My PS2 = Toast ?

Heya everyone.

I think my PS2 is toast, but figure I'll ask here to confirm. I have a PS2 v1 30001 w/Red Magic 3.1 chip. Installed it over the weekend, was able to play originals and CDRs without no problems. Received several DVD-Rs last night, upon booting the first one I get a black screen. Tried CDRs again (Contra), it works fine, played that for a few minutes. Attempted DVD-Rs again (LOTR:TT), turned on PS2, and I get a system configuration screen where I have to set time and TZ. After setting up time, it brings me to the main configuration screen (Time, Screen Size, Optical, Video settings). Now I'm unable to boot anything - even originals. I can't hear the drive accessing either when booting.

Is my PS2 toast? Is there any other steps I should attempt for troubleshooting? I've tripled checked all the soldering points already, they're all clean as far as I can tell.

I've search the forums here for similiar symptons, some sound similiar, but not exactly the same. Please advise. Much appreciated!

i thing the laser is bad. what media were you using for DVD-r backups?

They were given to me by a friend. There's no names or badging on the disc themselves, just a white face. I think they're Princos if I remember correctly.

In your opinion, do you think it's worth replacing the laser unit or scrap it all together?

Thanks for your help!