I just picked up the SAMSUNG TX-P2675WH at the local GG for $790. It is hooked up to Comcast "extended" cable.

First impressions is the superb picture quality on the analog channels. The setup is a breeze - the manual actually makes sense - and the remote is uncomplicated.

BUT - the tuner is supposed to be able to pick up QAM channels - but none detected. My FusionHD PC card - connected to the same comcast cable - detects about 8 un-encrypted QAM channels, including the local NBC-HD, ABC-HD and PBS-HD. Some are on the main QAM channels (i.e. 112-1) and some on subchannels (i.e. 111-4).

So - has anybody else run into this problem? Should the tuner not pick up the main QAM unencrypted channels - or am I missing something?

Also - the choice for Digital output on/off is grayed out and I am not getting any audio out of the fiber optic out connection on the set.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I picked up one yesterday and have the same question? I love the TV and the picture quality is superb but I have had no luck picking up HD cable channels either. Since this is the first time I am trying to pick up digital cable signals so I dont know if I am doing something wrong or if my cable company Adelphia encrypts the signals.

Did you contact your cable company and inform them about your set, but make sure you at least speak to a tech or an engineer.
There is the possibility that you may not receive the HD channels without there permission.
If you are not familiar with the new cable cards ask them about those also.

abrahavt - is your digital output "on/off" grayed out (like mine is)?

Yes the digital output is grayed out but since it is my bedroom TV it is not connected to a receiver or anything through the digital output.

Originally posted by RCbridge
Did you contact your cable company and inform them about your set, but make sure you at least speak to a tech or an engineer.
There is the possibility that you may not receive the HD channels without there permission.
If you are not familiar with the new cable cards ask them about those also.

The original poster has another QAM tuner that can pickup 8 unencrypted channels. If his channels were encrypted, the only solution would be a cable card. Unfortunately, I don't think this TV will work with one.

According to Adelphia you have to have a HD settop box from them in order to see the HD channels. I guess it is irrelevant if you have a QAM tuner or not. With all Cable companies coming out with Cable Card solutions in the coming months I guess one option would be to wait for TV's that have Cable Cards built in. But with cable card technology slated to change in the coming years (two way), I guess we are at the mercy of the cable companies till things settle down.

Originally posted by abrahavt
According to Adelphia you have to have a HD settop box from them in order to see the HD channels. I guess it is irrelevant if you have a QAM tuner or not.

Well, I can't help but think that Adelphia is just blowing smoke on this one.

If the FusionHD Gold QAM card can "see" the unencrypted 256QAM signals coming in on the cable...then a Samsung HDTV set with QAM tuning should also "see" these channels - unless, of course, the Samsung set is not set for 256QAM but iinstead tunes 64QAM.

If the answer is that you need a cable box to receive the unencrypted channels...then why would Samsung design a tuner with QAM. It just does not make any sense!

I don't know anything about the technical issues involved, but perhaps someone monitoring this thread can enlighten us.

In a perfect world, one would be able to ask Samsung what exactly the QAM feature in their HDTV sets does...but I just wasted one hour listening to some insipid muzak while I was holding for their tech level 2 support and I never reached anyone....

I might try to fax Samsung...but doubt that I would get an intelligent reply. :mad:

Originally posted by cvj
In a perfect world, one would be able to ask Samsung what exactly the QAM feature in their HDTV sets does..[/B]

Google-ing for QAM demodulation, I found this nugget

[/I]ATI’s NXT2004 Multimode VSB/QAM demodulator is configurable to work in either the ATSC compliant 8 VSB mode for terrestrial broadcasting or in the ITU-J.83B/SCTE DVS-031/ DOCSISTM compliant 64 QAM or 256 QAM modes for Digital TV-Cable Connect and Digital TV-Cable Interactive reception. What does this mean in English? The demodulator converts the 8VSB signals (the DTV signal) captured by the antenna and converts them into data the computer can understand, MPEG2, or when used by a cable provider, QAM demodulation is used. Basically, it determines which DTV signals the user is able to receive. The chip is designed for use in set-top boxes and off-air and cable digital television receivers, where ATI has scored design wins from manufacturers such as Samsung and Sony...[/B]

So it would seem that the QAM demodulator built into the Samsung HDTV set is designed to pick up the unencoded QAM channels on cable ...just like the Fusion card. I rest my case :o

A "final" word (tonight at least) on QAM found in a description of a RCA set:

" Delivers impressive picture performances including a built-in ATSC High Definition Digital Tuner with QAM cable demodulation capability that enables the TV to receive unscrambled local broadcasts over digital cable channels without a separate set-top box"...

'nuff said...Adelphia is clueless...you don't need their stinkin' box:D
(in theory at least - why doesn't it work on my Samsung?).:confused:

Originally posted by cvj
Well, I can't help but think that Adelphia is just blowing smoke on this one.

If the FusionHD Gold QAM card can "see" the unencrypted 256QAM signals coming in on the cable...then a Samsung HDTV set with QAM tuning should also "see" these channels - unless, of course, the Samsung set is not set for 256QAM but iinstead tunes 64QAM.

If the answer is that you need a cable box to receive the unencrypted channels...then why would Samsung design a tuner with QAM. It just does not make any sense!

By 2005 ALL HDTV's 25" and bigger will be required by law to have a tuner. For whatever reasons Samsung chose to implement a tuner in their models this year instead of waiting until the last minute to do so next year.

Originally posted by Sonikku
By 2005 ALL HDTV's 25" and bigger will be required by law to have a tuner. For whatever reasons Samsung chose to implement a tuner in their models this year instead of waiting until the last minute to do so next year.

Right - but this thread is all about the QAM feature of the tuner....not the tuner itself;)

I called Adelphia again and they said that they encrypt all signals so my QAM tuner wouldn't work and I would need one of their set top boxes. The only thing that would work would be a cable card equipped TV. I guess the QAM tuner is of no use in my case.

Another person in the Cleveland area just confirmed that they cannot pick up Adelphia HD programming on their Sony XBR 960 QAM tuner, so I guess they do encrypt their signals. Makes it difficult for me to figure out if the QAM tuner on my Samsung works or not but I guess it is a moot point as I need to get a box from Adelphia even if it worked.

Originally posted by abrahavt
Another person in the Cleveland area just confirmed that they cannot pick up Adelphia HD programming on their Sony XBR 960 QAM tuner, so I guess they do encrypt their signals. Makes it difficult for me to figure out if the QAM tuner on my Samsung works or not but I guess it is a moot point as I need to get a box from Adelphia even if it worked.

Accroding to FCC rules, cable companies are not allowed to encrypt channels carrying signals from stations that are broadcasting over the air, i.e. your local ABC, CBS, NBC and PBS stations.

You can find the language of the FCC rules pertaining to this....then advise Adelphia that they are not in compliance with FCC rules. If you call their legal department I would think they would pay attention :mad:

I think the question of a Cable Company having to provide unencrypted signals is up in the air. I have heard conflicting reports. There was an FCC ruling that "Must Carry" applied to DTV, when a station drops it's analog broadcast. See http://ftp.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Cable/Orders/2001/fcc01023.pdf --a broadcaster in Florida actually forced the issue. Not sure if it applies if the the analog broadcast is still being carried.

But back to the original question, does this TV's HD tuner handle unencrypted QAM?

anybody?

I am now in touch with Samsung Level 2 tech re QAM, and here is what they say:

I have yet to hear of a cable company that has provided unscrambled QAM but if comcast engineering confirms those requirements are met than there must be something wrong with the tuner. Most cable company's also send out their own channel data instead of sending out the PSIP signal. You might want to double check with comcast engineering to make sure.

Unfortunately, have no way to get to Comcast's engineers (all I can reach is the sales people and they don't know nuthin')...so I cannot check on whether they send out a "PSIP" signal....

Waht is PSIP?

How can I check this?

HELP - ANYONE :(

Considering that others who have bought the Sanyo TVs from Walmart have no issues on Comcast I'd call BS on the Samsung engineers' line. Check the incredible TV at Walmart thread to see their experience pulling in channels from Comcast w/o a box.

Originally posted by 1450kHz
I couldn't see my CBS or Fox affiliates because they shared QAM channels with stations sending PSIP. I've also noticed if I tune to a channel with PSIP on it, then when I go to one that doesn't I can't see the subchannels.
.

I need some infor about PSIP. I am trying to get my new Samsung HDTV to work picking up QAM channels from Comcast. The built-in tuner has QAM but it fails to detect the same QAM channels that my FusionHD picks up.

Samsung level2 tech says: The TV accepts Clear QAM. Two requirements....1 - PSIP data is required to view the station. Often time most cable companys send out their own data with the signal. The last requirement is that it be unscrambled ATSC format. If that is all correct then you should pick it up.

I have yet to hear of a cable company that has provided unscrambled QAM but if comcast engineering confirms those requirements are met than there must be something wrong with the tuner. Most cable company's also send out their own channel data instead of sending out the PSIP signal. You might want to double check with comcast engineering to make sure.

Sooo, what do I tell Samsung's level 2 tech about whether Comcast sends out PSIP????

I doubt that I would be able to talk to a knowledgeable Tech person at Comcast.....and Level 1 "Customer Support" does not know the answer.

Anyone reading this post..please help clear this up.:confused:

Otherwise I guess the Samsung goes back to the store and I head for Walmart for a Sanyo:mad:

I am in CA.

