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Power Shuts Off Unexpectedly (NES Classic Edition)

NES Classic Edition

The information in this article can help you when the Power LED on the front of the console shuts off unexpectedly during gameplay, while navigating the menus, or when pressing the Reset Button.

Note: If the Auto-Shutdown feature is enabled, the console will power off after one hour of inactivity.

What to do

  1. Power down the TV or monitor, and power down the system by ensuring that the Power switch is in the OFF position.
    The Power LED unlit indicating the power is off on the NES Classic Edition
  2. Unplug the AC adapter from the wall outlet and the USB cable from the console.
  3. Unplug any controllers from the front of the system by pressing the tabs on the plug and then gently sliding out the connector from the control deck.
  4. Check the serial number on the bottom of the console.
    • Systems sold in the Americas will have the serial number prefix "CU" followed by nine digits.
    • Any other serial number prefix indicates the system is from another region; i.e."CEE" is a European console.
  1. What is the serial number prefix for your console?
    1. Reset the AC adapter.
      • While resetting the AC adapter, check for any signs of physical damage; i.e. nicks, kinks, frayed cables, etc.
        • If either the HDMI or USB cable is damaged, replacing them with new ones may resolve the problem.
    2. Plug the USB cable back into the original AC adapter that came in the box, then plug the USB cable into the system, and the AC adapter into the wall outlet.
      Important
      • We have found that these issues can be caused by using an underpowered AC adapter or power source; the Power LED may be lit, but then shut off unexpectedly.
      • If you are powering up the NES Classic Edition using an after-market AC adapter, a TV, or other device, use the original AC adapter that came with the console.

      If the original AC adapter is no longer available, you can purchase one from Nintendo Store.

      The NES Classic Edition AC adapter
    3. Plug the original controller that came with the system (model No. CLV-002) into Port No. 1 on the front of the console.
      • If the original controller that came with the system is unavailable, ensure you are using a supported controller.
    4. Power on the TV or monitor, then power on the system by ensuring that the Power switch is in the ON position with the LED lit.
      The Power LED lit up red indicating the power is on on the NES Classic Edition
    5. Select the appropriate HDMI input on your TV or monitor and attempt to use the system as normal.
    Did this resolve your issue?
    • You have a console that was intended to be sold in another region.
    • Only consoles sold in the Americas will include an AC adapter.
    • If you have a console that was intended for another region, and it included an AC adapter, it is very likely an unlicensed accessory.
    • We have found that this issue can be caused by using an underpowered AC adapter or power source; the Power LED may be lit, but the system may shut off unexpectedly.
      • The problem can be resolved by using a licensed AC adapter. You can purchase one from Nintendo Store.
    • You can also try using a different AC adapter that is rated as 5V/1A.
    • Ensure you are using the original controller that came with the system (model No. CLV-002) and that it is plugged into Port No. 1 on the front of the console.
      • If the original controller that came with the system is unavailable, ensure you are using a supported controller.
    Did this resolve your issue?

  3. If this information resolved your issue, then you’re all set! For information about Nintendo’s products, be sure to check out Nintendo's website for all the latest news.

    If the issue persists, and you have ensured that you are using the original accessories that came with the system, there is likely an issue with the console.

    Please contact us for additional support.

    If this information resolved your issue, then you’re all set! For information about Nintendo’s products, be sure to check out Nintendo's website for all the latest news.

    Please contact us for additional support.

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