DISmantle87 asked me this question via private message:
Now to my question: I am curious to know, how you make sure you're NES doesn't fail on you during shows and all that? With all the blue/blinking screen the NES often does. Do you have special tips for maintaining a certain stability?
I thought it would be good to post my answer here:
Well, to be honest, I rarely have problems with my systems. However, I should say that I use 3 at a time with a video mixer. So, that means two are mixed in at any one time with a third used to load new ROM's. So, if one does fuck up, I can just mix it out.
However, if you are using one system - make sure you replace the 72 pin connector. That will fix 95% of your problems. Also, make sure you clean every cart before you put it in the NES after the connector is cleaned - or you will just transfer dirt to it. After replacing the connector, carts should fit really tight. I don't even push mine down. That also helps - they can kind of bounce a little if the bass is heavy or drunk people hit your table.
Finally, look up a tutorial for disabling the lockout chip. This can help as well. If you do this, its less likely you'll get blinking / flashing. This usually occurs when the lockout chip in the NES can't connect with one on the cart - and usually happens because of dirt and shit on the contacts of the cart.