I just picked up this set last Friday 7/30/04 at Circuit City for 699-$50 MFR Rebate. Sweet deal for the bedroom. I have my Attenea and cable (adelphia) hooked to it. Att A: and Att B respectively. I just use the Attenea button on the remote to switch between the two. I pick up all kinds of HD signals from the attenea and watch cable through the other.

I have the Adelphia HD cable box in the lvg room. As far as the QAM goes, Adelphia shows their HD programming on channels 900 + (902 CBS, 904 NBC, etc) . The Samsung is only a 125 Channel tuner, you wouldn't get the HD brodcasts because the tv only pick up channels 2-125. Am I missing something?

Originally posted by R00st3r

I have the Adelphia HD cable box in the lvg room. As far as the QAM goes, Adelphia shows their HD programming on channels 900 + (902 CBS, 904 NBC, etc) . The Samsung is only a 125 Channel tuner, you wouldn't get the HD brodcasts because the tv only pick up channels 2-125. Am I missing something?

Yes, I think you are missing something. The QAM feature is designed to tune unencrypted digital channels directly from cable without using a Cable Box.

Hoewever, I have not been able to get this feature to work, in spite of having a tech visit 3 times. We have replaced all cables with new RG-6 cable and eliminated all splitters to get normal signal levels (-1mV to 1.00mV) directly to the Samsung cable input.

It still does not tune QAM.....and I think that while Samsung has checked the QAM feature in their lab using a digital signal generator...they probably have NOT checked that the tuner works (as advertised) with COMCAST, Adelpi or COX under "real world" conditions.

The tech (who does tech services under contract with Good Guys) also said that the new SONY KD34XBR 960, which has a slot for a QAM card, also has issues picking up QAM.

Meanwhile, My Fusion HD QAM PC card picks up all the digital and HD unewncrypted channels of Comcast basic with no problem at all...you go figure.

My Samsung is going back to GG..

Cheers

I just connected the attenea and the cable to the tv and switch between the 2 via the attenea button on the remote. The OTA HD Picks up more than Adelphia has anyway. I will keep checking back as I cannot seem to get it to pick up QAM either. I tried all 3 different type STD, HRC, and IRC (?)
I am not sure what the difference is between them though.

I just got off the phne with both samsng and adelphia.
Samsung said that i would have to check with the cable provider to find out if they are transmitting unencrypted. (He is also an avs forum member). Which is why it is hit and miss for most people.

I called Adelphia and they kept insisting that without a HDTV cable box, I would not pick up any HD signals from their cable feed set top box or not.

But here is the specs of the HD cable box.:

PERFORMANCE FEATURES
• Integrated High-Definition (HD) decoder with YPBPR component output
• MPEG-2 digital video processor
• Built-in DOCSIS 1.0/1.1-compatible cable modem for high-speed interactivity2
• Full array of audio, video and data interfaces
• ITU standard 64/256 QAM/FEC/enhanced adaptive equalizer
• Two 54 - 860 MHz tuners

So their system also has a buit in 64/256 QAM equalizer(/?)

Ug!. I like the set but do not want to have to pay an additional $10 for another HD box.

I have been back and forth with both Samsung Level 2 as well as the tech from Good Guys about the QAM cable issue.

This might be helpful:
"Following David's Service Call and Signal Analysis (below), I installed new RG-6 cable from the Comcast cable drop directly to the Samsung.

David was kind enough to come back yesterday and re-measure the signal strength after the installation of the new RG-6 coax cable.

This time the PSIP, QAM and 8-VSB were at normal levels at the end of the cable where it is connected to the Samsung.

I have also verified that the COMCAST signal has the following clear (unencrypted) QAM channels with PSIP:

Name: Channel: RF:
KOMO-DT 4-1 111
KCTS-HD 4-2 111
KOMO-DT 4-3 111
KING-DT 5-1 112
KONG-DT 5-2 112
KCPQ Di 13-1 110
KTWB-DT 13-2 110

David detected all of the above on his equipment - and I am also receiving them on the PC with the Fusion HD QAM card.

Everything here checks out as far as the Comcast signal, strength, QAM, PSIP etc.

So, I am asking SAMSUNG for a response to the following questions:

1.
Has SAMSUNG USA ever connected theTXP2675WHX/XAA to a basic cable provider (Comcast, Adelphi, COX etc. ) and verified that the QAM tuner can pick up the unencrypted PSIP signals?

2.
If not, why are you advertising the QAM feature in the U.S. market?

I look forward to your response."

We are all waiting with baited breath for a response from Samsung's Head Tech in Seoul...

Cheers

anyone know how to get into the service menu on this tv?

I think it might be this....
Mute-1-8-2-Power while unit is at "Off" status

I would really like to know Samsungs opinon of the QAM feature on this tv and if it really works...no one has had success without the HDCableBox..?

Have you recieved any response from Samsung regarding this issue?

I am still waiting for an "official" reponse from Samsung USA...

Will post here if and when received.

In the meantime, I have returned the set to the store (GG).

Their tech reported he is getting several calls about the QAM feature (or lack thereof) not only about the Samsung, but also about the newest SONY whicfh has a QAM card slot....

Stay tuned...:o

I was just looking over a downloaded manual on the TX-P3071/75 and note that in the "antenna > autoprogram > cable" menu, there are Yes/No boxes for "Adopts QAM for transmission." Does this choice appear on your TV? Or does it make any difference whether it is set to Yes or No?

Samsung has been returned ......but the menu did have the QAM "choice"...just did not work :(

Cable companies do not want you to receive hd signals without the use of their receivers. The QAM tuner is meant to be used with an antenna for receiving the major free networks only. Cable companies can control the use of their programming because it is a pay service. They show the major networks as a convenience not a necessity.

The QAM tuner is meant to be used with an antenna for receiving the major free networks only.

Afraid you are wrong - QAM is carried by cable and is NOT used with an antenna. You do not need QAM to receive OTA programming.

Glad this thread is here. I was thinking of getting a HDTV and it looks like the Sanyo at Wallyworld is the best bet. Its too bad because stores that carry the Samsung off no interest financing. I dont think Wallyworld does off any financing.

In case you didn't know the Fusion 3 GOLD didnt work in QAM mode. They had to re release the newest version to Fusion 3 gold QAM

Ok, I might be wrong about QAM. I am just wondering why all the fuss over not receiving local HD programing when you could just use an antenna. You can't expect to be able to receive the Premium channels without the use of a cable box. That is their control mechanism. Maybe cable card televisions will solve your problem. Satellite customers use external receivers and I don't hear complaints from them.

I guess for clarification. Are the Samsung owners trying to receive local digital broadcasts through Adelphia regular cable service (instead of using OTA antenna)? Has anyone been able to receive Adelphia HD channels via Fusion card (PC)?

Replacing Adelphi with Comcast the answer to both questions (in my own case) is YES!

cvj, I'm in the same boat as you with a similar model Samsung tv set.

The answer is: Samsung's QAM decoder does not work. I have been in contact with their support, they don't know anything about it. What did they say to you lately?

See this link: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=410063&highlight=qam

I have returned the Samsung HDTV to the store.

The following is a summary of the correspondance with Samsung.
Bottom line...it is due to a Comcast problem :-)


Read from bottom up.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

I attempted that and it did not work. Neither mode yielded any unscrambled QAM channels in the auto channel search mode. I had initially suspected Comcast transmitting the QAM on either HRC or IRC, but it did not work. Either I can or the customer can try it again. I can order a new tuner and/or microprocessor if it would be deemed helpful in solving the problem.



Thank you,
(Signed TV installer)
----------------Here is Samsung's reply ------------------


Mr. Jensen, I apologize if it seems I did not answer your questions

1. Yes. this has been tested in individual cable markets and is functional.

2. This is not an issue experienced in all markets, with the providers mentioned and un-mentioned in your email, but one that is limited to areas that use a signal broadcast method that combines HRC carrier bandwidth and STD carrier bandwidth in the same transmission. We are sorry that this not functioning smoothly for you and we can work with you towards a resolution. But because Comcast is sending their Analog and Digital signals over two separate frequencies it would be necessary for you to switch back and forth between STD and HRC in the television menu then auto program every time to pick up the correct channel frequency . HRC (Harmonic related carrier) frequency that carries the Analog signal and an STD (Standard Carrier) frequency that carries the Digital and Qam signals.

Signed Samsung Tech support

-----My Original Message-----

However, I must say that Samsung has not answered my questions, so I will ask them again:



1.

Has SAMSUNG USA ever connected theTXP2675WHX/XAA to a basic cable provider (Comcast, Adelphi, COX etc. ) and verified that the QAM tuner can pick up the unencrypted PSIP signals?



2.

If not, why are you advertising the QAM feature in the U.S. market?

Which tv did you swap it for? Anything with a built in QAM tuner?

I gave up on the TV. Instead I am happily using my FusionHD QAM Gold card, which works perfectly (with the latest software) and gives me access to all the unencrypted digital channels!

Cheaper and better! Check it out.

I picked up the TX-P2670WH today at Best Buy and love the size/picture of the set. It is for my bedroom so I wanted something small, Unfortunately, I didn't see this thread before I bought it. The *ONLY* reason I picked it up was that it had a built in QAM tuner. Like everyone else, I've had no luck with the QAM tuner. The over-the-air works antenna works fine.

