Panasonic TOC Read problem

[banjo]

Hi,

my SJMR50 recorder has developed a problem: when a disc is inserted it starts to read the TOC (this message is displayed on the LCD) but seems to hang in that mode.

I've tried with a range of discs, including new ones: none worked. I've verified the discs in another (Sony) recorder. I've tried the usual trick of leaving it without battery overnight to effect a 'reset': this didn't help. I've also tried a lens/head cleaning disk but that didn't help either.

The recorder has not had any rough treatment. It was used last at the start of the summer, when it worked fine. It has been on the shelf since, with the battery removed. It didn't get any bangs or knocks.

Does anybody have any ideas about what might be wrong?

Does anybody know if there a way I can get the recorder to go through a self-diagnostic or a recalibration?

Thanks and regards,

Banjo

[MDX-400]

Calibration requires you to enter service mode and you will probably have to partially disassemble the unit to measure certain things with a voltmeter and/or an ocilloscope. Though calibration routines are fairly automated, you still have to perform some measurements to get them going. Plus since not much service manual infomation is out there for Panasonic units, it's not easy to find out how to get into service mode nevermind do a calibration.

I would first check to see if the sled is moving back to the "home" (closest to spindle) position. If not try manually moving it over with your hand, being careful to be gentle enough so as not to break anything.

Then make sure the disc is spinning (is the spindle motor turning the disc)?

If all of that checks out, then your unit probably has a pickup (laser) problem and will either need to be serviced or replaced. Given the age of the unit, you're probably better off replacing it...

[banjo]

MDX-400,

I will check the sled and the spindle and see how it goes.

Thanks for the reply!