Turning vsmile pocket on with batteries

Try using a q-tip dipped in alcohol to clean the cartridge, it may just be a dirty game cartridge.

http://www.vtechkids.com/_f/_pw/_manual/80-075300%20V.Smile%20Pocket.pdf

There are problems with the power adaptors. Did you use a VSmile power adaptor, or something that just seemed to fit the unit? Using the wrong power adaptor (like unknowingly plugging a Leapfrog power adaptor) into the unit can cause damage to the Vsmile Board.
Push and hold the power (smile) button for one minute, then install fresh batteries. if it powers back up, then try:

Dirty Smartridges (the game cartridges) are to blame for about 90% of VTech Vsmile products not powering up.
In some instances, the cartridge slot on the unit itself can become damaged and will cause no power up.
Kids (of all ages) can dirty a smartridge in less than a second, and render the whole system dead.

You have to take out the Batteries.
also, the connector on this adaptor is incorrect for some Vsmile consoles. (most that are about 5 years old now).
Make sure you are using the right plug, and it is inserted fully into the console with no batteries. Then, it should work.

www.vtechkids.com/_f/_pw/_manual/Vsmile_PocketPowerPack.pdf

This is an adobe reader PDF manual for the Vsmile

Make sure the system is off before inserting any cartrdiges. Things you can try to get the V.Smile TV Learning System to work:
1) Press the Reset – Press and hold the ON button for about 10 seconds
2) Make sure the game is inserted far enough into the system, and that it is pointing in the right direction. You may occasionally need to clean the contacts.
3) Also, make sure you are using the supplied power cord/adapter, not batteries. Batteries cause more problems than they’re worth.
-Tha Mp3 Doctor

Make sure that the yellow is on the same port as the white. also, make sure the yellow port is not labelled OUT or OUTPUT.

Do you still have your receipt? You could try to echange it at the store. Vsmile is coming out with a newer slightly different handheld model you could try. Though, we have a vsmile for the home and a leapster as a handheld game. Which both of my children have loved. Have you tried calling Vtech about the problem? I've had to call before about the home unit and they were very helpful. (Incedently, I have had problems with that, so if you ever do here's a helpful tip: Reset the machine by unplugging EVERY cord and pressing the two front buttons together for one full timed minute! We were having problems with a power issue and this solved it) They may be just as helpful as Leapster's Leap Frog company and send you a replacement! Once on a long car trip my daughter got sick in the car, while playing, so needless to say the game system got it too. And when I called Vtech about what to do, they sent a replacement! Try calling Vtech and see. You never know! Good luck!! :)

Maybe you have to buy a new rechargable battery pack. I have had one before and for some reason it no longer charged well. It too would hold a charge for only a small period of time, definately not long enough to appease my daughter! :) Try giving vtech a call and see what they say. At the very least they can help you get a new pack. Here's the number! 1.800.521.2010 :)

You should definately call customer service! I had to do this with our vsmile and they were very helpful with tech issues immediately. You can call them at 1.800.521.2010. One thing to try, they had me do this on the home unit. Unplug everything, then hold down both buttons on the front for one full timed minute. This resets the unit. See if this works for you. They will ask you to do it on the phone first anyway. If not, I hope they are able to suggest other helpful solutions for you! If not, you can find a good deal on a new one on ebay. Good luck! I know how much the kids enjoy this unit!! :)