I shot an email to samsung technical support and will call them tomorrow. I'm not sure what I'm going to do though. I haven't found any other 26' set with a built in tuner. I don't want to buy one without a tuner since I don't intend on getting another box from Comcast.

Same results here with Comcast in Ft. Lauderdale. It has to be the Samsung's QAM tuner....my LG stb has absolutely no problem detecting and tuning the unscrambled digital channels from Comcast.

Im just curious more than anything else, you guys are upset because Samsung advertises a QAM tuner and it does not work. Or that you cannot get a hd broadcast at all, even though you could use an antenna? And/or is the antenna a bother and you shouldnt have to deal with it?

upset because Samsung advertises a QAM tuner and it does not work

Is the reason.

When sending an email to Samsung, include a link to this and other Samsung QAM threads please.

Originally posted by SSJLaletas
Im just curious more than anything else, you guys are upset because Samsung advertises a QAM tuner and it does not work. Or that you cannot get a hd broadcast at all, even though you could use an antenna? And/or is the antenna a bother and you shouldnt have to deal with it?

For me, it's that Samsung advertises a QAM tuner and does not work. I have a ChannelMaster 4248 with CM preamp and can't get every channel OTA. More often than not I get breakup on ABC and NBC. For my Main set, I use a comcast converter so I get those channels.

I did not want to rent another box from comcast so I bought this set specifically because Samsung advertises it has a QAM tuner.

I wrote the VP of Corporate relations and the President of Best Buy informing them of Samsungs false advertising and perceived willful indifference in fixing what seems to be an easy firmware change. It's been 9+ months since they knew about the problem and they still haven't fixed it so at least new products shipping don't have the problem. I'm hoping that if enough people complain to samsungs channel partners(who then provide Samsung's false QAM description) that those partners will put pressure on Samsung to fix the issue.

Dan Bither are you saying the the samsungs selling now have an upgraded firmware? i bought mine ( TX-P3071WH) 8/29 and have encountered the same problem of not being able to decode any qam channels. Has this been fixed in the past week or are you refering to different tvs. ( or maybe i just haven't been able to set up mine properly)


andrew stein

No Andrew, he saying that even all the new Samsungs don't work either.

I bought mine 8 days ago, mine doesn't work.

Originally posted by JamesMH
No Andrew, he saying that even all the new Samsungs don't work either.

I bought mine 8 days ago, mine doesn't work.

Yup. It is inexplicable that they haven't at least fix the new products going out the door.

Yep, or that their tech support don't freely admit that their products don't work . . or tell us that to receive QAM signals we need a cable box from our cable provider . . or tell us that the television with built in 8VSB/ClearQAM decoder does not have a built in 8VSB/ClearQAM decoder. . . . etc . .

Are there any other TVs that have a builtin 8VSB/ClearQAM similar to this Samsung line that I can get instead?

In case anyone wants to email Samsung Tech regarding this problem, here is a link to the gentleman that is fully conversant with the QAM issue:

Alfonso Douriet <AlfonsoD@sea.samsung.com>


He will probably respond (as he did to me) as follows:

------------quote------------------------------------
This is not an issue experienced in all markets, with the providers mentioned and un-mentioned in your email, but one that is limited to areas that use a signal broadcast method that combines HRC carrier bandwidth and STD carrier bandwidth in the same transmission. We are sorry that this not functioning smoothly for you and we can work with you towards a resolution. But because Comcast is sending their Analog and Digital signals over two separate frequencies it would be necessary for you to switch back and forth between STD and HRC in the television menu then auto program every time to pick up the correct channel frequency . HRC (Harmonic related carrier) frequency that carries the Analog signal and an STD (Standard Carrier) frequency that carries the Digital and Qam signals.

Alfonso
-------------------------unquote--------------------------------------

Originally posted by cvj
In case anyone wants to email Samsung Tech regarding this problem, here is a link to the gentleman that is fully conversant with the QAM issue:

Alfonso Douriet <AlfonsoD@sea.samsung.com>


He will probably respond (as he did to me) as follows:

------------quote------------------------------------
This is not an issue experienced in all markets, with the providers mentioned and un-mentioned in your email, but one that is limited to areas that use a signal broadcast method that combines HRC carrier bandwidth and STD carrier bandwidth in the same transmission. We are sorry that this not functioning smoothly for you and we can work with you towards a resolution. But because Comcast is sending their Analog and Digital signals over two separate frequencies it would be necessary for you to switch back and forth between STD and HRC in the television menu then auto program every time to pick up the correct channel frequency . HRC (Harmonic related carrier) frequency that carries the Analog signal and an STD (Standard Carrier) frequency that carries the Digital and Qam signals.

Alfonso
-------------------------unquote--------------------------------------


From what he wrote, it looks like using the STD setting would tune in the QAM signals only, and selecting the HRC would tune in the analog channels only. Since I tired both HRC and STD and did not get any signal, what he said doesn't seem to be the case. Am I mising something?

STD (Standard Carrier) frequency that carries the Digital and Qam signals.

so if i am reading this right, since i have comcast, and i set the channel mode to std i should only get digital channels or nothing at all. Yet i when select channel program with std selected and to adopt qam transmissions i get the normal analog channels. has this though been submitted to samsung?

also has anyone found any use for the guide? will it have any function for over the air channels or is it only usefull if we are able to get the digital cable working right

andrew stein

I recently purchased this set in Carlsbad CA. It does not find the digital channels from Adelphia (I have a basic, non digital subscription). I have tried IRC, HRC and STD - no luck. I can get a few channels OTA.

Is there anything in the Setup menu available via the 'backdoor code'? Could Sammy do anything to fix these sets, or should I take it back? Unfortunately, I really like the size (for the bedroom)...

Chris

chrislemasters, contact support to let them know about the QAM problems.

If the support doesn't look like they'll fix it this month, mine is going back though.

Originally posted by Dan Bither
From what we wrote, it looks like using the STD setting would tune in the QAM signals only, and selecting the HRC would tune in the analog channels only. Since I tired both HRC and STD and did not get any signal, what he said doesn't seem to be the case. Am I mising something?

No, I don't think you are missing anything. The tech from GG and I tried both the settings recommended by Samsung above and we still could not get the QAM feature to work.

Apart from that - it is obvious (to me at least) that Samsung needs to go back to the drawing board and fix the QAM software and firmware. Perhaps if enought unhappy customers bitch loud enough to the tech support they will get busy.

I got tired of the run-around from Samsung and that's why I returned the set to GG.

Anyone have any other technical contacts from Samsung?

I contacted the Best Buy corporate response team and informed them of the situation with the Samsung sets/tuners. They have put a call into their samsug Rep and will try to get a response/resolution from Samsung.

The last thing retaillers like Best Buy want is to be given misleading product information to their customers. If Samsung tells Best Buy that the sets have a QAM tuner, and then BestBuy uses that as a selling point, it reflects bad on them so I don't doubt they will do their best to have Samsung fix the problem..

I encourage those of you who purchased one of the Samsung sets, since Samsung doesn't appear to want to correct the problem, contact the Pres/Vp of whoever you purchased the set from. If you got it From Good Guys, write the Pres of Good Guys a letter explaining the situation. If enough channel partners put pressure on Samsung to fix the issue, there is a good chance they will make the product work as advertised.

To clarify.... if I currently have "basic cable" which works on a 10 year old TV without a cable box, I can plug the basic cable into one antenna input on the TX-P2675WH and see all the channels, right?

It seems the complaints about the QAM tuner should be complaints about the cable companies, not Samsung. Samsung just needs to put a few asterisks in their product description and all is OK.

This is the perfect TV for weekend sports on network TV (OTA tuner) and DVDs. Not a bad setup for $700.

Originally posted by greg_atlanta
To clarify.... if I currently have "basic cable" which works on a 10 year old TV without a cable box, I can plug the basic cable into one antenna input on the TX-P2675WH and see all the channels, right?


No, you can only see all the ANALOG channels....but not the digital (QAM) channels.

All Samsung has to do is to delete any references to the QAM feature OR
fix their product.
:mad:

Originally posted by greg_atlanta
It seems the complaints about the QAM tuner should be complaints about the cable companies, not Samsung. Samsung just needs to put a few asterisks in their product description and all is OK.

Errrr, it should be about Samsung. If other brands of TVs work who say they have a QAM decoder integrated, and Samsungs doesn't, its their fault.

They need more than to put a few *'s, they need to not even mention the word QAM.

Originally posted by greg_atlanta
To clarify.... if I currently have "basic cable" which works on a 10 year old TV without a cable box, I can plug the basic cable into one antenna input on the TX-P2675WH and see all the channels, right?

It seems the complaints about the QAM tuner should be complaints about the cable companies, not Samsung. Samsung just needs to put a few asterisks in their product description and all is OK.

This is the perfect TV for weekend sports on network TV (OTA tuner) and DVDs. Not a bad setup for $700.

Encrypted QAM signals can't be picked up by internal set tuners, therefor any reference to a QAM tuner must mean the set will pick up unencrypted QAM signals if those QAM signals are broadcast according to the standards. In other words - if you can't receive unencrypted standard compliant QAM signals, don't advertise that your set has a QAM tuner. Putting an asterix isn't sufficient.

To be fair to Samsung , the live Samsung tech support person I spoke to yesterday (as opposed to the first line csr person who didn't know what QAM was) was courtous and did sound like Samsung was in the proces of researching my complaint. They didn't tell me to pound sand yet so i don't want to totally trash Samsung yet. They may be trying to fix the problem after all. I imagine they don't want to have to answer false advertising claims that would ultimately come about by someone so it only makes sense that they fix the problem.

