Amazon restocks the Sega Dreamcast

[133MHz]

Laser diodes have a finite life span just like light bulbs. With use light output diminishes making discs harder to read. A common workaround is increasing laser power using the potentiometer provided in the pickup assembly. This will improve disc reading but will also accelerate the wear-out process.

Some laser diodes may last longer than others because of build quality and differences in the manufacturing process. They don't burn out after a set amount of time, they wear out with use. If they wear out quickly, they're crap.

I got a Dreamcast with two controllers, all of the hookups and a couple of games for about $40. It had a weak laser, so I increased the laser power output and it's been working fine ever since. YMMV.