How to Hook Up an NES

Last Updated: September 15, 2021

Did you just find a Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in your closet and want to play it? Did you just buy one at a garage sale? This article will tell you how to hook it up.

Steps

1
If you use the RF adapter: Disconnect the antenna, VCR, or whatever is plugged into the antenna input on the TV and put it in the back of the RF adapter, then attach the adapter to the TV.^{[1]
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2
Hook up the end that goes into the NES to the RF SWITCH jack on the NES and make sure the 3-4 switch is on the channel you want to use.^{[2]
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- If you are connecting the NES into a digital television with no analogue input (analogue channels on the same input as digital channels), unplug your antenna and plug it into the RF switch box. If you are using an analogue television, forget about your television antenna.
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3
If you use AV cables: The NES has AV connectors on the side, but only has one sound output.^{[3]
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4
(This applies to everyone now.) Hook up the AC adapter to the wall outlet and into the AC adapter port on the NES. If the adapter has a voltage setting, set it to 9 volts. (It will work with up to 12 volts but it will run warmer)^{[4]
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5
Plug the controllers into the controller ports on the front of the NES. If you only have one controller, hook it up to the FIRST port.
6
Open the slot where you put the games in, and slide your game pack (cartridge) into the slot. Then press down until you hear a click.^{[5]
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7
Turn on the TV and switch it to whatever channel/input you have the NES set to.
8
Turn on the NES and your game should start.
- Digital televisions without a separate analogue input: To return your television to normal viewing, switch off your NES and change the channel.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I get power without a power cord?

Community Answer

You don't. You need the power cord to to transfer electricity to the machine. There is no other option.
Question

Still blinking, now what?

Community Answer

Make sure the game inside the console is pushed all the way in and down to where the game stays put.
Question

The power button is blinking on and off, what do we do?

Community Answer

There is dust in your cartridge or the cartridge port, blow into both and try again.

Warnings

Never, EVER blow into the games or the system if you get a blinking or glitch screen at start-up. The moisture in your breath will cause the electrical contacts to corrode. Instead, dip a q-tip in rubbing alcohol and swab the contacts with it, then use the other side to dry them off. Continue this until both ends come out clean.

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Do, not insert/remove games very quickly! It'll confuse the NES and may break it!

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