Originally posted by DigiPete
Pbir (Paul),

Thanks for the tip. When I originally set up the 480p, I started with film, and then tweaked from there. When I went to set up the HDMI, I used my preference mode which I assumed already had whateve I was using with my component set up. Each input has it's own settings. If you save your settings when calibrating you have to do it for each input you use. You could copy the settings and use it as a starting point but you will most likely have to tweak them anyway.

How do I get the TV Guide to stop coming up every time I turn on the TV? I don't use it.

Originally posted by Boogie7910
How do I get the TV Guide to stop coming up every time I turn on the TV? I don't use it.

I was just about to ask the same question. I have the Tv Guide coming up every time I turn on the TV too.

hey edgore how do you llike the nvidia 6600? Which model did you get and how do you have it hooked up? I was loooking to purchasing the 6600gt with the hd component outbox since our hdmi slots on our tv's are a huge disappointment. I'm wondering if the hd output is better on the nvidia cards or ati...

Also wondering if anyone has the motorola signal booster working with directv satellite... I bought the thing not knowing that it only boosts my cable line and will not work with Satellite. Then i've seen on other posts or other boards where people have got it working. I tried and tried but coudn't get the satellite to pick up any signal with the booster plugged in. Fyi my setup is as follows cable line coming from the direct tv sat. to the booster, then out fromt he booster is going directly to my hd rca210 receiver, which i have hooked up through component. Am i hooking this up wrong or is it just not possible to do....

Toshiba 46HM84 for less than 2,100 @ ecost.com

Originally posted by sharonf
I was just about to ask the same question. I have the Tv Guide coming up every time I turn on the TV too.

In the "general defaults" section of the setup menu there is a box for auto-on. Change it to "off"

Originally posted by 196thLIB
In the "general defaults" section of the setup menu there is a box for auto-on. Change it to "off"

Thanks! I hadn't seen that section before!

After two months and 4 service visits, (the last scalar replacement increased ghosting issue), Toshiba finally replaced my TV yesterday. The ghosting still exists but the sharpness adjustment has more improvement in the ghosting problem with the new TV. When I reduced the sharpness to 20 (I used to set my previous one to 0), my PC inputs via HDMI are very readable. The DVD playback (720P) from my PC is much better than DVD player component playback (420P). I could now use the TV to view web pages with reasonable clearness at 10' away. I shall buy the Samsung HD941 and enjoy the crispy DVD playback.

In the last two months, I haven't seen any 62" Toshiba DLP at retail store with no ghosting. From the block diagram of the TV design posted in this thread, I guess Toshiba had used their prior analog projection technology and converts the analog output to DLP at the final stage. So the HDMI doesn't feed directly to the DLP engine digitally and the scalar card has introduced analog delays (ghosting). The Mit DPL has similar issue. It is my guess and I am not EE.

The default setting of the new TV is generally darker and the sharpness adjustment has more impact in the ghosting. The manufacturing date is Jan 2005 (my old one was Nov 2004). I think the two TV is basically the same, but the default adjustment might be different. The service menu might has some adjustment to reduce the sharpness further.

I would prefer no ghosting with sharpness set to 50, but I am very happy with the TV now for both component and HDMI inputs. I wish all of you would eventually resolve your issues. :)

KC38,

How did you get Toshiba to come out, did you just complain about ghosting over HDMI?

Your post agrees with my observations as well. My HDMI does not look better than component from my Denon 3910, and the picture gets worse with ringing(ghosting) as you go from 480p to 720p to 1080i over HDMI.

After reading this thread since about page 40, I finally went ahead and a picked up a 52hm84 and matching stand. This was based on the contributions from many people here on this forum - so thanks for helping me figure out the best TV for my needs.

Just got it hooked up last night, I'm already enjoying myself and I haven't even done more than toss a DVD in. Tonite I'll learn how to set it up with the Avia disc and see how my settings compare to several others' that have been posted. My DVD player is a progressive-scan Sony from a few years back. Guess I'll have to do a little experimenting to see if I should set it to "progressive" or leave it interlaced and have the Toshiba do the upconversion? Do I have to set the Toshiba up specifically for this, or is it automatic? Time to sit down with the manual!

So what 'view mode' do I use when doing an Avia setup - the mode I am most likely to watch DVD's with?

