When your portable CD player EBENCH KH 2257 - 2260 displays the flashing 'CD Read' message and does not read the CD, here are the steps to follow to resolve this issue. Note: this device is a portable MP3-CD player without FM radio function.
First, check the power and batteries: Make sure the player is receiving power properly. If you are using batteries, check that they are not discharged - the flashing battery symbol on the LCD screen indicates a low battery. Recharge the supplied NiCd batteries in the player compartment by inserting the power adapter cable into the 'DC 4.5 V' socket on the left side, sliding the 'CHARGE' switch to the 'ON' position, and waiting for about 15 hours. If the batteries do not work after recharging, replace them with new NiCd AA 1.2 V batteries or non-rechargeable NiMh AA 1.5 V batteries.
Clean the laser lens: Condensation may have formed on the laser scanner lens, especially if the device has been exposed to significant temperature variations. Place the player in a dry environment at normal temperature, remove the CD from the compartment, and leave the device on for at least one hour without using it to allow the condensation to evaporate. If condensation persists after this time, gently clean the laser lens with a dry, clean brush (available at photographic product retailers). Never use a wet brush and never touch the lens with bare fingers, as fingerprints and moisture cause reading defects.
Check the disc and test another one: A damaged, scratched, or very dirty CD cannot be read properly. Inspect your disc for visible scratches or dirt. Try another CD - preferably a standard audio CD, CD-R, or CD-RW in audio format (.cda) or MP3 (.mp3) up to 256 kbps - to determine if the problem is with the disc or the player itself. Insert the disc label side up, press down gently until it clicks, then close the compartment by pressing the lid until you hear an audible click.
Check that the 'HOLD' mode is not activated: If the player does not respond to any buttons, the 'HOLD' slider on the left side of the player may be in the locked position. Slide this switch to the left to disable the button lock and free the controls.
Reset the device: Completely turn off the player by pressing the 'STOP/OFF' button twice (once to enter stop mode, a second time to turn it off - 'POWER OFF' appears). Unplug the power cable or remove the batteries. Wait 1 to 2 minutes, then reconnect the power. This reset may resolve temporary system bugs.
If the player still displays a flashing 'CD Read' after these steps, contact an authorized repair service. Never open the player casing - it contains no user-serviceable parts, and opening it voids the warranty.