All DVD players run on the same basic components. The optical drive reads and decrypts data written in the DVD format. Then that information transfers to a receiver such as a TV or computer. Obviously, it is a lot more complicated than that, but malfunctions in DVDs players are predictable. With that in mind, you can use some steps to troubleshoot problems with your Phillips player and hopefully avoid the need for a new one.
Step 1
Unplug the unit from the electrical outlet. Wait 30 seconds and then plug it back in to the outlet. Press the "On" button on the player. If the player does not come on, unplug it again and try a different outlet. If the unit works, there is a problem with the outlet. If not, the problem may be the cord or motor on the player.
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Step 2
Check the manual that came with your TV to determine the proper channel for Video feed. Set you TV to that channel. Put a disc into the player. If you have a disc in but no picture on the TV, use the remote to change the channel on the TV until you see the movie playing.
Step 3
Unplug the cables from the DVD player to the TV. Reattach the cables and put a disc in the player. If you see the movie, a cable connect was loose.
Step 4
Disconnect the cables from the back of the DVD player and then reinstall them. If you see the video screen on your computer, the cables to the player were loose.
Step 5
Remove the batteries from the back of the remote control unit. Put fresh batteries into the remote. Make sure nothing is blocking the sensor in the front of the DVD player. This will prevent the remote from working correctly.
Step 6
Take the disc out of the player and insert a different one. If the second disc plays, the problem is with the disc.
Step 7
Unplug the unit from the electrical outlet. Run a small flat-head screwdriver around the edge of the door to see it something is causing it to stick. If necessary, use the driver to carefully pry the door open. Clean the door well with a cloth and alcohol. Plug the unit back into the wall socket. If the door opens and closes normally, something was just causing it to stick. If not, the motor may be faulty.
Step 8
Wipe the DVD disc down with a soft, lint-free cloth. Reinsert the disk and see if the player reads it. Put that same disc into a different player. If the disc plays, put it back into the unit with problems. Press the menu key on your player and look for clues that indicate a problem, region code or password. If you see nothing but the player will not read any disk, the optical drive or motor has likely failed.
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