Like most of you, I have smudging problems with my 50v500. A while after I got it, a tech came out to look at the problem. Of course, he didn't see the smudges since they only come at certain times. He decided to replace the light box, which of course didn't help.

I was about to take the tv apart and figure out what the problem was myself, but I was way too scared. I entered wipe mode to get the screen all white and I could see many smudges. Out of frustration, I started to wipe them, knowing that it wouldn't do a thing since I can tell they are on the other side of the screen.

I began tapping them. I don't know why. I noticed that one of the smudges became smaller. I wasn't sure if I was just imagining things. So I tapped it harder and sure enough, they began to go away! I thought, "this is great, now I just have to tap all of them", but they were all gone!

I have no idea how long they will stay gone, but try it anyway. Thanks for all the info.
I had this when my set was a couple of months old. I could also get them to go away, but they would always come back shortly thereafter. I doubt you'll be able to make them disappear for good.

I called Hitachi about it and they sent someone to look at it. The guy said that the screen was probably installed improperly at the factory. Hitachi paid for the replacement (just outside of the screen warranty period).

ok i taped on the screen and i saw a little dust flying around behind the screen, i thought that that area was airtight, has anyone had the same problem? im having the LE replaced soon under the EW due to the red cloud issue. Im not sure how these lcdrp tv are set up but i would think dust flying around back there would get on the lcd chip, lens etc, i have noticed the pq has degraded over time but i thought it had to do with the LE, is a little dust back there common or is this something that should be taken care of under the EW also if you guys could tell me if any of your v500 mention the virtual 1080p processer look at my post 1250 thanks guys

My light engine was finally replaced this weekend after nearly 2 months of waiting for parts. The picture looks great again, but the fan is noticably louder than it was before. It is audible during normal viewing, and changes in frequency every 4-5 seconds so that it is very noticable. I called the repair man and he was not helpful at all...but there was a bit of a language barrier. Should I just call the warranty company?

Yay! After waiting three months, I got my new light engine!


Wait, what's that in the gray borders... That, there... The banding.

Crap.

Well, the big vertical bars are gone, to be replaced by tight (1/2inch) vertical bars. They are not as noticable, but the BRAND NEW horizontal bars are quite noticable, as well as the purple haze growing from the bottom of the screen (clearly a cloud). The picture is noticably more grainy too.

I just checked my extended warranty. Three service calls in a 12 month period will warrant a replacement. My wife is going to call tomorrow and fire up the flames, hopefully I can get credit for this pile of crap. If I can't get that, I'm throwing the thing on craigslist and tapping into the tax return for something new.

Yay! After waiting three months, I got my new light engine!


Wait, what's that in the gray borders... That, there... The banding.

Crap.

Well, the big vertical bars are gone, to be replaced by tight (1/2inch) vertical bars. They are not as noticable, but the BRAND NEW horizontal bars are quite noticable, as well as the purple haze growing from the bottom of the screen (clearly a cloud). The picture is noticably more grainy too.

I just checked my extended warranty. Three service calls in a 12 month period will warrant a replacement. My wife is going to call tomorrow and fire up the flames, hopefully I can get credit for this pile of crap. If I can't get that, I'm throwing the thing on craigslist and tapping into the tax return for something new.

Do you know why it took you thre months to get a new light engine? That seems like a very long time to wait.

3 months is nothing, I am going on 6! I just got a call yesterday from the repair department, they are showing up today to replace my LE I ordered in Sept of last year.

UPDATE


Local tech shop just installed my new LE. So far so good, the image is considerably better, I didn't realise just how used to the "red wash" effect the old LE had. I watched in detail as they dissasembled and installed the new LE. Then re-assembled the unit. The new LE's have a larger fan and more open gratings for airflow. I can confirm however, these new units do NOT come with a new bulb. That is a seperate component. My bulb has over 5500hrs on it so the time is getting near for a replacement. The tech also confirmed that the V500A is the SECOND generation of this unit and there are some technical differences between it and the V500.

It took the two of them about an hour to rip apart and install the new unit assemble. Then entered the SM and reset the LE counter, checked the screen image allignment and they were off. So far so good.

i having my LE replaced this week on a 60v500a. has anyone seen any improvement other then fixing the red cloud eg shaper picture, better contrast etc. also i have seen on other threads stating that the bulb is replaced with the LE so i guess it depends on where the part was obtained. also im not to happy they have to take my tv for a week, i see some of you have had the repair done in your homes. so i am going to push for them to do it in my home, i don't entirely trust them to take my tv and i also fear it will come back with other problems what do you guys think?

I don't see you can not have your LE replaced at home. Mine was and it didn't take that long. Unfortunately, the new LE does not come with a bulb. It is a seperate component. I did try to get one under my EW but even the EW does not cover lamps.

i thought they could do this in home i will call them tomorrow and push hard for them to repair it in my home. is the pq any better besides the red cloud?

Well, I got so used to the red wash that I am still thinking the image is better than when I first got the set but, now I am thinking it is definately equal, possibly slightly better but who knows. I have been dealing with this issue now for 7 months! I am just glad it is over

Has anyone without a warranty gotten any kind of service from Hitachi? I bought mine from Sears and have a blue cloud! It isn't bad if I don't run it long. I also notice the gray bars have "burned in" a bit. I tried the "wipe" but it never went away. Of course, I'm out of warranty, but with all the problems Hit has to know, right?

Cheers

Smooth,
I talked Hitachi into paying for a new LE and the labor even while I was nearly a year out of the manuf. warranty and I didn't have an extended warranty. Took a while on the phone with Hit customer service but they finally agreed to pay for it.

I had the blue cloud issue and the red bloom problem. The blue cloud gradually got worse and worse (larger and larger) to the point where it was un-watchable and covered about 1/3 of the screen. After waiting about 2.5 months for a new LE I decided to get a new TV. I'm very happy with my 50" sony plasma!

Just got a call from service dept. that my 50v500 finally had the LE replaced (they took it to their shop for about 2 weeks). I'm going to give it to my parents. YES I told them to hang on to their current TV just in case the Hitachi flakes out again.

-Spike out

Smooth,
BTW, once the blue cloud started getting worse I also noticed burn in of the side bars. I used black side bars and did not stretch 4x3 material. The bars became very noticeably burnt in towards the end... I certainly hope the new LE fixed this.
-Spike

well after talking and insisting with the service center to make the repair in my home i was told that the techs that do this repair only do it in there shop so i guess i have no choice. they stated that the part is in and it would only take 1 or 2 days to get my tv back. i also stated i would be documenting the exact condition of my tv and i expect it to be returned the same way (scratchs etc.) i also told them i was concerned that they may mess up somthing else that would effect PQ they stated to me that if something else would go wrong and if i was not satisfied i could make another claim and that would count as 2 repairs out of 3 towordes replacement since they concider the LE a PQ problem

Well, thats is a pain. I do not have an easy way to move a TV as large as these are unless they come and pick it up. I still do not understand why they would not install it at home?? My tech told me its pretty basic and its all one peace, there is nothing overly difficult to it from my observations. You definately need two people as they have to lift off the screen from the Light assembly. I was very impressed with the tech's they knew exactly what there were doing. I even specifically asked if they needed to tv at there shop when I started this process and they said no, it only take about 1.5 hrs to do and there is very little to configure out of the box. I asked them to check the position in the SM and they did but that was it. They actually adjusted nothing in the SM after the install except resetting the counter on the LE.

i don't know if this particular store (P.C. Richards) has a different policy about this repair. I have delt with them in the past and its always been positive oh btw they did state they will be replacing the bulb along with the LE although it is a different part #

Just figured I post my little HATORADE story.

My brother in law and I both bought the 60V500 around the same time. Mine (thank GOD) has not had any major issues other than the lamp going after 14 months. But he had a dead pixel creep up. Well after a while dealing with CC, they came to take a look and decided it was better to just issue him full credit (after 18 months mind you) so that he can choose something else.
He ended up getting with the new 60" SONY SXRD 1080P (Sorry didn't memorize the model #). Man what a sweet TV! No Screen Door what-so-ever and the blacks look great! I am so hating on him right now... makes me want to "accidentally" mess up mine (it is under extended warranty)... Just venting.

how many dead pixels did he have? i was told that there needed to be at least 6 missing or dead pixels before they would consider it a problem.

my service center told me that 8 pixels was the minimum before they would even come out and look. I am not sure what they do, a LE swap will not cure this issue, they would have to replace the LCD panels and I am not sure what that involves. From my understanding (and I could be wrong) it is not nearly as easy a replacing the LE.

what input do you guys prefer dvi or component? on my 60v500a the dvi input generally produces better pq on all of my equipment except my dvd player, the only problem with the dvi input(1) is the lack of color saturation (as compared to the component input 2 ) have any of you noticed this? if yes is there any way to fix this in the service menu?

New to the forum and AVS, not new to the 50v500 problems. Had the "pink push" problems about a year ago. Luckily I insisted that we purchase the EW from CC. Thank god. That was easily fixed by adjustments to the service menu by the tech. Only took a few minutes. And now at about 3600 hours, the "red cloud". I have called CC and have a tech coming out on Thursday. To be honest, hope I get an exchange. I really liked the 50v500 at first, but my friend just bought the Sony SXRD 60", wow, that is nice! I am really glad this forum is here. Sort of a support system for us poor bastards who looked at the new Sony and Hitachi LCD projections a couple years ago and thought, I can't wait for the Sony (since it was out of stock) I need one of these TV's now. For anyone getting a new TV, insist on the EW! I will keep everyone informed as to the status of the repairs.

We all understand the frustration of the first generation LCD RPTV's. However, do not let this one experience ruin the taste for hit. The Sony's had many more issues than we are dealing with and Hit is recognized as the leader in widescreen technology. You should see the new lines, quite impressive, and I still think Hit image is sharper than Sony or any other line despite the problems with this particular set.

I have now been waiting three weeks for my light engine replacement because of the red cloud issue.

I stumbled on a pretty curious thing. I was watching something over the weekend, it was a darker scene, and the PQ was just horrible as it had no detail in the blacks at all and the red cloud was obviously apparent radiating out from the center of the screen.

I upped my brightness from 50% to about 80%. I got back my black details and the red cloud went away. My bulb has over 5000 hours on it. Is it possible that the bulb is dimming because of age and that the red cloud only becomes apparent because of a dim and failing bulb?

I am sure that others would have thought of this and ruled it out, but upping the brightness has made me enjoy my Hitachi again and has shut off that part of my brain that is constantly on the lookout for the red cloud.

It is a nice theory but I do not think the bulb is the issue. In my case, I also had this red cloud and my bulb has almost 6000hrs on it. When they replaced the LE and put the same "old" bulb back in, the red cloud was gone.
The cloud is stemming from heat burn due to lack or not enough airflow threw the LE and over the LCD panels.

My replacement light engine is on order and not expected in until May, which is three months from now!

I called Hitachi, who claims to now be expediting the delivery.

My replacement light engine is on order and not expected in until May, which is three months from now!

I called Hitachi, who claims to now be expediting the delivery.
who is doing the service on your tv? i had the service man come out 2 weeks ago and in about 5 days latter the told me the le had come in, today they came and picked up my tv, they wanted to pick it up last week but today was the only day i could be home, also the guy who picked up my tv said he has seen many of these models getting the LE replaced he also stated he was getting alot of repeat replacements as well, which makes me believe that hitachi is using the same part #, if they are, its just a matter of time for the new LE to go bad

I can't believe I know as much about the light engines in these things as I do, but Hitachi actually redesigned the LE, probably because of the defect involved here. The old part number is UX22202. The new one is UX22202D. UX22202 has been discontinued and is not available from any source. The situation is probably better for the 60v version, as opposed to the 50v because there are a lot more 50s than 60s.

A local repair shop here in NY is doing the repair. They also told me that they have done a a fair number of these. They said the parts are drop shipped from Hitachi and that it is extremely rare for a delay like this to happen. I guess that there are a lot of LEs that need to be replaced! I hope that expediting the part works.

The delay (5 months for me) is due to the redesign of the LE. From my understanding every original V500 and V500A is suffering from this issue and Hit just can not keep up with the LE replacements. I kid you not, I waited over 5 months for my replacement and I can confirm the part number on the warranty service slip I had to sign (and have a copy of) list that new part number as the LE.

My tech told me he has done no less than 10 LE replacements ALL for the red cloud issue. So far though, only one re-visit after the LE replacement. I do believe that Hit has fixed the issue with the redesign. For anyone who is going to get there LE replaced, have a good look at the new vs the old LE assembly. The fan is larger and there are more vent panels to allow for airflow. Even if it doesn't fix the issue, us with the EW will just have to place another call in about 18 months and get yet another LE. I have 2 more years on my EW, in another two my TV will be about 5 yrs old and I am sure I will be itching for a newer model with built in tuner, and HDMI input. In any case, the LE was just over $900 plus $150 labour to install it in my home, my $300 EW just more than paid for itself!

PS Lawguy.....on my warranty invoice it lists the part # as UX22202DR so I am not sure if that extra "R" is yet another revamp or if you just missed the R the first time :)

Uwish, I believe that you got a remanufactured light engine and that the "R" at the end indicates that. That fact is further revealed by the stated cost, $900. A brand new LE costs about $1,500. Google the part number and this should be confirmed.

By the way, what makes you think that V500A's are affected as well? Mine happens to be a V500A, but I seem to be in the very small minority around here. It could just be that the V500As are now just aging enough to be affected and I could one of the first.

my unit is a V500A and the tech told me that this model also suffers from the red cloud issue. According to the hit rep I spoke with they did not get the new, redesigned LE into mass production before switching to the V525. Thus, it is fairly safe to assume that the vast majority of these set are going to suffer this effect.

my unit is a V500A and the tech told me that this model also suffers from the red cloud issue. According to the hit rep I spoke with they did not get the new, redesigned LE into mass production before switching to the V525. Thus, it is fairly safe to assume that the vast majority of these set are going to suffer this effect.

Loooooooooong story short guys:
I have the 50v500a model, bought it Feb 2004. If you look at some of my previous posts, you will see more info about my BS and this set.
Here is a breakdown of my situation:

Purchase: Feb/04

Issue #1: Sept/06 - Red cloud, need LE REPLACEMENT #1, took 2 months to replace, I was without TV since they had it at the Extended warranty companies Shop.

Issue #2: Nov/06 Get the TV back, right away I see Vertical Banding across screen, tech called, visits........ advises: need LE REPLACEMENT #2
I wait another month or so, THIS time TV REMAINED in my home unitl part arrived

Issue #3 Feb/06 Second LE part arrives, techs visit, install, takes 3 hrs, they leave, I watch TV for a couple days, THEN notice Vertical banding again on TV, this time fainter, but also narrower, but noticeable enough to warrant ..........hey........ you guessed it! tech came back out....... for LE REPLACEMENT #3 ! I am now awaiting to see if I can forgo ONE more major defect and get the TV replaced NOW. I have been speaking with the Manager of purchase place.
My Lemon clause states that on the 4th major part to be considered needing to be replaced, AND within 3 yrs, a replacement will be done, no questions asked. My problem is, this is the 3rd, but still ridiculous!

For all who wonder, the SENIOR Tech that came out this last time to look at the banding did have some interesting information. He was pretty straight-forward when he said "Ya, the only thing I can recommend is an LE replacement, or a complete TV Replacement" and that "Too bad they don't make these LE's anymore for THESE TV's, all the LE's are REFURBISHED, and this is why you are very well may experience and in your case HAVE experienced a continuing problem. Luck of the draw really to get one in fantastic condition since so many have gone bad"
........... WOW! this is what he said! I questioned him, and of course he told me that they DO NOT make BRAND new LE's for this outdated Televisions, the newer models have a different assembly and CANNOT be used for the v500 series..

