Testing laser lens PlayStation 1 and 2

Hy,

Someone said that playing AUDIO CD on the consoles it's a first test to see if the lens are dying or not. That is true?
What methods do you use?
I want to recondition some consoles and I have some laser lens but I don't know if they are very used and dying or not.

Thanks!

 

Hi!

I usually try a game that I know to have an FMV near the beginning, because I find that if they don't play very well (i.e. skipping) then it's a sign the laser needs refurbishing.

This could be the same principle as trying an audio CD, as if the laser can't play it properly it will be easy to hear.

I have a PS1 that came to me with problems playing FMVs, so I thoroughly cleaned it with air, a quick swab on the lens and a slight potentiometer adjustment (around 5 - 10%, easy does it) and it's been good as new ever since.

I hope that helps!

 

There is a lot more than twisting one potentiometer when it comes to calibrating those lasers.