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Case Height for 48k

Some Spectranext cartridges shipped with a case that is slightly too tall for the original 48k ZX Spectrum case shape. When the cartridge is inserted, the Spectrum may not sit completely flush with the table and can rock a little.

This does not affect operation. The cartridge works normally, but the replacement case improves the physical fit.

If you prefer to print your own replacement case, download the 3D files here:

Download the replacement 3D case files

Before You Start​

You will need:

  • A small Phillips-head screwdriver
  • Cutting scissors or small side cutters
  • The replacement top and bottom case parts
  • The replacement Magic and Recovery buttons
  • A flat, clear table

The LED light-pipe is very small. Work over a table so it cannot fall far if it comes loose. If you lose the light-pipe, please contact us for a replacement.

Procedure​

1. Remove the three screws​

Turn the cartridge upside down and unscrew the three screws from the old case with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

Removing the old case screws

2. Lift off the bottom cover​

Keep the device upside down and remove the bottom cover.

Old bottom cover removed

3. Shorten the edge connector soldering pins​

Use cutting scissors or small side cutters to remove the excess height from the edge connector soldering pins. This should take very little effort.

Aim at the edge of the soldering bulge. You only need to remove the protruding height, not reshape the solder joint.

Trimming the edge connector pins

4. Check the shortened pins​

After trimming, inspect the edge connector area and confirm the pins are now shorter and more even.

Shortened edge connector pins

5. Remove the light-pipe​

Remove the light-pipe from the old case by pushing it out with your fingernail. It should take no effort.

Keep the case close to the table while doing this. The light-pipe is tiny and easy to lose.

Removing the light-pipe

6. Insert the light-pipe into the new case​

Place the light-pipe into the new top case with the flattened side facing out.

Placing the light-pipe into the new case

7. Push the light-pipe into place​

Push the light-pipe in with your fingernail until it sits correctly. It should take no effort.

Light-pipe seated in the new case

8. Place the replacement buttons​

Put the replacement Magic and Recovery buttons into their respective holes while the top case is upside down on a flat table.

Replacement buttons placed in the top case

9. Place the PCB into the top case​

Place the PCB onto the top case, taking care to roughly align the holes.

PCB placed into the replacement top case

10. Fit the replacement bottom cover​

Sandwich the case with the replacement bottom cover. The parts should align without force.

If something does not sit correctly, lift the bottom cover again and check the buttons, light-pipe, and screw holes before continuing.

Replacement bottom cover fitted

11. Screw the case closed​

Reinstall the screws with the Phillips-head screwdriver. Tighten them gently until the case is closed.

Replacement case screwed closed

The cartridge is now ready to use in a 48k ZX Spectrum.