Stars (1978) — Display Issue: My 2nd player display is all black and not showing any numbers

Question

**Machine:** Stars · **Manufacturer:** Stern Electronics · **Year:** 1978 · **System:** EarlySS

My 2nd player display is all black and not showing any numbers

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*This question was generated from a verified AI Diagnosis session on Silverball Labs.*

yemons · Accepted Answer

**Diagnosis:** Dead player 2 VFD display tube — failed filament, confirmed by no glow with direct power applied *(95% confidence)*

**Repair Steps:**
1. Step 1: Source a replacement Stern EarlySS 6-digit display unit compatible with Stars (1978)
2. Step 2: Seat the replacement display firmly into the edge connector, ensuring all pins are fully engaged
3. Step 3: Power on and verify display lights and shows correct scores in game

**Parts Needed:**
- Stern Stars 6-digit player display — Stern EarlySS 1978 compatible VFD unit — [Marco Specialties](https://www.marcospecialties.com/control/keywordsearch?SEARCH_STRING=Stern%20Stars%206-digit%20player%20display&utm_source=pinballanswers&utm_medium=referral) · [Pinball Life](https://www.pinballlife.com/search.html?Search=Stern%20Stars%206-digit%20player%20display&utm_source=pinballanswers&utm_medium=referral)

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**Safety Warnings:**
- VFD displays carry moderate voltage on the anode/grid pins — avoid touching connector pins while powered

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*AI-assisted diagnosis, verified as working by the machine owner.*

Stars (1978) — Display Issue: My 2nd player display is all black and not showing any numbers

★ 1 Answer