📰 New article from RetroRGB
OpenKSK – Open Source Sega CD Laser Board Replacement
https://retrorgb.com/openksk-open-source-sega-cd-laser-board-replacement.html
If your Sega CD’s laser died mid-“Sonic CD” run, you’re not alone—these 90s laser boards are turning to dust faster than your old SNES cartridges. Enter OpenKSK, the open-source hero we didn’t know we needed.
Developer starlightk7 just dropped a 1:1 replica of the Sony KSK laser board—fully open-source (CERN-OHL-S, no less)—and it’s already in stock. No more hunting eBay for dying parts or praying to the Console Gods. Just plug it in, boot up, and relive your CD-era glory days without the dreaded “No Disc” error.
This isn’t just a fix—it’s preservation. The project covers KSK-1200A (Sega CD Model 1), KSK-1310A (Model 2), and Neo Geo CD frontloaders. More models are coming… if you’ve got a KSK-11 lying around, please, for the love of Sonic, donate it. Starlight’s on a mission to save every variant.
Pro tip: Check out 1upRestorations’ install video. It’s basically a retro tech spa day for your Sega CD.
And hey—if you’ve got a working KSK board or just appreciate this kind of magic? Support the maker. These aren’t just parts… they’re time machines.