Dreamcast query

[robjphat]

Hi people,

As you may have guessed from the thread title I have a DC related query.

I set up my DC for the first time in nearly 2 years and connected it to my TV and the familar DC logo and options page came up on my TV, so far so good.

However, when I put in a DC game the console failed to read the disc, so I tried all the familar routines to see if it would work- switching the console off, cleaning the disc...and it still didn't work. I tried some of my other DC games just in case it was a problem with the disc but they wouldnt load up either, nor would any music cd's.

The only way I can get anything to happen is if press on to the DC cd door directly above the laser. Then the game will load up, but as soon as my hands let go of the cd door the game will go back to the DC options screen. I have tried putting a weight on top of the DC but that doesn't have any effect.

So there you go, that is my DC query, now is there anyone out there who has had a similar problem or has any idea what i can do to get my beloved DC working again.

Cheers
-rob

[Commander Marklar]

Have you opened it up, see if there is anything immediately wrong with it (like a loose cable)? It could just be broke but it sounds fixable... get a new one anyway

[tokyochojin]

nah i had a similar problem with mine mate, basically the laser is nackerd!! Get yourself a new one while you still can

[MD]

Sounds more like the switch which detects if the cd door is closed or not has come loose... you could permentantly fix it with a blob of solder but then the DC will think the door is closed all the time (so fecking up any games that come on several discs...). Probably cheaper to buy a replacement, what are they worth now? 26p and a pickled onion?

[Kron]

Yeah, Its not the laser but the switch at the rear right hand side which is visible when the top shell is removed.

Over time they lose contact with the internal connectors so its easily remidied by making the switch slightly wider and taller so that its in full contact with the lid when shut. A peice of sellotape wrapped around the lever is an ideal quick fix.