How do I put LEDs in my PS2? *Updated with pictures*

[Kayden]

I recent purchased a clear blue PS2 case and I thought it would look really cool with blue LEDs inside of it.  I saw the blue led arcade controls one of you guys made and they were awesome.

Link to pics of the finished product.   
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=67685

[pointdablame]

you need to tap into a power source within the PS2, or use an external source.  You will more than likely need some resistors as well, which will be dependent on what type of voltage you are tapping into.

After that, it's just a matter of wiring them up.  I'm sure you're not the first person to put an LED in their PS2, do a quick google search and see if someone has recommended the "best" places to tap into.

[Kayden]

I took that aproach and really only came up with A) other people looking for the same thing and B) Things with no remote association to PS2s or LEDs.   

I knew in general what I would need to do.  I was asking here in hopes of specifics, IE- good LEDs and a place to stick them.

[pointdablame]

LED types won't matter much.

I'm guessing here, but there is probably either a 5v or 12v on that PS2 board somewhere (or both)  I mean.. it's almost a given.. you just need to find them.

Sorry I can't give more specific info,but it shouldnt be that hard really.

[Kayden]

So... I should just grab an led and start poking it into the PCB?   

What kind of resistor would I need?  Would I only need one of two?  Either 5 or 12v?

[pointdablame]

The type of resistor depends on what voltage you are tapping into.

I wouldn't go jabbing into the board    but you can run a multimeter to some wires and see which ones you might be able to use.

[SOAPboy]

If you have a "big" style ps2, theres a "slot" that the network adapter goes into and powers a normal PC hard drive through a molex.. like 4 of those pins are for the molex.. break out the multimeter and go to town on those

[Kayden]

Hmmmm... multimeter.... whats a good, yet cheap one?

[orntar]

do you have a harbor freight near by?
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=90939

[Kayden]

I've never heard of them... but apparently I do.

I guess I'll head there tomorrow...

[Kayden]

bump.

[HaRuMaN]

Hey that looks pretty damn sweet!!  Where did you get that clear case?  I have an old style PS2 as well and I like what you've done with yours. 

[Kayden]

Hey that looks pretty damn sweet!!  Where did you get that clear case?  I have an old style PS2 as well and I like what you've done with yours. 

I just bought it online.  The old style run about 40-50 with an import player.  The newer ones are only about 20-30 -_-;

Be really careful with them though.  They're made of acrylic and break easily if you drop it or tighten the screws too much.

Some things to remember--  Be REALLY careful with everything!  I wore latex gloves so I wouldnt get finger prints all over the inside.  Don't put the screw covers in until you're POSSITIVE you're done; they DO NOT come back out in one piece.  Also, make sure you keep the rubber feet to reuse, because that acrylic is slick.  The new clear power button assembly needs to be screwed into the CD drive case where you take off the top.  Tap into the USB ports for power.  They're under a little metal guard on the front left side.  The left most post is +5 and the right most is the ground.  I soldered on a 1" piece of wire with a female plug on it.  I then put all the light wires into a single male plug.  This is for both the ground and +5.  I'd show you a picture of how I soldered the resistors onto the wire and the LED, but I'm not opening my PS2 EVER again.     I also used 24gauge speaker wire to keep things tidy.

Just as a warning- Mine did come with a crack in the back.  When I tried to contact the company they just ignored me.  Becareful where you shop.