Just got a DMG, is this oscillation on the screen normal?

[Goshikk]

Hello! I have two DMGs and they both have this weird oscillating effect on the screen. It looks like trying to film a CRT.
Just wanna know if this is normal behavior or if I should fix it. Smells like old capacitors to me.
Please check the attached video. Yes, it is just as visible IRL as on camera

 

[RETRO-VETRO RETRO-VETRO]

That oscillation is normal to an extent. The original DMG screen uses a passive-matrix reflective LCD that refreshes line by line, which can cause flicker or rolling bars when filmed, similar to what happens with CRTs but for different reasons. However, if you’re seeing that effect clearly with your eyes (not just through a camera), it could indicate aging components or voltage instability.


Old capacitors are a common culprit. If both of your units show the same behavior, it might just be how your lighting interacts with the screen, especially under fluorescent or LED lights that flicker at 50/60 Hz. But if the effect is persistent and distracting during normal play, a recap could help. It’s also worth checking the contrast wheel and making sure the LCD ribbon cable is seated properly.


TL;DR: A little flicker is expected. Noticeable oscillation in person might mean it’s time for maintenance.

 

[Rocket2049]

if you see it like this in real life then that's really not normal, i had the old brick gameboy and played it a whole lot and never saw it do this.

 

[FrootyLoopsSamurai]

Be thankful there aren't any horizontal or vertical lines. Those are awful, and sometimes impossible, to repair. Capacitor issue seems likely.

If you end up recapping the whole DMG, the console5 kit they sell includes two ceramic capacitors to solder onto the ones that poke out from behind the screen ribbon. They recommend cutting those caps off and leaving the legs in to solder to. I would recommend following their advice. You do not want to mess with the LCD ribbon cables if you don't have to. Original DMG screens are old, fragile, and not practically reproducible.

You could also replace the screen with an IPS display and, it will come with a new display circuit board that won't need recapping. The other board might still need recapping though. I would recommend saving the old screen if you go this route. Original screens are unique blurry green snowflakes.

 

[Goshikk]

That oscillation is normal to an extent. The original DMG screen uses a passive-matrix reflective LCD that refreshes line by line, which can cause flicker or rolling bars when filmed, similar to what happens with CRTs but for different reasons. However, if you’re seeing that effect clearly with your eyes (not just through a camera), it could indicate aging components or voltage instability.


Old capacitors are a common culprit. If both of your units show the same behavior, it might just be how your lighting interacts with the screen, especially under fluorescent or LED lights that flicker at 50/60 Hz. But if the effect is persistent and distracting during normal play, a recap could help. It’s also worth checking the contrast wheel and making sure the LCD ribbon cable is seated properly.


TL;DR: A little flicker is expected. Noticeable oscillation in person might mean it’s time for maintenance.

HOLY. FUCKING. SHIT. IT WAS THE LIGHTS.
I went to play in the sun and there was no flicker. Went back inside, closed the drapes and turned on the LED light bulb and WOULD YOU LOOK AT THAT.
I shoulda known something was fishy when all my devices had the same behavior.

This is some next level insanity. What the hell should I do now? Scoop up some sun and leave it in my pocket for when it's night time?

 

[FrootyLoopsSamurai]

You could try getting a different light bulb I guess. It's certainly an easier fix than a recap lol.

 

[Goshikk]

You could try getting a different light bulb I guess. It's certainly an easier fix than a recap lol.

The only way I could fix this would be using an incandescent bulb, but that wouldn't be bright enough to clearly see the DMG. So I chose something else.

A flashlight that goes on my head.

Do I look stupid? Yes.
Does it work? Yes.

 

[lytrid]

Enjoy the original DMG experience. I haven't seen any emulators trying to replicate this effect yet