Wilmington DE, small world Dan. Anyway just like to say that at the bestbuy I work at I connected the tx-p2670wh, and the tx-p3071wh through rf and get an hd broadcast. However I forget the model # but the 32 version I could not, couldnt figure it out, maybe I was running into the same problem as you guys...

Edit/Add: Im sorry guys, I forgot that this is a feed from an antenna not cable QAM, I apologize.

well it looks like best buy has now covered themselves

"Built-in HDTV tuner allows you to receive over-the-air high-definition broadcasts, where available (HD-capable antenna required). Optional set-top box required for reception of high-definition cable or satellite programming."


http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1077626340598&skuId=6407854&productCategoryId=pcmcat31800050030&type=product

so it look like best buy is no longer advertising that this tv is digital cable ready

Almost. They still show under product features:

"Integrated Dual HD ATSC/QAM/NTSC tunner"


I'm not sure what a tunner is though. :)

Originally posted by Dan Bither
I'm not sure what a tunner is though. :)

I think that is korean-speak for a tuner that does not quite do what it is supposed to do....:D

today i spoke to samsung and they now seem aware of this problem and are currently researching it. i was told that this is now a documented problem, that is qam not working with comcast in the maryland area, and that their enigneers are now looking into it and that i should recieve a call back in about 2 weeks. so i guess we will have to wait and see what happens

Thanks to you guys and girls that uncovered the short coming of the above TV. I had planned to purchase from Best Buy for my bedroom. I have a HLN 507W in the family room using Comcast Cable and STB for digital and HD. I like you did not want another STB nor did I want to mess with an OTA antenna for my second TV. The alternative seems to be a Cable Card however there seems to be incompetence in that area also. A lot of finger pointing is being posted on that thread.:confused:

See my post in this thread for my update with my Samsung TV.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4387971#post4387971


The condensed version is that contacting the Executive office of whoever you purchased the set from, and explaining to them that Samsung is guilty of false advertising, or at least shipping a product that doen't work as advertised, works. Hopefully Samsung really is a good corporate citicizn and will fix the problem. It originally didn't sound like they were but I'm not sure now. they could honestly be working on a fix. Regardless, if their channel channel partners put pressure on them, I'm sure Samsung will fix the issue.

I've been in communication with Samsung regarding this issue, and I was advised today that engineering is working on the QAM reception problem but "nothing has been finalized" as yet.

I have been in contact with Samsung as well (in North Joisey - 1-800-726-7864). I relayed the information presented in this thread, and the Samsung tech said that they are indeed aware of the problem and are looking into it (also mentioned set requires PSIP version 3.0 - anyone know Comcast's version?) . He expected a service bulletin to be issued soon, perhaps as early as Tuesday. He stated that if it involves a firmware upgrade, someone would be sent to my home at no cost and that it would take less than 10 minutes to perform. Here's hoping for the best!

Steve Troy

BTW, the TX-P2670WH & TX-P2675WH are both listed on the Samsung website as having ATSC/NTSC tuners. There is no mention about QAM. I just picked the 70 up at Target for 50% off and there was no mention of a QAM tuner. It was the floor model for $350. Too good to pass up.

Here is the links to Samsung:
http://www.samsungusa.com/cgi-bin/nabc/product/b2c_product_detail.jsp?eUser=&prod_id=TXP2675WHX%2fXAA
http://www.samsungusa.com/cgi-bin/nabc/product/b2c_product_detail.jsp?eUser=&prod_id=TXP2670WHX%2fXAA

they have recently updated the site do to the feature not working. a couple of weeks ago it said that it was included

Originally posted by mpark
BTW, the TX-P2670WH & TX-P2675WH are both listed on the Samsung website as having ATSC/NTSC tuners. There is no mention about QAM. I just picked the 70 up at Target for 50% off and there was no mention of a QAM tuner. It was the floor model for $350. Too good to pass up.

Here is the links to Samsung:
http://www.samsungusa.com/cgi-bin/nabc/product/b2c_product_detail.jsp?eUser=&prod_id=TXP2675WHX%2fXAA
http://www.samsungusa.com/cgi-bin/nabc/product/b2c_product_detail.jsp?eUser=&prod_id=TXP2670WHX%2fXAA

When you go to the MENU to perform the channel scan, QAM is mentioned in the cable tuning section.

Spoke to Technical support today. The service bulletin should be hitting their website between 24-48 hours. The QAM fix will involve a firmware update via the service port, OR a board swap if the technician doen't have a laptop available to do the firmware update.

Ok, so QAM will be fixed. Would it be safe to say that new units hitting the shelf will have the fix?

I doubt it. I don't think they had taken any TVs out of the channel.

I recieved this email today!

Mr.

Samsung has a firmware remedy which addresses QAM capabilities of certain affected TXP model TV's. This issue of not reading QAM unencrypted channels is addressed via a hardware change in the TV. The Samsung Authorized Service Center will have access to a service bulletin shortly on how to complete this repair. Please call in to 800-726-7864 to provide additional information so that you can be scheduled for a service call to rectify this, the phone call will also allow the customer service representative to advise you if the TV is In-home service or Carry-In service, as this correction will be handled under warranty, so you will not be responsible for any expenses related to this service.

When responding to Samsung please refer to your newly acquired Partner# (VERY IMPORTANT)


Your current information available in the Samsung database is insufficient to pre-qualify a service call.

We will need to confirm Serial Number, Purchased Date, & Place of purchase; along with the below required data:


E-Mail Optional
Telephone * Required
Fax
Street1 *Required
Street2
House No *Required
City
State
Zip Code *Required
Country United States

We do thank you for your patience and diligence in this matter.

Regards,

Alfonso Douriet
Digital TV Product Specialist
Samsung Electronics America, Inc.
Customer Contact Center
400 Valley Road, Suite 201
Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856

Me too. I'm having problems getting a repair facility to get the upgraded board

Originally posted by SamsungInformant
I recieved this email today!

Mr.

Samsung has a firmware remedy which addresses QAM capabilities of certain affected TXP model TV's. This issue of not reading QAM unencrypted channels is addressed via a hardware change in the TV. The Samsung Authorized Service Center will have access to a service bulletin shortly on how to complete this repair. Please call in to 800-726-7864 to provide additional information so that you can be scheduled for a service call to rectify this, the phone call will also allow the customer service representative to advise you if the TV is In-home service or Carry-In service, as this correction will be handled under warranty, so you will not be responsible for any expenses related to this service.

When responding to Samsung please refer to your newly acquired Partner# (VERY IMPORTANT)


Your current information available in the Samsung database is insufficient to pre-qualify a service call.

We will need to confirm Serial Number, Purchased Date, & Place of purchase; along with the below required data:


E-Mail Optional
Telephone * Required
Fax
Street1 *Required
Street2
House No *Required
City
State
Zip Code *Required
Country United States

We do thank you for your patience and diligence in this matter.

Regards,

Alfonso Douriet
Digital TV Product Specialist
Samsung Electronics America, Inc.
Customer Contact Center
400 Valley Road, Suite 201
Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856

Samsung TX-P2675WH- Comcast and QAM Virginia
Just had the tech over to appy QAM firmware fix to Samsung TX-P2675WH.
I also found out that Comcast in Prince William County for Woodbridge-Dale City is broadcasting only one HD station (NBC - 33.1) and then adding more by end of November, 2004.

Well, with the fix I do now receive the NBC HD station, via cable, so it is working and must be unencrypted. I have a bunch of other stations that tune in via QAM with ##.## numbers but they are blank for now.

I expect that as they add more local HD I will also get them.

Samjc

Originally posted by samjc
Samsung TX-P2675WH- Comcast and QAM Virginia
Just had the tech over to appy QAM firmware fix to Samsung TX-P2675WH.
I just picked up a TX-P2675WH on Friday and really like the set, but it won't scan unencrypted QAM as advertised. My Mits and Sony are able to pick up 6 channels in-the-clear.

Anyway, armed with the information in this post (Thank you very much!), I placed a service call into Samsung and will be in contact with Tier 2 support tomorrow normal business hours.

Samjc, was this firmware only fix or did it require swapping a board?

It's a firmware fix. The upgrade kit consists of a CD with the new firmware and a cable to connect the tech's laptop to the service port on the back of the set. Start to finish it took 15 minutes on my set.

Originally posted by riffjim4069
I just picked up a TX-P2675WH on Friday and really like the set, but it won't scan unencrypted QAM as advertised. My Mits and Sony are able to pick up 6 channels in-the-clear.

Anyway, armed with the information in this post (Thank you very much!), I placed a service call into Samsung and will be in contact with Tier 2 support tomorrow normal business hours.

Samjc, was this firmware only fix or did it require swapping a board?

riffjim4069,

It was as sctroy described...very simple firmware only fix. I am getting all the unencrypted channels via Comcast cable.

Hi, can anyone who owns this TV tell me if it can store multiple custom picture settings, or if I can assign different settings to each of the component inputs?

I'm considering buying the set, but this is something that is important to me.

Alternatively, if the answer is no, do you know of any HDTV sets in this size range that do have this feature?


Thanks to any that answer.:)

James,

There is a custom setting for each input.

