / sega).

You need to transfer over the original display EPROM if you haven't done so already.

You may also need to solder the bridges depending on the version you got.

 

If you bought from a store, you should go back and ask for support. If you bought it yourself, then the above should help you.

 

[joaquingnr]

Yes, I bought it online from Pinball Center.

I didn’t receive any instructions with it, but the website says it is compatible with the TMNT pinball machine.

I’ve already tried setting it to DE 128x16, but still nothing happens.

The new DMD has an EPROM socket. I asked GPT and it told me that I shouldn't need to move the EPROM, but now I’m not sure. I’m afraid of damaging something, but I will try moving the EPROM as well if that is required. 

 

i appreciate the repply  Terranigma.

[joaquingnr]

ok after  move the eprom it works, but now is making the sames glitches when the game start, was doing the old  DMD display, so the eprom is the problem or the main board has something i will check  it . thanks for the help.

 

[Terranigma]

GPT is wrong in this case.

 

You need to swap the display EPROM over as this contains the display data and the display won't show anything from the game without it. Make sure you position it correct as the orientation matters. Look for the notch on the EPROM and line that up with the notch on the silkscreen on the display eprom socket.

[Terranigma]

Just now, joaquingnr said:

ok after  move the eprom it works, but now is making the sames glitches when the game start, was doing the old  DMD display, so the eprom is the problem or the main board has something i will check  it . thanks for the help.

 

 

Check the ribbon cable, it may have some bends or kinks in it. Could be the display or game eprom is corrupted, could be a CPU issue etc. You will need to check things 1 by 1 to rule them out.

[joaquingnr]

Got it — it was a popcorn capacitor. I replaced it and the weird buzzing sound is gone, and now the screen is working perfectly. I also installed the EPROM, so the display works, but only in white.

I’ve seen a few posts mentioning custom files to update the animations and add colors. Do you have any recommended ones?
Can I update it using the SD card?

Thanks for all the help, Terranigma. I’ll post a picture once everything is fully installed.