Philips CDI 490 Help Needed

Just got a Philips CDI 490. Was able to get console cheap but it had no remote. Found a brand new remote on ebay, however, it's not working. I'm not sure how to sync it with the console. Any help would be appreciated on that front.

Finally, is there a way to back-up your CDI games? Thanks for your assistance ahead of time.

 

There is no syncing. It uses standard IR, which to be honest isn't that good. Buy a controller, not a remote CD-i games can be made into standard ISO files, no fancy copyright protections.

 

Kids these days don't know about infrared?

 

Hey APE, I know about Infrared, but its still not working, even tried another remote. Looking for controller. I have tons of CD-R games too that don't load up, it doesn't even know a disc is inside. So, it doesn't even say bad disc. P.S. APE did you get my email about an unrelated project? Thanks!

 

I doubt the IR sensor is bad though, everything looked good on the inside.

 

Check your remote is actually working by holding it against a detuned AM radio (with the volume turned up). You should hear some blips and pulses when you press a button on the remote.

If it's working then maybe try removing the front (of the console) and cleaning the IR sensor, and the plastic UV filter(s). They have a habit of getting dusty over time. Check the IR receiver module for bad solder joints.

Also check PSU for leaky capacitors. Often the light blue Philips ones will leak, especially on something as old as this.

 

You can also hold the IR up to most digital cameras, as they show up as purple LEDs.

 

Filthy lens is my bet. Most of these old guys were built with quality and don't usually fail without something causing it rather than simply dying. I'd also make sure you're in a room dark enough and the batteries you're using are 100% good - at least 1.3v with 1.5v better. I've had plenty of trouble with batteries that just barely made the cut in pitch black have trouble with any amount of light in the room.

You've got a PM. Looks like I need to put together a better message tracking system. :/

 

Thanks everybody for all the help. APE no need to worry, you are the man and you always come through! Reading your PM now and responding! Special thanks goes out to oldgamingfart and Borman too!!! REP + for all three!!!! Hip Hip Hooray!!! Thanks guys!!!!