So there you go, believe it or not........ I DO
After what I have been through, there is no other explanation better than that of this tech.
GOOD LUCK to everyone
I will keep you posted as to whether I will in fact get my replacement 1 repair ahead of the 'lemon' clause

i got a call from my service center and they scheduled to return my tv tuesday 3/7 so that will be only 1 week they will have my tv. i talked to a tech, he told me they were using a rebuilt LE, i told him of my concerns, if they are using the same LE, i would expect im going to have the same problem down the road. the tech was very friendly he told me that there were some minor improvements but its essentially the same part, he also told me some people are having good results after replacement but most aren't he said the co. policy is 3 major repairs for replacement of the tv but since this particular issue with hitachi LE, the co has been replacing some tvs after two repairs

I think that new LEs are still being made. They are in stock and can be ordered from here:

http://www.tritronicsinc.com/cgi-bin/onramp.exe?pgm=itemdet_cs.bbx&custnum=RETAIL&password=1128203731&id=UX22202D++++++++++++

Most warranty companies probably want to go with refurb parts because they are much CHEAPER - less than half the price of new. I guess that this should come as no surprise.

I can only imagine the frustration with multiple LE replacements, so for my "new" LE that was replaced about two weeks ago is great. I notice no artifacts and the image quaility is back to the way it was when I first bought this set.

I can only imagine the frustration with multiple LE replacements, so for my "new" LE that was replaced about two weeks ago is great. I notice no artifacts and the image quaility is back to the way it was when I first bought this set.
im fustrated already and im only going through my first LE replacement. im skeptical that i will see any improvement for very long, i started to experience the red cloud only about three months after i received my tv but i didn't think it was as big of a problem as it was, i got somewhat use to it even though it got worse over time. thanks to this forum i finally called for service. in reality i don't mind if the LE goes bad again it just brings me closer to replacement. i think the v500a has very good pq but, imo its not up to par with some of todays displays eg sony sxrd models

And I totally agree with you however, you are comparing a first gen LCDRPTV to a 4th generation RPTV which I do not think is totally fair. If I goto any store and look at the current LCDRPTV etc the PQ is supirior to the V500 and I would hope it is. I have seen the V8xx series next to the Sony and the Samsung and I am still of the opinion that the Hit image is better. Again that is subjective and totally personal.

i have had a bias toward hitachi pq i have owned them for the last 15 years but given the option today im leaning to the sxrd i feel since hitachi doesn't offer a 1080p display, i feel going with hit(720). is a step backward

I will be calling again for my second replacement here fairly soon. The problem with this current replacement light engine really became apparent while watching the winter Olympics in hi-def. With all the light colored background, I noticed that the snow looked, for lack of a better word, "dirty." Then I came to realize that there was uneven, brownish discoloration across various portions of the screen, along with a bright band visible along the lower third of the screen and also rising up along the left hand portion of the screen. And, of course, there's still vertical banding.

Hitachi came through and expedited the shipment of my replacement LE.

The service shop does pick ups only on Saturday and they claim it will take a week to fix. They gave me some story about it being impossible to replace these in the customer house because it is too complicated, etc. I didn't want to get them angry before they fix my set so I didn't argue.


Looks like I will be without my baby for the premiere of the Sopranos this Sunday.

thats pretty much what they told me, they stated on hitachi the job is more difficult then other brands mine is coming back tomorrow that will be exactly one week ill post tomorrow to let you guys how it turned ont

i just received my tv back today initial results seem ok the LE part # is ux22203 i think it is a new part and not the rebuilt one i was expecting if anybody is familiar with the # please let me know also the bulb WAS replaced the total on the repair would have been $1689.80 if i didn't have an EW. like i said initial results seem ok there is some very minor banding also some minor convergence issues on the corners and some video noise but the tv is still very cold it almost like they kept it in the truck over night so i need to give it some time to adjust on the positive side all the missing pixels are fixed the blacks have more detail in them and the overall PQ seems to be improved, also my old bulb had about 5000 hrs on it and what a difference the new bulb makes

Are you sure the part number isn't UX22203D? The "D" variation is the fixed one.

See this link, which show that UX22203 is not an active part but that UX22203D is the alternative:

http://www.tritronicsinc.com/cgi-bin/onramp.exe?pgm=itemdet_cs.bbx&custnum=RETAIL&password=1123242432&id=UX22203

according to the invoice its ux22203m im thinking the( m )might be for something else the part # is writen in with the (m) writen much lighter so maybe they just didnt include the letter or read it wrong

My Parents 50V500 had the typical Red Cloud issue that Hitachi has never heard of. :rolleyes:

Luckily I purchased them a 5 year EW Contract 4 months after the 1 year ran out. Tech came out, needs a Light Engine. He knew the part number off the top of his head (pretty good for a problem that Hitachi has never heard of).

6 weeks later LE shows up, 2 monkeys come out and replace it. They basically destroy the set in the process. I wasn't there but my parents said they had no idea what they were doing. The TV powered up but the picture, well if you can call it a picture was just wasted.

10 days later CC gets Authorization to replace Set.

My parents picked up a 50vf820 free of charge tonight, I'm going over there in 30 min to set it up. I did a quick search for settings but doesn't seem like anyone on here has that set?

My 50V500 has the red cloud issue, although not as bad my parents but bad enough that It will probably be unwatchable in a year. No EW for me though so I get to throw it away and buy something else. Won't be a Hitachi. :D

My Parents 50V500 had the typical Red Cloud issue that Hitachi has never heard of. :rolleyes:

Luckily I purchased them a 5 year EW Contract 4 months after the 1 year ran out. Tech came out, needs a Light Engine. He knew the part number off the top of his head (pretty good for a problem that Hitachi has never heard of).

6 weeks later LE shows up, 2 monkeys come out and replace it. They basically destroy the set in the process. I wasn't there but my parents said they had no idea what they were doing. The TV powered up but the picture, well if you can call it a picture was just wasted.

10 days later CC gets Authorization to replace Set.

My parents picked up a 50vf820 free of charge tonight, I'm going over there in 30 min to set it up. I did a quick search for settings but doesn't seem like anyone on here has that set?

My 50V500 has the red cloud issue, although not as bad my parents but bad enough that It will probably be unwatchable in a year. No EW for me though so I get to throw it away and buy something else. Won't be a Hitachi. :D
i would call hitachi again they DO know about the problem may be you got a bad csr i would ask for a supervisior some people have got there LE fixed after there warranty expired or at least got them to pay for the part look in this thread

My Parents 50V500 had the typical Red Cloud issue that Hitachi has never heard of. :rolleyes:

Luckily I purchased them a 5 year EW Contract 4 months after the 1 year ran out. Tech came out, needs a Light Engine. He knew the part number off the top of his head (pretty good for a problem that Hitachi has never heard of).

6 weeks later LE shows up, 2 monkeys come out and replace it. They basically destroy the set in the process. I wasn't there but my parents said they had no idea what they were doing. The TV powered up but the picture, well if you can call it a picture was just wasted.

10 days later CC gets Authorization to replace Set.

My parents picked up a 50vf820 free of charge tonight, I'm going over there in 30 min to set it up. I did a quick search for settings but doesn't seem like anyone on here has that set?



My 50V500 has the red cloud issue, although not as bad my parents but bad enough that It will probably be unwatchable in a year. No EW for me though so I get to throw it away and buy something else. Won't be a Hitachi. :D
Call Hitachi. They agreed to replace mine out of warranty.

an up date most of the issues i had posted earlier are gone convergence, banding, the only thing there is still the issue with the minor video noise, has any of you noticed this after having the LE replaced? so far i am impressed with the PQ i had forgot how this tv looked when new, but i am still cautious ill see how things go in the next few days

I am on week 3 of my replacement engine and I have not noticed any noise...

My v500 is two years old ... I now have the red cloud. Any suggestions? Sounds like people have had some success getting Hitachi to share some of the repair cost.

My v500 is two years old ... I now have the red cloud. Any suggestions? Sounds like people have had some success getting Hitachi to share some of the repair cost.


First call Hitachi and let them know that you have this problem. Be very nice about it. For me, they suggested that I call in a repairman (at my cost) to diagnose the problem and then to call them again.

I did that. The repairman recommended the LE replacement. I called Hitachi back and told them what I was told and also offered that this is a known problem with these sets (as the repairman and many on this board have stated). After denying that there was a known problem, they offered to pay for parts and labor of the LE replacement.

Hitachi really is a class act here and is doing the right thing. Seeing how they are handling this leaves no doubt in my mind that they stand behind their products.

I bought my 50v500a back in August '05 (wish I would have read this thread before I bought it) and have not had any cloud issues yet. However, reading through this thread, there is also a lot of talk about vertical banding. I think I have some on my TV, although I am not entirely sure. Does anyone have some pictures they can post so I can know if my vertical lines are "normal"?

Thanks in advance

The repairmen came and picked my TV up on Saturday. I hope I get it back soon.

The repairmen came and picked my TV up on Saturday. I hope I get it back soon.
LOL hope you get your set back soon. in my case it took exactly 1 week to get mine back. did they have the part in before they took your set?

LOL hope you get your set back soon. in my case it took exactly 1 week to get mine back. did they have the part in before they took your set?


Yes. The part came in after Hitachi expedited it. It would have taken until May otherwise.

Yes. The part came in after Hitachi expedited it. It would have taken until May otherwise.
good it shouldn't take to long when you get your set back let us know if you see improvements i am very happy with the fix

what resolution are you guys feeding your v500a i have a dish 942 receiver and i can change the output res. to 720p or 1080i, does this model have the virtual 1080p processer, if yes how does it work, what do you guys think looks best

what resolution are you guys feeding your v500a i have a dish 942 receiver and i can change the output res. to 720p or 1080i, does this model have the virtual 1080p processer, if yes how does it work, what do you guys think looks best
My provider is TWC and I have the SA-8300 Passport. I have it set to pass through 480p, 720p and 1080i.

Would it make any difference to set the box to convert everything to 720p or does the TV do a better job of the conversion?

My provider is TWC and I have the SA-8300 Passport. I have it set to pass through 480p, 720p and 1080i.

Would it make any difference to set the box to convert everything to 720p or does the TV do a better job of the conversion?
it seems to do a better job with 1080i which confuses me, being it is a 720p display although it is close

We had the red blob too. We bought the tv in May 2004, did not get the EW (big mistake, won't happen again!). Red light probably started 1 year later. It didn't really bother me until Nov. 2005, as a matter of fact, DH did not even notice it. I noticed it, especially while watching our favorite show LOST. Finally made the time to call Hitachi. They said to call a Service Center and they would cover the labor, but not the part. Guy came out and said it could be one of 2 parts and he needed to take the TV. I said No Way, find out how much these parts could cost. Called them in a week, talked to a different guy, he said it would be either $1300 for new LE or $600 for rebuilt LE. Called Hitachi again. They escalated me to the next level of CS. I was not going to pay that kind of money, esp. since I read here that it is such a common problem. Well, Hitachi ended up paying for the part and we had to pay for Labor ($400). The tv was taken to the shop. It was gone for 2 weeks. I am assuming they did not order the part until they had the authorization, so it was pretty fast IMO. So I think being persistent is the key. Now i wonder if I had complained some more they would have covered it 100% but since we were out of warranty by over 18 months, I think we did ok.

The picture is great! I think the red blob affected more than we realized.
Now I just have a fat black vertical line on the left side of the screen when viewing it with the sidebars. I wonder what that is? Do we need to do an adjustment?

Thanks for listening!

Stefanie

Oh, my model is the 50v500a.

We had the red blob too. We bought the tv in May 2004, did not get the EW (big mistake, won't happen again!). Red light probably started 1 year later. It didn't really bother me until Nov. 2005, as a matter of fact, DH did not even notice it. I noticed it, especially while watching our favorite show LOST. Finally made the time to call Hitachi. They said to call a Service Center and they would cover the labor, but not the part. Guy came out and said it could be one of 2 parts and he needed to take the TV. I said No Way, find out how much these parts could cost. Called them in a week, talked to a different guy, he said it would be either $1300 for new LE or $600 for rebuilt LE. Called Hitachi again. They escalated me to the next level of CS. I was not going to pay that kind of money, esp. since I read here that it is such a common problem. Well, Hitachi ended up paying for the part and we had to pay for Labor ($400). The tv was taken to the shop. It was gone for 2 weeks. I am assuming they did not order the part until they had the authorization, so it was pretty fast IMO. So I think being persistent is the key. Now i wonder if I had complained some more they would have covered it 100% but since we were out of warranty by over 18 months, I think we did ok.

The picture is great! I think the red blob affected more than we realized.
Now I just have a fat black vertical line on the left side of the screen when viewing it with the sidebars. I wonder what that is? Do we need to do an adjustment?

Thanks for listening!

Stefanie i think you did good with paying $400. (which is what some pay for an EW ) i think some have gotten them to pay for the labor but i don't know how long they were out of warranty, but i think its generally just for labor, imo there is something to be said for hitachi's policy they have seemed to own up to the fact that this was a major problem and is honoring to replace the LE imo most co wont even consider offering to fix a problem after the warranty period is over. and yes i think the red blob affected the picture more than i had realized also because the pq is better than i ever remember

i think you did good with paying $400. (which is what some pay for an EW ) i think some have gotten them to pay for the labor but i don't know how long they were out of warranty, but i think its generally just for labor, imo there is something to be said for hitachi's policy they have seemed to own up to the fact that this was a major problem and is honoring to replace the LE imo most co wont even consider offering to fix a problem after the warranty period is over. and yes i think the red blob affected the picture more than i had realized also because the pq is better than i ever remember
I agree, I was plesantly surprised that Hitachi stepped up. And to us, paying $400 is in our mind like paying for the EW, hopefully we won't have any more issues!

This is a great forum!!

Stefanie

I got my 50v500A back on Saturday and am very pleased with the outcome. Good-bye to the red cloud. I guess I had forgotten how good the picture is on these models. I was a little bit afraid that I might trade my red cloud in for some other problem, like vertical banding, but that has not happened. My picture is as perfect as it has ever been.

Are the new LE's any better than getting a refurbished one? Hopefully the new LE's being installed are less likely to develop the red cloud problem than a refurb.

Are the new LE's any better than getting a refurbished one? Hopefully the new LE's being installed are less likely to develop the red cloud problem than a refurb.


The old model light engine is not being used at all anymore. Apparently the red cloud issue is close to inevitable with that model because it does not allow for sufficient airflow. All light engines available today have corrected this problem, or so I have been told.

That is my understanding also. Hit claims they no longer manufacture refurbished LE (though, there are some still available). The new LE's and the refurbished ones have all the current fixes which includes more venting, larger fan and more robust circuitry.

Well, it finally happened. After two more months of phone calls and people not willing to touch my TV, GE (extended warranty company) called and said that they will send me $1400 (give or take) for the TV. All I have to do is fax them the recipt for a new tv. We asked what they wanted to do with the old 50V, and they said "whatever you want... we suggest trying to sell it to a local repair place for parts".

So, anyone want to buy a 50V500 with a marginal light engine?