FWIW, I ended up printing off a BB price for TV and stand, getting a price match plus 10% of difference, and the 10% cash rebate from Sears that was based off the full Sears MSRP. Seemed like a good deal to me, although I'm still a little torn about the 3YR EW I bought. Guess I've got about 11months to evaluate it and return if I don't want it, according to the EW customer service reps.

Thanks for all the great info, probably many questions coming up as I learn how to optimize my first really big TV!

Sean

I'll just take a stab at a couple of these...

So what 'view mode' do I use when doing an Avia setup - the mode I am most likely to watch DVD's with?

Set it to Natural. When doing some tests, esp. sharpness, you don't want to have the image stretched at all.

My DVD player is a progressive-scan Sony from a few years back. Guess I'll have to do a little experimenting to see if I should set it to "progressive" or leave it interlaced and have the Toshiba do the upconversion? Do I have to set the Toshiba up specifically for this, or is it automatic?

Definitely set the DVD player to progressive. You won't need to do anything with the Toshiba, per se - it will detect the input and do its thing automatically.

Have fun and good luck!

Hey folks - first off, let me say thanks for all the great info! It's led me to purchase a Toshiba 52HM84 and I'm very, very pleased. That said, a month into usage I'm seeing a faint white glow/dot (looks like a reflection of a light bulb), that unfortunately stuck around even after I turned off all the lights. It's only noticeable when that small part of the screen (in the middle, just above center) has a very dark background, and like I said - it's very, very faint. Any ideas/comments/suggestions?

Thanks again, folks!
Dave

Here are links to the service manual and schematics for the 52 & 62HMX94. They are large pdf files so I hosted them on my own site for now. If anyone can host them on a better server please feel free.

Service manual 7.54M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94SVM.pdf

Schematic 3.98M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94CD.pdf


Please post back any useful info learned from these, such as changing the grey sidebars to black.



Jeff

I have it too, but I figured it was just my overhead light doing it, because it went away when I shut that light off and only used one way at the back of the room. But now you have me second guessing the source. My Tv is only a week old, can someone with more experience comment if this is just the Tv reflecting room light or if it's something that becomes exasperated over time?

Originally posted by whjeffs
Here are links to the service manual and schematics for the 52 & 62HMX94. They are large pdf files so I hosted them on my own site for now. If anyone can host them on a better server please feel free.

Service manual 7.54M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94SVM.pdf

Schematic 3.98M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94CD.pdf


Please post back any useful info learned from these, such as changing the grey sidebars to black.



Jeff

Jeff:

Great info to have. Nice work. Unfortunately, The Gray Sidebar issue cannot be resolved via Service Menu Mode. That info, I fear, may be buried in Designer Mode, which isn't in the Service Manual. I'm not even sure that Designer Mode exists for this set or if there is a field adjustment for the bars. To date, all efforts to locate this parameter have resulted in NOTHING.

Perhaps you can go back to your source and request a deeper dig into the vault. Thanks much for what you've found.

Originally posted by whjeffs
Here are links to the service manual and schematics for the 52 & 62HMX94. They are large pdf files so I hosted them on my own site for now. If anyone can host them on a better server please feel free.

Please post back any useful info learned from these, such as changing the grey sidebars to black.



Jeff

First post from a longtime lurker...

I too would like to know how to change the grey sidebars to black in my 52HMX94. Although I could do this by changing the settings in my cablebox/DVR (Cablevision 8300HD DVR), I would like to do this permanently within the TV's settings instead.

Originally posted by whjeffs
Here are links to the service manual and schematics for the 52 & 62HMX94. They are large pdf files so I hosted them on my own site for now. If anyone can host them on a better server please feel free.

Service manual 7.54M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94SVM.pdf

Schematic 3.98M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94CD.pdf


Please post back any useful info learned from these, such as changing the grey sidebars to black.



Jeff

Jeff,

Great info, thanks for posting this!

Originally posted by moman19
Jeff:

Great info to have. Nice work. Unfortunately, The Gray Sidebar issue cannot be resolved via Service Menu Mode. That info, I fear, may be buried in Designer Mode, which isn't in the Service Manual. I'm not even sure that Designer Mode exists for this set or if there is a field adjustment for the bars. To date, all efforts to locate this parameter have resulted in NOTHING.

Perhaps you can go back to your source and request a deeper dig into the vault. Thanks much for what you've found.

