PS2 Diagnostic mode
 

My v9 ps2 is having trouble reading dvd backups. Can put a dvd in and it will bring up ps2 logo, black screen for about 30 secs and then browser screen.

However if I switch diagnostic mode on it will boot the dvd backup flawlessly. What exactly does the diagnostic mode do? Also after a reboot it goes back to not being able to read the back up again.

The diagnostic mode that the PS2 has is kind of like a software way of calibrating the laser. It will give the CD/DVD driver a little gain thus increasing the voltage to the laser. It will give just enough gain until the laser starts to read. But after you switch off the console I believe the settings go back to normal.

This could be compared to adjusting the pots on the laser head, but a digital adjustment instead of analog and not permanent.

Can anyone recommend somewhere in the UK to get a replacement laser for a version 9 console. Am gonna open her up and do some measurements/calibrating on the laser tonite so just in case anything goes pear shaped would like to know where i can order a replacement.

Will also be carrying out the romeo mod as its a version 9.

Just a quick question on that. I have an old mobo with some chips the same size as the ones on PS2. Exactly how do you go about lifting the pin from the chips off the board without snipping or breaking it? Thanks a lot... :)

Um....Dunno yet. Will tell you when I've done it. Was hopin that the chip pin would be flexible enough to bend upwards away from the solder pad but I would imagine that making a cut in the leg wouldn't be too much of a problem. Will let u know how it goes.

OK mate, cheers! :)

I just tried it on my old mobo and you're right. Get a nice sharp blade, push it through the leg, and it bends straight up! Good luck...

Cool. Fills me with a bit more confidence! :)