Updating the firmware on your Atari 2600+ or 7800+ is a quick and easy process. Depending on your computer setup, you might have to proceed with an Admin password for portions of the installation process. This process will update your console to firmware version 2.0.1.4. Download the required file first and follow the instructions below.
This update includes:
- A much simpler firmware update process than previous versions
- Increased game compatibility for “homebrew” games
- Paddle support fixes
- High score support for NTSC/PAL retail games and some “homebrew” games
- Other minor bug fixes
Before You Begin
In order to update the firmware on your Atari 2600+ or 7800+ you will need to use a Windows 10/11 based PC.
DOWNLOAD and RUN the application linked below before you start.
Required download:
Click Here to Download the 2600+ Update Tool
Click Here to Download the 7800+ Update Tool
2600+ Instructions
(Scroll down for 7800+)
Step 1
- Click START on the Update Tool.
- Turn off the power switch on your 2600+ and unplug the USB-C power cable from the power block.
- Connect the power cable to a powered USB port on your Windows-based PC or laptop. The Atari 2600+ will now be powered via the computer. (Note: you do not need an HDMI connection for this update.)
- Click NEXT
Step 2
-
Set the TV TYPE switch to B-W
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Hold down the GAME SELECT switch and quickly flip the POWER switch ON. Continue to hold the GAME SELECT switch for three seconds before releasing.
- Click the UPDATE button on your screen.
Step 3
-
Power OFF your Atari 2600+ when the Updater instructs you to do so
- Click NEXT
Step 4
-
Set the TV TYPE switch to COLOR
- Hold down the GAME RESET switch and quickly flip the POWER switch ON. Continue to hold the GAME RESET switch for three seconds before releasing.
- Click the UPDATE button on your screen. This should take approximately 1 minute to complete
Step 5
- Click the FINISH button on your screen to complete the update. You may now disconnect your Atari 2600+ from your PC.
Video Walkthrough
7800+ Instructions
Step 1
-
Click START on the Update Tool.
- Unplug the USB-C power cable from the power block.
- Connect the power cable to a powered USB port on your Windows-based PC or laptop. The Atari 7800+ will now be powered via the computer. (Note: you do not need an HDMI connection for this update.)
- Click NEXT
Step 2
-
While holding down the SELECT button, turn the POWER on. Continue to hold the SELECT button for three seconds before releasing.
-
Click the UPDATE button on your screen.
Step 3
-
Power OFF your Atari 7800+ when the Updater instructs you to do so.
- Click NEXT
Step 4
-
While holding down the RESET button, turn the POWER on. Continue to hold the RESET button for three seconds before releasing.
-
Click the UPDATE button on your screen. This should take approximately 1 minute to complete.
Step 5
-
Click the FINISH button on your screen to complete the update. You may now disconnect your Atari 7800+ from your PC
Video Walkthrough