It came from Toshiba's service website, which I found I could access through sources at work. There was no info on a "Designer Mode". I will check back there periodically when I have the chance to see if any additional info is available. The only other things I found were a couple of service bulletins. One was related to the "84" models' clocks losing time. Another described the procedure for DMD Bias alignment and color wheel delay adjustments after replacing the light engine, and the last one was about "Loss of either or any combination of Red, Green or Blue Video. Possible digitized picture with bars and/or lines in the picture. Problem may be intermittent" and related to a copper tape shield on a cable assembly to the light engine on the 46HM84 and 52HM84.
The first and last one are small pdf files so I should be able to post them here for anyone who may encounter these problems. Might help avoid multiple service calls. The second one is a larger file and just basically repeats what is in the service manual so I don't think it's necessary to post that one.


Jeff

P.S. Still no TV Guide listings and I have the cable company coming to install the CableCard this morning.

Here is the service bulletin regarding clock losing time on the "84" models.


Jeff

Here is the other service bulletin I mentioned.


Jeff

Originally posted by toshdlp46hm84
hey edgore how do you llike the nvidia 6600? Which model did you get and how do you have it hooked up? I was loooking to purchasing the 6600gt with the hd component outbox since our hdmi slots on our tv's are a huge disappointment. I'm wondering if the hd output is better on the nvidia cards or ati...
I have the 6600gt, and it looks great. I can't tell you how it compates to the ATI, since I haven't used one, but I can tell you that the 6600gt looks wonderful.

Originally posted by HD4Life
edgore

do you have the TV's power cord going directly to an outlet or are you using a good power/surge protect.?

I am using a Monster Home Theater surge protector which has about a million socckts - all of which are being used. I'm a little concerned that maybe the problem is an overloaded outlet. The two plugs on the wallpalte are currently supporting:

The TV*
The HTPC*
2 USB TV tuners*
2 DTV Satellite boxes*
An Xbox
A PS2
A GameCube
A VCR

All of the items marked with * are typically on at the same time.

I'm wondering if maybe it would help if I got a new circuit installed just for the TV. I never had any problems having all that stuff hooked up with my old Panasonic 51" CRT rear projection TV.

My local authorized service center sent a total yokel last week to replace the lens screen on my 52HM84. (He literally said, "Wow, you have one of them newfangled ones.") He didn't know what he was doing... he ended up with the TV in about a dozen pieces on my carpet. The first time he reassembled it, it didn't work. I couldn't bear to watch anymore, so I left the room. When I came back, the TV was working, but he had broken off a piece of the foam "wing" on the matching TV stand, and drilled screws through the front of the speaker grill (now I have four holes in the right speaker grill), and I noticed the other day there is a long hair (my own) stuck behind the screen that you can see when the TV is on. It's soooooo annoying.

Anyway, they are going to replace the face of the TV and remove the hair. I have decided to just live with the broken stand, because the damage is on the side and not very noticeable. But I think there is another, more serious problem - I don't think the fan is working anymore. I have only had the TV for a few weeks so I can't be sure, but I could've sworn that before, when I turned off the TV, I could still hear the fan running. After a couple minutes, it would get louder for like two seconds, then shut off completely. Now I can't hear the fan running anymore, although I still hear the last part where something gets louder and seems to shut off.

Can you hear your fan running when the TV is off? Or is it basically quiet until that last part?

I definitely need to make an appointment with another service center to double-check the "work" that has been done.

Can you hear your fan running when the TV is off? Or is it basically quiet until that last part?

I always hear the fan at "full volume" for several minutes after. But I have my Tosh set up for "quick turn on after shut off," which basically leaves the TV fully powered up for a few minutes. I don't know what I would hear if I turned off that feature - maybe that's the difference?

Originally posted by DigiPete
KC38,

How did you get Toshiba to come out, did you just complain about ghosting over HDMI?

Your post agrees with my observations as well. My HDMI does not look better than component from my Denon 3910, and the picture gets worse with ringing(ghosting) as you go from 480p to 720p to 1080i over HDMI.

The ghosting is not only a HDMI issue. The HDMI sharpness is set higher than component inputs so it is more noticeable.

After 4 service visit; opening and closing of my TV, it would cost less to replace the TV.

Originally posted by KC38
The ghosting is not only a HDMI issue. The HDMI sharpness is set higher than component inputs so it is more noticeable.

After 4 service visit; opening and closing of my TV, it would cost less to replace the TV.

So I guess they agreed to work your ghosting problem until you were satisfied?

