Game machines or computers usually cannot recognize and read dirty game tapes. Dust, dirt, and even fingerprints on the surface of the tape can make the tape unreadable. When you clean your game cassette, always use the gentlest method, as harsh methods can damage your cassette. If the game cassette still won't read, try patiently using stronger methods. It's also a good idea to clean the reader's engine, especially if you get error messages from more than one game.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Cleaning Game Cassettes with Water
Step 1. Clean only when absolutely necessary
Clean your cassette if you notice dirt or dust on the surface, or if your console or computer cannot read the tape. Cleaning it regularly is unnecessary and can increase the risk of getting scratched.
Step 2. Prepare a soft cloth
Always use a fabric with a soft texture such as silk or microfiber. Avoid using abrasive materials such as facial tissue or tissue paper.
Step 3. Wet a small part of the cloth
Use plain tap water to wet a small section of the cloth, then squeeze the cloth to remove any excess water.
- Never use household cleaning tools, as they may damage your cassette.
- Products that repair cassettes are usually sold as “CD/DVD cleaners”.
Step 4. Grasp the edges of the cassette
Do not put your hands on the surface of the cassette. Turn the cassette over so the part you need to clean is facing you.
If the back is also dirty, you can clean it the same way. But do it with care, because doing it too roughly in this section can also damage the tape
Step 5. Wipe the surface of the cassette from the center hole pointing straight straight to the edge
Repeat this step until all surfaces are wiped.
Never wipe in a circular motion, as that can also damage your tape
Step 6. Wipe with a dry cloth
Do the same thing again, but this time using the dry part of the cloth. Do the same movement, from the center straight to the edge. Wiping with a dry cloth is more likely to scratch the tape, so be extra careful when doing this.
Step 7. Wait for two minutes before trying it
Place the cassette with the surface you are wiping facing up. Wait at least two minutes for the surface to dry completely. Once the cassette is dry, insert it into the cassette reader on your console or computer and see if the problem is resolved.
If it still doesn't work, try another method below. Or if you try another cassette and you get the same problem, clean your cassette reader
Method 2 of 3: Cleaning the Cassette Using Other Methods
Step 1. Understand the risks
Most cassette manufacturers don't recommend that you use anything other than water. But sometimes water doesn't solve your problem either. Some of the alternatives below are the ways in order from the safest to the least risky of damaging your tape. Always use gentle movements when cleaning your cassette to reduce the risk of scratching.
Step 2. Take your cassette to a dedicated repair shop
If you don't want to take the risk, find a CD or DVD repair service in your area. A service like this has machines you can't find and buy commercially.
Step 3. Clean fingerprints and grease with alcohol
This method won't fix the scratch, but it can remove oil stains. pour a small amount of isopropyl alcohol onto a clean cloth, then wipe your cassette from the center to the edges. Then wipe again with a dry cloth with the same motion, then wait for it to dry for two minutes.
Because dry cloths run the risk of scratching the cassette, some people prefer to let the tape sit for an hour or more to dry
Step 4. Purchase a special cleaning spray
If the cassette remains unreadable, purchase a CD/DVD cleaning product which usually comes in a spray bottle and follow the instructions on the package to clean your cassette.
- It is not recommended to use the tools or machines that came with the cleaning product you purchased, as it could damage your cassette.
- Always read the warnings on the product packaging to ensure that this product is safe to use for your cassette type.
Step 5. Use a toothpaste that does not contain bleach and controls tartar
Toothpaste is usually slightly abrasive and can clean scratches with little risk of damage. For maximum safety, avoid using toothpastes that contain whitening and tartar control, as toothpastes containing them tend to be more abrasive. Apply toothpaste to a clean cloth and wipe using the same motion as using water and alcohol.
The toothpaste should be in the form of a paste, not a gel, liquid, or powder
Step 6. Use a safe plastic polish
If toothpaste doesn't work either, you can try using plastic polish, furniture polish, or metal polish. These products are also slightly abrasive, but because they are not intended for game cassettes, the risk of damage is higher. Always check the ingredients on the packaging and see for any “solvent”, “kerosene”, or kerosene-based ingredients. These materials can damage your cassette. If the polish smells like kerosene or gasoline, do not use the product on your cassette.
Step 7. Use wax or transparent wax
Deep scratches can be patched with wax or transparent wax. Simply apply to the scratched area, then wipe with a dry cloth in a straight motion from the center to the edges. Use wax products that contain carnauba or do not contain kerosene.
Method 3 of 3: Cleaning the Cassette Reader
Step 1. Blow out all the dust
Use a hand blower to gently blow the dust off the cassette reader. You can use a can of compressed air too, but it can be damaging.
Always hold the blower upright to prevent material from leaking and falling
Step 2. Purchase a laser lens cleaner
If your console or computer won't read a new cassette and it's still very clean, you may need to have the cassette reader repaired. A laser lens cleaner will remove dust, but not oil and dirt. However, this product is still useful and worth trying. Typically, these products have two parts: a CD to be inserted into the cassette reader, and a bottle of liquid to drip onto the CD before insertion.
Make sure the cleaner is designed for your type of cassette reader. Using a CD reader cleaner on a DVD reader can damage your machine
Step 3. Clean the lens
If the above methods don't work and you don't want to take your machine to a repair shop, you will need to disassemble your machine and clean the lenses. If your machine is still under warranty, disassembling and disassembling your machine will void the warranty and prevent you from getting free repairs or replacements from the manufacturer. But if you're ready to take the risk, follow these steps:
- Turn off your gaming machine and unplug it.
- Disassemble using a screwdriver. Some parts of the game console can be removed by hand, but do not do so without the advice of the product manual. Disassemble until you can find the cassette reader.
- Find the lens, the lens is shaped like a small glass. Minor scratches shouldn't be a problem. But deep scratches should be handled by a professional. In addition, dust or dirt can also be the cause of the problem, and of course you should clean it.
- Dampen a cotton swab or foam with ispropyl alcohol. Then wipe the lens gently. Let dry before reinstalling your game machine.
Tips
- Immediately absorb any liquid that comes into contact with your cassette with a soft cloth. Do not rub or wipe it as it may damage your tape.
- Store your game tapes in the provided place to keep them clean and safe.
- When you want to move your game machine, first remove the game cassette that is in it to avoid damage.
Warning
- Do not wipe the cassette with your hands. It will only make the condition worse.
- Soaps, solvents or cleaners, or highly abrasive cleaners can cause permanent damage to your game cassette.
- Do not use mechanical cleaners, as they can cause permanent damage to your cassette.
- Some tapes store data just below the label. So don't wipe the side of the label unless there's obvious dirt on it, and clean it carefully.
- Do not apply tape or stickers to your tape.
