When a classic Amiga refuses to boot, you need clear answers, not guesswork. RavenWolf Retro Tech’s new video, DiagROM Diagnostics: Restoring an Amiga 500, shows how DiagROM can transform a confusing repair into a focused and successful fix. This episode follows the step-by-step restoration of a damaged Amiga 500 suffering from severe RAM failure and no video output. Using DiagROM, the process goes from frustrating to straightforward.
Diagnosing RAM Issues with DiagROM Diagnostics
The video kicks off with the notorious green screen of death, a signal that RAM trouble is afoot. Instead of swapping out parts blindly, DiagROM diagnostics offer a smarter approach. By replacing the standard Kickstart ROM with DiagROM, you gain valuable insights, even when the Amiga’s display shows nothing.
A USB-to-serial cable combined with a terminal program brings the Amiga’s hidden errors into view. This setup makes it possible to read error codes, revealing the real troublemaker—U19 on the Rev 6A motherboard. Thanks to DiagROM, the video pinpoints the exact RAM chip in need of replacement.
Targeted Repairs and Further Testing
With the faulty RAM identified, the repair becomes quick and focused. Swapping out the bad chip, the Amiga comes to life, and DiagROM diagnostics confirm the fix. The video then covers additional hardware tests, including audio, parallel, and serial ports. When the parallel port test shows errors, the video demonstrates how to track down a faulty CIA chip and solve the problem for good.
Full Restoration and System Checks
Once the major repairs are complete, the Amiga 500 gets a thorough cleaning, reassembly, and full test. Booting to the Kickstart screen is a rewarding sight. Memory and keyboard checks using both DiagROM and the Amiga Test Kit confirm everything works. The final test—loading a game—shows a flawless result, and the commentary throughout keeps the repair approachable and fun.
See DiagROM Diagnostics in Action
DiagROM diagnostics make tricky Amiga repairs clear and achievable, even for systems with no video output. For a complete walkthrough, helpful repair tips, and a dose of classic computing charm, be sure to watch the full video included with this post.