Surprised they didn't say 'this is how it is works, sorry...'

I noticed a Genesis chip on the DMD board in the service bulletins posted by whjeffs. May be that is one of the reasons why this TV's picture is one of the best for both SD and HD.

Originally posted by sharonf
Do you have a model number for the Tripp-Lite?

Hi Sharonf and everyone:

Take a look at this baby:

http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=10385305&SearchEngine=LSchannelintelligence&SearchTerm=10385305&Type=LS&dcaid=1688

It has 1440W capacity (450W battery backup), coax and phone connections, and it's specially designed for home theaters. Oh yeah, you're equipment will appreciate this beauty...specially your Toshiba.

Originally posted by edgore
I am using a Monster Home Theater surge protector which has about a million socckts - all of which are being used. I'm a little concerned that maybe the problem is an overloaded outlet.

What I recommend is that at least the TV be connected to a UPS, this way the fan cycle won't be interrupted during a power failure.

Does the Monster has voltage regulation? It's a very important feature during brownouts. Check the model from Tripp- Lite that I posted.

Ok... get this.

I went into service mode on my TV and the first 3 settings. RCUT, GCUT and BCUT are different then the defaults in the manual. Mine are all set to 60H instead of the default 80H.

Could someone else check their TV to see what it has for defaults. I have the 52HMX94 and have not changed any of the settings.

Thanks

Originally posted by Shaner1
Ok... get this.

I went into service mode on my TV and the first 3 settings. RCUT, GCUT and BCUT are different then the defaults in the manual. Mine are all set to 60H instead of the default 80H.

Could someone else check their TV to see what it has for defaults. I have the 52HMX94 and have not changed any of the settings.

Thanks

Ditto here. I have a 52hmx84. But note the following info below the values:
"The image system data of RCUT-CNTX is different by each image format."

It's possible that the values are dynamic and might change depending upon whether you're in HD mode or SD mode when you first enter in Service Mode.
I have not confirmed this yet.

I find the Toshiba info quite lacking. (I know, it's not intended for amateurs!). For instance, exactly what is "TV Option", MODUS and SCART?

Originally posted by moman19
Ditto here. I have a 52hmx84. But note the following info below the values:
"The image system data of RCUT-CNTX is different by each image format."

It's possible that the values are dynamic and might change depending upon whether you're in HD mode or SD mode when you first enter in Service Mode.
I have not confirmed this yet.

I find the Toshiba info quite lacking. (I know, it's not intended for amateurs!). For instance, exactly what is "TV Option", MODUS and SCART?

The settings are different by screen mode. I found that the RCUT - BDRV were the same between modes, but the tint (UVTT) and color (COLC) settings were different.

I'm not sure what they mean by mode yet (I found different tint settings on OTA HD and cable SD), but I don't use the screen expand, so they both should have been natural. So I'll have to look some more.


BTW, the manual leaves off an RDRV between BCUT and GDRV that's in TV but not the chart.


Gary

Originally posted by Julio Bro!
Hi Sharonf and everyone:

Take a look at this baby:

http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=10385305&SearchEngine=LSchannelintelligence&SearchTerm=10385305&Type=LS&dcaid=1688

It has 1440W capacity (450W battery backup), coax and phone connections, and it's specially designed for home theaters. Oh yeah, you're equipment will appreciate this beauty...specially your Toshiba.

That's exactly what I am using and that is a good price too. I think I paid about the same on ebay for a brand new one.


Jeff

Well the CableCard install went well this morning. I have Millennium Digital Media as my cable provider here in Anne Arundel county, Maryland. 2 guys showed up, a tech and a supervisor and they basically had a little training session on the install procedure right there in my room. Once they got the card authorized I had all the channels that I did with the box.

The TV takes longer to tune in the channels than the box did, especially on the digital and HD channels but I knew this already. I am not much of a channel surfer. I usually just use the guide to find what I want and go right to it. If you prefer to flip through the channels a lot, save yourself some money and just get the 52HMX84 instead and use the cable box.

Now since they took the box away, I can't do an A-B comparison but I am sure all the channels look better than they did through the box. Especially on the SD digital channels. There seems to be a lot less noise or digital artifacts in the picture. That goes along with what I had read about the advantages of using a CableCard a long time ago. So I am happy about that.

