PlayStation Troubleshooting

First, ensure that the power cord is properly connected both at the back of the device and at the wall socket. If the problem persists, try powering the PlayStation from another power outlet. If the device still does not turn on, you may have a faulty power cord or may need to replace the Power Supply.

This may be the result of a faulty power cord or a loose power socket. (The power socket is the connection at the back of the device that receives the power cord). Repairing the power socket is possible, but may require soldering. Since other components can be damaged during soldering, we recommend replacing the entire Power Supply.

Make sure the video cables are connected properly to your television and ensure that the correct video input and channel are selected on your TV. If the TV still shows no image, the Logic Board may be the problem and should be replaced.

Try playing a different game. If a different game plays normally, the first disc is likely dirty, scratched, or has label damage. If the disc is dirty, clean it with a soft lint-free cloth and try the game again. If there are scratches, they can likely repaired with a CD scratch repair kit. (CD scratch repair kits are sold by most electronic stores and are relatively inexpensive). If there is damage on the label side of the disc, it cannot be repaired.

Dust may have accumulated on the lens, making it difficult for proper reading of the game disc. If the lens needs to be cleaned, use a cotton swab and a proper lens cleaning solution that can be found in any electronic store.

The spindle hub is used to hold the game disc firmly to the spindle assembly. If the spindle hub breaks, the game disc will slip as it spins and the laser will not be able to properly read the game disc. The spindle hub can be replaced, but exchanging the entire Optical Drive will be a much easier fix.

Game loading errors, skipping, and freezing often result from a faulty optical drive. Some symptoms include:

• No spinning or abnormal spinning of the game disc
• Loud tracking noises
• Failure of the laser to move along its track

If your device encounters any of these problems, you should replace the Optical Drive

There are three different controllers Sony has created for the PlayStation. The first did not have the dual analog feature (the two joysticks). It was not until the second controller was released that the dual analog feature was incorporated. The third controller is the dual shock controller that provides a force feedback (vibrates to stimulate game play).

Many times a controller that is not read or is non-responsive is a result of playing a game that is not compatible with the dual analog or the dual shock controller. So before blaming the controller port, verify that the game being played supports the controller you are using.

Also, controllers that are sold by outside companies (not Sony made) may encounter problems because many of them incorporate new features and multiple functions.

If the proper controller is being used and it is still not responsive or if the message "controller not found" is given, then the problem is most likely a faulty Controller Port and replacing it will be necessary.

Try using the memory card in another console. If the other console is also not able to read the memory card, then the memory card is most likely the problem. If the other console does read the memory card, then the Controller Port is the problem and will need to be replaced.