Sega Saturn (Model 2) Capacitor Replacement Guide
Recapping a Sega Saturn (Model 2) is crucial for restoring stable video, audio, and power delivery. Ageing electrolytic capacitors in these mid-1990s consoles can cause audio distortion, video artefacts, random resets, and even permanent board damage from leakage. Proactive replacement ensures reliable operation and preserves your Saturn for years to come.
🔍 Visual Inspection & Failure Signs
Before beginning, carefully inspect the mainboard and power supply for:
- Bulging or domed capacitor tops – Indicates internal pressure and imminent failure.
- Leaking electrolyte – Brown or greenish residue around capacitor bases, especially near the audio and power sections.
- Corrosion or PCB staining – Green or blackened areas signal leakage and possible trace damage.
- Audio or video issues – Buzzing, hissing, or rolling video may trace to dried-out SMD capacitors.
- Random resets or failure to boot – High ESR in power rail capacitors can cause instability.
If any capacitor shows trouble, replace all electrolytic capacitors on the board.
📋 Sega Saturn Model 2 Capacitor List
The Saturn Model 2 (VA0, VA1, VA2, etc.) uses a mix of through-hole and SMD electrolytic capacitors. Values and locations may vary slightly by region and board revision—always cross-check your silkscreen and part markings.
🖥️ Mainboard Electrolytic Capacitors
| Ref. Designator | Capacitance | Voltage | Type | Location / Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, C7, C8, C9, C10 | 10 µF | 16 V | SMD | Audio, video, RAM decoupling |
| C11, C12, C13, C14, C15, C16 | 22 µF | 16 V | SMD | Audio path, DAC filtering |
| C17, C18, C19 | 47 µF | 16 V | SMD | Power rail smoothing |
| C20, C21, C22 | 100 µF | 10 V | SMD | Audio amp, video encoder |
| C23, C24 | 220 µF | 10 V | SMD | Audio output, 5 V rail |
| C25 | 470 µF | 10 V | SMD | Main 5 V decoupling |
| C26 | 1000 µF | 10 V | Through-hole | Main 5 V bulk filter (near power input) |
Some board revisions may use 6.3 V or 25 V rated capacitors for certain positions. Always match or exceed the original voltage rating.
🔌 Power Supply Board (Internal PSU)
| Ref. Designator | Capacitance | Voltage | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C101 | 220 µF | 200 V | Through-hole | Mains filter (primary side) |
| C102 | 1000 µF | 16 V | Through-hole | 5 V rail output filter |
| C103 | 470 µF | 16 V | Through-hole | 9 V rail output filter |
| C104 | 47 µF | 50 V | Through-hole | Standby/auxiliary rail |
Some Saturns use an external PSU (“Type B”); if so, only the mainboard needs recapping.
🛠️ Recapping Procedure
- Disassemble the Saturn: Remove the screws from the case bottom, gently separate the top shell, and unplug the power supply and drive cables.
- Remove the mainboard: Take out all screws securing the mainboard. Disconnect controller ports and ribbon cables.
- Label connectors and take photos to aid reassembly.
- Desolder each capacitor: Use a soldering iron (350–375 °C) and desoldering braid or pump. For SMD capacitors, gently heat both sides and lift with tweezers.
- Clean pads thoroughly: Remove all old flux and leaked electrolyte with isopropyl alcohol and a brush.
- Install new capacitors: Match polarity (long lead = positive for through-hole; SMD stripe = negative). Use low-ESR, 105 °C rated capacitors. For SMD, bend radial leads flat if necessary.
- Inspect for solder bridges and clean the board again.
- Reassemble and test before fully closing the case.
🧰 Recommended Tools & Parts
- Temperature-controlled soldering iron (fine tip, 2 mm chisel for through-hole, conical for SMD)
- Desoldering braid and/or spring pump
- Tweezers for SMD removal
- Isopropyl alcohol (99%) and antistatic brush
- Multimeter (for continuity and voltage checks)
- High-quality 105 °C, low-ESR capacitors (Nichicon, Panasonic, Rubycon)
- Kapton tape (to insulate capacitors near shielding)
- ESD mat and wrist strap
⚙️ Post-Recap Voltage & Ripple Checks
After reassembly, verify the main voltage rails at the power supply output or mainboard test points:
| Test Point | Expected Voltage | Max Ripple (p-p) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 V rail (mainboard input) | 4.90 – 5.10 V | < 40 mV |
| 9 V rail (if present) | 8.7 – 9.3 V | < 80 mV |
| Audio amp Vcc | 4.8 – 5.1 V | < 40 mV |
Excessive ripple or unstable voltage may indicate a missed or incorrectly installed capacitor.
💡 Extra Tips
- Always match polarity! SMD caps have a stripe for negative; through-hole, the long lead is positive.
- Clean up any leaked electrolyte thoroughly—residue is corrosive and conductive.
- Replace all electrolytics at once—partial recaps are unreliable.
- Use slightly higher voltage ratings if space allows, but do not exceed original capacitance by more than 20%.
- If you hear buzzing or see video artefacts after recap, double-check for solder bridges or reversed capacitors.
- Dispose of old capacitors responsibly at an electronics recycling centre.