Disassembling Aristocrat Machines: Removing The Monitor Safely

Removing a monitor from an Aristocrat machine is a relatively straightforward process. It involves a few simple steps that can be safely carried out with the help of another person. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the machine has been unplugged and has not been powered up recently, as this can pose an electrical risk. After ensuring there is no power, the AC power cord and any signal harnesses, such as RGB/sync, should be disconnected from the monitor. Then, the monitor can be unbolted from the cabinet or frame, and any ground wires or straps attached to the monitor frame should be removed. Finally, with the help of an assistant, the monitor can be carefully lifted out of the machine. It is worth noting that even if the monitor is non-functional, it may still hold value for those looking to repair or replace specific parts.

Ensure the machine is unplugged and the monitor is discharged

To remove the monitor from an Aristocrat machine, it is imperative to prioritise safety. Monitors can hold extremely high voltages – often in the tens of thousands – and mishandling them can be life-threatening. Therefore, before attempting any maintenance or repairs, ensure the machine is unplugged and the monitor is discharged.

Start by unplugging the machine from the power source. If possible, turn on the power switch and hold it for 30 seconds to a minute to discharge the monitor further. Modern "bleeder-based" CRT monitors may be safe to work on after this step, but do not rely on this, as these resistors are often burned out or abused.

Even if the machine is unplugged, the monitor's tube and large capacitors can still store a charge. This charge can deliver a powerful shock and may persist for a couple of minutes to a few hours, or even days or weeks, after the monitor is powered down. Thus, it is crucial to discharge the monitor before proceeding.

To discharge a CRT monitor, wear rubber-soled shoes and safety goggles, and remove all jewellery, especially metal items. This is important because electricity chooses the path of least resistance, and you do not want to be grounded in any way.

Next, you will need a heavy flat-bladed screwdriver with good insulation and a heavy-gauge wire with alligator clips on each end. Begin by attaching one alligator clip to an unpainted portion of the metal frame of the monitor. Then, attach the other alligator clip to the metal shaft of the screwdriver. Ensure that neither you nor the screwdriver is in contact with any metal surfaces.

The monitor's anode is a wire covered by a suction cup. Carefully slide the screwdriver blade under the suction cup until you hear a loud pop and see a blue flash, indicating that the monitor has been discharged. Wait for about 30 minutes and repeat the process to ensure complete discharge.

Disconnect the AC power cord and RGB/sync signal harness

To disconnect the AC power cord and RGB/sync signal harness from an Aristocrat machine, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure that the machine has been unplugged from the wall and has not been powered up for several years. This is important as a monitor that is powered up can be extremely dangerous, carrying enough charge to deliver a shock. However, if the machine has been unplugged for a long period, there is no electrical danger present.

Now, locate the AC power cord and the RGB/sync signal harness. These are likely to be found at the back of the monitor. Once you have identified them, carefully disconnect them from the monitor. Be cautious, as the monitor may still hold a charge that could deliver a shock, even if it has been unplugged for some time.

After disconnecting the AC power cord and the RGB/sync signal harness, you can proceed to unbolt the frame from the cabinet. Ensure that there are no ground wires or straps attached to the monitor frame, as these will need to be removed as well. Once everything is disconnected, you can simply lift the monitor out of the cabinet.

It is important to note that there is value in a non-working monitor, so don't throw it away. Even if it is not functioning, someone may be interested in repairing it or using it for parts.

Unbolt the monitor from the cabinet

Unbolting the monitor from the cabinet of an Aristocrat machine is a delicate process that requires careful attention to safety. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Disconnect Power: Before beginning any work on the Aristocrat machine, ensure that the power cord is disconnected from the wall outlet. This is crucial for your safety as it prevents any electrical hazards. Allow sufficient time for the monitor to power down completely and any residual charge to dissipate.