Now if Toshiba/TV Guide can just get the guide problem fixed I will be set!
So far today after going through the TV Guide setup again, and turning it off for a few hours, all the channels are now loaded in the guide. But, of course, no program listings yet. And still no call back from Toshiba regarding my "escalated" complaint about the TV Guide problem.

Also, a question about one way versus (future) two way CableCards. It was my understanding that the two-way cards would not be compatible with the current line of CableCard ready TVs. The supervisor that was out here today said that they would be. That would be great! I noticed looking at the various menu information for the cablecard that there is info listed for downstream AND upstream data.
I've attached a pic of the cablecard menus. On those menus in the URL box where the "pod://....." is, it will let you manually type a URL in there. I'm wondering if there is any other hidden settings in there I can play around with?




Jeff

I know there has not been a TV solution to the grey bar syndrome (my STB allows me to choose black or grey).

I just thought I'd throw out my thinking for why Toshiba does this.
As an electronic engineer I deal with IC's quite a bit and here's what I think.

The TI DMD has, what, over 1.8 milion micro mirrors toggling back and forth?

I think that the "No Burn-In" is a real asset with this technology.

But if the DMD is set so that the outer screen pixels are set in a constant "OFF" state while all the other pixel mirrors are being modulated, the construction of the DMD device might allow the the more active mirrors to begin to react more quickly to commands than the static mirrors who have not had their hinges excercised as much.
I think this would eventually lead to some sort of wierd display effect when all pixels are called on to perform.

If grey bands are used the, outer screen pixels would be exercised at a 50% duty cycle just to keep their hinges active.

I don't know - just my thoughts......

Originally posted by Sonic45
I know there has not been a TV solution to the grey bar syndrome (my STB allows me to choose black or grey).

I just thought I'd throw out my thinking for why Toshiba does this.
As an electronic engineer I deal with IC's quite a bit and here's what I think.

The TI DMD has, what, over 1.8 milion micro mirrors toggling back and forth?

I think that the "No Burn-In" is a real asset with this technology.

But if the DMD is set so that the outer screen pixels are set in a constant "OFF" state while all the other pixel mirrors are being modulated, the construction of the DMD device might allow the the more active mirrors to begin to react more quickly to commands than the static mirrors who have not had their hinges excercised as much.
I think this would eventually lead to some sort of wierd display effect when all pixels are called on to perform.

If grey bands are used the, outer screen pixels would be exercised at a 50% duty cycle just to keep their hinges active.

I don't know - just my thoughts......

Perhaps, but they should allow us to decide whether or not our hinges need excercise. :p

Keep in mind this is only an issue when we are watching SD, which isn't all the time anyway.

I've owned my 52HMX94 for about a month now. I love the TV. I had the cable card installed about three weeks ago. I experienced the same issues as everyone else in regards to the TV guide not loading all of the time.

My big issue is that my HD channels only worked about half of the time. The times they it did not work I got the "low digital signal" error on the screen. When going into set up mode the signal strength was displayed as an 86 or 88. The cable company came out a few days ago and checked the signal on the incoming line. They said it was real good and thought the cable card may be faulty. They took the card and gave me a box in the meantime while they ordered a new card. (They wanted to make sure I could get the Superbowl with no problem this weekend.)

Well after reading many of the posts here I'm wondering if a signal booster would have probably solved the problem. Are these boosters used with cable hookups? Any thoughts?

Dave

I own a 52HMX94. I've read other places about issues with the sound delay using the DVD player with a receiver. One of the solutions was to Set the receiver to TV and listen to the sound coming from the TV, not the DVD. I have the TV hooked up to the receiver with the optical cable and it solves the problem. However, I lose the surround sound when doing this. Any ideas how to fix this? (The DVD is hooked to the receiver with an optical cable also and the surround works fine.)

Dave

Originally posted by whjeffs
Well the CableCard install went well this morning. I have Millennium Digital Media as my cable provider here in Anne Arundel county, Maryland. 2 guys showed up, a tech and a supervisor and they basically had a little training session on the install procedure right there in my room. Once they got the card authorized I had all the channels that I did with the box.


I checked Millennium's website, and it looks like they are a Motorola system in MD. Is that true? In an earlier post, I reported my problem with Comcast/Motorola install failing to decrypt any digital channels. If I have this right, could you please post any version info on your cable card/firmware. Perhaps its time to call Comcast again. I kept the CC (because it mapped the HD channels to Comcast numbers), but do not have it installed currently because it was causing HD tuning problems during football playoffs.

