Is your old PlayStation 3 running too loud or slow? The most likely cause is dust accumulated over the years. If you do not want to let your PlayStation break down, then you should start cleaning it up. This may seem like a daunting task since the PlayStation 3 is a complex device, but armed with the right knowledge, you will find that everything is much simpler.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Part 1: Opening the PS3 Case
Step 1. Unplug PS3 from power
Before opening the case, make sure that you have disconnected the power and video cables and all devices connected to the USB ports. Just as with any other complex electronic device, ground yourself first.
For grounding, you can use an anti-static wrist strap, or use a screw to touch the operating light switch
Step 2. Remove the hard drive
Before opening the case, you will need to dismantle the hard drive. Fortunately, in the case of the PS3, this is fairly easy to do. Remove the hard drive cover from the left side of the PS3. You need to remove the blue screw, be careful with its thread, it is very easy to rip off. Then remove the hard drive.
- In the same place, remove the sticker from the top of the case to expose the screw-torx. You will need a suitable screwdriver (Torx) for this type of screw.
- Removing the sticker voids warranty service.
Step 3. Remove the top panel
Once the torx screw has been removed, you can remove the PlayStation top panel. Below it, you will see the top of the frame, which is secured with nine screws at the edges. Some screws are indicated by arrows imprinted on the plastic. Remove these screws and set them aside.
Method 2 of 3: Part 2: Extracting the Parts
Step 1. Find the interlocking locks
There should be two locks in total that block the frame. They should be on the back. Press on them at the same time and gently lift the frame. Be careful, the top is connected to the bottom hardware with stub cables. These loops are very fragile.
Disconnect the ribbon carefully and set it aside
Step 2. Remove the card reader
Find the plastic locks that hold the card reader in place. Slide them and you can slide the card reader out of the case. Disconnect all cables carefully.
Step 3. Remove the power supply
The power supply is the silver or black block next to the Blu-ray drive. Remove the five screws securing the power supply. Disconnect the plugs from both sides of the power supply. Pull the power supply out of the case.
Step 4. Remove the wireless card
It is on the same side as the power supply. The board is attached to the case with four screws and a ribbon cable.
Step 5. Disconnect the Blu-ray drive
It should not be secured with any screws, but a plug and ribbon must be connected to it. Disconnect them and slide the drive out of the PlayStation case.
Step 6. Remove the Power / Reset board
This is a small board at the forefront of the PlayStation. It is secured with four screws and a lock that you will need to remove. A small ribbon cable is also connected to it.
Step 7. Remove the motherboard
There should be seven more screws remaining around the edges of the metal plate. Unscrew them so you can remove the motherboard from the case. After removing the screws, take out the motherboard along with the back panel.
Grasp the vents and pull it out at an angle with both hands. Be careful not to drop the board to avoid damage
Step 8. Remove the fan
There is a large fan on the back of the motherboard. Disconnect the cable, then remove the three screws. Take out the fan and clean it from dust.
These are all the disassembly operations you need to complete to clean the inside of the case
Method 3 of 3: Part 3: Cleaning and Assembling
Step 1. Start cleaning
Once you take out all the components and everything is at your fingertips, then you can start removing dust. Blow dust out of all hard-to-reach crevices with compressed air and vacuum up. Make sure not to miss any crevices, as dust can cause overheating.
- Blow out the vents with compressed air, also blow out the heatsinks on the motherboard.
- Clean the USB plugs as well as all parts.
- Thoroughly clean off a large fan.
Step 2. Replace thermal grease (optional)
If you are really worried about the overheating issue, you can remove the heatsinks from the motherboard and replace the thermal grease. This is not necessary. Do this only if you can live without the PlayStation for a while, as there is a serious risk of damaging it by removing the radiators.
Step 3. Put everything back together
After finishing cleaning the inside of the case, start putting everything back together. Follow the steps in this guide in reverse order to make sure everything falls into place. Make sure all components are securely connected so that everything works after turning on.
Put the hard drive back in before turning on the PlayStation, or you won't be able to use it
Advice
- The whole process will take 1 to 2 hours, so be patient and take breaks as needed.
- If possible, do everything on a wooden surface. Try to keep your clothes away from parts, or you may get electrostatic shock.
- A good way to avoid getting tangled up in different screws is to glue them to a piece of paper in the order you removed them from the case. Or use a sheet for each step.
Warnings
- Be careful with the cables, they are very easy to damage.
- Use screwdrivers of the correct diameter to avoid ripping off the threads.
- Do not force the parts out.
- Make sure everything is unplugged before starting work.
- Try not to touch the motherboard if possible.
- Do not do this if the warranty period has not yet expired, otherwise you will void it.