Audio Systems: Cd not reading, portable cd player, warm soapy water

Question
Hello there. I have an old stereo which I stopped using because it didn't read discs anymore. It was reconnected the other day and played a half of a song on cd to my surprise. Now it doesn't play anymore. Any idea about whats wrong and costs involved??

Answer
You did not give a make and model number so it is difficult to give specific advise.

But, here are some generic comments that will apply.

ONE:  Try cleaning the lens on the optical pickup.  Use a cotton q-tip and no chemicals. Just flick the q-tip across the surface of the optical lens a few times.

TWO:  Clean the discs.  Use warm soapy water; dish soap is good.  Air dry on dish rack.  Do not use chemicals.

THREE:  If the cleaning does not help it is most likely the optical pickup is out of adjustment and/or the laser diode is weak.  If this case it is best to buy a new cd player (In usa portable cd player is under $10 at discount store) and plug it into the aux inputs of the stereo system that you have.  The cost of repair is more than the cost of a new stereo system.

Hope this helps.
C