Well, it finally happened. After two more months of phone calls and people not willing to touch my TV, GE (extended warranty company) called and said that they will send me $1400 (give or take) for the TV. All I have to do is fax them the recipt for a new tv. We asked what they wanted to do with the old 50V, and they said "whatever you want... we suggest trying to sell it to a local repair place for parts".

So, anyone want to buy a 50V500 with a marginal light engine?

Congratulations on your success with GE. It probably isn't as much as you spent on this TV, but for only a little bit more money, you can get current generation technology.

Where are you located? I am interested in your old V500.

I finally had mine fixed under warranty after a six week wait, and all looks well. Still a lot of overscan unfortunately.

David

theres a 50v500a on sale at uecweb for 899. Its a refurb and has only a 30 day warranty would you guys take that chance.

theres a 50v500a on sale at uecweb for 899. Its a refurb and has only a 30 day warranty would you guys take that chance.

UEC offers extended warranties, which I would recomend that you purchase if you go with this TV. You are gambling that the LE has already been properly replaced. If not, I would guess that a new light engine would be in your future.

I see that they offer extended warranties but they are outrageous in price. I will have to think about this one.

hello, i am new here and was looking for a service manual for my 50v500. i used the search but came up with nothing. i can get one off of ebay, but i figured i would check here first. thanks in advance

It is the 50v500a version does that mean it has an updated light engine? Also if i consider this tv does anyone know a place online that sells extended warranties cheap because uec is just too much. If the tv does have the updated light engine then i shouldnt have too much to worry about correct? Also is the dvi on the tv hdcp?

It is the 50v500a version does that mean it has an updated light engine? Also if i consider this tv does anyone know a place online that sells extended warranties cheap because uec is just too much. If the tv does have the updated light engine then i shouldnt have too much to worry about correct? Also is the dvi on the tv hdcp?
the dvi is hdcp compliant, i have a 60v500a and it needed a replacement LE

Ok thanks. Would i be better off getting the 50v710? Its only a couple hundred more at uecweb. I havent seen many posts on this tv about having a light engine problem problem like the v500. Does anyone know if it uses the same LE or if they use an updated LE in the 710?

Thanks again.

Ok thanks. Would i be better off getting the 50v710? Its only a couple hundred more at uecweb. I havent seen many posts on this tv about having a light engine problem problem like the v500. Does anyone know if it uses the same LE or if they use an updated LE in the 710?

Thanks again.
to be honest with you im not familiar with the v710, i think it was the model after the v500 the only advice i could give is if the price is right and you can get a extended warranty for a reasonable price i would go for it, after the fix of the LE on the v500, the pq is beautiful, imo i would put it up to most of todays tv, i would think the v710 would have simular pq if not better best of luck

has anyone tried adding a filter to this tv to make the blacks darker 9(instead of the grey that they are now)?

has anyone tried adding a filter to this tv to make the blacks darker 9(instead of the grey that they are now)?
what kind of components do you have hooked up because i have a simular issue some feeds, the blacks are grayish black and some feeds are deep black, also did you ever have the LE replaced, the replacement improved the black levels dramatically

just a dvd player and a vcr..

just a dvd player and a vcr..
ok i have had issues with a sony dvd player using hdmi/dvi only, not when its hooked up with component though, i don't think its a calibration issue because my hd stb hooked up via hdmi/dvi produces excellent blacks so i would think its a equipment issue. if you could try some other components to see if the black levels improve, also did you ever have the LE replaced? (i was having the red cloud issue and, having the LE replaced helped considerably)

I've had some problems with my 50V500. Purchased in March 2004 and in June 2004 it developed a purple "smudge" on the screen. They replaced the light engine in July 2004. It has been great ever since, until today. The set seems to have lost some brightness, and now the picture has a slight red tint. Sometimes it is not very noticeable, depending on the show. I've also noticed that my HD channels are more grainy, in addition to the slight red tint and low brightness.

It's difficult to be sure if my recent problem is the same that others have had, but it seems like it might be. Too bad everyone tends to describe the same things in their own way.

I do have an extended warranty through March 2008, so hopefully that will get me fixed up. Purchased through CC. With there being so many LE problems reported, do you think that the new LE I received way back in June 2004 was probably not any better off at that time? With all of the recent problems I've read, it sounds like I'm going to need another LE replacement. We'll see, I plan to make the call for service tomorrow. If they verify a problem, that will be two strikes on this set, one more and I'm entitled to a replacement per the terms of my extended warranty. With two problems already, it's a little difficult to not hope for a third and then hope they exchange it for the latest and greatest model!

i have a new problem with my 60v500a, its losing color! this has happened almost over night the colors seem to be fading they have an extremely washed out and foggy look to them this happens no matter what input or source, hd or sd, i went into the menu to try to fix it via the color management and color decoder but that just made the areas bloom bright with no improvement in the colors. i had the LE replaced about a month ago and all was fine up until a day ago has anyone had this problem or suggestions? i think it might be time for another service call

i have a new problem with my 60v500a, its losing color! this has happened almost over night the colors seem to be fading they have an extremely washed out and foggy look to them this happens no matter what input or source, hd or sd, i went into the menu to try to fix it via the color management and color decoder but that just made the areas bloom bright with no improvement in the colors. i had the LE replaced about a month ago and all was fine up until a day ago has anyone had this problem or suggestions? i think it might be time for another service call

Have you doen a factory reset?

Have you doen a factory reset?
no i'm not to familular with the service menu i can get into it but i really don't know what all the items mean if you could let me know what to do, as well as any tweaks you recommend i would apprecate it

Have you doen a factory reset?
no i'm not to familular with the service menu i can get into it but i really don't know what all the items mean if you could let me know what to do, as well as any tweaks you recommend i would appreciate it

The problem I had with the picture losing brightness and there being a slight red/pink tint to the picture was fixed. The tech went into the service menu and fixed the problem in a matter of minutes. On the work order he wrote "Performed pink pix alignment procedure".

I've had my set since March 2004 and have not had to replace the lamp yet. The service tech said that he thinks my days are numbered and it will not be long before I need a new one.

Does anyone know if the lamp replacement is covered under the Circuit City, City Advantage extended warranty plan? My plan goes through March 2008, so I'm sure that the lamp will die on me before then.

The problem I had with the picture losing brightness and there being a slight red/pink tint to the picture was fixed. The tech went into the service menu and fixed the problem in a matter of minutes. On the work order he wrote "Performed pink pix alignment procedure".

I've had my set since March 2004 and have not had to replace the lamp yet. The service tech said that he thinks my days are numbered and it will not be long before I need a new one.

Does anyone know if the lamp replacement is covered under the Circuit City, City Advantage extended warranty plan? My plan goes through March 2008, so I'm sure that the lamp will die on me before then.
a buddy of mine just bought a ew from CC and the bulb is covered

Also would like to try this set as my computer monitor but not sure thats possible as have read that LCD's and this one esp, cant be hooked up to the computer
I have my computer hooked up via an ATI card + DVI-component video dongle. Make sure you know what you're doing with the resolutions and settings before you hook it up though. The TV doesn't have a feature to block incompatible refresh frequencies or resolutions, it just tries to display whatever you pass to it, so it's important to have your resolution set properly.

I use the optimized 1080i setting from the ATI driver, which seems to work best: no overscan and only a little black matting around the sides. I think it's actually 1776x1000x30Hz (60Hz interlaced).

When I switch channels in the middle of the screen there is a red cloud in the middle. My plan of action is

1. Get the receipt (assume warranty is transferable) and then call Hitachi and ask them for help/to fix the issue.

2. If that doesn't work, I can try reading service menu and this thread fully to see if I can fix it myself.
I would definitely contact Hitachi. Perhaps if it hasn't been registered with them, there's no need to mention you're the second owner. The original owner didn't purchase an EW? That's transferrable.

Find the service manual online (links have been posted before) if you can't get a LE replacement. It will step you through various settings that may help (but can also hurt, so have confidence you know what you're doing before doing it).

All suggestions welcome. I guess in retrospect, I could have bought a CRT RPTV for cheaper (couple of hundred $$ less) without problems, but in my naivete thought this TV was good.
I don't think you were naive; this is a good TV. It does have some issues, but so do all micro-display RPTVs. I guess I can't be a fair judge against other models, but I've had mine for 2 years with only a ghosting issue that was fixed by a SM adjustment. It has worked flawlessly otherwise, so it is possible.

In any event, a problematic LCD RPTV still dusts any CRT RPTV, especially if you got it for only a couple hundred $$$ more.

Hi All

Unfortunately I just read this thread after I bought my used Hitachi 50V500 locally for what I thought was a good price. Seller claims he bought it just 6 months ago at either best buy or circuit city, and I should be getting the receipt tomorrow.

My problem is I have the dreaded red cloud issue (right now my DVD player is broken and don't have HD tuner), will be buying one and mainly using it for DVD's and OTA HD. Also would like to try this set as my computer monitor but not sure thats possible as have read that LCD's and this one esp, cant be hooked up to the computer

When I switch channels in the middle of the screen there is a red cloud in the middle. My plan of action is

1. Get the receipt (assume warranty is transferable) and then call Hitachi and ask them for help/to fix the issue.

2. If that doesn't work, I can try reading service menu and this thread fully to see if I can fix it myself.

3. If not, I guess I can live with the red cloud, as it appears only on channel swithces (I don't want to, but not sure what else to do).

All suggestions welcome. I guess in retrospect, I could have bought a CRT RPTV for cheaper (couple of hundred $$ less) without problems, but in my naivete thought this TV was good.

Thanks a lot

Shriram
if the extended warranty is transferable i would just use that, if not then i would call hitachi. if you do call hitachi, remember that some people in this thread have gotten them to pay for the repair after the warranty was over, you need to be persistent , also if you need a good dvdplayer/ ota hd tuner LG makes a combo unit lst 3510a you can get them online or if your lucky you can still find a few at BB or CC the ones i my area still have a few

[QUOTE=shriramosu]Hi All
...
My problem is I have the dreaded red cloud issue (right now my DVD player is broken and don't have HD tuner), will be buying one and mainly using it for DVD's and OTA HD. Also would like to try this set as my computer monitor but not sure thats possible as have read that LCD's and this one esp, cant be hooked up to the computer

When I switch channels in the middle of the screen there is a red cloud in the middle. My plan of action is

1. Get the receipt (assume warranty is transferable) and then call Hitachi and ask them for help/to fix the issue.

2. If that doesn't work, I can try reading service menu and this thread fully to see if I can fix it myself.

3. If not, I guess I can live with the red cloud, as it appears only on channel swithces (I don't want to, but not sure what else to do).

That is where it is today. Sorry but it will get worse. Have been living in denial with mine for a while! Knew it was there, just hadn't got around to making the call. It will start to appear on dark screens and in the shadows. Now I have 3 blue blobs showing on the top of the screen. Going to need the light engine. Service tech is coming in 2 weeks. Does anyone know the status of light engines? For a while they were backordered for many weeks. Is this still the case? I have an EW with CC through 2008, but don't want to repair every 14-16 months. Just hoping they replace it at this point. Will be the third issue. First light engine for me. How are the new ones holding up? (LE I mean) Will let you all know how I make out.

Pablo

Hi everyone. I joined this forum because I too have issues with my 50v500a and the LE failing at about 7700 hours. Funny, the LE went into severe red cloud failure before I needed to replace the lamp. I bought the set in August 2004 - I do not have an EW.

I want to thank everyone that posted about dealing with Hitachi CS. I stated my case to them and they have come back with a first offer of providing full parts free. I told them that it was a nice gesture, but I feel that with the history of LE failures on these sets that the problem should be treated more like a recall and the problem repaired. They told me to find out what labor will cost at my in state authorized repair center, and to call back with that figure and discuss it further. At any rate, the LE will be provided free to me no matter what. On a set with 21 months on it, at least it is something. I have to say that the CS people I have talked to are very professional to deal with. I'm sure they will do more once I have the estimate labor costs.

My big question. I do not want to get an old type refurbished LE from them. I want one of the new style ones that has the bigger cooling holes in it. I figure if I get one of the old ones from Hitachi, it will just overheat again and I'll be right back where I started. Can anyone tell me what the correct new LE part number is? Will I need to specify that they send me one with the bigger cooling holes? What numbers to avoid? Are all the LE's that they send out now fitted with the bigger cooling holes or is there anything else I have to worry about with the replacement LE they are offering me?

Thank you! :)
Eric J

UX22203D is the part number, though I would not worry to much about getting a refurbished unit. From my information, ALL LE new or refurbished have the latest manufacture mods. The tech that replaced mine says they do not manufacture refurbished units anymore that is the primary reason they take so long to get. I waited 6 months to get a new LE. The picture looks even better than I remember it. I am confident that the redesigned LE's will last much longer, when mine was installed I could feel the air pushed out the back by the vent was significant. On the old LE, I could barely feel any airflow.

Any feedback as to how long these are holding up? Seems as if the original LE were getting about 14 months for the red cloud to start. Someone must have some pretty good hours out there on the new LE?

heres some pictures of my problem.........
what causes this?what is this called?what do i do?

ITS COMING THROUGH THE PICTURE NOW..........I NEED MAD HELP.

Science, that's the "red glow" or "red cloud". It is a light engine replacement. Looks like it started a few months ago for it to be that big now.
No one has any feedback on the life of the new light engine design? Tech is coming next week, and I really would like to push them for a new TV. Spent too much money to have to be down without the TV or to have it service again and again. At least my EW is good untill 2008.
Pablo

replacement unit or a different TV is totally dependant on the retailer you purchaced your set from. I know CC and others have a "lemon" law, three fixes and it is replaced with something equivalent. So unless you specifically have one of those types of EW I wouldn't complain, the responsability is on the purchaser for that kind of coverage.

As for new LE life..I do not think anyone has had one of these "new" LE's long enough to make a determination. I have had my new engine since March of this year so far so good. Who knows how long they will last but from my inspection of the new unit I am guessing it should at least double if not tripple the life of the engine. In reality, the old LE's still work, they just have burn issues due to poor ventelation. If I extrapolate this into years, I would run a guess that it should last about 4 to 6 years assuming my average usage remains fairly constant. This is just from the fact that it took 2 years and about 5000 hrs to run into the "red cloud" issue. From what I can tell from discussing the issue with techs and others, the rest of the electronics is fairly robust, hence, I would not expect another component failure outside of the LE.

Science -- Looking at those pictures gave me the chills. It brought it all back.

I remember that it all happened very quickly. It was only a few weeks from the time I first noticed a hint of it to the time that it was detectible while watching TV.

I think that mynew LE has a picture that is even better than the old one ever had. The blacks seem blacker. The colors seem more vibrant. It could be that I forgot how good the old picture was, but I really enjoy my TV again.

replacement unit or a different TV is totally dependant on the retailer you purchaced your set from. I know CC and others have a "lemon" law, three fixes and it is replaced with something equivalent. So unless you specifically have one of those types of EW I wouldn't complain, the responsability is on the purchaser for that kind of coverage.

As for new LE life..I do not think anyone has had one of these "new" LE's long enough to make a determination. I have had my new engine since March of this year so far so good. Who knows how long they will last but from my inspection of the new unit I am guessing it should at least double if not tripple the life of the engine. In reality, the old LE's still work, they just have burn issues due to poor ventelation. If I extrapolate this into years, I would run a guess that it should last about 4 to 6 years assuming my average usage remains fairly constant. This is just from the fact that it took 2 years and about 5000 hrs to run into the "red cloud" issue. From what I can tell from discussing the issue with techs and others, the rest of the electronics is fairly robust, hence, I would not expect another component failure outside of the LE.


