ColecoVision Replacement Power Supply

The ColecoVision Replacement Power Supply is an open-source power supply design created by nateo87 as an inexpensive modern alternative to the original ColecoVision power supply.

The project was developed to address two characteristics of the original ColecoVision power system: the increasing cost and age of replacement power supplies and the console's unusual requirement for three separate supply voltages.

Design files, schematic, printed circuit board files, photographs and a bill of materials were made publicly available, allowing ColecoVision owners to construct the replacement themselves.

Power Supply Design

The replacement operates from a readily available 12V DC, 3A power adapter connected through a standard 2.1 × 5.5 mm barrel connector.

From this single 12V source, the circuit provides the multiple voltages required by the original ColecoVision. The +5V supply is produced through voltage regulation, while the −5V supply is generated using an LT1054 charge-pump inverter.

The −5V circuit provides up to approximately 0.1A, which the designer determined was sufficient because the ColecoVision primarily requires the −5V rail for its 4116 video RAM.

Internal or External Installation

One unusual feature of the project is its flexibility.

The circuit board can be installed inside the ColecoVision, allowing a standard external 12V power adapter to replace the original Coleco power brick.

For collectors who prefer not to modify an original console, the designer also proposed installing the circuit externally and attaching an original ColecoVision power cable and proprietary connector. This configuration allows the console itself to remain unmodified.

Open-Source ColecoVision Hardware

Unlike commercially manufactured replacements such as the ColUSB or Keelog power supplies, this project was distributed as a DIY hardware design rather than as a finished consumer product.

The project's schematic and PCB manufacturing files were made publicly available, allowing enthusiasts to manufacture and assemble their own boards. The designer estimated that the power supply could be built for approximately $10 if a suitable 12V/3A external adapter was already available.

The surviving project files are dated December 18, 2022.

The ColecoVision Replacement Power Supply represents the continuing effort of the ColecoVision enthusiast community to develop inexpensive, repairable solutions for maintaining original hardware decades after commercial production ended.

Product: ColecoVision Replacement Power Supply
Designer: nateo87
Date: 2022
Type: DIY / Open-Source Replacement Power Supply
Platform: ColecoVision
Input: 12V DC, 3A
Input Connector: 2.1 × 5.5 mm barrel connector
Output Rails: +12V, +5V and −5V
Installation: Internal or external
Distribution: Open-source design files / DIY construction
Estimated Build Cost: Approximately $10, excluding the 12V power adapter