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How to Replace a PS3 Laser Eye

The laser eye of a PlayStation 3 (PS3) reads the disk and is one of the most delicate components of the console. When disk read errors occur, you can normally clean the laser or place the console into diagnostic mode to resolve the error; in some cases, however, you must replace the laser. If your PS3 is still under warranty, you may be entitled to a free repair and replacement. If not, you can purchase your own laser eye and replace the component yourself.

Things You'll Need

Slotted screwdriver
Small pot
Phillips screwdriver
Replacement laser

Instructions

- 1
  Power up the console, and check to ensure you don't have a disk in your PS3 disk drive. Switch off the power, and remove the power cord and any other cables from the console.
- 2
  Remove the rubber feet from the left side of the bottom of the console. Remove the screw holding each foot to the PS3 with a slotted screwdriver, and place the screws into a small plastic pot to keep them safe. Slide the top of the PS3 left to right. Lift and remove the plastic shield from the console, and place it aside.
- 3
  Remove the screws on the inside casing of the console using a Phillips screwdriver. Place the screws in the plastic pot. Remove the internal lid of the console, and set it aside with the plastic shielding.
- 4
  Locate the disk drive on the right side of the PS3. Remove the disk drive carefully, then remove the gray and black cables connecting it to the PS3. You will also see another cable connecting the drive from the end to the main board; unclasp the cable from the drive end --- not from the main board.
- 5
  Place the disk drive top side down with the circuit board facing you. Remove two silver screws at the back of the drive and three black screws at the front of the drive, leaving the circuit board screws in place. Place these screws in the plastic container. Flip the driver right side up, and carefully remove the metal casing from the drive.
- 6
  Locate the black plastic drive lid, and remove the five black screws located at its corner. Carefully move the lid to the left side of the drive; do not unplug the cable attaching the black lid to the circuit board.
- 7
  Remove the laser from the drive, held in by two screws and metal bars. Remove the screws and place them with the rest of the screws, then unhinge the metal bars with your slotted screwdriver. Carefully remove the laser eye. Set the old laser eye aside and carefully replace it with a new laser eye, which you can purchase from online retailers or gaming stores.
- 8
  Reassemble the console. Take care to replace each component correctly; follow these steps backward if necessary.

PlayStation 3