FYI, I am starting to get the orange cloud again. This will be the third light engine since I bought it. I belive I had the original replaced in September of 04 which was covered by the EW. The EW has now expired.

Bruce

FYI, I am starting to get the orange cloud again. This will be the third light engine since I bought it. I belive I had the original replaced in September of 04 which was covered by the EW. The EW has now expired.

Bruce
do you know the part #s for the replacement LE are they the rebuilt/ upgraded ones or were they the original ones?

i think i may have a chance to replace my tv for one of these:
Brand: Sony
SKU: KDFE60A20
Our Price: $3,299.97
Description:
60" Grand Wega Rear Projection LCD HDTV
Integrated ATSC Tuner w/CableCard
HDMITM Input
Computer Input

being for the simple fact that i got my tv from a rent to own place.........and
if they replace the LE and give it back to me, i finish paying it and it happens again then i have to pay for the next LE.So im frustrated again.Does anyone know anything about the grand wega? should i do this? I havent really seen a post where someone says the replacement of the LE fixed the problem completely
and they have no worries of it ever happening again.Understand where im coming from? So what should i do? I"m in the middle of a rock and a red effin cloud!

no i'm not to familular with the service menu i can get into it but i really don't know what all the items mean if you could let me know what to do, as well as any tweaks you recommend i would apprecate it
i looked through the service menu but there was just to much info and i didnt want to mess anything up i did however unpluged the tv for 12hrs and that seemed to fix the color issue i was having, things seems to be ok for now

Science -- Looking at those pictures gave me the chills. It brought it all back.

I remember that it all happened very quickly. It was only a few weeks from the time I first noticed a hint of it to the time that it was detectible while watching TV.

I think that mynew LE has a picture that is even better than the old one ever had. The blacks seem blacker. The colors seem more vibrant. It could be that I forgot how good the old picture was, but I really enjoy my TV again.


Lawguy,
How recent was the LE replacement? How much uses does your TV get? I am hoping that if they replace it it will be fine, and I will get back to some great picture quality. Hoping. Really like the picture when we first purchased it and looked at it. Picture sure doesn't seem as good as it was before the cloud and blobs, regardless of seeing the blue or seing the red in dark scenes. Just not as sharp as it was before. Very flat.

Pablopsd, My LE was replace about two months ago. The part was a brand new and was the redesigned version of the part. I am hoping that the picture remains as good as it is now.

At this point, my lamp has about 6000 hours on it and it can probably go at any time, but PQ is just great. I think that the redesign of the LE imroved PQ overall. Again, I may be just comparing it to the picture as I remember it with the red cloud, but I am very happy with it.

Thanks Lawguy. Make me feel a little bit better.......Maybe. Will update you all on Monday.

Pablo

Hi. I have the dreaded pink cloud too. (For about 8 months!) My 50v500a was purchased in Jan of '04. It was an upgrade to a Toshiba that went bad with RC Willey. I don't know if my EW will apply - I have to find out.

In the event that my EW is expired - do I just call the Hitachi Hotline and tell them my story? I saw a number of $1700 - is that what I'm looking at for the price of a new LE?

Glad you guys are online. This is killing me... $4000 for a new TV that broke in 18 months! POS. I thought my luck with Toshiba was bad.

Hi. I have the dreaded pink cloud too. (For about 8 months!) My 50v500a was purchased in Jan of '04. It was an upgrade to a Toshiba that went bad with RC Willey. I don't know if my EW will apply - I have to find out.

In the event that my EW is expired - do I just call the Hitachi Hotline and tell them my story? I saw a number of $1700 - is that what I'm looking at for the price of a new LE?

Glad you guys are online. This is killing me... $4000 for a new TV that broke in 18 months! POS. I thought my luck with Toshiba was bad.
i would call hitachi and explain to them what the problem is, they DO know about this problem don't let them tell you different. some people have gotten hitachi to pay the whole bill (parts+ labor) but most have just gotten them to pay for the part which in my case would have cost $1300 for the part ($400 in labor ) for a total of $1700,

Well, the tech came out today, with multiple light engines in the truck. No waiting, and I have it up and running after a couple of hours. New bulb too. Pictures looks nice. Better than what I had with cloud and blue blob. Quieter fan, which never really bothered me before. Also starts up faster too. Supposed to be the new version. Looks good, but we will see in the long run.

Pablo

Well, the tech came out today, with multiple light engines in the truck. No waiting, and I have it up and running after a couple of hours. New bulb too. Pictures looks nice. Better than what I had with cloud and blue blob. Quieter fan, which never really bothered me before. Also starts up faster too. Supposed to be the new version. Looks good, but we will see in the long run.

Pablo
do you know what the part # was for your new LE?

I wasn't here until he was almost done. He explained that this version, which he showed to my wife, had more venting. (2 vents as opposed to 1) He says that they were replacing a ton of the light engines, but they haven't had any call backs....yet. We just realized that we didn't get any paperwork. We were dealing with a 3 year old as well as the tech, and my wife was sick, and I had just gotten back from work. :p

Well Guys,
The picture looks sharper and brighter. However, I am not able to get the colors just right. Just can't seem to get a natural looking color, especially skin tones. Any suggestions? Some seem to have a blue cast, and others seem to have a magenta / red cast. Anyone? Thinking about maybe getting a callibration. Don't know if maybe there was something he should have reset or adjusted. Don't think he did a memory initialization after installing the new LE.

This, I don't think qualifies as a burn-in issue so I'm posting it independently of that thread.

Whatever the case, here's the deal. Say I'm in an on-screen menu on my Xbox 360 or my cable box channel guide. When I change screens or leave the menu to go back to the regular video (or even if I go from menu screen to menu screen), I can still see a faint outline of the images that HAD been on the screen. The images go away at some point ... I guess when enough brightness or whatever clears them.

Anybody else experiencing this? This is a Hitachi 50v500 that I purchased a couple years ago.

Help! I already am dealing with the cruddy red-push. Now this!!?

This, I don't think, qualifies as a burn-in issue so I'm posting it independently of that thread.

Whatever the case, here's the deal. Say I'm in an on-screen menu on my Xbox 360 or my cable box channel guide. When I change screens or leave the menu to go back to the regular video (or even if I go from menu screen to menu screen), I can still see a faint outline of the images that HAD been on the screen. The images go away at some point ... I guess when enough brightness or whatever clears them.

Anybody else experiencing this? This is a Hitachi 50v500 that I purchased a couple years ago.

Help! I already am dealing with the cruddy red-push. Now this!!?


sometimes i will get this also but i have to have a stationary object on the screen for a long time, however it goes away very quickly i did take longer to disappear prior to my light engine replacement but, even than not so long i thought of it as a problem the only thing i can suggest is to go in to the set up menu and select the screen wipe for about 10 min, hopefully that should help btw have you ever contacted hitachi about fixing the LE some people have gotten hitachi to repair it even out of warranty

Yeah, it's just that it only recently started. I dont' remember it always being the case. And it doesn't have to be up for long. It might only be up for a second or two. Then, when I switches screens, I see the faint image.

I think I might end up calling Hitachi. I'm surprised nobody else has had the problem. Maybe everybody else had their faulty light engines replaced (again, I've had the pink/red push prob forever) whereas I missed the warranty window. Maybe I can get them to come out anyway. Doubting it though.

Thanks.

Hi Everyone,
I have been reading posts here for quite some time, which have been very helpful, but have never had a reason to post a question, until now. I am not sure if this is LE related, or possibly something in the service menu, but lately I have been having a hard time getting skin tones to look natural, however not on all channels. Even more so, a problem I have noticed is blotchy skin tones, where if the person in the scene is in a dimly lit shot, shades of gray appear on their face.

Has anyone done the reset in the service menu? Does this normally correct these wierd color problems. I know that I could go through each screen in there and compare the settings to the factory settings in the service manual, but that can be rather time consuming. Has anyone experienced any problems with the factory reset, any wierd things after it is done?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

has anyone tried a filter to make the blacks darker on this TV???

I have a friend who has a Hitachi LCD RPTV. It's a 50 incher...think maybe a 710. It has a yellow band running across the top of the picture and a smaller blue band running across the bottom. Neither he nor his wife have complained about this, but it drives me nuts when I see it. I fear bringing the subject up as I believe the warranty ran out a few months back, so why ruin their day if they are oblivious. Has anyone experienced or heard of a similar problem?

I really wasn't here to research this issue, but when I spotted this thread I thought I would give it a shot. Any help would be appreciated.

Well I have an extended warranty on my 50v500 - thank god. I waited three months for a light engine. Since February I have been trying to live with this TV. I am so unhappy with the replacement engine. I had vertical banding, a ton of video noise (NBA in HD) and there is a faint band that does not go away. I really see it watching baseball on the green outfield scenes. I am starting to think the red cloud wasnt that bad now. I am calling the tech back out tomorrow to see if I can get a new TV. This is getting to be such a pain in the a**.

Has anyone attempted the Mem. Init. in the 50V500 Service Menu? If so, what does it correct and are there any disadvantages/adverse effects of doing this.

Thanks.

Hey guys!! Seems things have somewhat quited down in this thread. Had my third fix a few months ago and no major problems yet, knock on wood. I did have to adjust the ghosting and it appears to have some blue in the pic if it's mostly a white background. The picture seems really dark even with the brightness turned up to 90! Might just be the 780p vs. 480i. Guess I'll have to adjust it in the service menu. Any advice about correcting the pic would be very much appreciated.

Thanks!! :o

10 months strong on my 50v500 and zero issues. Banding is kind of excessive at times, other times it's not noticeable at all. I love the set, just knocking on wood that nothing ever goes wrong.

We had bright blue blob our less than 18-month old Hitachi 50V500. We have an extended warranty from Circuit City. A month and several followup telephone calls later the Tech just left, spending 3 hours changing out the light engine. The TV is in worse shape than before, no picture at all.

After reading this thread I see we're not the only Hitachi owners to have this problem.

I did send an email to Hitachi and Circuit City customer service..... no help from either.

I'm thinking I'll never buy a Hitachi or anything from Circuit City again. Any advise on what would be a good brand to replace my television.

I've also had problems with Best Buy so won't go there again.

We had bright blue blob our less than 18-month old Hitachi 50V500. We have an extended warranty from Circuit City. A month and several followup telephone calls later the Tech just left, spending 3 hours changing out the light engine. The TV is in worse shape than before, no picture at all.

After reading this thread I see we're not the only Hitachi owners to have this problem.

I did send an email to Hitachi and Circuit City customer service..... no help from either.

I'm thinking I'll never buy a Hitachi or anything from Circuit City again. Any advise on what would be a good brand to replace my television?

I've also had problems with Best Buy so won't go there again.

Good luck to getting your units fixed or replaced.

We had bright blue blob our less than 18-month old Hitachi 50V500. We have an extended warranty from Circuit City. A month and several followup telephone calls later the Tech just left, spending 3 hours changing out the light engine. The TV is in worse shape than before, no picture at all.

After reading this thread I see we're not the only Hitachi owners to have this problem.

I did send an email to Hitachi and Circuit City customer service..... no help from either.

I'm thinking I'll never buy a Hitachi or anything from Circuit City again. Any advise on what would be a good brand to replace my television?

I've also had problems with Best Buy so won't go there again.

Good luck to getting your units fixed or replaced.

I can relate!! We went a whole year without being able to watch the television. Does your set turn on at all? After our light engine was replaced the circuit board went out and the set would only turn on about 10% of the time. Very frustrating for a $4000 state of the art television. I'd try another service call and diagnose the problem. Hope you're still under warranty. If you continue to have problems go to your local Circuit City and talk face to face with the service manager. If all else fails you might consider filing a complaint with your state attoney's office.

My set was already suffering from some AWFUL sort of color push. Now, while watching, I just COMPLETELY lost all reds. Unwatchable.

This isn't the bulb, right? It's a light engine problem?

Here is my story: Red cloud noticed four weeks ago. Called Hitatchi and they said there was a problem and I should contact Circuit City since I had an extended warranty. A poster at another site pointed me to this site and I read about the LE. Tech shows up two weeks later and starts looking at it. Being all smart from this site I told him it was the LE. He starts looking at me all crazy. :D They take it to the shop and confirm that it was the light engine. Two weeks later they return my TV and tell me it is fixed. Great! I look it over and the picture looks perfect. My wife turns it on tonight and now there are thin black lines (pinstripes) coming down from the top. They cover about 25% of the screen and are about a half inch apart.

Does anybody know what is going on? Please help! I am a TV junky and the two weeks it was gone before I had to watch the regular TV's I suffered horrible withdraws. :(

I have had a 50v500 since November 2003. The picture has always been very good. I have not had any of the issues described in this thread. That is untill about a week or so ago when the Red/Pink push settled in.

I did not buy the EW as I felt that it was to expensive at that time from Circuit City. As it is turning out that might have been a mistake.

There has been a lot of talk about LE replacments and as an alternitive going into the system and making a memory adjustment.

I guess that I am looking for some difinitive type answers to the following.

1. Does making the memory adjustment actually solve the problem?

2. What is the true cost of a LE replacement?

3. Who would be the recommended service company to call in?

4. If the cost of the LE replacment is over $1000.00 would it not make more sense to get a refurbed unit for about $1200 - $1300 along with a 5 yr EW for $189?

5. Is Hitachi still regarded as good as they were thought to be 3-4 yrs ago?

6. If you had to replace the 50V500 now what would you replace it with?

Thanking you in advance
:)

I have had a 50v500 since November 2003. The picture has always been very good. I have not had any of the issues described in this thread. That is untill about a week or so ago when the Red/Pink push settled in.

I did not buy the EW as I felt that it was to expensive at that time from Circuit City. As it is turning out that might have been a mistake.

There has been a lot of talk about LE replacments and as an alternitive going into the system and making a memory adjustment.

I guess that I am looking for some difinitive type answers to the following.

1. Does making the memory adjustment actually solve the problem?

2. What is the true cost of a LE replacement?

3. Who would be the recommended service company to call in?

4. If the cost of the LE replacment is over $1000.00 would it not make more sense to get a refurbed unit for about $1200 - $1300 along with a 5 yr EW for $189?

5. Is Hitachi still regarded as good as they were thought to be 3-4 yrs ago?

6. If you had to replace the 50V500 now what would you replace it with?

Thanking you in advance
:)


i will try to answer some of your questions first the LE is a hardware issue so a memory reset wont make a difference if your LE is bad, The LE is over $1000 the only thing i could suggest is to call Hitachi, some people have gotten them to pay for the part even after the warranty had expired, i guess they(hitachi) were aware that the LE had a defective design and hopefully you could get them to pay for it however you will have to pay for labor about $300 i don't think hitachi is up to par with todays hdtvs as they were a few years ago, if i had to replace it i would go with the sony sxrd for a 1080p or there a10 series for a 720p screen. oh i almost forgot, if you do go for the replacement LE the PQ will be better than the tv ever had with the old design LE

i will try to answer some of your questions first the LE is a hardware issue so a memory reset wont make a difference if your LE is bad, The LE is over $1000 the only thing i could suggest is to call Hitachi, some people have gotten them to pay for the part even after the warranty had expired, i guess they(hitachi) were aware that the LE had a defective design and hopefully you could get them to pay for it however you will have to pay for labor about $300 i don't think hitachi is up to par with todays hdtvs as they were a few years ago, if i had to replace it i would go with the sony sxrd for a 1080p or there a10 series for a 720p screen. oh i almost forgot, if you do go for the replacement LE the PQ will be better than the tv ever had with the old design LE

Thank you for your feedback. Do you have a feel for who the best service people are to call? I see Sears mentioned a lot. I bought it at Circuit City but I have not heard of good things about their service. How do you find a number to contact Hitachi? That is good news about the picture quality being better than ever. This set has always had a great picture in my mind.

