DVD players no longer cost an arm and a leg. You can find a cheap DVD player in any electronics department, including Philips models. These devices read digital code on a disc that contains video and audio data. Over time, you need to clean the player, replace cords, motors, belts or trays to keep your DVD player working. There are also problems caused by faulty DVDs.
Player Won't Power Up
If the player will not turn on, check the power supply for issues. Perhaps the outlet is faulty or the power cord is damaged. Another problem is an on/off button that sticks. You may need to remove the casing to dislodge or replace a broken on/off switch. Another internal problem may be the fuse inside the DVD player. You will need to remove the casing with a screwdriver and check inside for a blown fuse.
Check Disc for Errors
Make sure there are no errors on the disc itself. If there appears to be scratches, then try finding a disc that you know will play. If the DVD player still does not work properly, then it is probably not a disc error. However, if it does play properly, then you simply need to clean the scratched or damaged disc if possible.
No Picture or Sound
If the DVD player is on, but there is no visual or audio, first check the connections to your television. You also need to check the disc again or insert another disc to make sure that it is not a disc error. If it still does not work, you should clean the objective lens. You will need to buy or borrow a lens cleaner disc and play it in the DVD player first. Any department store sells lens cleaner discs. If this fails, then you will need to clean the objective lens manually.
Clean the Objective Lens Manually
Start by removing the outer casing the DVD player. There are screws that keep the top and bottom of the DVD player together. You must remove each of these and slide the top casing away from the bottom. With DVD deck showing, you will see the objective lens, which is glass and under a DVD clamp. It should have a blue color to it as well. You may need to shine a light on the components and watch for a reflection to find the lens. Once you see the lens, use a cotton ball or dust-free cloth with denatured alcohol to softly wipe the lens. Be very careful with the lens, or you may permanently damage it. Dry the lens with the other side of the swab or cloth. Wait a few seconds for it to completely dry, then replace the casing and test the player once more.
DVD Tray Won't Open or Close
Turn the player off and remove the casing. If you have any discs in the tray, remove them. DVD trays often get stuck because they run on tracks. If a gear gets pushed or something lodges in between the track and the gear, your tray will not open or close. You simply need to place the track back onto the gear so that it rotates appropriately. Another issue with Philips DVD players is static electricity. If the gears are in place, you may try turning off the DVD player, unplugging it from the outlet, and waiting 30 seconds, then retry opening the tray.
Fixing a DVD Tray Motor
If you are having issues with the DVD player's tray and you know it is on the track, then you may have a problem with the motor. After removing the casing, you will need to unplug the player and test the motor with a multimeter. Spray the motor plug with electrical contact cleaner, then plug it back in. To remove the motor, unscrew each end and lift it out of the casing, then replace the motor as necessary.
Replacing the Drive Belt
Belts become worn or dirty after frequent use. You can remove the drive belt with gloves or tweezers and inspect it for dirt, water or other damage, then clean it with a lint-free cloth and denatured alcohol. If the belt is damaged, you will need to buy a replacement belt.
Tags: will need, need clean, remove casing, clean objective, clean objective lens