Thanks Jefe. :)

I've been looking at this Samsung and also the Toshiba 26HF84. I've heard that the Toshibas have had some geometry problems and that the Samsung exhibits too much red push. I realize that the Samsung has a built-in tuner for OTA HDTV viewing, but that's actually not very important to me as my main use for it would be DVD movies and video games. Which set do you think gives a better picture?

so are the new sets gonna be fixed

Well, I finally applied the firmware patch night. The actual procedure took all of 15 minutes, however my Samsung support experience was nothing less than horrible. This is my first Samsunt A/V component and I was hoping for a quality product and support. Initially called the support number on 27 Nov. The agent provided me with a transaction number and gave me a phone number to a local Samsung repair facility, which was also listed on their website. He told me to call the service center directly and coordinate the install. The following day I received an e-mail confirming my trouble call...along with another e-mail confirmation my online product registration. So far I was very impressed with my Samsung experience.

I can go on for pages, but I'll save us both time and cut-to-the-quick: call repair facility, in town, only 6 miles away. Well, the voice mail systems answer, asks you to leave a message, then states the mailbox is full and hang-up on the caller. I played that game for a week before finally calling another repair center. BTW, after 4+ weeks this repair center's voice mail still hangs-up on the caller. Samsung stated the repair center did not reply to their faxes and the matter was escalated to the regional manager (who was supposed to call me on at least 5 occasions, but never did). As of yesterday, Samsung cannot tell me if this service center is still in business.

Called the 2nd closest place on my link. They were listed as being 30 miles out, but they actually more like 50. They would not not do the repair since it was too far away. Called 3rd closest place on the list (34 miles) and schedule an appointment. They cancel the day of the appointment because they didn't receive the software/cable. They later stiff me for a Saturday appointment and I refuse to deal them any longer. Very unprofessional.

Contacted Samsung repeatedly trying to get someone to service the set. The regional manager(s) never return my calls, as promised, but I was told the 2nd listed installer agreed to come out and that I should call them to schedule an appointment. Well, I call them and they say they told Samsung, under no uncertain terms, they will not commute 50+ miles to service my set. We played this game 3 times. Ugh! Anyway, each time I called (even though I had a transaction number), I received another transaction number and product registration via e-mail. Go figure!

Last night I called one of their internal 800 numbers and this time I selected the group who support their large DLP sets. I told the guy my story, told him I was ready to toss the set out the window, and he helped me out of pity after reading my service call notes. I asked if he could mail the software and cable I would do the rest; have laptop and 23 years in the computer industry. Anyway, the guy asked if I had an RS-232 DB9 to mini RCA cable. I told him I indeed had one with my Universal Remote Control MX-700 programmable remote. He said that was the required cable and all I needed was the software, which he would send via e-mail. Yeah! I followed the simple instructions by running a DOS batch file, but the program could not find the Samsung. Hmmm. It's a good thing tech support also sent the ping configuration and its a good thing they were document in the MX-700 user manual:

Samsung MX-700 Cable

pin 2-->tip pin 3-->to tip
pin 3-->ring pin 2-->to middle ring
pin 5-->sleeve pin 5-->to base ring

It was apparent that I needed an nullmodem or crossover cable. I dug one out of the garage and everything worked like a charm. 15 minutes later and I was scanning QAM channels. Note: when it looks like the update has finished it will take another 5 minutes to verify the flush update. Also, after the update finished, I kept the cable plugged into the service port and didn't close the DOS window when scanning for OTA. All the TV commands were being displayed. For troubleshooting purposes, you can open comm and redirect > output to a text file.

Anyway, you can purchase the above cable and use a nullmodem or crossover cable...or just make your own cable out of spare parts. The cable is $10-$20 and here is a link if you're interested: http://www.a2zdigitalhome.com/RS-232_Link_Cable.html

If you're interested in doing the upgrade yourself and have the cable, send me a PM and I will send you the files and instructions.

The Set: I really like the set, however it's not perfect. The geometry is a little off, it suffers red push, and PQ is a little soft in my opinion. Of course, this may be an unfair appraisal since my other two sets are a Mits and Sony, which are way out of this sets price/class level.

Anyway, just some simple menu accessible adjustments got rid of most of the red push issues and sharpened the PQ a bit. I'm sure after I have time to play with the service menu that I'll be able to further refine the PQ, but I'm not sure about the geometry issues. We shall see. This is basically a bedroom set and it's doing the job.

Customer Support: although I had a bad experience with service centers in my area, the Samsung Support staff actually did a pretty good job. I just feel my situation was unique and perhaps the regional manager has hit thumb stuck up his arse.

Lots of good info on commands you can enter while attached via the the serial cable: http://www.satelliteguys.us/showpost.php?p=270050&postcount=12

I'm a newbie who's about to get this TV and Comcast, so with the firmware and what this TV was originally supposed to do, this set should pick up the HD channels Comcast offers:

a) Basic analog cable/no Comcast box
b) Digital basic cable/no Comcast box
c) Digital basic cable w/ Comcast box (Which would make the tuner pointless for Comcast channels, correct)
d) Other, I'm retarded

Please pick one, thanks!

EDIT: Also, I think I already know the answer, but I have D* with a Hughes receiver about 1.5 years old. With this TV, if I stick with D*, I will still have to upgrade to the HD Receiver and pay the $10.99/month for the channels D* offers, correct?

I picked up this set last week. My Satellite package is due install this Friday. In the mean time I ran a splitter off the coax delivering my broadband internet and plugged it into the line running to the set (I have a CWP with everything routing from there). I get all the local channels plus a few cable only (ESPN,CNN etc). For grins I hooked up a set of rabbit ears and had the set run through a channel scan. I am able to pick up 5 of the available HD channels in the area. Not too bad for a $10 antenna. I plan on installing a good Channel Master antenna in addition to the Satellite dish. I cannot find a build date for this set but I asked the store I bought it from (Ultimate Electronics) about the firmware issue. The sales manager was aware of it and stated this set is new inventory that should not have a problem.

I do have one question - how do I find the build date?

I just picked one of these sets up this week and have the QAM issue. Does anyone have the firmware to upgrade this? I called Samsung and have been hung up on three seperate occassions. I have a cable but need the firmware...

Much appreciated is someone is willing to send it to me...

I am in need of the software for the TX-P2670WH Qam upgrade as well.

I would appreciate it if someone could send me a copy.

Thanks.

so I had the patch done, and I get some diigtal channels, but only in standard definition (channels are like 50.x comming in in STD) . When I scan the channels in the menu, I get three options. I dont remember what they are called , b/c Im on vacation, but which do you all use? Id like to be able to get channels in actual HDTV . That would obviously be great.

Thanks

Has anyone run into this issue? I received the Firmware from one of the others on the forum ( I do appreciate him sending it) and performed the upgrade...everything looked good on the computer. I unplug the cable and turn the set on and my picture is just scrolling very fast. I cannont view any of the menus or the service menu.

I used my Tivo Serial cable with a null modem adapter to connect to the tv. I tried reflashing the firmware a second time and still have the same issue.

Any help is appreciated...

John

Here is the output:


D:\samsung>sdn 1 0xdeadaaaa T_EMPRNUS1_2032.z
COM1, 115200, 8N1
T_EMPRNUS1_2032.z, 1829261 bytes
Reading file 100%
Wait Target Connection . . .

#=========================================================== ==================#
# Serial Downloader Connection Established #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# ID Confirmation #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# Send ID : 0xDEADAAAA #
# Receive ID : 0xDEADAAAA #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# Size Confirmation #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# Send Size : 0x001BE98D #
# Receive Size : 0x001BE98D #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# File Download #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# Wait some minutes #
[SERVER]Send = 100%[SERVER]Final data
File Size is 1829261, Target Address is DEADAAAA, Receive Count is 1829261
Downloaded application image size : 1829261
FLASH AREA : 0x02000000 - 0x023FFFFF(4M)
FLASH MANUFACTURER CODE : 0x00000089
FLASH DEVICE CODE : 0x00000016

MaxWriteTime : 1024 us
MaxEraseTime : 16384 ms
MaxBlock : 0x2000
WriteSize : 0x20
EraseSize : 0x20000
Erased Block Address = 0x02080000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x020A0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x020C0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x020E0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02100000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02120000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02140000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02160000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02180000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x021A0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x021C0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x021E0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02200000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02220000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02240000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02260000 Flash Status = 80
Starting To Copy Image To Flash...
Source Address = 0x09000000
Destination Address = 0x02080000
Length = 2097152

Flash Writing Proc 2097120
Verifying Flash Data OK

////(TURNING TV ON)


START
BANK
BSS
0x00000000 ~ 0x0INIT
==================================================
- CS8900 ETHERNET CHIP SET INIT PROCESS START

============================================================
- DTV --------------------------
- CPU CLOCK FREQUENCY : 160MHz
- RAM IMAGE BASE ADDR : 0x08300000
- BUILD IT TYPE : MAIN FLASH WITHOUT DAUGHTER BOARD
============================================================
¤¼DECOMPRESS APPLICATION
SOURCE ADDRESS00
MAX SOURCE DECOMPRESSED TARGET SIZE 10329512 BYTES
Unzip start at 27, en

APP
BSS
BOARD
INIT
[ROOT 0.001] SET CODE AREA TO READ ONLY
CURRENT REGISTER 1, CONTROL REGISTER VALUE : 0x400012FF


[ROOT 0.001] ....