Thanks again.
:)

Thank you for your feedback. Do you have a feel for who the best service people are to call? I see Sears mentioned a lot. I bought it at Circuit City but I have not heard of good things about their service. How do you find a number to contact Hitachi? That is good news about the picture quality being better than ever. This set has always had a great picture in my mind.

Thanks again.
:)

Call 1-800-Hitachi

Make it known to them that you are aware of the defect with the light engine. Be nice but be firm. They will make it right.

Call 1-800-Hitachi

Make it known to them that you are aware of the defect with the light engine. Be nice but be firm. They will make it right.
Thank you...would you suggest that I call them and ask them who they would prefer to make the repair? At this point the LE failure has not been confirmed but I can not imagine it being anything else.

A sperate question. In the upper right hand of each post there is the word "print". If that is to print that particular posting I have no luck in making it print. If you know is there a way to print the various posts?

Thank you,
:)

Call 1-800-Hitachi

Make it known to them that you are aware of the defect with the light engine. Be nice but be firm. They will make it right.

I made the call to Hitachi this morning. They said there are other things that could cause the problem but if it was the LE they would stand the cost of the part and I would pay the labor. I thought that was fair. I have a two week wait for a Tech to come and take a look.

Thanks again
:)

I was in contact with Hitachi today on me LE issue. It's a three-year old set (well, Oct 2003), out oof warranty. They gave me the phone # of a repair shop. How wonderful. They insist they won't cover a dime of my costs.

I'll try again tomorrow. Will never buy a Hitachi product again.

I was in contact with Hitachi today on me LE issue. It's a three-year old set (well, Oct 2003), out oof warranty. They gave me the phone # of a repair shop. How wonderful. They insist they won't cover a dime of my costs.

I'll try again tomorrow. Will never buy a Hitachi product again.

Suggest that you call again. Remember to be nice to the rep. I spoke with Kevin. He was pleasant and co-operative. He went off the line a couple of times for more information. Probably to check with someone else. Did the person yo spoke with take your name, serial number, etc? If so I wonder if they made any notes in their system pertaining to your set?

Suggest that you call again. Remember to be nice to the rep. I spoke with Kevin. He was pleasant and co-operative. He went off the line a couple of times for more information. Probably to check with someone else. Did the person yo spoke with take your name, serial number, etc? If so I wonder if they made any notes in their system pertaining to your set?

Can't remember the guy's name. He was an older gentleman. Did get my serial and name. I was as nice as possible ... though it's hard when they say, "Here's a home repair shop. Give them a call. Thanks."

Thanks for the reply though. I will give it another shot today.

Oh, the rep also insisted there were no issues with the 50v500s. "There are no known issues with this set ..." Ugh.

I have no means of moving a 50" set. What should I expect from Hitachi if they do offer to fix my set?

Thanks,
Matt

UPDATING: Hitachi is now saying they'll cover the parts. I'm prob gonna pay $350 for service but I can gladly accept that.

Note: They're saying the price of a new light engine for a 50v500 is only $600 now. I know they used to be a $grand more or so. Assuming the NEW light engine will b be one of the updates ones. Think that's right?

The "no known issues" line is kind of priceless, but I guess that no one can really expect them to admit the problem. I would follow-up with "if there are no known issues than why has the replacement light engine been redesigned?"

To buck16, if you havn't found out already, repair shops will either pick up the set or do the LE replacement in your house.

My 50v500 was just taken to a shop for a light engine replacement.

Shop tells me the 50v500 light engine is $600 and a 500A is $900. Well, I'm confused. Hitachi is providing the parts, free of charge ... they say. I'm paying just for servicce. Now, I know the light engine was redesigned. So don't I want the most RECENT version of the light engine? Seems light the tech at the shop doesn't know what he's talking about. The 500A was basically the same unit. The even newer models are basically the same unit, too, right? So don't I want a new model # light engine replacement part and NOT a 500?

PLEASE help.

Thanks,
Matt

Well, my v500 has finally gone too far bad. Of course, I didn't buy an EW. Take a look at this problem. I bought from Sears; will they do anything?

Well, of course not. You took a radioactive marker to the front of the screen!?

Seriously though, sorry to see that. Thought I did good research before buying my v500. What a disaster these sets have been!

Can't comment on whether or not Sears will do anything. I don't know what's the cause of your specific problem but my light engine prob (pink push; now a green push ... and image retention) is being covered, part-wise atleast, by Hitachi. Still gonna cost me $400 but ... that's what a stupid extended warranty would've cost me anyway, three years ago.

BTW, the first time I called Hitachi, I got the run around. I called back the next day and got better results.

Also, still no help with my light engine replacement/redisgn question? Anybody? Please? : )

Also, still no help with my light engine replacement/redisgn question? Anybody? Please? : )


is there anyway you could ask the tech what the part number is for the replacement LE? that may be able to give us an idea, what there using

Smoothie,

If you'll look way back in this thread, this happened to me too. That was my first LE replacement. I also bought through SEARS - however, I purchased the EW. I've had one bulb replacement and two LE's so far at 3 years of use.

BTW, that is an LCD panel failure, and that's why the LE will need to be replaced.

i will try to answer some of your questions first the LE is a hardware issue so a memory reset wont make a difference if your LE is bad, The LE is over $1000 the only thing i could suggest is to call Hitachi, some people have gotten them to pay for the part even after the warranty had expired, i guess they(hitachi) were aware that the LE had a defective design and hopefully you could get them to pay for it however you will have to pay for labor about $300 i don't think hitachi is up to par with todays hdtvs as they were a few years ago, if i had to replace it i would go with the sony sxrd for a 1080p or there a10 series for a 720p screen. oh i almost forgot, if you do go for the replacement LE the PQ will be better than the tv ever had with the old design LE
bk1987 - The TV tech was here today and really all he did was the memory reset. It did bring the set back to the way it looked before the red issue started. I told him that I had read where the memory reset was not a fix but a bandaid. You had previously said that if the LE was bad that the memory reset would have no effect. I am hoping for one of two things here. Either the reset will fix it or the LE will fail quickly. Hitachi has indicated they would stand the cost of the part if it was diagnosed as the problem.

Do you know the procedure on getting into the service menu and making the memory reset? If you do can you detail the steps here? If you don't know perhaps someone else reading this will know and will answer.

Thanks

bk1987 - The TV tech was here today and really all he did was the memory reset. It did bring the set back to the way it looked before the red issue started. I told him that I had read where the memory reset was not a fix but a bandaid. You had previously said that if the LE was bad that the memory reset would have no effect. I am hoping for one of two things here. Either the reset will fix it or the LE will fail quickly. Hitachi has indicated they would stand the cost of the part if it was diagnosed as the problem.

Do you know the procedure on getting into the service menu and making the memory reset? If you do can you detail the steps here? If you don't know perhaps someone else reading this will know and will answer.

Thanks

Can anyone answer this question. I had a service tech here last week and he did the memory reset thing. I have also since received a written estimate from his company indicating that they had contacted Hitachi and that the LC37 Drive PWB ASY is deffective and will need to be replaced. My question, is this the Light Engine or is this another part. The quoted cost of the part is $240.19 and the labor is $350.00. The part number that is listed is JP06781R.

printman/ to access the service menu, with the tv off, hold the input button in front of the tv and then turn on the power, continue to hold the input button for a few seconds as the tv is powering up you should see the service menu, i only got the service menu to come up when the tv was set to input 4 before i started the procedure, if i remember correctly once you get in the service menu, it controls all the inputs. the memory reset is called ( mem int ) i believe. once you find it you need to select it with the remote and hold the toggle right for a few seconds now i have not done this in a while so im going by what i remember i would suggest looking in this thread and the display calibration thread for more info also if you do go in the service menu make a note of your original settings ! there are alot of different settings, so if you make a mistake somewhere you could go back to the original settings

i don't know what that part # is --- the part # for my LE was ux22203 and the cost was $1300 but they could have changed it. I would ask the tech and/ or hitachi what it is. If it turns out its not the LE part# and you still have the problem i would find out if they would cover any additional repairs, and if not, see if you could have another tech look at it before you have any work done. best of luck.

printman/ to access the service menu, with the tv off, hold the input button in front of the tv and then turn on the power, continue to hold the input button for a few seconds as the tv is powering up you should see the service menu, i only got the service menu to come up when the tv was set to input 4 before i started the procedure, if i remember correctly once you get in the service menu, it controls all the inputs. the memory reset is called ( mem int ) i believe. once you find it you need to select it with the remote and hold the toggle right for a few seconds now i have not done this in a while so im going by what i remember i would suggest looking in this thread and the display calibration thread for more info also if you do go in the service menu make a note of your original settings ! there are alot of different settings, so if you make a mistake somewhere you could go back to the original settings

i don't know what that part # is --- the part # for my LE was ux22203 and the cost was $1300 but they could have changed it. I would ask the tech and/ or hitachi what it is. If it turns out its not the LE part# and you still have the problem i would find out if they would cover any additional repairs, and if not, see if you could have another tech look at it before you have any work done. best of luck.

The tech had trouble getting into the service menu...he then remembered that the set had to be set to a station to get into the SM...I think he set the set to a channel then turned it off and restarted it. I could be wrong on this

The tech had trouble getting into the service menu...he then remembered that the set had to be set to a station to get into the SM...I think he set the set to a channel then turned it off and restarted it. I could be wrong on this


that might work also i just know input 1,2,3 didnt

Can anyone answer this question. I had a service tech here last week and he did the memory reset thing. I have also since received a written estimate from his company indicating that they had contacted Hitachi and that the LC37 Drive PWB ASY is deffective and will need to be replaced. My question, is this the Light Engine or is this another part. The quoted cost of the part is $240.19 and the labor is $350.00. The part number that is listed is JP06781R.
Had a conversation with the Tech Company this morning...they tell be that the LC37PWB ASY is a power assembly circuit board. They said they talked to Hitachi about the previous service call and were told that the board was bad. I don't know how they determined that as the tech. did not do any diagnostic work while he was here, all he did was the memory reset?

printman

is it possiable to post any pictures of the problem
i would strongly suggest you get another tech in if you feel you have a LE issue

I've had my 50V500 purchased at Sears since October 2003. It was recommended by a friend of mine who is a member of the motion picture academy and at the time found the Hitachi to have an excellent lens. Early this year I noticed the inevitable red cloud in the middle if the screen but it was only noticable between scenes when the screen was black. Gradualy over time it became worse as I noticed it in dark scenes. Luckily I had purched the EW and at the end of May the Sears tech immediately recognized the problem and ordered an LE. I received not one but 2 refurbished LEs. One was installed and the tech took the other back. Everything appeard fine but later in the evening the Hitachi started acting erraticly. Dark screen and PIP malfunction followed later by no picture. I thought these were due to a loose connection but when the tech came out the following week he said we must have gotten a bad replacement LE and ordered another one. He also agreed to order another lamp. It was another two weeks without HD but since the "new" refurbished LE and lamp have been installed the PQ has been as good and maybe even better than it ever has. I was impressed with the Sears techs and Hitachi. Although it took longer than it could have Sears fixed my problem. I know others have had major problems with the design defect leading to the red cloud. I hope others will benifit from these postings to work through any problems getting their Hitachi repaired.

memory resetting will not fix the red cloud issue, it may fix the red HUE issue they are different. The red cloud is resulting from the LCD panels actually being burned from heat. The new LE's have multiple fans (or one larger fan) and more ventelation to allow airflow. Obviously this kind of damage is not repairable and a memory reset will have not effect in this situation.


There is another known issue with the 500 units that is supposed to be fixed in the 500A units, the red push or hue. The image appears to have a red push, not just in the center or on dark screens but all the time, this can be fixed in the SM or by a memory reset.

I had my V500A LE replaced in Nov last year and so far so good, same bulb know for 3 years and it has over 6800 hrs on it. I have also had my screen replaced because of a smudge issue that was also evident in these units. So far so good and I touch wood that this LE does not fail as I do have the EW however, I am no longer in the same city where I purchaced this EW from, and no it wasn't a large dealer but a smaller retailer. They told me I would have to bring the unit back to the shop to have the warranty honoured.

printman

is it possiable to post any pictures of the problem
i would strongly suggest you get another tech in if you feel you have a LE issue
I really have no pictures to post...I may only have had the reddish cast issue that can be cleared by the memory reset as reffered to in the posting by Uwish in his second paragraph. After the memory reset the pix has remained clear of the red/pink tone as it should.

I really have no pictures to post...I may only have had the reddish cast issue that can be cleared by the memory reset as reffered to in the posting by Uwish in his second paragraph. After the memory reset the pix has remained clear of the red/pink tone as it should.


ok if you just have the red push the ( mem reset) would probably fix it as stated above.

A good way to tell if the LE is bad or going bad is to put the tv on any input without a signal so all you see is a black screen, you may have to do this at night so the room is dark, if you notice the screen looks reddish in the middle of the screen your LE may be failing. note it does not always have to be red, although rare it could be green or blue and not always in the middle, but the vast majority, its a red blob in the middle

I've had the red cloud of doom as well, twice actually. Each time the light engine had to be replaced. Now I have ghost images. Any quick fix for this? I really don't want to have to call in someone when I can fix it myself.

Any help would be appreciated.

I too am experiencing the red cloud issues (purchased about 3 years ago). Started out as something that was only noticeable on black screens, but quickly deteriorated into a noticeable 'bleeding' in any images containing red.

My first call to Hitachi support got me a phone number for an authorized repair shop. I called a 2nd time specifically to request that the light engine replacement be recovered by Hitachi, and the phone support person quickly shot me down. However, I asked to speak to someone in the customer relations department, and that person authorized a free light engine, with labor coming out of my pocket.

DO NOT pay for your light engine if you are experiencing this problem. If the 1st person you speak to shoots you down, ask to be transferred to customer relations. Let them know that you are educated about the problem, that you know other people have had the parts covered and that it is in Hitachi's best interest to stand behind the quality of their product.

I bought my tv in December 03 with no extended protection plan. I have been living with the red cloud plague for a year now. After reading much of this thread I was able to get Hitachi to agree to replacing the light engine for free leaving me with the labor cost....

I am still wondering if $300 labor plus another $200 for the soon to be dead light bulb is worth my cash. I do not want to go through this again as I feel that Hitachi is still letting me down. This is a known defect and should not cost me anything, nor should I have to worry that this is a "One time replacement"...

Do I spend the money or look to a new television???

Thanks

I bought my tv in December 03 with no extended protection plan. .... I have been living with the red cloud plague for a year now.

Do I spend the money or look to a new television???


See my recent post. After I got a "good" refurbished LE and new buld the picture has been excellent. My EW cost me $500 three years ago which is the cost you are looking at for a replacement LE and bulb. Granted I do have another 2 years of coverage but the big problem with the under engineered LE should not be an issue in the future so I would suggest the $500 dollars would be well spent.

Bill

when i had the LE replaced the bulb came with it, i know not everybody got a new bulb with the LE but its possible you have to ask

See my recent post. After I got a "good" refurbished LE and new buld the picture has been excellent. My EW cost me $500 three years ago which is the cost you are looking at for a replacement LE and bulb. Granted I do have another 2 years of coverage but the big problem with the under engineered LE should not be an issue in the future so I would suggest the $500 dollars would be well spent.

