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BBQ's Memory Card Care Tips
There are several things one should remember when caring for a video game memory card, especially if that card is not yours. Some things to remember:
-Never leave a memory card in the console slot, as data can leak out of the card and corrode the inner mechanics of the console. When not in use, memory cards should be taken apart and stored in the freezer to prevent data from deteriorating.
-Memory cards should be cleaned and waxed at least once a week. Microscopic metal particles can be removed by waving a powerful magnet over the surface of the memory card. Any dirt can be removed with scouring powder and dish soap. Stubborn dirt and stains can be removed by soaking the card in turpentine overnight. When waxing cards, make sure application is even. This allows the data to slide into the console faster, resulting in better access time.
-Never touch the metal connectors on the end of the memory card. Data may come off of the connectors and stick to your fingers.
-If your console seems slow in accessing data, place the console closer to the power outlet. Electricity will not have to travel as far to reach the system, resulting in a faster and more efficient console. Alternatively, use a hammer to tap the end of the memory card until it is completely inside the system. The data will have a shorter path to the CPU, also resulting in faster processing.
-Memory cards cannot be backed up by running them through a Xerox machine. Instead, simply insert two memory cards together into one slot. Whenever you save, the data will be recorded on both cards.
-Memory cards should not be inserted or removed while the console is saving. Doing so may result in smeared files and unrecognizable characters.
-Do not crush memory cards with pliers unless they do not fit into the slot. Big memory cards may be used in little memory card slots, as long as the metal connectors go in first.
-Occassionally your system may be unable to read your memory card. This is known as a "hung" or "hooked" state. If your console is "hooking" you, you must insert a few coins before being allowed to access the memory card.
-Never insert a memory card upside down. The data can fall off the surface of the card and jam the CD drive.
-If your memory card is full and you need more storage space, remove the card from the console and shake vigorously for two minutes. This will pack the data enough (Data Compression) to allow for more storage. Be sure to cover all the openings with scotch tape to prevent loss of data.
-Data access time can be greatly improved by cutting holes in the plastic jacket. This will provide more simultaneous access points to the data on the card.
-Never use scissors and glue to manually edit memory card files. The data stored is too small to be seen with the naked eye, and you may end up with a character from a different video game in the middle of your current game. Razor blades and scotch tape can be used, but only provided that you are using an electron microscope.
-Periodically spray memory cards with insecticide to prevent system bugs from spreading.
BBQ at September 17, 2002 
Games
Comments
That is awesome Q. It is posts like this that are the whole reason I started this site in the first place.
Posted by: Jake at September 17, 2002 4:11 PM
