Ps3 horrible problem...

Before doing anything else, you should run a lens cleaning disk for dvds through ps3.

Also, im willing to bet it will play ps2 games, since they run on a different format then ps3 ...

If you can read ps2 games, then you dont need to replace the drive unit. If after running the lens cleaner, you still cant play ps3, or ps2 games..

Then you may need to replace the drive unit

it is most lickly a ps2 then because ps3 cant play ps2 or dvds

sounds like a dead Laser they are a dual laser will read DVDs n CDs but wont read Blueray movies or PS3 games

hold the power button down when it is red till you hear the quick beeps then select the file restore this is a diagnostics menu..remember you have to hold the power button down till you see a menu that youve probably never seen

laser is geting week, replace system or send in for repair

the only version of the ps3 that can play ps2 games and dvds is the one shipped from manufacter with 80gb hard drive

the ps3 has backwards compadibility but sometimes you need an update to play it. just contact sony call them and when you get the automated press 0

40 gig that i understand cant ply ps2 games only 60-80 can.

The pal ps2 games and dvds will not play on a Japanese ps3 due to region coding. You can play all ps3 games and blu ray films because they do not use region coding. Some games will also play differently on a ps3, for example, Uncharted: Drakes Fortune (I highly recommend the game) will not have any blood on a Japanese ps3. The region coding feature can not be changed/modified. I would recommend returning Japanese ps3 and purchasing a European model instead if that is possible. Bon chance.

The problem with that is the PS3 that you bought is tuned for Japanese dvds and games, You may have to get your PS3 modded to support the French games. However I am unaware of the legality of having your PS3 modded.
Good Luck