Dig Dug Arcade PCB Upgrade Compatibility for Original Namco & Atari Hardware
Confirm whether your original Namco or Atari Dig Dug arcade PCB is compatible with the HighScoreSaves Free Play and High Score Save upgrade. The kit installs at the Z80 processor location while keeping the original Dig Dug game board, controls, display hardware, and sound hardware in service.
Choosing the Correct Dig Dug Arcade PCB Upgrade
A Dig Dug cabinet, marquee, joystick, or pump button does not by itself confirm compatibility. Vintage cabinets may have been repaired, converted, or fitted with replacement hardware, so the actual arcade PCB should be identified before ordering.
The HighScoreSaves Dig Dug upgrade is intended for documented compatible original Namco and Atari Dig Dug arcade hardware. Confirm the game board, documented Z80 processor location, compatible CPU socket, and board condition before beginning installation.
Original Namco & Atari Dig Dug PCB Compatibility
How the Dig Dug Z80 Daughterboard Installation Works
The HighScoreSaves Dig Dug upgrade installs at the documented 40-pin Z80 processor location on compatible original Namco or Atari hardware.
When the original Z80 is already socketed, it is carefully removed from the game PCB and installed on the HighScoreSaves daughterboard unless a compatible processor option has been selected. The completed daughterboard assembly is then installed at the original CPU location.
Before restoring cabinet power, verify Pin 1 orientation, processor alignment, all CPU pins, socket condition, daughterboard seating, and any designated original program-ROM locations identified in the current Dig Dug installation guide.
Dig Dug Pre-Order Compatibility Checklist
Keeping the Original Dig Dug Arcade Hardware
The HighScoreSaves approach keeps the compatible original Namco or Atari Dig Dug PCB in service, preserving the original joystick, pump button, display hardware, sound hardware, gameplay, and timing. The daughterboard adds supported Free Play, permanent high score saving, menu-driven settings, score-management functions, and optional online capability.
Normal Free Play behavior: when Free Play is enabled, the Player 1 and Player 2 Start button lights do not flash. This is documented normal operation and does not indicate a problem with the kit or cabinet.
For the exact Top 5 score and initials behavior, lives-specific score tables, settings functions, Standard and Wi-Fi versions, included components, current price, and ordering choices, use the individual Dig Dug product page.
Dig Dug PCB Compatibility FAQ
Which Dig Dug arcade PCBs are compatible?
The upgrade is intended for documented compatible original Namco and Atari Dig Dug arcade PCBs. Identify the actual board and verify the documented Z80 location before ordering.
What happens to the original Dig Dug Z80 processor?
The compatible original Z80 is normally removed from the Dig Dug PCB and installed on the HighScoreSaves daughterboard unless a compatible processor option is selected when ordering.
What if the Z80 is soldered directly to the PCB?
A compatible 40-pin socket must be installed at the documented Z80 location before the daughterboard can be fitted. This work should be performed by a qualified arcade technician.
Why don't the Player 1 and Player 2 lights flash in Free Play?
That is normal Dig Dug kit behavior. When Free Play is enabled, the Player 1 and Player 2 Start button lights do not flash.
Does the upgrade replace the original Dig Dug PCB?
No. The documented compatible original Namco or Atari Dig Dug PCB remains the underlying arcade platform. The HighScoreSaves daughterboard upgrades that original hardware rather than replacing it with an emulator or multicade.