Bill
Thanks for the info. I told the Hitachi repair center to order the light engine and they are calling me when it comes in. I was told labor would cost me around $250. I will update on the repair when it happens. Crossing fingers.

I also have the red cloud problem. Based on the stories in this thread, I got Hitachi to pay for the LE and I'm picking up the labor. My set is about 7 months out of warrenty - my rep said that makes a difference on how much they will pay for. I hope my replacement LE does as well as others who have posted. Thanks for all the info.

I also have the red cloud problem...... I hope my replacement LE does as well as others who have posted. Thanks for all the info.

Just a brief followup to my recent posts. My wife and I continue to be impressed with the PQ from our refurbished LE and new lamp. A lot may have to do with the new lamp whose deteriation over time my not have been perceptable but in addition to being brighter the detail in the blacks seem to be better. A rerun of CSI Miami ran last night and the PQ improvement was noticable over its original airing before the replacement.

Could the red cloud issue be caused by an old lamp? I checked the lamp life from the service manual and found that it has been going for 6700 hours which is quite long. I do have the red cloud in the middle of the set during dark screens....
Shriram
See post #1403. The red cloud issue is definitely an LE issue. The new larger fan runs quiter and Hitachi should cover the part. Bulb life is a separate issue.

Ok, so I had the light engine replaced on August 2 and the red cloud went away. But the next day I noticed a small blue circle center-right that was never there before. What is causing this blue circle? Is it a dead or stuck pixel? Could the light engine be causing this? Could the technician have done this when he removed the screen and took the tv apart and then put it back together again? If it was the tech guys fault, shouldn't he have to fix it? Is it fixable? I appreciate any information you have to offer me about this since it seems like the odds are stacked against me in trying to get this tv to function without any problems.

Ok, so I had the light engine replaced on August 2 and the red cloud went away. But the next day I noticed a small blue circle center-right that was never there before. What is causing this blue circle? Is it a dead or stuck pixel? Could the light engine be causing this? Could the technician have done this when he removed the screen and took the tv apart and then put it back together again? If it was the tech guys fault, shouldn't he have to fix it? Is it fixable? I appreciate any information you have to offer me about this since it seems like the odds are stacked against me in trying to get this tv to function without any problems.

i would get that repair tech back in there asap also let hitachi know, i have heard of other things going wrong after the LE was replaced its usually a bad LE or the tech didn't do something right in both cases they should fix it and they should not charge you

i would get that repair tech back in there asap also let hitachi know, i have heard of other things going wrong after the LE was replaced its usually a bad LE or the tech didn't do something right in both cases they should fix it and they should not charge you
Thanks a lot for the fast reply. I agree with you. I will call the tech and Hitachi Monday. I hope they are cooperative and it is fixable and at no extra cost to me. I just want a normal picture!

I was able to get Hitachi to pick up the parts a full one year and one month after factory warranty had expired. Hitachi gave me no problems.

I was able to get Hitachi to pick up the parts a full one year and one month after factory warranty had expired. Hitachi gave me no problems. 50V500A

On my set from time to time, I notice vertical bars in the picture. I guess the best way to describe it is picture color inconsistency, it's easiest to see when my entire screen is gray...maybe this is what is commonly referred to as vertical banding. Is there a fix for this? It's more noticeable at some times than others.

There is a fix try a factory reset, if this fails LE replacement will be required.

When you say factory reset, are you talking about the reset you can do on the video setting menu or are you talking about going into the service menu? I'm hesitant to go into the service menu in case that would void my warranty.

factory memory resets are done from the SM (Service Menue) and there is no way a technician could tell if you went into it or not. I have been into mine many times and since had warranty work done, I just didn't "volunteer" any information. When the teck came in and went into the SM I just acted surprised. :)

I've lived the red cloud long enough. I believe about a 1 year now. I made numerous calls to Hitachi and was never able to get anywhere, most likely due to the fact that I let my mouth get in the way during the first few initial calls. I will probably be on the black list from here on out with Hitachi.

Anyway, I finally decided that I couldnt live with the cloud any more, so tonite I replaced the Light Engine myself. With the help of a service manual the process took about 2 hours to complete. I cannot believe the picture again. I have that nice warm and fuzzy feeling again. The process is not complicated as long as you have an electric screwdriver (you would not believe the amount of screws involved).

Didnt even have to adjust anything in the service menu. Now if only I can find a lamp for dirt cheap, mine has 7500 hours on it. Im not sure if others have posted but the big difference in the new LE compared to OLD LE is the elimination of a vent hole on the bottom and an addition of a larger vent in the back. I would guess about 4 times as much ventilation.

Again the process is not complicated.

I've lived the red cloud long enough. I believe about a 1 year now. I made numerous calls to Hitachi and was never able to get anywhere, most likely due to the fact that I let my mouth get in the way during the first few initial calls. I will probably be on the black list from here on out with Hitachi.

Anyway, I finally decided that I couldnt live with the cloud any more, so tonite I replaced the Light Engine myself. With the help of a service manual the process took about 2 hours to complete. I cannot believe the picture again. I have that nice warm and fuzzy feeling again. The process is not complicated as long as you have an electric screwdriver (you would not believe the amount of screws involved).

Didnt even have to adjust anything in the service menu. Now if only I can find a lamp for dirt cheap, mine has 7500 hours on it. Im not sure if others have posted but the big difference in the new LE compared to OLD LE is the elimination of a vent hole on the bottom and an addition of a larger vent in the back. I would guess about 4 times as much ventilation.

Again the process is not complicated.


I have considered doing this myself, but where did you find the part and for how much?

Here is a link to where i got the light engine

http://www.tritronicsinc.com/cgi-bin/onramp.exe?pgm=itemdet_cs.bbx&id=UX22202DR&custnum=RETAIL&password=1156805338

I believe its a refurb do to the price, and I am in the process of getting my core sent back in.

Took about 3 days from ordering to my doorstep, LE came suspended in a box much like the lamps. I also noticed on the site that you cannot order the old part number only the new design. The new PN is UX22202DR (refurb) or UX22202D (brand new)

If you have any questions about the installation let me know, I also cannot stress how this job does not require a tech for the 300+ dollars to install. All you need is a phillips screwdriver and 1 additional person (my wife) to help lift the screen off the base.

If i can figure out how to post the pdf of the service manual it has pictures on how to remove the light engine.

Here is a link to where i got the light engine

http://www.tritronicsinc.com/cgi-bin/onramp.exe?pgm=itemdet_cs.bbx&id=UX22202DR&custnum=RETAIL&password=1156805338

I believe its a refurb do to the price, and I am in the process of getting my core sent back in.

Took about 3 days from ordering to my doorstep, LE came suspended in a box much like the lamps. I also noticed on the site that you cannot order the old part number only the new design. The new PN is UX22202DR (refurb) or UX22202D (brand new)

If you have any questions about the installation let me know, I also cannot stress how this job does not require a tech for the 300+ dollars to install. All you need is a phillips screwdriver and 1 additional person (my wife) to help lift the screen off the base.

If i can figure out how to post the pdf of the service manual it has pictures on how to remove the light engine.


I have the 50v500 (no A). It looks like they have the light-engine as part number: UX22201DR. It is priced 486 with a 200 credit for core return for a total price of 286. Not bad considering how frustrated I am about the whole thing. I just need to decide if it is worth the risk--I don't have the red cloud issue. I have a pixel problem (see earlier post by me). Someone here mentioned that they had a similar problem and it was fixed by swapping the light engine, but it is still a guess.

Cheers

I hear your frustration all the way up here in Midland, TX. Ive only had the red cloud issue and none other. I am going to make an assumption and say that replacing the LE will most likely fix the problem, the reason I am saying this is due to the fact the LE makes up most of this set, but hopefully others on here have experienced your problem and can weigh in on the situation, again I only had the Red Cloud

Once removed there arent many other parts on the inside. A couple of circuit boards connected tothe Inputs on the rear and the bulb ballast, but not much else.

Here is a pic of my old LE. I drew in where the new vent is located, and again they removed the circular vent from the bottom. Everything else looks the same.

Well done, I too have had my LE replaced with one of these "new" ones. I couldn't believe the difference compared to what I got used to watching.

My lamp is also in the 7K hour range and they say they are good for anywhere between 5 and 8K hours, of course this depends on how often your set is powered on and off etc etc etc, there are numerous variables here.

I can't find one for under $300! but the time is getting near and I know Murphy's law will mean it is going to die RIGHT in the middle of something you can't live without watching!!!!

I hear your frustration all the way up here in Midland, TX. Ive only had the red cloud issue and none other. I am going to make an assumption and say that replacing the LE will most likely fix the problem, the reason I am saying this is due to the fact the LE makes up most of this set, but hopefully others on here have experienced your problem and can weigh in on the situation, again I only had the Red Cloud

Once removed there arent many other parts on the inside. A couple of circuit boards connected tothe Inputs on the rear and the bulb ballast, but not much else.

Here is a pic of my old LE. I drew in where the new vent is located, and again they removed the circular vent from the bottom. Everything else looks the same.

How much was shipping both ways?

Shipping kinda ticked me off... they claimed oversize so i think it was like 50 bucks here to texas but when i shipped it back it cost 25 bucks.

All is well though Its been a week and have no problems and HD looks great again

I am now a member of the light engine club. Tech came out today and told me so. $1300 for the LE and another $400 to put it in. I can't believe this piece of s**t. There has got to be a class action suit for this crap Hitachi sells for $3500.

Hi all I have a 50v500 and recently I noticed this when my cable was down (comcast) and it appears on DVD playback as well with a little pink/red image on the screen. My set is about 2.5 years old and I do not watch it alot. The unit is out of warranty so I do not know what to do next. Thanks alot

I have the same problem with my 50V500. With a black screen, it becomes very easy to see a basketball size magenta spot in the center to upper right quadrant of the screen. I followed the recommendations of this thread and spoke to customer relations at Hitachi. They were good to work with and after a 3 minute discussion they offered a free light engine, if an authorized tech verified that I had a light engine problem and I pay the labor. The tech verified the problem, but then wanted $960 for labor to replace it. Hitachi directed me to another authorized tech who will do it for $220. I expect to have the new one in sometime next week.

Like I have indicated before, unfortunately ALL original V500 and V500A's will have this issue. The redesign of the LE did not make it into production with the units, thus eventually every owner of this model of TV will suffer from this issue. The only question is how long will the new redesigned engines last?

That is why Hit is replacing all the LE if you call, they know it is an issue even if they refuse to admit it, do you really think a company would do this for the thousands of people who have called?

I still love the set, since my new LE installation almost a year ago I have no complaints...

Having the same pink cloud issue, I've called Hitachi twice. Both times they are dancing around the issue. The first time (I made no mention that I knew of an issue with the LE) they put me on hold several times and said I needed to log a service call. However, there was no mention of free parts. The second time, I mentioned that I had seen issues mentioned on the web about the LE for this issue and asked whether a verification service call was required (I mentioned I had pictures to show the issue), but I was quickly stopped that I needed to log a service call (again no mention of free parts).

So my question is to what group is everyone talking (do you actually get past the first line tech people and go to customer relations as a separate group)? How much information do you share with the person about your knowledge of the issue and that free parts are being offered?

Hey all, long time no see. My tv cratered again on 9-11. It would not turn on and the lamp light was blinking. I had a spare lamp, so I put it in and still no dice. I placed a service call and the guy came out and checked the lamp and it was ok and then took off the back cover. He checked voltages and said it looked like maybe a lamp ballast. I have already had that replaced once before. Anyway, he said he would have to order one and see if that fixes it. I told him I was going to contact CC and see about a replacement since this was my 3rd major issue under their warranty. I also had some other issues under the mfg warranty as well, but those did not count since I did not purchase the extended warranty until after my mfg warranty expired.

After countless calls to the CC warranty peeps, I finally got a ticket number this morning. I asked the lady now what? She told me they had picked out a Mits 52 inch for a replacement. I told her I probably wouldn't want that. She told me I should discuss this with the store. So, off to the store. I met with this girl who was working the tv area and we talked a bit. She was very nice and co-operative.
I told her what I really wanted was an in-store credit for what I paid for the Hit and to be able to pick out a more expensive tv and pay the difference. She said sure why not. So, I picked out a Sony KDS-60A2000 and she did some calculations and said I would need to pay like $700 or so difference. My original Hit was a 50 and I had paid $2499 for it. I paid the $700 and they are supposed to deliver the Sony tomorrow. I was so damn excited that I forgot to ask them about the pro-ration on the warranty that was still on the Hit. I have read here where they refund you the pro-rated balance on your existing warranty. For those that have been thru this, is that automatic or do you have to ask for it?

Lastly, I have a spare lamp for the Hit. If anyone needs one for a back-up let me know. I would prob sell it for $50 since it is a bit used. I also have a hi-def receiver I don't need anymore since this new tv has one built in. I would prob sell that pretty cheap as well. PM me if you have a need.

To all my old buddies here, I wish you well. I know what you are going thru. Good luck, and if I can help you send me a message. I will prob be around here awhile now so I can figure out the best tweaks for the new Sony.

Manpig

Hi, my name is Jon and I've been a 50V500 user for about 2 years now. (hi Jon)

I too have the pink cloud issue. It's gotten so bad I'd say about 75% of my screen is pink when the screen should be black, and it's starting to become noticable during normal TV viewing.

Just called the 1-800-Hitachi number and got a nice service rep. Explained that I've done the research and know that I need a new light engine, mentioned I know of others getting the part replaced for free while paying labor only, etc. Was put on hold for a few minutes and he came back to say there's nothing he could do since the warranty is up but he could refer me to a service center.

So I calmly explained that that wasn't good enough, that I know others are getting it replaced for free, so why shouldn't I? He said he would transfer me to customer relations and put me on hold for about 5 minutes. Eventually the rep picked up and said sorry for the trouble, and that they would set me up with a new light engine and I'll just pay labor. The only catch was I had to call the service center they recommended. I have an appt scheduled for Oct 12th for them to come look at the TV. Just hope this is all worth the ~300 bucks.

Called back and pushed on talking to customer relations (which I never did) because of the known issue with the LE. They finally agreed to pick up the cost of the LE but only if I had a tech come out and verify that a LE replacement was necessary. This is understandable, but it is going to cost me another $89 and two service trips. Couldn't negotiate that one away.

Thanks everyone!

Called back and pushed on talking to customer relations (which I never did) because of the known issue with the LE. They finally agreed to pick up the cost of the LE but only if I had a tech come out and verify that a LE replacement was necessary. This is understandable, but it is going to cost me another $89 and two service trips. Couldn't negotiate that one away.

Thanks everyone!

Yep pretty much the same thing here. My initial service call is costing me $75, just to get an estimate on labor charges. Tried arguing it, but no luck. Good luck to you!

The temp light is on and it will stay on for a little while until it turns off by itself. I see I have alot to look forward to with this tv. Already had it over 2 years with no prblems until now. :confused:

SM is accessed by holding down the "input" button on the TV and pressing the power button. Wait about 3 sec then release the input button and you are now in the SM.

SM is accessed by holding down the "input" button on the TV and pressing the power button. Wait about 3 sec then release the input button and you are now in the SM.

