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How to Repair a PS2 Laser

The PlayStation 2 (PS2) gaming console loads games from DVD-like optical discs and then displays them on your television screen. Over time, however, the PS2 might develop problems that prevent the decoding of data or reading of game discs at all. If your PS2 console is not properly decoding or reading game discs, gently cleaning the laser lens in the PS2 DVD drive usually fixes most problems.

Things You'll Need

Soft towel
Utility knife
Phillips screwdriver set
Anti-static wrist strap
Flashlight
Cotton swab
Photo-cleaning solution or contact lens solution
Compressed air

Instructions

- 1
  Open the PlayStation 2 disc drive. Power off the console, but do not close the drive tray. Unplug all cables connected to the PS2.
- 2
  Turn the console over so that you see the bottom of the machine. Use a utility knife or other sharp object to pry off the rubber feet on the bottom of the PS2 console. Remove the plastic knob pieces on the bottom of the unit in the same manner. Store them and all other parts safely.
- 3
  Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove all of the screws from the bottom of the PS2. Flip the console right side up again.
- 4
  Loosen and remove the two screws on both sides of the game controller connector. Gently pull off the case cover of the PlayStation 2. Orientate the console so that the DVD drive faces you. Slide the anti-static wrist strap onto your arm and then clip the other end to a metal object.
- 5
  Use a small Phillips screwdriver to remove the mounting screws on the sides of the PS2 DVD drive. Disconnect the two ribbon cables on the rear of the DVD drive. Remove the drive from the PS2 enclosure by pulling it straight out.
- 6
  Place the DVD drive on a soft towel. Remove the enclosure screws from the DVD drive (two on each side). Slide the drive case off the DVD drive.
- 7
  Turn on the flashlight and use it to find the reflection emitted from the laser assembly mirror. Note the position of the laser lens with regard to the assembly mirror. Turn off the flashlight and set it aside.
- 8
  Use a cotton swab to apply a small amount of photo-cleaning solution to the laser lens. Apply the solution gently, using a circular cleaning motion. Allow the laser lens to dry for at least 10 to 15 minutes before continuing. Use the compressed air to blow away any dust that settled on the lens while it was drying.
- 9
  Reassemble the PS2 by reversing the steps used to take it apart. The PS2 should now load and run games with disc read errors.

PlayStation 2