How to Troubleshoot a Slim Playstation 2

Disconnect all cables from ther PlayStation 2 Slim: the mains power, power adapter, any controllers or control devices, memory cards, and audio/video leads. Securely reconnect the console's power adapter, and reconnect this to the mains power. Reconnect the console to the A/V socket of your television or media center. Many PlayStation 2 Slim problems are simply caused by loose connections.

Turn the console on and reconnect memory cards and control devices, one by one. If the fault lies with a third-party controller or memory device, this will allow you to isolate the problem.

Turn the console off again and use a new, clean toothbrush to clean the vents and fan intake on the sides and rear of the console. If these have become blocked, the console can overheat, reducing disc reading speed and increasing program errors.

Open the PS2 Slim's disc door and use a Q-tip doused in rubbing alcohol to gently clean the white laser head visible through a slot in the disc tray. If the fault lies with your console's DVD lens, this will improve the lens' performance.

Check that the console is operating in suitable conditions. The PlayStation 2 Slim is intended to run in a clean, dry environment free from excessive dust or direct sunlight. Do not place the console directly on carpet, even while it it not running. When the machine is turned on, the vents at the sides and back must have at least 1 inch of clear space for the intake and expulsion of air. If necessary, move the console to an environment that fulfills these criteria.

Run several different games in the newly cleaned and repositioned PS2 Slim. If only certain games refuse to run, the fault is probably with the game discs, not the console.