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Repair guide

PS2 will not power on: internal power supply checks

The internal supply is a common failure point. Work only with the console unplugged and stop if live testing is needed.

Open the interactive checklist Tick off each step as you go. It saves in your browser.

Power · Expert · about 90 minutes. Try it, but check first. This will not fix every machine, so read the sources first.

You are in the right place if: The console is completely dead: no light, no fan and no response.

Before you start

  • ConsoleMods warns probing a live power supply risks lethal electrocution.
  • Only work unplugged. If live testing is needed, seek a professional.
  • Do not work on supplies if you are not confident.

Board revisions and models

Procedure is for the fat PS2 internal supply.

Parts you may need

  • PS2 power supply capacitors. matching values Amazon · eBay
  • Replacement PS2 internal PSU. donor Amazon · eBay

Tools

Affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. These links only search by name. Disclosure

Step by step

  1. Unplug and wait Remove the cord and wait before opening.
  2. Disassemble Open the case and remove the supply.
  3. Visual check Look for blackened components.
  4. Test the power cord Check continuity.
  5. Test the power switch Check continuity with the switch operated.
  6. Check the fuse Test fuse continuity.
  7. Inspect capacitors Look for bulging or crystalline residue. C20 and C3 are common failures.
  8. Replace failed parts Match capacitance and use equal or higher voltage.
  9. Reassemble and test Refit and power up.

Tips, tales and maybes

Found in write-ups and forum threads. These are other people's reports, not tested by us.

  • Tip (Medium confidence). ConsoleMods lists C20 and C3 as the most common failures, which can fail without visible signs. Source
  • Tip (Medium confidence). Paralleling capacitors is allowed to reach the right total capacitance. Source

Guides we used

We wrote the steps in our own words from these. They have the photos and the full detail, so please read them and support their authors.

  • PS2 Power Supply Repair (Wiki) by ConsoleMods Wiki. Step list for a PS2 with no power, naming C20 and C3 as common failures, with a lethal-voltage warning.

Boards and models vary, so check what is in front of you. A repair can involve hot tools, chemicals and, on some machines, dangerous voltages. You do it at your own risk.

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