This is a common problem which unfortunately is here to stay. The circular scratch is caused when the Playstation is used in the standing position and the disc is unbalanced and bumps the tray causing small intermittent scratches which eventually build up into one continuous circular scratch affecting the loading of information. Machines operating flat on the ground are a better option to prevent further damage of discs. Discs without “doughnut” type labels are a common culprit for causing unbalance – square or rectangular labels should be avoided.