Atari 800XL Technical Service Data

PRELIMINARY SERVICE CHECKS (Continued)
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
ENVIRONMENT
Computers perform best in a clean, cool area that is below 80 degrees Fahrenheit and free of dust and smoke particles. Even
though home Computers are not affected by cigarette smoke as much as commercial Computers are affected, it is better to
maintain a smoke-free area around the Computer. Do not block cabinet vents of any of the Computer system; Computer,
Monitor, Printer, or other power devices.
ELECTRICAL POWER
Variations in the line voltage can affect the Computer. Try to avoid these fluctuations by using an AC receptacle that is on a
power line not used by appliances or other heavy current demand devices. A power-surge protector, power-line conditioner, or
non-interruptable power supply may be needed to cure the problem. Do not switch power On and Off frequently.
KEYBOARD
Liquids spilled into the Keyboard can ruin it. Immediately after a spill occurs, disconnect the Computer power plug from AC
power outlet. Then, if circuitry or contacts are contaminated, disassemble the Keyboard and carefully rinse the Keyboard
printed circuit board with distilled water and let it dry. Use a cotton swab to clean between the keys. Use a non-abrasive con¬
tact cleaner and lint-free wipers on accessible connectors and contacts.
DISK DRIVES
Clean the read/write heads of the Disk Drives about once a month or after 100 hours usage. Use only an approved head clean¬
ing kit.
Handle carefully to preserve proper disk head alignment. A sudden bump or jolt to the Disk Drives can knock the disk head out
of alignment. If the disk drive must be transported, place an old disk in slot and close door during transport.
Store disks in their protective covers and never touch the disk surface. Observe the disk handling precautions usually found
on the back of disk protective covers.
PRINTERS
Carefully vacuum the Printer regularly. Wipe surface areas clean using a light all-purpose cleaner. Do not oil the machine.
The oil will collect abrasive grit and dust. The dust will act as a blanket. This can cause components to overheat and fail.
STATIC ELECTRICITY
Static electricity discharge can affect the Computer. In order to minimize the possibility, use anti-static mats, sprays, tools
and materials, and maintain good humidity in the Computer environment.
MONITOR
Use an isolation transformer with any Monitor that does not come as part of the system since some Monitors use a HOT
chassis (chassis connected to one side of the AC line). The face of the Monitor should never be left on for long periods of time
at high brightness level except when pattern is being changed periodically. Use caution when cleaning anti glare screens, to
preserve the glare-reduction feature.
VIII

Atari 800XL Specifications

General

Manufacturer	Atari
Type	Home computer
Release year	1983
CPU	MOS Technology 6502C
RAM	64 KB
ROM	24 KB
Operating System	Atari OS
CPU Speed	1.79 MHz (NTSC) / 1.77 MHz (PAL)
Graphics	ANTIC and GTIA chips
Display resolution	160×192 to 320×192 pixels
Sound	POKEY chip
Storage	Cassette tape, floppy disk
Ports	Serial, parallel, monitor, joystick ports