In his latest YouTube video, Hans Campbell tackles a familiar but formidable task: diagnosing dead Commodore 64s. With three non-functional machines laid out before him—each offering no video and limited or no sound—Hans begins a detailed, methodical repair session for fans of vintage computing and C64 restoration.
No Video, No Sound—Just Clues
The video centers on hands-on troubleshooting, with Hans carefully opening each Commodore 64 case using a low-torque screwdriver (no power tools allowed here). Inside, he discovers two 250407 motherboards and one 250425 revision. One machine emits a faint hum; the others remain completely silent.
As he inspects each board, Hans explains the significance of socketed chips, unbroken case tabs, and the need for proper standoffs. He’s clear about one thing: quality tools matter. If you’re using a $5 bargain-bin screwdriver, toss it—now.
More Than Just Repairs—It’s Philosophy
What sets this video apart is Hans’s unique blend of repair techniques and restoration philosophy. Viewers learn about the quirks of specific chips, like the 74LS logic series (which Hans affectionately calls “traffic cops”) and why he prefers the cooler-running 8500-series SID chips over earlier versions.
During his process of diagnosing dead Commodore 64s, Hans also critiques machine-pin sockets and hints at future videos, including a SID sound comparison using waveform analyzers. It’s not just repairs—it’s preservation, education, and a healthy dose of C64 geekery.
History, Humor, and Hands-On Knowledge
This video is ideal for C64 enthusiasts, retro hardware restorers, or anyone curious about vintage computing. Hans brings charm, clarity, and years of experience to the bench, offering both practical advice and entertaining commentary. And yes—he reminds us, never plug a SID chip into the PLA socket on a 250407 board. Ever.
As Hans prepares to revisit these machines with diagnostic cartridges and replacement chips, the journey of bringing these iconic computers back to life continues. Diagnosing dead Commodore 64s isn’t just about repair—it’s about keeping the legacy of 8-bit computing alive.
