How to Troubleshoot a Broken PS3

How to Troubleshoot a Broken PS3

Introduction

The Sony PlayStation 3 is a complete entertainment center packed into a small case. It can play Blu-Ray DVDs, play games, play music and network PC. Add all this together, and something is bound to go wrong. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them.

General Troubleshooting

Step One

Restart the system if your PS3 should freeze up. Touching the power button for 10 seconds will shut the system down. Then just turn it on again.

Step Two

Check the PS3's vents or its location if the power button alternately flashing red and green. This means it is running hot. Shut it off and wait for it to cool down.

Step Three

Shut down the system if the power button flashes red and fails to operate. This means it has overheated and has reached a critical phase. Move it to another location where the vents are not blocked and it isn't in an enclosed area. Don't restart it until it cools down.

Step Four

Check the content of the disc or DVD to make sure it can be played in a PS3. Also some software developers may specify viewing options that are not available on the PS3.

Step Five

Check your Ethernet connection to your router if you are having problems connecting to your network. Make sure you are using the proper cable and both ends are securely connected.

Step Six

Don't use a dial up modem with your PS3. They are designed to be used only on broadband networks.

Discs Won't Play

Step One

Remove the disc if the PS3 can't recognize it, wipe it clean. Also make sure it hasn't been exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight. Keep discs in their cases when they're not being used.

Step Two

Make sure that all DVDs you have created have been finalized.

Step Three

Make sure the disc you want to play has been recorded using the NTSC standard.

Step Four

Touching the eject button for 10 seconds or longer will force the PS3 to eject discs that are stuck in the unit. Turn the system off after removing the disc, and then turn it on again.

Step Five

Don't hook your PS3 up to your TV through your VCR or try to use it on a combination TV/VCR unit if you want to watch DVDs. The picture will become distorted because the system will think you are trying to copy protected content.

Step Six

Check your parental code settings or the regional code for the DVD you're trying to play. Also some Blu-Ray discs may be "locked" and need a password to view.

Troubleshoot Sound and Video

Step One

Check the mute function on your TV or audio system if there is no sound.

Step Two

Check the audio settings of your device to make sure it "sees" the PS3. Also make sure you are using the correct audio cables and they are properly connected.

Step Three

Check to see if music you are trying to play is copy protected. If so, it may not play.

Step Four

Check your systems audio input and output settings to ensure they are set up correctly.

Step Five

Make sure the input mode on your TV is compatible with the connectors used by the PS3.

Step Six

Check your video setting for compatibility with the PS3. If they are not, disconnect all other components, press the power button for five seconds, and the system will reset to standard video.

Number Of Visits: 7284

This article was added to our catalog on Saturday 13 October, 2007.