Response from Jonathan: Scott,

It definitely sounds like some sort of power supply or wiring issue. You mentioned that you checked the continuity on the connectors. It might be a good idea to take that once step further and see if you are getting any voltage through those connectors as well.  Unless your Ms. Pac Man has a switching power supply installed, all of the voltages that are going through the cabinet will be of the AC variety. You should be able to follow the wires from the transformer as they make their way through the cabinet. Make sure that you are getting close to the same voltage on each side of the connector as you are getting to the corresponding prong on the transformer. Use this same technique on the fuse holder as well.

It’s also a good idea to make sure that all of the interlock switches are engaged. An interlock switch is a safety switch of sorts that keeps the game from powering on if it is not pressed in. These are usually located inside the coin door or on the back door (in upright arcade cabinets). Here’s a picture of one so you can get an idea of what they look like: https://www.twistywristarcade.com/1385-large_default/cherry-interlock-switch.jpg. There is a trick to these switches. They usually will only engaged when the switch is depressed but many will also engage if you pull the switch out. Try pulling the switch out to see if it engages properly.

Also, since you are working on a Ms. Pac Man, we HIGHLY recommend checking out the Lawnmowerman’s Pac-man Website for some excellent information on working with Pac Man style cabinets. Of course, please feel free to contact us again if you have any additional questions about your issue.

Hope that helps. Thank you for your question and good luck with you repair.