Yes, that's correct, but I'm pretty sure you have to have previously turned off the TV while on input 3, 4, or 5, in order for it to work. Meaning, if the last time you turned off the TV it was set to input 1 or 2, the service menu will not load following the steps above. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

I have the 50v500A and the fan doesn't sound like it is working. When it gets hot the temp light comes on and tv goes off. The fan nor bulb has ever been replaced in over 2 years. I know it will need a lamp soon. I would like to try to order the parts and do it myself. I haven't had the light engine problem as of yet. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Ok since the original post I read more of the topics and I put the input on 4 and turned out the lights and the screen is pink in the middle. Is it on its way? I don't notice it any other time. I take from reading the forum that the fan is in the lamp engine. The tv still cuts off and the temp light blinks. It does not sound like the fan is running. I have seen the question asked about the service manual but I have not seen anyone respond that has it. Thanks for the help.

I just got back from a week's vacation, turned on my tv and the side bars which were gray when I left are now pink (4:3 aspect ratio) and the screen is much brighter than before. I've tried playing with the color mgmt screen but can't seem to get ride of the discoloration. Does this sound like the pink screen issue? I have an EW through CC and I have an appointment for Sat. Any tipes for working with the tech folks would be appreciated.

I called Hitachi on the light engine issue and since I have an extended warranty they wouldn't help me. I asked the guy to clarify that yes they are aware of the issue but instead of just getting it fixed I have to work with the GE extended warranty which will require two visits and require me to take two days off. He said yes, and if GE wants Hitachi to pay for the part they can call Hitachi. He apologized and said "No worries - next time I'll buy a Sony."

The good news is that the guys that GE is sending to fix the set sound pretty cool, they're like "Yeah, sounds like you need a light engine." So I may get lucky with only needed one visit to fix it.

Hello everyone, another 50V500 owner here with a problem. Recently, I got a 50V500 for cheap. It was originally broken, but after opening it up, turns out that the ribbon cable within it was just disconnected. Now the screen looks like this...

http://img226.imageshack.us/img226/1199/pdc0006wk9.th.jpg (http://img226.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pdc0006wk9.jpg)

Whoever owned this before must've messed around inside and knew even less than I did on what to do to fix it. So far, it works, but the screen is really blurry. You can barely make out the text from the menu screen, and picture quality really suffers, although it's still watchable.

The other problem is that big purple blob in the left side. What is it? Is this some fingerprint smudge on the LCD inside the TV, or dead pixels? And can it be fixed? Actually, the smudge isn't too much of an issue since you can't see it at all when the screen is dark, and only shows up when it's bright.

But what I do want to fix is the sharpness, as I want it to be a lot clearer than what it currently is. Is the problem regarding this a focus lens somewhere? I've already tried "FACT RESET" in the menu that pops up when holding down the INPUT button, but the screen quality is still the same. How can I fix this? :confused:

I've read a couple posts here that indicate that people are aware of approximately how many hours they have used their sets. Is there some way I can check this on my 50V500A? Is there a special menu that I can access?

FYI, I too am having the "red cloud" issues that recently started to appear.

I've read a couple posts here that indicate that people are aware of approximately how many hours they have used their sets. Is there some way I can check this on my 50V500A? Is there a special menu that I can access?

FYI, I too am having the "red cloud" issues that recently started to appear.

You can find the # of hours within the service menu (see earlier posts for directions how to access). I believe it says at the top of the screen.

factory memory resets are done from the SM (Service Menue) and there is no way a technician could tell if you went into it or not. I have been into mine many times and since had warranty work done, I just didn't "volunteer" any information. When the teck came in and went into the SM I just acted surprised. :)
I had been having the overall redish/pinkish cast a few months ago. I thought that it might be the light engine. Hitachi said to have a tech look at it to determine if it was the LE. He did a memory reset and that cleared it up. So far it is holding up. The rep wanted to put install a LC37 Drive Power Assembly board to the tune of $604.00. He said that was needed because of having to reset the memory. I said no thanks and that if it became an issue again that I would consider it again.

Can someone tell me what the memory reset code is? I know how to get in to the SM but do not know what to enter. I have done a search on this subject but did not find the codes to enter.

Thanks,
:)

Hello everyone, another 50V500 owner here with a problem. Recently, I got a 50V500 for cheap. It was originally broken, but after opening it up, turns out that the ribbon cable within it was just disconnected. Now the screen looks like this...

http://img226.imageshack.us/img226/1199/pdc0006wk9.th.jpg (http://img226.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pdc0006wk9.jpg)

Whoever owned this before must've messed around inside and knew even less than I did on what to do to fix it. So far, it works, but the screen is really blurry. You can barely make out the text from the menu screen, and picture quality really suffers, although it's still watchable.

The other problem is that big purple blob in the left side. What is it? Is this some fingerprint smudge on the LCD inside the TV, or dead pixels? And can it be fixed? Actually, the smudge isn't too much of an issue since you can't see it at all when the screen is dark, and only shows up when it's bright.

But what I do want to fix is the sharpness, as I want it to be a lot clearer than what it currently is. Is the problem regarding this a focus lens somewhere? I've already tried "FACT RESET" in the menu that pops up when holding down the INPUT button, but the screen quality is still the same. How can I fix this? :confused:


You've got a bad LCD board inside of the light engine. I had this happen on my set. My set was less than a year old when this happened. A new LE will fix it. This is actually something I've seen pop up with every manufacturer of Rear Projection LCD units (it isn't something unique to Hitachi). I don't know if you have a warranty to help you out or not.

Any v500 owners purchased this TV at Sears with an EW and have received a credit? Guess those who have would no longer visit this thread but it's worth a shot.
I read MANPIG finally got one from CC, and my brother in law who purchased the same 60V500A had a dead pixel and CC gave him full credit after 2yrs, then he got the SONY 60" SXRD... what a lucky son of a... So I know some lucky gents have been able to do this. I purchased at Sears with an EW so since it seems I'm destined to have the same issues with the red cloud of death, I would rather politic a credit.

They've replaced the light engine on my 50v500 and the pincushion has goed from slight to severe. Any idea what could cause this? Is it only the light engine that is causing the issue or could it be something else? Anything I can do?

Any v500 owners purchased this TV at Sears with an EW and have received a credit? Guess those who have would no longer visit this thread but it's worth a shot.
I read MANPIG finally got one from CC, and my brother in law who purchased the same 60V500A had a dead pixel and CC gave him full credit after 2yrs, then he got the SONY 60" SXRD... what a lucky son of a... So I know some lucky gents have been able to do this. I purchased at Sears with an EW so since it seems I'm destined to have the same issues with the red cloud of death, I would rather politic a credit.

Let us know how that goes. I would be in the same boat as you. Provided mine takes another crap. I've had two LE replacements thus far.

Can someone tell me what the memory reset code is? I know how to get in to the SM but do not know what to enter. I have done a search on this subject but did not find the codes to enter.


I believe it is called "memory init" and you click "select". You may have to click a couple of times. It definitly took care of my bright pink/red push problem that Altay said he was having.

It did not do anything for the red cloud that was only a small issue but got progressively worse over the following months and was eventually fixed with a refurbished LE under the Sears EW. The sears tech said the red cloud issue is well known and eventually plagues all V500's with the original LE. Since the new LE has been installed I've had no more problems and excellent PQ.

Bill

The folks from cc came out and fixed by pink/red problem. not sure what they did since i wasn't there.

I had a weird experience earlier this evening. Perhaps some of you have experienced the same thing and can shed some light on the subject.

Before I left my house this evening I turned my TV off and when I returned a few hours later I noticed that while the TV was off, the blue "power" light was on (steady, not flashing). I went to turn the TV on and all I could hear was audio. I wasn't getting any video and my screen went from entirely gray to entirely white (all while I could still hear the audio). I quickly turned my TV off and let it remain off for about 5 minutes. When I went to turn it on again everything seemed to be working fine.

Anyone else have a similar experience? Is this a precursor of things to come? I have recently noticed the "red cloud" issue on a black screen or when switching inputs but don't think it's bad enough to call a service rep yet (I did purchase the extended warranty). Speaking of the "red cloud", should I take care of this immediately or can I wait? It doesn't appear to be impacting my viewing at all.

Thanks for any input you can provide guys.

get it fixed ASAP! sometimes they have to order the party which can take a week or a month or more. plus if you continue to encounter more problems, or the part is on backorder, sometimes they'll just credit you and you can get a new set.

Anyone else have a similar experience? Is this a precursor of things to come? I have recently noticed the "red cloud" issue on a black screen or when switching inputs but don't think it's bad enough to call a service rep yet (I did purchase the extended warranty). Speaking of the "red cloud", should I take care of this immediately or can I wait? It doesn't appear to be impacting my viewing at all.

Can't say I've seen your power sequencing problem but in the future you might also try pulling the power cord after the set has shut down.

As for the red cloud, I waited a few months until I was noticing it on dark scenes. I don't believe it has any other adverse effect on the TV. When decide to have the LE replaced you may want to see if the tech will replace your bulb at the same time. Sears was willing to do that for me under my EW. I believe the PQ actually got better than it ever was after the replacement. It may have just been me not seeing any more of the red cloud. I would be interested in your assement of your PQ after you get your upgraded LE.

Bill

Can't say I've seen your power sequencing problem but in the future you might also try pulling the power cord after the set has shut down.

As for the red cloud, I waited a few months until I was noticing it on dark scenes. I don't believe it has any other adverse effect on the TV. When decide to have the LE replaced you may want to see if the tech will replace your bulb at the same time. Sears was willing to do that for me under my EW. I believe the PQ actually got better than it ever was after the replacement. It may have just been me not seeing any more of the red cloud. I would be interested in your assement of your PQ after you get your upgraded LE.

Bill

Yeah that would be great. Although I'm not having the red cloud issue YET, I have read others noticing an improved PQ with the newer LE's and would want one myself if it really means improved PQ. Time to call SEARS! I'll check back with a report.

Alright 1st attempt no luck... couldn't get past level 1 support. She wanted to schedule a tech to come on over. I just wanted to speak to an expert on the phone... anyone have tips on getting to SEARS level 2+ support over the phone?
If not, I'll get the tech over, cry over the crop circle I once noticed (though seems to have disappeared) and take it from there

ok I took the tv to the service center and they said I needed a new light engine and a ballast. Hitachi agreed to cover the cost of both and I will pay the labor. I should find out what that is in the next couple of days. Anyone have any ideas? I called hitachi back and spoke to customer relations and asked them if applying the cost of the ballast and light engine towards a new television was an option and they said no. It seems like it would be because they would still make a profit on a new tv and I could apply the labor cost towards the tv which are much cheaper now btw. If they sold you a new one at cost they are still saving the money on the parts. I don't know. I just hope the new light engine performs better. Has anyone received a new one lately and had any problems? Thanks

I've been looking forward to the PQ improvement after the LE replacement. Replacement was just performed today, and the red/pink cloud is now gone. However, the PQ is degraded. Where I notice it specifically is when watching standard tv using 4:3 Expanded. I watch news channels with crawlers on the bottom. Before I could see the crawler with only the very bottom edge clipped. Now the crawler is unreadable 50-60% clip. It basically looks like I'm zoomed in about 1" all the way around. The video also appears slightly soft (Input is S-Video). I've tried playing around with Sharpness values and I can see no appreciable difference. There also seems to be some slight artifacts on the left side (about an inch) which come and go depending on the scene. I've played around for a while but no success.

When using my DVD (upconvert) through the DVI, video looks reasonably clear (have not done extensive testing). I have had to change color settings and other items (color levels were very intense versus the old LE as was the black enhancement).

Any ideas? Could I have a bad LE? Could the LE affect the 4:3 expanded mode? Is there anything in the SM that could reset the 4:3 expanded mode?

I'm going to keep playing around and call the tech on Monday if I cannot get things cleared up.

The saga continues... Thanks

Well, my v500 has finally gone too far bad. Of course, I didn't buy an EW. Take a look at this problem. I bought from Sears; will they do anything?

I'm selling it. I put it for sale on Craig's List (Austin) for $250. If you are into TV repairs and want to pick it up, search for it on CL. I will never buy anything from Hitachi again!!!

Cheers

I've been looking forward to the PQ improvement after the LE replacement. Replacement was just performed today, and the red/pink cloud is now gone. However, the PQ is degraded. Where I notice it specifically is when watching standard tv using 4:3 Expanded. I watch news channels with crawlers on the bottom. Before I could see the crawler with only the very bottom edge clipped. Now the crawler is unreadable 50-60% clip. It basically looks like I'm zoomed in about 1" all the way around. The video also appears slightly soft (Input is S-Video). I've tried playing around with Sharpness values and I can see no appreciable difference. There also seems to be some slight artifacts on the left side (about an inch) which come and go depending on the scene. I've played around for a while but no success.

When using my DVD (upconvert) through the DVI, video looks reasonably clear (have not done extensive testing). I have had to change color settings and other items (color levels were very intense versus the old LE as was the black enhancement).

Any ideas? Could I have a bad LE? Could the LE affect the 4:3 expanded mode? Is there anything in the SM that could reset the 4:3 expanded mode?

I'm going to keep playing around and call the tech on Monday if I cannot get things cleared up.

The saga continues... Thanks


Some of the engines we're getting from Hitachi are new, some are rebuilts. We've experienced some problems with a couple of the rebuilts not working right out of the box. I can't say that's you're problem though.

I PERSONALLY DON'T own one of these sets, but my brother in-law does.
His set developed a MAJOR problem, where the screen was almost completely red, not matter what he adjusted in the decoder etc.......

It was OVER the Hitachi warranty, so he took it to a qualified Hitachi dealer nearby, THAT guy told him it was gonna be $500, so he went and picked it up.

He later called CC to see if they could help him(he did NOT have an extended warranty either), they sent a guy out to his house, the guy pulled the lamp out(which my brother did as I walked him through it a week B4- he said it LOOKED ok at that time), made a phone call, got a brand new lamp out of his truck, talked to Hitachi for 5 minutes or so, popped in the new lamp, went into the service menu(I don't know what he changed in there, I wasn't there, and my brother is anti-electronic heheh)changed a few settings, rebooted the TV.....

MINT

Best part about this?
They didn't charge him a DIME!!

I just figured I'd relay something that happened with this Model TV, maybe someone else can make use of the info, as I was fairly certain he had MAJOR issues, but as noted above, it was an EZ fix.

One thing that a person can take away from this thread (and others) is that it appears as though CC is taking care of their customers. I think I will seriously consider my future purchases through them, for that very reason.

I hear your frustration all the way up here in Midland, TX. Ive only had the red cloud issue and none other. I am going to make an assumption and say that replacing the LE will most likely fix the problem, the reason I am saying this is due to the fact the LE makes up most of this set, but hopefully others on here have experienced your problem and can weigh in on the situation, again I only had the Red Cloud

Once removed there arent many other parts on the inside. A couple of circuit boards connected tothe Inputs on the rear and the bulb ballast, but not much else.

Here is a pic of my old LE. I drew in where the new vent is located, and again they removed the circular vent from the bottom. Everything else looks the same.

I've got a 50V500A and was thinking about doing the LE replacement myself also. Seeing that Hitachi is making us pay the labor anyway. My question is has your refurbed LE been working OK? Did you replace the Lamp at the same time?

Can't say I've seen your power sequencing problem but in the future you might also try pulling the power cord after the set has shut down.

As for the red cloud, I waited a few months until I was noticing it on dark scenes. I don't believe it has any other adverse effect on the TV. When decide to have the LE replaced you may want to see if the tech will replace your bulb at the same time. Sears was willing to do that for me under my EW. I believe the PQ actually got better than it ever was after the replacement. It may have just been me not seeing any more of the red cloud. I would be interested in your assement of your PQ after you get your upgraded LE.

