SCD Testing a Sega CD / Mega-CD model 2 w/o a Genesis / Mega Drive

[ilikeoldthing]

I have a chance to pick up a Sega CD model 2 for fairly cheap. It's possible it has some issues.
To what degree can you test a Sega CD without a Genesis attached?
Will a working Sega CD show any sign of life in the absence of a Genesis?
Is there a power light that should illuminate?
Will it spin up a disc if one is inserted?

I'll be going to look at it soon. Just wondering what I can do to test/inspect it without having it fully set up.
Any suggestions on what else to look out for when I inspect it?

Thanks!

 

[OldManLav]

Not at all, unfortunately. Won't even give a power indication without the Genesis/Mega Drive attached.

Model 2s rarely- as in almost never- have caps that have failed yet. Not bad practice to change them, but unlikely to solve any issues.

Most common issue is a simple blown pico fuse. Sometimes when the fuse blows, it takes the TR4 transistor down with it. This is the cause of 99% of SCDs that give no indication of power. On another note, if using an OEM Sega power cable, the capacitor in that is frequently starting to fail/leak. Moreso in the case of Model 1s than 2s, Sega CDs are particular about the power they're being fed. Make sure to get a quality third-party supply, or at least one that matches the voltage and has equal or higher amperage as the official Sega brick.

Other than that, disc read issues can range from dead laser, worn down drive/spindle motors, to potentiometers that have been screwed around with without the use of an oscilloscope. Make sure the pins on the female edge connector that the Genesis slots in to are free from dirt/corrosion as well. Good luck!

 

[ilikeoldthing]

Are any of the issues you mentioned above a death sentence for the Sega CD?
I imagine the fuse and transistor would be easy enough to sort out, and I think I've seen replacement lasers on ebay. What about the drive or spindle motors?