A number of "noob" questions

[H|LLJD00]

Sell your V4 on eBay, get as much as possible for it. The buy a V7 from a friend/local paper (this way u can make sure its a V7)..

Now either practice soldering untill ur confident and give it a shot, or get someone to install it for you. I suggest getting a Crystal Chip.

Now.. If you have lots of money Practice soldering on your V4 motherboard and sell the rest of the V4 as parts on eBay. Or even, install the chip on the V4 if it works sell it chipped, get lots of money this way. Then you can do all the above and still have money left over for more ps2 games or even a HDD :d

[symptom]

Thanks for the reply! How much do you think I could get though, for a V4 that doesn't play silver PS2 discs or DVDs anymore? Should I mess around with the voltage or lens alignment just to try to get it working for sale?

I think this is probably a common question, but how hard is it really, to solder the chip yourself? I've never worked with solder before so I really have no idea. I have a few years of decent experience with desktop/laptop PC hardware and messed around with the PS2 hardware enough to adjust voltage and such. I'm pretty decent with my hands I guess. How easy is it to mess up?

Thanks!

[spedmetal]

The good thing about V4's if your willing to spend money to make them better that is, is that the KHS-400C laser (which is what the v5-v10's have) can be directly swapped out for the crappy KHS-400B thats in it and the V4 is then very similar to a V5/V7.

I have done this on many V4's with great success.

[symptom]

So would you suggest that I replace the laser instead of getting a new console? Would this be difficult to do?

[spedmetal]

If your willing to spend the money, sure try a new laser.

[H|LLJD00]

oh a direct fit? thats cool, saves you buying a new console Try that. That should do it. Also on another note, get a side stand for ur ps2 this helps as the dust cant settle on the motherboard/laser as easy.

[Warlock]

Originally Posted by symptom

So would you suggest that I replace the laser instead of getting a new console? Would this be difficult to do?

I think i would replace the laser before i would sell it and buy a PStwo. Even if you find a v7 on ebay or something there's no guarantee the laser isnt worn and you have to do the same thing to it.

[symptom]

Originally Posted by Warlock

I think i would replace the laser before i would sell it and buy a PStwo. Even if you find a v7 on ebay or something there's no guarantee the laser isnt worn and you have to do the same thing to it.

Yeah that's kinda what I was afraid of.

But if I put a KHS-400C laser in my V4, what would keep it from being just as "modworthy" as a V7?

Also could somone give me a hint as to how risky it is to attempt replacing a laser? Thanks guys

[Warlock]

Why dont you email Spedmetal about getting a duo2 se modchip and a new laser in your current v4. Everyone here will agree he does great work. I say this because you dont just buy a new laser and pop it in. It has to be adjusted and if you dont know what your doing you can fry the new one on power up. Best to get a Pro.

[symptom]

That sounds like a good idea to me, I may do that.

May I ask though why you recommend the duo2 se? From reading around I was under the impression that the MI, DMS3/4, and CC chips were the most popular. Is it just because of the lower price or personal preference, or is there some other benefit to going with the duo2 se?