Action Replay is the trade name of a device that allows you to use cheats in Nintendo DS video games and other systems. Unfortunately, many users report bugs and errors while using the product. In some cases, it's not possible to fix a broken Action Replay, but in others there are some methods you can try to fix the problem!
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Repair an Action Replay That Is Not Detected
Step 1. Check that Action Replay is detected
Insert the device as you normally would inside the Nintendo DS. Once the "Warning - Health and Safety" message appears, if the Action Replay does not load it means that the DS does not detect it. In this case, one of the following items will appear on the screen:
- Pictochat.
- DS Download Play.
- There is no DS cartridge inserted.
- There is no Game Pack inserted.
Step 2. Remove Action Replay
It is advisable to do this with the console turned off. Once the DS is powered off, remove the device from its slot.
Step 3. Clean the cartridge connectors
Common household cleaners can damage the connectors that connect the Action Replay to the DS, so it's best to avoid them. Instead, take a cotton swab, soak it with a few drops of isopropyl alcohol (70-90% volume) and use it to scrub the metal connectors of the device.
- The connectors that connect the Action Replay to the DS are located on the back of the device, at the bottom. They are shaped like a series of flat metal teeth, similar to those of a comb.
- You can also use an electronic device cleaner, which you'll find in most electronics stores or large malls that have a technology department.
- Do not use an excessive amount of detergent. This can damage the internal components of the Action Replay or DS. Instead, just moisten the cotton swab with the product, clean the connectors, and then dry them with a soft, clean cloth.
Step 4. Try using Action Replay again
Now that you've cleaned the device's connectors, the device should be able to communicate better with the console, and hopefully it will function normally.
If this method does not solve the problem, the Action Replay may be broken or your situation requires a different remedy
Method 2 of 3: Correct the Code Input with a Soft Reset
Step 1. Turn off the DS
Once done, hold down the A and B buttons. Do not release the keys and turn on the console. Keep holding them while booting.
Step 2. Press and hold the Start and Select buttons
You must do this without releasing A and B. Wait for the Nintendo screen to appear, but start pressing them before Action Replay says "This product is not promoted by Nintendo".
Step 3. Press and hold all four buttons
You have to do this for a few seconds; you can leave them once the main Action Replay screen appears.
Step 4. Enter the codes and check if the device is working properly
With the operation you just performed, you have reset the Action Replay, which should accept the codes again. To make sure everything works as it should, try using a trick as normal. If activated, the problem is solved.
If this method does not repair Action Replay, the device may be broken or perhaps your problem requires a different solution
Method 3 of 3: Fix the White or Black Screen Error
Step 1. Remove Action Replay from DS
Before doing this you should turn off the console completely. Otherwise you could create further problems.
Step 2. Connect the Action Replay to your computer
The device should come with a USB cable that allows you to connect it to a PC. Use it to connect the two systems.
You can usually find USB ports on the back or side of the computer. If you don't know what they look like, look for a rectangular hole with a flat piece of plastic inside
Step 3. Open the Action Replay code manager
This application allows you to insert and edit the tricks inside the device. Some versions come with a program installation disc, but if this is not your case, or if you have lost the CD, just search the internet for "Action Replay DS code manager" to find many sites to download the software from.
Before downloading any files from the internet, make sure they are safe programs that do not contain viruses or malware that can harm your computer, Action Replay or DS
Step 4. Open the program options menu
At the top of the window you should see 4 colored dots to the right of the words "Action Replay DSi / DS Code Manager". This icon represents the Action Replay options menu. Click it to view a list of items.
Step 5. Reset the device
Among the Action Replay menu options you will find one called "About Action Replay DSi / DS Code Manager". Click on this item and the button that allows you to reset the device should appear: "Reset Device". Press it.
Step 6. Verify that Action Replay is working properly
Restart the DS after inserting the device. Wait for the loading operation and if a completely white or black screen still appears, the Action Replay is probably completely broken or you need to try a different solution.