[ROOT 0.007] 0.011] STANDBY IN
Power info detected at 24121
Power info detectet 24126
Power ied at 24131
Power info detected at 24134
Power info detected at 24137
Power info detected at 24139
Por info detected a[ROOT 0.199] B-plus power impressed
[ROOT 0.203] DAL in[ROOT 0.496] Peripheral reset signal assertted
======================
- PCI CON -
------------------------------------------------------------
- Found 1'st PCI d---------------------
-Device Informations
- BUS NO : 0
- DEVICE NO : 13
- FUNCTION ID : 0x144D
-
- SUB SYSTEM ID : 0x0000
- SUB SYSTEM VENDOR ID : 0x0000
- CLASS E : 0x04
- SUB C------------------------------------------------------
- Allocating MEM resource @ 0x40000000 with size 0x004000000000 with size CPU -
0x28006800
- PCI CONFIGURATION DONE
============================================================ cle finished
[ROered
[ROOT 0.715] Print Task Creation Success
[ROOT 0.719] Print Task Starting Success
[ROOT 0.722] Uart Inpu.726] Uart Input MSG buffers for 4 queues
[ROOT 0.734] 8 Semaphores
[ROOT 0.737] Init TFS
[ROOT 0.742] donunted TFS 0
[ROOT 0.745] tfs_fs_check 0
[ROOT 0.748] InitSam2kLite OK !
[ROOT 0.849] Nvram Reading start
[ROOT 0.856] Service data read sRAM ID - 0xD3
================rvice data inform=============
NVRAM offset : 0x000000A8
NVRAM V_AMP value : 0x0000 : 332 bytes
s
NVRAM_VIDEO1_SERVICE_TYPE : 40 bytes
NVRAM_VIDEO2_SERVICE_TYPE : 32 bytes
NVRAM_VIDEO3_SERVI_SERVICE_TYPE : 60 bytes
NVRAM_DNIE2_SERVICE_TYPE : 80 bytes
======================================
[ROOT 0[ROOT 0.938] System NVRAM ID - 0x5A5A5A5A
[ROOT 1.070] Nvr Done
[ROOT 1.224] Errding on time to micom
[ROOT 1.228] YEAR:2083,MONTH:25,DAY:45,HOUR:45,MIN:2,SEC:41
[ROOT 1.290] Col293] Output Resolution Init Select OK !
[S2LDP_Set_Screen]<176.20>, <2096.560> : <0.0>
m_v_coef(148433124) = ms_v_size(540) * 256 / Disp_v_sizegerInit OK
[DRV_VSB_Init 1.333] Nextwave init start!
[NIM_Reset - 1.33 [DRV_VSB_Init 1.351] Digital osc control
[DRV_V done
ve uCode down start!
[DRV_VSB_Init 1.858] Nextwave uCode down finish!
[DRV_VSB_Init 1.909] NxtSetMpegMode done
[DRV_V[ROOT 2.071] sound mute off
[ROOT 2.077] Iniche
[ROOT 2.112] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:0, result:0
[ROOT 2.194] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:1, result:0
[ROOT 2.216] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:2, result:0
[ROOT 2.230] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:3, result:0
[ROOT 2.353] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:4, result:0
[ROOT 2.359] Init Ex0
[ROOT 2.364] C
[API_VIDEO] @@@ API_VIDEO_SetColorTemp 3
[ROOT 2.375] Init Video Preset
[ErrPrint] <API_urceRGBGain> Source is not external hd
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
[te 0xc8
[ErrPri 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack waitI2C] I2C NA -ck] Ack wait count = 150
01
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800Gpiot] [S3C[ROOT 2.437] Beeper start
2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xcait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack w I2C NA - Wri Ack wait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GerrPrint] [S3C280nt] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
ait count = 1500 Write 0xc8C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write Ack wait count 2C NA - Write 0x
c8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Writ wait count = 150A - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2[ROOT 3.526] Beeper end
[ROOT 3.638] Init Clock/Time

[API_VIDEO] @@etColorTemp 3

[API_VIDEO] @@@ API_VIDEO_S[ROOT 3.683] Before OPticInit .............
[ROOT 3.687] Starting the Iniialization of : OpInitialize OK !!
<<<S2LGP_Set_WinPosition>>> horizontal stup : OpOpenDisplanager: Good OK=0000000
0
[ROOT 3.720] EW_RegisterApp: Good OK=00000000
[ROOT 3.725] EW_SpawnTask: EW_RegisterApp: Good OfTask!
[ROOT 3. 3.736] Creating Task : "Caption Input Task"
[ROOT 3.741] Creating Task : "EPG Engine Task"
[ROOT 3.745] Starting Task : "Caption Input : "EPG Engine Task"
[ROOT 3.776] X-Ray protection enabled
[ROOT 3.779] All Initiali
banner before...
mre...
[API_VIDEO] @@@ API_VI
[API_VIDEO] @@@ API_VIAnalog Boot up
[ROOT 4.236] UI[ROOT 5.146] UI_MAIN_ReadNvram_ChMap() END
LNA is OFF
[VDP_ConvArcToVdp] display_mode is 16:9
[S2LDP_Set_Screen]<416.9>, <1856.551> : <82.0>
m_v_coef(1484331_v_size(540)
A Channel Change time : 5711
[API_SYS_CRCCheck_FlashImage] IMAGE ADDR = 0x02080000, CRC = 0x977C0C17
[ErrPrint] [API_SYS_Gett] [API_SYS_GetAfAM2K_ERROR] S2K_Vid_SetAspectRatio, Wind
ow Size Input Parameter Outofrange error LNA is OFF
[ErrPrint] [API_SYS_GetAftLevel] aft level = 131
[ErrPrint] [API_SYS_GetAftLevel] aft level = 87
[VDP_ConvArcToVdp] display_mode is 16:9
[ErrPrint] [SAM2K_ERRORe Input Parameter
[S2LDP_Set_Screen]<416.9>, <1856.551> : <82.0>
m_v_coef(148433124) = ms_v_size(240) * 2A Channel Change time : 758

I just applied the firmware. It went smoothly. Did an auto-program and now I have QAM capability. Thanks RiffJim4096 for all your help.

Now my problem appears to be weak signal on the QAM cable channels. I'll have to look at my cable distribution in the house and maybe call Cox. I can only get 3 channels, and they break up badly. I get WTTG, WUSA and a basketball preview channel. Cox seems to be putting the HDTV channels in the upper end of the band, where cable attenuation is more of a problem.

One thing to note is that if you are making your own db-9 to 1/8" mini cable, wire it pin 2 to tip, pin 3 to ring and pin 5 to sleeve. Then you won't need a crossover.

Jim

does anyone have the firmware to update any TXP tv. If so, Id really apreciate a PM. I had my TV flashed by a service center, but Im only able to pick up some digital channels (all the move channels, HBO, etc) in standard definiton. Im n baltmore MD using comcast.

Thanks

I'd also appreciate if someone with the firmware update software could send it to me. I just got a TX-P3271H. I'm in Harford County north of Baltimore MD.

Thanks!

6b00ms, Im interested in knowing what you can get once updated. There is a place on joppa road in towson that will update the TV. They are slow with it thought. Should be covered under warrenty

Hello, I bought my set back in November, I saw this fourm around that time, and there was a mention of a fix for QAM from samsung in the works.

Now i see that there is a firmware update circulating. Could someone provide me with the firmware update?

Thanks. much Obliged!

Originally posted by johnnync
Has anyone run into this issue? I received the Firmware from one of the others on the forum ( I do appreciate him sending it) and performed the upgrade...everything looked good on the computer. I unplug the cable and turn the set on and my picture is just scrolling very fast. I cannont view any of the menus or the service menu.

I used my Tivo Serial cable with a null modem adapter to connect to the tv. I tried reflashing the firmware a second time and still have the same issue.

Any help is appreciated...

John

Here is the output:


D:\samsung>sdn 1 0xdeadaaaa T_EMPRNUS1_2032.z
COM1, 115200, 8N1
T_EMPRNUS1_2032.z, 1829261 bytes
Reading file 100%
Wait Target Connection . . .

#=========================================================== ==================#
# Serial Downloader Connection Established #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# ID Confirmation #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# Send ID : 0xDEADAAAA #
# Receive ID : 0xDEADAAAA #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# Size Confirmation #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# Send Size : 0x001BE98D #
# Receive Size : 0x001BE98D #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# File Download #
#-----------------------------------------------------------------------------#
# Wait some minutes #
[SERVER]Send = 100%[SERVER]Final data
File Size is 1829261, Target Address is DEADAAAA, Receive Count is 1829261
Downloaded application image size : 1829261
FLASH AREA : 0x02000000 - 0x023FFFFF(4M)
FLASH MANUFACTURER CODE : 0x00000089
FLASH DEVICE CODE : 0x00000016

MaxWriteTime : 1024 us
MaxEraseTime : 16384 ms
MaxBlock : 0x2000
WriteSize : 0x20
EraseSize : 0x20000
Erased Block Address = 0x02080000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x020A0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x020C0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x020E0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02100000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02120000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02140000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02160000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02180000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x021A0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x021C0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x021E0000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02200000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02220000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02240000 Flash Status = 80
Erased Block Address = 0x02260000 Flash Status = 80
Starting To Copy Image To Flash...
Source Address = 0x09000000
Destination Address = 0x02080000
Length = 2097152

Flash Writing Proc 2097120
Verifying Flash Data OK

////(TURNING TV ON)


START
BANK
BSS
0x00000000 ~ 0x0INIT
==================================================
- CS8900 ETHERNET CHIP SET INIT PROCESS START

============================================================
- DTV --------------------------
- CPU CLOCK FREQUENCY : 160MHz
- RAM IMAGE BASE ADDR : 0x08300000
- BUILD IT TYPE : MAIN FLASH WITHOUT DAUGHTER BOARD
============================================================
¤¼DECOMPRESS APPLICATION
SOURCE ADDRESS00
MAX SOURCE DECOMPRESSED TARGET SIZE 10329512 BYTES
Unzip start at 27, en

APP
BSS
BOARD
INIT
[ROOT 0.001] SET CODE AREA TO READ ONLY
CURRENT REGISTER 1, CONTROL REGISTER VALUE : 0x400012FF


[ROOT 0.001] ....

