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Game Boy Advance SP - No Power When Disconnected from the AC Adapter

If your Game Boy Advance SP will work when plugged in with the A/ Adapter, but will lose power after the AC Adapter is unplugged, please use the following troubleshooting steps.

    Troubleshooting Steps:

    1. Charge the Battery
      If there is no light, or the light is red, try charging the unit fully before use, especially if you are using an accessory like the e-Reader. If the light still does not come on, please see Step 2.

      Note: If the problem happens with only Game Boy Color or original Game Boy games (these games are more square-shaped and taller than Game Boy Advance games) when the light is red, this is due to these games requiring more power. Make sure, the unit is fully charged before using.

    2. Try a Different Licensed AC Adapter
      If the power light will turn off after the AC Adapter is unplugged, you may want to try a different AC Adapter. There is a chance that a malfunctioning AC adapter could supply power to the Game Boy Advance SP, allowing you to play it while it's plugged in, but not charge the battery.

      • If a different AC Adapter works, you will need to get a replacement AC Adapter from our Online Store, or by calling our Consumer Service Department at 1-800-255-3700.
      • If the power light turns off immediately when the AC Adapter is disconnected, the Game Boy Advance SP will need to be repaired. Check out our convenient repair options.

    3. Disconnect the AC Adapter from the Wall
      Disconnecting the AC Adapter from the wall, and checking how quickly the power light goes out, will help determine if the problem is caused by the rechargeable battery, or something internal with the Game Boy Advance SP itself.

      • If the power light functions for a short time, then the unit turns off, you will need to replace the battery by visiting our Online Store, or by calling our Consumer Service Department at 1-800-255-3700.
      • If the power light turns off immediately when the AC Adapter is disconnected, the Game Boy Advance SP will need to be repaired. Check out our convenient repair options.

    Note: Please be sure to include both the Game Boy Advance SP and the AC Adapter with any repair.