Bill

My LE is scheduled to be replaced on 11/15 under the Sears EW. They told me that they would definitely not replace the bulb under the warranty. As mine is almost three years old, what is everyone's opinion: should I purchase a bulb and have them change it out while they are there?

I could sure use some help and advice on my 50V500. It is about 3 years old and I’ve had NO problems until recently. A few weeks ago I noticed what appears to be a light yellow cloud. It covers most of the screen and emanates from the middle towards the edges. There is a two or three inch edge all the way around the screen where the increased yellow color does not appear. It is very notable when the screen is white…and not too bad otherwise. I’m not sure if the problem is progressive and will get worse? Of course, now that I can see it…it is all I see. I’ve “reset” the colors and replaced the bulb. After reading all the postings online, I’m beginning to suspect that this the same problem with the light engine that other folks report when describing the red or pink color invading the screen. I’d greatly appreciate advice/confirmation, whatever…that helps me figure out what to do next. Thanks in advance!

I just replaced my bulb. Found it online for $210 including shipping and got it in two or three days. Took me 5 minutes to replace it. Only three screws…so very easy. My v500 has (3 years X 365 days X 10 hours) = somewhere around 11,000 hours (yea…we watch too much TV…I know…) I thought the bulb was going out because of a different color problem I’ve posted about…but the new bulb did not fix the color problem. However, the TV is MUCH brighter overall (and of course it is easier to see the color problem…go figure…). So, I’m OK having replaced the bulb…. My advice…wait unless you have a lot of hours and do it yourself if you can…

Does anyone no where to buy a light engine. Do you have to buy it from Hitachi.

Does anyone no where to buy a light engine. Do you have to buy it from Hitachi.

You can get them from here.

http://www.wehaveparts.com/index.cgi?subbcat=hitachi

The DR is a refurb.

Well, I had my light engine replaced and it made the minor pincushion issue much worse. They say it's at the outside edge of tolerance and they can't do anything about it. I'm going to call Hitachi to see what they say before I start trashing them on the Internet.

Just had my LE replaced yesterday. Overall the picture quality is MUCH better than what I had before with the red cloud issue. Basically looks like a brand new TV. Here's the problem though, it seems the contrast is maxed out and I can't adjust it to be lower. The screen is incredibly bright. Not just brighter than before, but TOO bright.

Using the Cars dvd with the THX optimization screens, there is a white box that is supposed to show 8 shades of white/grey for adjusting contrast, but I can only see 2 shades (could see all 8 with my old LE). Regardless of if I adjust contrast from 100% to 0% I can't really tell a difference. (yes, even with contrast at 0%, the picture is just WAY too bright, almost hurts your eyes in a dark room)

It's almost as if contrast is "stuck" at 100%, whether I turn the setting down to 0% or not.

Has anyone had this problem with the new LE? Is it possible there is something I can adjust somewhere in the service menu to correct this?

WOW, this whole light engine business is pretty alarming. I've been out of the country for awhile, and haven't posted in the 50v500 threads since late 2003. Except for a bulb that burned out after only around 5 months, and the black-corners-foam issue, which happened after I moved the set back to the states, I haven't (knock on wood) had any other problems. BUT... checking the service menu tells me I only have 2611 hours of usage, and it sounds like this light engine issue seems to pop up somewhere in the neighborhood of 5000+ hours.

SO, my question for the rest of you is, what's your sense of the prevalence of this problem (I know there's bias in the forums, because usually only the people with problems are posting)? It's shocking to me to see how many of my fellow early adopters are reporting this issue, and if this is something that I can almost certainly expect in another 2,500 hours or so, it makes me wonder if I should just leave my set on 24-7, and flush the problem out before my 5 year Sears master protection agreement expires in 2008??? That would frakkin kill me if I got the red blotch the day after the warranty runs out! :(

I am a little disappointed with my TV since it has only a DVI. Most electronics coming out today have HMDI outputs. Am I losing out with my set? What would be a good price to sell my TV?

I am a little disappointed with my TV since it has only a DVI. Most electronics coming out today have HMDI outputs. Am I losing out with my set? What would be a good price to sell my TV?You're not going to get any better of a picture with HDMI, than DVI -- they're both 100% digital. The only difference with HDMI is that it carries the audio information along on the same cable.

In my opinion, you're not losing out on anything by sticking with your DVI only set. Chances are, your audio is being sent to a separate receiver, anyway.

You're not going to get any better of a picture with HDMI, than DVI -- they're both 100% digital. The only difference with HDMI is that it carries the audio information along on the same cable.

In my opinion, you're not losing out on anything by sticking with your DVI only set. Chances are, your audio is being sent to a separate receiver, anyway.

Thanks, I was feeling like I jumped on the HDTV train too early. :D

No problem. Oh -- and maybe you already know this -- but you can buy HDMI to DVI cables and adaptors, so if your DVD player or TV receiver only has HDMI output, you can still feed it to your TV's DVI input. It's a digital to digital solution, so it's essentially lossless.

Cheers! :)

My LE is scheduled to be replaced on 11/15 under the Sears EW. They told me that they would definitely not replace the bulb under the warranty. As mine is almost three years old, what is everyone's opinion: should I purchase a bulb and have them change it out while they are there?

EW from SEARS? Should be covered man. I know mine was. I purchased this TV in June of 04 with 5yr EW and I made sure to ask if the lamp was covered and they confirmed to me it was. Lamp went on me in Aug 05, and they covered it with no hassle... even got two extra lamps from them cause they screwed up the service call and didn't order the part when they were supposed to... they ended up sending me 3 back to back.
You should be able to swap it yourself... instructions are in the owners manual.

Thank you for the information on where to buy the light engine from. Do you know if the refurbished LE have been updated with more ventilation. It was my understanding from reading these post that heat was what was creating the issue with them going bad. I have downloaded a repair manual and am thinking of replacing the LE my self.
The issue my TV has is the purple hue on dark scenes in the middle of the screens which had been there since it was fairly new. Now the middle section of the screen is starting to get colors to bleed. It is very noticiable on any text in the middle section of the screen. I have gone through the service menu and checked the ghosting and adjustments and have not been able to find any adjustment for fixing the bleed in the middle of the screen.
I have had a hx with this TV I had ghosing problems in the beginning and have also had issues with the colors being pink. I was able to fix these in the service menu. I am unable to find a fix for the color bleed in the center of the screen. Are you aware of a service menu simple fix for this.
I live in Montana so getting a service tech that knows much is a little difficult. The service tech in my area has never worked on a TV similar to mine. I am pretty much on my own.
Thanks for any help.

My LE is scheduled to be replaced on 11/15 under the Sears EW. They told me that they would definitely not replace the bulb under the warranty. As mine is almost three years old, what is everyone's opinion: should I purchase a bulb and have them change it out while they are there?

Update: Got my LE replaced yesterday. Now I have a new problem... there is a yellow tinted area across the top 3 inches of the screen. Anyone else had this problem? They are sending the technician out (again) next week.

EW from SEARS? Should be covered man. I know mine was. I purchased this TV in June of 04 with 5yr EW and I made sure to ask if the lamp was covered and they confirmed to me it was. Lamp went on me in Aug 05, and they covered it with no hassle... even got two extra lamps from them cause they screwed up the service call and didn't order the part when they were supposed to... they ended up sending me 3 back to back.
You should be able to swap it yourself... instructions are in the owners manual.

I should clarify this. They said that, if the lamp went out, it was covered. My lamp is still working, so they said they would not replace it as a part of replavcing the LE.

Has any Hitachi owner purchased a PS3? How do the graphics look on a Hitachi set?

I've been checking out these posts for a while since I noticed the red cloud on my 60v500A a few months ago. Today I had the light engine replaced under the extended warrenty from Sears. What a huge difference. The new picture is fantastic. Blacks are black. Whites are bright white. Colors are more vibrant. Seriously a night and day difference. I don't know if its better than what it was when I bought it (that was 2 years ago) but its defintely a huge improvement over what it was yesterday. FYI - One thing I noticed when he replaced the LE was how dusty the lens on the old one was. I was surprised at how bad it was. Even with no red cloud problem the picture quality had to have been suffering because of that layer of dust on the lens. The repairman said it could make a big difference and I should have it cleaned periodically. I definitely will, because it was filthy. FYI 2 - the box for the LE was delivered to my house a few days before the repair. The LE box was labeled "REFURBISHED" and the repairman said Sears would sending my old LE to Hitachi and I assume they would repair and resell it?

I've been checking out these posts for a while since I noticed the red cloud on my 60v500A a few months ago. Today I had the light engine replaced under the extended warrenty from Sears. What a huge difference....

Exactly my experience too although for JPAUB I did have to get SEARS right back out because they installed a defective replacement LE the first time. I was able to talk them into bringing out a new bulb for the inconvienience. Since June the PQ has been excellent and I believe better than ever. I would encourage anyone out there working through a "red cloud" issue not give up.

I've read all of the old posts and see that some people encountered the green tint issue. When I had the tech come back out to look at the clipping issue after my red cloud LE replacement, Hitachi had the service tech do a MEMORY INIT. Of course I lost all of my settings, and I've been playing around trying to tweak the system to get the colors right with no success. I used the THX Optimizer screens on CARS to adjust. However, on the gray scale (DVI input at 1080i), I have significant green tint as it goes into the lower values toward black. You can see this green tint also on the other inputs as well.

On my S-Video input, my color is severely wacked with greens looking florescent and truly intense magenta. Plus it goes from nice skin tones to green tints. It is really obnoxious and really only started happening this bad after the MEMORY INIT.

I have AVIA coming tomorrow so that I can do some calibration but is there anything in the SM (or other adjustments) that can clear up the green tint at the lower gray levels? Or is it time for another service call? Or is ISF calibration the way to go?

Thanks,
David

Update: Got my LE replaced yesterday. Now I have a new problem... there is a yellow tinted area across the top 3 inches of the screen. Anyone else had this problem? They are sending the technician out (again) next week.

Update: The LE they installed was defective. Now they have to come back out and replace it again. What a pain. Four service calls (and counting) for an item they should have had in-hand the first time they came out.

Hi all,
I have a Hitachi 60v525 Canadian model LCD rear projection. Does anyone know if the updated light engines were used in these models or do they have the same engine as these plagued v500 series. Just curious. It sounds like I was smart when i bought the 4 year extended warranty. Thanks for any info. I just love the unit though.

they have the revised LE. You "shouldn't" have the same issue as us V500 owners. Though by now, I think 90% of us have had the LE replaced to the modified version.

Continuing with Green tint issue after LE replacement. As a few others have noted, the green tint appears to be concentrated on the right side. However, low level grays also lean more to green. I've included a screen shot from Avia disk after calibration to show the issue (picture modified to be closer to what I see with my eye). Since a MemoryInit (which I believe was one suggestion for resolving this issue before) has already been performed, is this a bad LE replacement? My lamp has almost 8k hours. Could it be a lamp issue (however, shouldn't it be more uniform if a lamp issue)?

--David

Hi everybody,

I'm brand new to this forum, and hope there are people that can help me. I'm the unhappy owner of a HITACHI 50V500 LCD RPTV, and have the screen getting red and more red every time I use it, until I decided it was not acceptable.

That was 6 months ago and as my TV was not on guaranty and checked the price of changing the lamp ($1350) at that time, decided to use my retro projector (a bit noisy by image OK, that I use for professional presentations with my computer).

2 weeks ago I decided to get rid of this huge unused TV in ebay, when I saw that I could get a new lamp for $224, so I bought it and after installing the new lamp I'm at the same stage, red cloud all over the screen and $224 less in my pocket.

Obviously, from the message I saw I deduced wrongly that the red cloud was a problem with the lamp, and now I'm wondering what is the cause of my red cloud?

Any suggestion.

I think if you have even read this thread you would have saved yourself $200. The red cloud has nothing to do with the lamp. It is the Light Engine (LE) and is caused by poor ventilation of the LE assembly inside the unit. This causes the LCD (Red in this case as it is farthest from the cooling assembly) to start to burn.

This burn in results is a constant Red hue on the image that starts only in dark scenes but will slowly invade even the brightest scenes. The only fix of this issue is a LE replacement. Hit has a redesigned LE with a larger fan and more ventilation slots to improve air flow around the light assembly.

Hit will pay for the part but not to have it installed. If you know of someone who is electronically inclined the job can be performed with the service manual.

Hope that helps.

On another note, I have someone I know who has almost 9K hours on his original lamp with a replacement LE (also after this red hue problems) who is now starting to see some minor image flickering. The image isn't degraded but I am wondering if his lamp is on his last legs or is this a sign of another problem???

Thoughts please?

My lamp is getting on to 7500 hours, a friend of mines is over 9 thousand but I think it is on its last legs.

If you mean red / pink PUSH I have, this isn't like the red cloud where is starts in the center of your screen. The push issue is the entire image looks red or pinkish, to varying degrees.

This push is usually fixed by a factory memory reset from the SM. The red cloud issue is fixed by a new LE. If you have a pink cloud like the red cloud I am thinking this may be the onset of the "red cloud" issue, but because it is "new" it looks pink.

Is this effect pronounced or barely noticeable on dark screens?

My 50v500 is 3 years old and has around 2800 hrs. Guess I'm lucky I haven't had any problems by problems I read on these forums. Again lucky, not braggin! Nothin to brag about, I've done nothing.

Knock on wood I have not had too many problems with my Hit, I had the issue where the screen looked pink as well as the side bars. Tech came out and fixed it.

Q: is there some sore of general maint. I should be doing? Is there such a thing as a tuneup for TV's? I guess if nothing is wrong then don't fix it but just wondering if anyone has a suggestion.

My 50v500 is 3 years (<1200 hours watched) with no EW. I had a yellow crop circle on the lower right side. Called Hitachi's customer relations department and they paid for the LE, I had to pay for the service. They would not send me the LE so I could do it myself. The new LE now has to be replaced agian becuase the picture is scewed from right to left (not sure what you would call it).

Whenever there are light areas on the screen (like a blue sky), I can see vertical stripes on the screen.

I went into the SM and adjusted the "NRSH (VERTICAL LINE) ADJUSTMENT" described on pg. 57 of the service manual.

I can adjust each of the 9 areas of the screen, but adjusting it to the right makes the lines lighter (and more visible), and adjusting it to the left makes the lines darker (and more visible).

It seems the settings are as good as they will get, but I'm still seeing the vertical lines. I don't think they've always been visible, as I just noticed them a while ago.

Anyone else see them? Perhaps it's just inherent in LCD RPTV technology, or perhaps it's time for a LE replacement. I have the original LE with ~2200 hours on it.

Yet another update...

They replaced the LE again and everything was fine. Six days later, the lamp goes out with the usual flashing lights on the front of the unit. Called Sears back (this was on December 14).... I was told that they would come and replace it on the 29th. I complained about the long leadtime, considering how d*** much time I've had to spend on service calls with them over the last 5 weeks and asked for some consideration. Telephone agent copped an attitude with me (and, no, I hadn't lost my temper or anything YET), so I asked to speak to a supervisor. Well, he copped an even BIGGER attitude.

Dear Sears..... NEVER AGAIN!


Update: The LE they installed was defective. Now they have to come back out and replace it again. What a pain. Four service calls (and counting) for an item they should have had in-hand the first time they came out.