[ROOT 0.007] 0.011] STANDBY IN
Power info detected at 24121
Power info detectet 24126
Power ied at 24131
Power info detected at 24134
Power info detected at 24137
Power info detected at 24139
Por info detected a[ROOT 0.199] B-plus power impressed
[ROOT 0.203] DAL in[ROOT 0.496] Peripheral reset signal assertted
======================
- PCI CON -
------------------------------------------------------------
- Found 1'st PCI d---------------------
-Device Informations
- BUS NO : 0
- DEVICE NO : 13
- FUNCTION ID : 0x144D
-
- SUB SYSTEM ID : 0x0000
- SUB SYSTEM VENDOR ID : 0x0000
- CLASS E : 0x04
- SUB C------------------------------------------------------
- Allocating MEM resource @ 0x40000000 with size 0x004000000000 with size CPU -
0x28006800
- PCI CONFIGURATION DONE
============================================================ cle finished
[ROered
[ROOT 0.715] Print Task Creation Success
[ROOT 0.719] Print Task Starting Success
[ROOT 0.722] Uart Inpu.726] Uart Input MSG buffers for 4 queues
[ROOT 0.734] 8 Semaphores
[ROOT 0.737] Init TFS
[ROOT 0.742] donunted TFS 0
[ROOT 0.745] tfs_fs_check 0
[ROOT 0.748] InitSam2kLite OK !
[ROOT 0.849] Nvram Reading start
[ROOT 0.856] Service data read sRAM ID - 0xD3
================rvice data inform=============
NVRAM offset : 0x000000A8
NVRAM V_AMP value : 0x0000 : 332 bytes
s
NVRAM_VIDEO1_SERVICE_TYPE : 40 bytes
NVRAM_VIDEO2_SERVICE_TYPE : 32 bytes
NVRAM_VIDEO3_SERVI_SERVICE_TYPE : 60 bytes
NVRAM_DNIE2_SERVICE_TYPE : 80 bytes
======================================
[ROOT 0[ROOT 0.938] System NVRAM ID - 0x5A5A5A5A
[ROOT 1.070] Nvr Done
[ROOT 1.224] Errding on time to micom
[ROOT 1.228] YEAR:2083,MONTH:25,DAY:45,HOUR:45,MIN:2,SEC:41
[ROOT 1.290] Col293] Output Resolution Init Select OK !
[S2LDP_Set_Screen]<176.20>, <2096.560> : <0.0>
m_v_coef(148433124) = ms_v_size(540) * 256 / Disp_v_sizegerInit OK
[DRV_VSB_Init 1.333] Nextwave init start!
[NIM_Reset - 1.33 [DRV_VSB_Init 1.351] Digital osc control
[DRV_V done
ve uCode down start!
[DRV_VSB_Init 1.858] Nextwave uCode down finish!
[DRV_VSB_Init 1.909] NxtSetMpegMode done
[DRV_V[ROOT 2.071] sound mute off
[ROOT 2.077] Iniche
[ROOT 2.112] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:0, result:0
[ROOT 2.194] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:1, result:0
[ROOT 2.216] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:2, result:0
[ROOT 2.230] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:3, result:0
[ROOT 2.353] Init Ext Ic by Ram Cache, ic_type:4, result:0
[ROOT 2.359] Init Ex0
[ROOT 2.364] C
[API_VIDEO] @@@ API_VIDEO_SetColorTemp 3
[ROOT 2.375] Init Video Preset
[ErrPrint] <API_urceRGBGain> Source is not external hd
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
[te 0xc8
[ErrPri 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack waitI2C] I2C NA -ck] Ack wait count = 150
01
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800Gpiot] [S3C[ROOT 2.437] Beeper start
2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xcait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack w I2C NA - Wri Ack wait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GerrPrint] [S3C280nt] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
ait count = 1500 Write 0xc8C NA - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Write Ack wait count 2C NA - Write 0x
c8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2C] I2C NA - Writ wait count = 150A - Write 0xc8
[ErrPrint] [GetS3C2800GpioAck] Ack wait count = 15001
[ErrPrint] [S3C2800 I2[ROOT 3.526] Beeper end
[ROOT 3.638] Init Clock/Time

[API_VIDEO] @@etColorTemp 3

[API_VIDEO] @@@ API_VIDEO_S[ROOT 3.683] Before OPticInit .............
[ROOT 3.687] Starting the Iniialization of : OpInitialize OK !!
<<<S2LGP_Set_WinPosition>>> horizontal stup : OpOpenDisplanager: Good OK=0000000
0
[ROOT 3.720] EW_RegisterApp: Good OK=00000000
[ROOT 3.725] EW_SpawnTask: EW_RegisterApp: Good OfTask!
[ROOT 3. 3.736] Creating Task : "Caption Input Task"
[ROOT 3.741] Creating Task : "EPG Engine Task"
[ROOT 3.745] Starting Task : "Caption Input : "EPG Engine Task"
[ROOT 3.776] X-Ray protection enabled
[ROOT 3.779] All Initiali
banner before...
mre...
[API_VIDEO] @@@ API_VI
[API_VIDEO] @@@ API_VIAnalog Boot up
[ROOT 4.236] UI[ROOT 5.146] UI_MAIN_ReadNvram_ChMap() END
LNA is OFF
[VDP_ConvArcToVdp] display_mode is 16:9
[S2LDP_Set_Screen]<416.9>, <1856.551> : <82.0>
m_v_coef(1484331_v_size(540)
A Channel Change time : 5711
[API_SYS_CRCCheck_FlashImage] IMAGE ADDR = 0x02080000, CRC = 0x977C0C17
[ErrPrint] [API_SYS_Gett] [API_SYS_GetAfAM2K_ERROR] S2K_Vid_SetAspectRatio, Wind
ow Size Input Parameter Outofrange error LNA is OFF
[ErrPrint] [API_SYS_GetAftLevel] aft level = 131
[ErrPrint] [API_SYS_GetAftLevel] aft level = 87
[VDP_ConvArcToVdp] display_mode is 16:9
[ErrPrint] [SAM2K_ERRORe Input Parameter
[S2LDP_Set_Screen]<416.9>, <1856.551> : <82.0>
m_v_coef(148433124) = ms_v_size(240) * 2A Channel Change time : 758

Hi,

Have the txp26752wh which had been previously been serviced for the QAM upgrade, successfully. TV work fine for a while, then died a couple of weeks later.

Got the new replacement today and tech guy appied Qam fix and it did the same thing you described. Did you get any resolution to this problem?

Does anyone know how to disable that annoying power up/power down jingle?

Enter setup menu, go to VideoAdjust1 submenu, set Melody_Volume to 0.

You get to the setup menu by turning the set off, then pressing Mute 1 8 2 Power.

Exit the setup menu by pressing Power.

Be careful inside the setup menu, there are a lot of settings you don't want to change.

you don't need to go into the setup menu to turn it off, it's an option in the user menu

My TXP only shows about 12 hours of programming information in the program guide (over the air). It seems like a limitation with the set since friends with other receivers get more information (depending on what the station is sending).

Anybody else getting more than 12 hours of show information from the OTA guides with a Samsung TXP series set?

Samsung has had a problem with corrupted firmware upgrade disks.
If your unit is upgraded with the corrupted data then the eprom will need to be replaced atleast that is what samsung said on the phone. The repair facility may not want to do that though so they will just replace the main board...

I have the firmware but am not sure it is a good idea to post since it may also be corrupted I have no idea. My set also has fast scrolling lines and the picture is unusable.

I did a crc check on the disk we recieved and it was corrupt in one sector. I was able to use a data recovery tool to get the data off although it may still be corrupt I have no way to be sure...

thanks for invaluable thread. Now 4 months later, does anyone know if Samsung fixed the QAM issue in new sets?

The QAM update is not applied to the TXP models in stores at this time but the models coming out later this year will have the fix applied.

So far I have had no luck on updating the firmware on my 32" TXP but I have heard the 30wide has had no problems.

I don't think the new TXR series has the QAM fix implemented, since it does not appear as a feature on their website. Although the online manual still has the QAM option available, even for the TXR series.

1. Did anyone get the digital output to work? I believe it only works for digital channels. Confirm?

2. Any updates on a new firmware from Samsung?

Here is what my service tech guy said:

THERE WAS A GLITCH IN THEIR FIRMWARE UPDATE AND THEY ARE WORKING ON
IT.

