The process of updating software or firmware on classic arcade machines differs significantly from modern consumer electronics. Unlike today's internet-connected devices, most arcades from the golden age were designed as closed systems without built-in update capabilities. The primary method involved physically replacing storage chips on the printed circuit board (PCB). Game code was typically stored on Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM) chips, which technicians could remove using specialized tools. They would then erase the chips using ultraviolet light and reprogram them with new data using a device called an EPROM burner. This required technical expertise and access to proper equipment.

For smaller changes or bug fixes, some operators used patch kits containing small secondary PCBs that attached to existing chips. The arrival of the JAMMA standard in the 1980s simplified hardware compatibility but didn't change the fundamental update process. Modern arcades and retro re-releases often use more advanced methods. Many contemporary arcade cabinets feature USB ports or SD card slots that allow operators to load new firmware or game versions digitally. Some connected arcades even support over-the-network updates, similar to modern consoles.

The approach varies depending on the machine's era and design. While original hardware requires physical intervention, newer systems increasingly incorporate digital update solutions while maintaining the authentic arcade experience. This evolution reflects broader technological shifts while addressing the unique maintenance needs of arcade operators.