Centipede Arcade PCB Upgrade Compatibility for Original Atari Hardware
Confirm whether your original Atari Centipede arcade PCB is compatible with the HighScoreSaves Free Play and High Score Save upgrade. The kit installs at the 6502 processor location while keeping the original Centipede game board and arcade hardware in service.
Choosing the Correct Centipede Arcade PCB Upgrade
A Centipede cabinet, marquee, control panel, or trackball does not by itself confirm compatibility. Vintage Atari machines may have been repaired, converted, or fitted with replacement hardware, so the actual arcade PCB should be identified before ordering.
The HighScoreSaves Centipede upgrade is intended for documented compatible original Atari Centipede arcade hardware. Confirm the game board, 6502 processor location, compatible 40-pin CPU socket, and board condition before beginning installation.
Original Atari Centipede PCB Compatibility
How the Centipede Socketed 6502 Installation Works
The HighScoreSaves Centipede upgrade requires access to the original Atari arcade PCB and a 6502 CPU installed in a compatible 40-pin socket.
When the 6502 is already socketed, normal installation does not require soldering. If the processor is soldered directly to the PCB, a qualified arcade technician must remove the CPU and install a compatible 40-pin socket before the kit can be used.
Before restoring cabinet power, verify Pin 1 orientation, processor alignment, processor pins, socket condition, board seating, and any designated original program-ROM locations identified in the Centipede installation guide.
Centipede Pre-Order Compatibility Checklist
Keeping the Original Atari Centipede Hardware
The HighScoreSaves approach keeps the compatible original Atari Centipede PCB in service, preserving the original gameplay, trackball control, timing, sound, and cabinet hardware. The daughter-card upgrade adds supported Free Play, permanent high score saving, menu-driven settings, attract-sound options, score-management functions, ROM Saver support, and optional online capability.
For the exact score-saving behavior, separate score tables, settings functions, attract-sound options, Standard and Wi-Fi versions, included components, current price, and ordering choices, use the individual Centipede product page.
Centipede PCB Compatibility FAQ
Which Centipede arcade PCBs are compatible?
The upgrade is intended for documented compatible original Atari Centipede arcade PCBs. Identify the actual board and verify its 6502 and socket configuration before ordering.
Does the Centipede kit require a socketed 6502?
Yes. The 6502 CPU must be installed in a compatible 40-pin socket. If it is soldered directly to the PCB, a qualified arcade technician must install a compatible socket before the kit can be used.
Does the upgrade replace the original Atari Centipede PCB?
No. The documented compatible original Atari PCB remains the operating game platform. The upgrade works with the original hardware rather than replacing it with an emulation system, reproduction board, or generic multicade.
Does Centipede support upright and cocktail configurations?
Documented compatible upright and cocktail Centipede configurations are supported. Confirm the actual Atari PCB and processor configuration before ordering.
Does ROM Saver require removing every original Centipede program ROM?
No. When using ROM Saver, remove only the designated original program ROMs identified in the Centipede installation guide.