Time will tell

FINALLY! I should have come to this forum as soon as I realized my TXP2675WH's QAM tuner was not working. I have just sent an email to Samsung (again, ahem!) to see if I can have a technician come over to apply the QAM upgrade to my TV.
One of you talked to some guy named Alfonso Duriet, a Samsung technician. Does any of you have his email address? I want to make sure I will be ready for when I get the Samsung talk: "What are you talking about? Are you sure? This hasn't happened before." I would like to have this problem fixed so I can return the box I got to tune HD cable.
Any other advice you guys could give me in case the Samsung people try to ignore me?
Thanks to all for the enlightment on this issue.
-Pedro

FINALLY! I should have come to this forum as soon as I realized my TXP2675WH's QAM tuner was not working. I have just sent an email to Samsung (again, ahem!) to see if I can have a technician come over to apply the QAM upgrade to my TV.
-Pedro

If your set is still under warranty, you'll have better luck by contacting your nearest Samsung repair shop directly and tell them you want the QAM upgrade under warranty. They can look up the service bulletin to find out the part numbers they need to order (consists of a CD and a cable). You can find warranty repair centers on Samsung's web site. This is what I did, and the repair center had the upgrade in a few days and it only took them 15 minutes to install it.

The QAM update once again has some problem and has been pulled from the tech site... Who knows how long it will take this time to fix the issues...

sctroy, thanks!
I called Samsung and they told me to to contact the nearest repair center, which I am about to do.
How has your TV worked since the upgrade? Any glitches? Does it affect its general performance? Just curious. Thanks for the reply.

-Pedro

sctroy, thanks!
I called Samsung and they told me to to contact the nearest repair center, which I am about to do.
How has your TV worked since the upgrade? Any glitches? Does it affect its general performance? Just curious. Thanks for the reply.

-Pedro

It worked fine, but the set took longer than I expected to lock onto the signal. I gave the set to my dad shortly thereafter (he has a satellite dish) so I really didn't have a long time to try it out. Picture quality was excellent on cable HDTV though. The neat thing was the ability to get analog and digital stations on the same tuner - my current Sharp uses two separate tuners, so I had to switch back and forth until local Comcast began simulcasting all analog stations in digital (so I don't use the analog tuner any longer).

Is this firmware update gonna work for the TX-P2670WHX?

I applied the update to my tv and get the same output errors and such as a few others on this board. Any fixes or other working firmwares? I can flash again so pm me with any firmwares u might have to fix this. I think I am out of the warranty period but have attempted to contact samsung for an updated firmware. thanks guys.

Maybe this is why Samsung pulled this firmware update from the field?

I would not advise anyone to run this update on their tvs.

Well since for the moment it looks as if QAM is not going to be an option where I am. This means I should avoid this update. I guess what your saying is if it ain't broken don't fix it huh?

Exactly. Samsung pulled the last firmware update because it was failing. As a matter of fact, due to problems with QAM, Samsung no longer includes the feature on their sets. As far as I know this problem is isolated to Samsung.

So how sensitive are the tuners in these TVs? Albeit I have the 2670 but from what I've read the differences are small.

Here's a better question: What is the effective resolution of the 26" sets? Although it says it is a 1080i HDTV, I'm certain that 1920x1080i is not the full resolution of the set.

Here's a better question: What is the effective resolution of the 26" sets? Although it says it is a 1080i HDTV, I'm certain that 1920x1080i is not the full resolution of the set.
I've never read any posts that claim to know the resolution of 26" sets. Almost all of Samsung's online data sheets for HD sets claim a maximum of 800 lines of horizontal resolution. I have no idea what the set resolves with respect to vertical resolution. I'm certain that it's impossible for a 26" crt set to resolve 1920x1080i. The closest I've read about are the Sony sets with the super fine pitch tube, specifically the 34" sets and the 36" set. Those are reportedly resolving around 1,440x900.

So while 1080i that the TV says it is, is impossible, it is possible that the set is a 1280x720p right?

So while 1080i that the TV says it is, is impossible, it is possible that the set is a 1280x720p right?
No.

Like all other crt tvs, this has an interlaced display and it's native scanning rate is 1080i. Just because it can't resolve the whole 1920x1080i doesn't mean it's not a 1080i set. Very, very few of the vrt HD sets on the market get even close, yet all are called 1080i. There are no longer any consumer grade sets with native scanning rates that are progressive scan.

I wasn't saying it was P in general just that it rez might be. So maybe it's like the Macbooks rez of 1200x800 but instead of P on the MAC it's i.

Hi guys, question.
My friend wants to get the Sammy TX-S2782HX for her mom but needs to know if the set does CC. I assume it would but can't find documentation anywhere. Samsung's website does not have the owner's manual for this moel.
Does anyone knoe? Thanks! d

Yes it does CC

Thanks man!

:)

How do we contact Samsung to request the firmware update? Does anyone have email address or phone number? Just moved this set to another room without an external tuner.

Would anyone happen to know the availability of the original factory firmware distributed with the tx-p2675wh? I performed the QAM firmware, which worked "fine" for a week (took forever to change between HD channels), when suddenly it took a long time to change the channel, it froze, went black, and now my tv freezes at the same point on it's boot-up, then resets only to do it all over again. I don't remember where it freezes off the top of my head, I could check if anyone thinks it's important to know.

In any event, I'm after the original firmware in hopes that it might reverse the issue, and fix my giant paperweight of a television. Samsung says they either won't send it to me, or can't send it to me. Either way, they aren't helping. Unfortunately I'm no longer under any sort of warranty, either, so I'm left with the chance that the original firmware might fix it.

If anyone has it, or access to it, or has it written down in binary on a very long roll of toilet paper, please let me know, I'd really appreciate it.

Are these sets still available anywhere? I want to replace my Syntax LCD monitor with one, but I can't seem to find it anywhere.

ok,

I am new here, so I am sorry for draggin up a old thread.

My question(s) are two fold.

now that I know I need a firm ware update can I still have this done even if bought the thing a few years ago (like 3 ish)

two. (and the reason I came here)

is anyone using the Optical cable out on the back of this...

I can't get a cable in far enough to seat, the plug seems to hit the plastic of the tv before it can seat the business end....

the cable seems to fit fine in other devices.

I'll go ahead and bump this too, got my TV 3 years ago and just now have figured out what qam is... Is it still possible to get the update?

I'll go ahead and bump this too, got my TV 3 years ago and just now have figured out what qam is... Is it still possible to get the update?

I'm in the same boat as you. Been using an antenna (not working to well anyways).

I also have just found out about this and seem to have the same issue. Of course, they just rolled out HD locally about 6 months ago, so it wasn't really my fault...

Anyway, I spoke with Samsung who was very curteous and set up a case for me but had to escalte it to a different department (I had called just basic support). So, he said to fax in a copy of the recepit, a description of the problem and links to these threads. Once received I will get a call from tech and work something out (hopefully). The support guy was nice and made extra notes stating that I only bought the TV for this feature and that it was a major selling point for the purchase, etc. So, I will fax on Monday and wait (said it would take 5 to 10 days for a call back). Sort of slow, but I have had the TV for a few years now, what's another week or two. Anyway, I'll keep you up to date on what I hear from them in the weeks to come.

N.C. timestamp 9:39:33 AM

I faxed the info to Samsung and they are offering me a 2007 TX-T3092 CRT TV as a replacement at no cost. They won't acknowledge that this is a known issue, but they agreed to the fact that the tv had an issue and they did try and issue a firmware update, that ended up making things worse, so they pulled it and were going to release an update that worked, but a new line of TVs were coming out and they decided not to bother (geez, thanks). So, in the end they offered me one of the two 2007 30" CRT SlimFit TVs that apparently have a QAM tuner. eventhough none of the manuals state that (but they confirmed it had it). TV will be delivered tomorrow, which is pretty quick since it was just picked up on Friday in IL and is in Plattsburg, NY (900 miles away) and will be by tomorrow to drop off the new set and pick up the old one.

Overall, very good service from Samsung, though I did get in a pissing match with them about trying to upgrade to an LCD and the amount of depreciation that wanted to take on my tv (about 20% a year over the last 2.5 years, so 50% depreciated). I recommend calling the executive care line at Samsung which worked well for me (1-800-747-5618). I was trying to just get them to service the TV and update the firmware, but since they didn't have any fix for it, they offered me the new, bigger tv as a replacement. So, that seems fair in the end, though I really wanted to get an LCD and wich they would have be more accomodating in that regard, but they weren't. Still, I'm pretty happy with the outcome. I will update again to confirm that the new set has a working QAM tuner.

I got the new set and it does have a working QAM tuner in it. The funny thing is that it's not advertised to have one and it actually works. Versus advertising it and having it not work (the basis of this thread). However, they have bad info on their web that indicates that it has two RF inputs for the NTSC and ATSC tuners. These units only have one!!! The engineers told me that you need to manually switch the coax if you want to switch between cable or antenna!!! Garbage!

I went back to battle with Samsung about this issue, and had an engineer confirm that the TV didn't have a QAM tuner (eventhough I knew better). I argued my way through rep after rep stating they needed to offer me a truly comparable unit. After many days of countless phone calls, they finally agreed to offer me the LN-T2642 LCD at no cost as an exchange. This tv has the dual RF inputs and QAM/NTSC/ATSC tuner as well. Should arrive next week, I hope.

So, in the end I'm pleased with the outcome, but damn I had to work hard to get them to bend. They are not willing to just fix this stuff wihout a fight.