For System 1 and System 2 replacement boards

Software updates.
Three simple options.

Keep your board up to date through our Atmel / ATmega processor chip update program.

Send your original processor for reprogramming, or choose Advanced Exchange to have an updated chip sent first. All requests go directly to Doug Barger.

Why software downloads are not available.

Software downloads are not available at this time. The processor chip must be flashed with the software and programmed with specific fuse settings. Incorrect fuse settings can prevent the board from operating properly.

Please use the Standard Update or Advanced Exchange service so your processor is programmed with the correct software and fuse settings.

Before requesting an update

Find the version on your board.

  1. Use normal operation, with JP3 set to NORMAL (pins 2–3). Switch power off and unplug the machine before moving any jumper.
  2. With the machine on and in normal attract or gameplay mode, briefly press and release TEST ADVANCE.
  3. The score display shows the installed version for about 30 seconds, such as 2.30, then returns to its normal display. This does not enter service mode when JP3 is set to NORMAL.

If you cannot read the version, enter unknown in the form. If you already have the latest version, no software update is needed.

Questions and answers

Do System 1 and System 2 use the same firmware?

Yes. System 1 and System 2 use the same firmware and the same jumper functions. Their board layouts and connector configurations differ to match the physical fit and wiring of each system.

Choose the replacement board that matches your machine’s system, even though the firmware is shared.

Software update / chip exchange program

Choose how you want to update.

Within the first 90 days

Standard Update

Free

The standard reprogramming service is free within 90 days of the actual delivery date reported by the shipping carrier through Shippo, matching the start of your warranty. We verify eligibility using your board serial number and delivery record.

You ship your original processor IC to us. We reprogram it and return the same chip.

Request a free standard update →

After the first 90 days

Standard Update

$10 USD

Keep your existing processor and have it reprogrammed with the latest available software.

You ship your original processor IC to us. We update it and return the same chip.

Request a standard update →

An updated chip sent first

Advanced Exchange

$20 USD

We send an updated processor before receiving your original chip, so you do not have to wait for reprogramming.

Returning your original chip is optional. You may keep it without an additional chip-return requirement.

Request Advanced Exchange →

Wait for your shipping instructions.

You are responsible for shipping your chip to us for either Standard Update option. Doug will review your request and personally email the mailing address, shipping instructions, and any PayPal payment instructions. Please wait for those instructions before shipping or paying.

Contact Doug directly

Request your chip update.

Enter your board’s serial number and choose the service you want. Doug will check eligibility and reply with the next steps. Submitting this form does not charge you or create a paid order.

All paid updates use PayPal. Payment instructions are sent after your request is reviewed.

Your request is saved for Doug’s private review and an email notification is sent to info@ballyhomeboards.com. Your contact and address details are used to handle this service request and, if a paid service is approved, its PayPal invoice.

Need a board repaired? Request return authorization for repair.

Before removing the chip: switch the machine off and unplug it. Follow the instructions you receive, preserve the chip’s orientation, and use suitable antistatic packaging that protects its pins.

All fields are required except additional notes.

Complete the spam check before sending your request.

Firmware 2.30

Gameplay and diagnostics.

Standard mode preserves the familiar game. Enhanced mode adds spoken prompts, a first-pass flashing top-lane award, a one-use ball save, repeating timed standup-target challenges, and a faster bonus count.

The four highest scores remain saved when power is switched off. Service mode provides ten test pages, numbered 0 through 9, for displays, lamps, switches, sound, coils, error logs, and high-score reset.

See the user guide for jumper positions, full game rules, display messages, and safe diagnostic procedures.