Prepare the Work Area: Choose a suitable workspace that is well-lit and provides easy access to the monitor and cabinet. Gather the necessary tools, such as screwdrivers or wrenches, to unbolt the monitor. It is also recommended to wear protective gear, like gloves, to avoid any injuries during the process.

Locate the Bolts: Identify the bolts or screws that secure the monitor to the cabinet. These fasteners are typically located along the frame of the monitor and may be hidden behind covers or panels. Carefully remove any covers or panels to access the bolts.

Unbolt the Monitor: Using the appropriate tool, begin to loosen the bolts that hold the monitor in place. Work systematically, loosening each bolt a little at a time to avoid placing excessive force on the monitor. Place the removed bolts in a safe location to avoid misplacing them.

Check for Additional Connections: Aside from the bolts, there may be other connections or cables attaching the monitor to the cabinet. Carefully inspect the area for any wires, straps, or grounding cables that need to be detached before removing the monitor. Ensure that all connections are properly disconnected.

Lift Out the Monitor: Once all the bolts and connections have been addressed, carefully lift the monitor out of the cabinet. This step may require assistance, as monitors can be heavy and awkward to handle. Be cautious not to drop or damage the monitor during this process.

By following these steps, you can safely unbolt the monitor from the cabinet of your Aristocrat machine. Remember to work slowly and carefully, paying attention to safety precautions, to ensure a successful and incident-free removal process.

Check for a ground wire or strap attached to the monitor frame

When removing a monitor from an arcade machine, it is important to check for a ground wire or strap attached to the monitor frame. This is a critical step to ensure your safety and prevent any electrical hazards. Even if the machine has been unplugged from the power source, some components can still store an electrical charge and pose a risk of electric shock.

To check for a ground wire or strap, carefully inspect the monitor frame for any attached wires or straps. These may be connected to the frame itself or to nearby components. It is important to identify all connections before attempting to remove the monitor. The ground wire or strap is typically connected to the monitor frame to provide a path for electrical currents, helping to protect the machine and its users from electrical faults.

If you find a ground wire or strap attached to the monitor frame, make sure to disconnect it safely. Before attempting to disconnect any wires, ensure that the machine has been unplugged from the power source for a sufficient amount of time to allow any stored charge to dissipate. This can take a couple of minutes to a few hours, or even days in rare cases. Once you are sure there is no remaining electrical charge, you can safely disconnect the ground wire or strap from the monitor frame.

In some cases, the ground wire or strap may be connected to a specific component or attachment on the monitor frame. For example, it could be connected to a mounting bracket or a nearby electronic component. Make sure to identify the exact connection point and carefully disconnect the wire or strap without damaging any surrounding components.

By following these steps and checking for a ground wire or strap attached to the monitor frame, you can ensure a safe and successful removal of the monitor from the aristocrat machine.

Lift the monitor out with help

Lifting a monitor can be dangerous, especially if it is a large, old-style CRT monitor. These monitors can be extremely heavy and awkward to handle. Therefore, it is always best to have someone help you when removing a monitor from an Aristocrat machine.

Before attempting to lift the monitor, make sure that it has been disconnected from power for at least a few hours. This will allow any stored charge in the tube or capacitors to dissipate, reducing the risk of electrical shock. Even if the monitor has not been powered on for years, it is better to be safe than sorry.

When lifting the monitor, be sure to use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart to establish a stable base. Bend your knees and keep your back straight as you lift, engaging your leg muscles to do the work. If possible, have one person on each side of the monitor, lifting and guiding it together.

As you lift, communicate with your helper to ensure that you are lifting and moving the monitor in a coordinated manner. Take slow and steady steps, being mindful of your surroundings to avoid tripping or bumping into anything. If possible, have a clear path from the Aristocrat machine to the desired location of the monitor.

Once you have successfully lifted the monitor out of the machine, carefully place it on a flat, stable surface where it can be safely stored or transported. Remember to handle the monitor with care, as it is still a delicate piece of equipment despite its bulk.

Frequently asked questions