Now if Toshiba/TV Guide can just get the guide problem fixed I will be set!
So far today after going through the TV Guide setup again, and turning it off for a few hours, all the channels are now loaded in the guide. But, of course, no program listings yet. And still no call back from Toshiba regarding my "escalated" complaint about the TV Guide problem.


I had to disconnect my set (which is temporarily in the bedroom) when we got the carpets cleaned. Originally I had been using rabbit ears on ANT2 to get the guide to load. Reconnecting it a week later, I left the antenna off, and to my surprise it obtained new program data from the cable input on ANT1. It looks like the fix is in place for my data source. I haven't changed any configuration setting for now, just to make sure it keeps working. The true test will be redoing my config and telling it there is no antenna on 2, just in case it's able to receive my PBS's VBI data even with a snowy picture.

Also, a question about one way versus (future) two way CableCards. It was my understanding that the two-way cards would not be compatible with the current line of CableCard ready TVs. The supervisor that was out here today said that they would be. That would be great! I noticed looking at the various menu information for the cablecard that there is info listed for downstream AND upstream data.


I noticed the upstream menu info as well, and thought the same thing. I have no other info, but am curious as well. Maybe it will require a firmware update, but if they really included the bidir modem hardware, it certainly seems possible. One question about your menu pictures. Are those pix from after the cable card was activated? Trying to figure out what is happening with mine, I did not know what the menus will display when the card is active and decrypting.

Originally posted by DutchDave
I own a 52HMX94. I've read other places about issues with the sound delay using the DVD player with a receiver. One of the solutions was to Set the receiver to TV and listen to the sound coming from the TV, not the DVD. I have the TV hooked up to the receiver with the optical cable and it solves the problem. However, I lose the surround sound when doing this. Any ideas how to fix this? (The DVD is hooked to the receiver with an optical cable also and the surround works fine.)

Dave

My Yamaha RX-V2500 receiver has an audio delay on it to address situations like that and it works realy well. Check to see if your receiver has an audip delay.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by whjeffs
[B]Well the CableCard install went well this morning. I have Millennium Digital Media as my cable provider here in Anne Arundel county, Maryland. 2 guys showed up, a tech and a supervisor and they basically had a little training session on the install procedure right there in my room. Once they got the card authorized I had all the channels that I did with the box.

The TV takes longer to tune in the channels than the box did, especially on the digital and HD channels but I knew this already. I am not much of a channel surfer. I usually just use the guide to find what I want and go right to it. If you prefer to flip through the channels a lot, save yourself some money and just get the 52HMX84 instead and use the cable box.

Also, a question about one way versus (future) two way CableCards. It was my understanding that the two-way cards would not be compatible with the current line of CableCard ready TVs. The supervisor that was out here today said that they would be. That would be great! I noticed looking at the various menu information for the cablecard that there is info listed for downstream AND upstream data.

whjeffs,

Does your cablecard support HD signals? I called my cable provider, CableVision, and asked about this. They said the cablecard only supports the digital signals. No plans right now to support HD. In order to get HD service, I'd have to get the box. What a pain.

I haven't decided yet on the 84 or 94, but it seems like I would be better off with the 84 since I'll need an external tuner regardless.

Originally posted by whjeffs
Here are links to the service manual and schematics for the 52 & 62HMX94. They are large pdf files so I hosted them on my own site for now. If anyone can host them on a better server please feel free.

Service manual 7.54M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94SVM.pdf

Schematic 3.98M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94CD.pdf


Please post back any useful info learned from these, such as changing the grey sidebars to black.



Jeff Thanks for the great information. I think we can finally put to rest the rumors about analog conversions on the HDMI input.:rolleyes:

This question is in regards to Toshiba's 44NHM84, which I believe is actually a rebadged LG. Has anyone learned how to make changes to the "Main window size" or "Sub window size" (Picture-in-Picture) sections of the service menu? I can tweak these things to my heart's content on a temporary basis, eliminating overscan and centering the image, but the instant I change inputs, or switch aspect ratios, *POOF* -- all my work goes down the drain, and the settings revert back to their factory defaults.

Has anyone figured out how to overcome this?

Originally posted by maddogFool
I checked Millennium's website, and it looks like they are a Motorola system in MD. Is that true? In an earlier post, I reported my problem with Comcast/Motorola install failing to decrypt any digital channels. If I have this right, could you please post any version info on your cable card/firmware. Perhaps its time to call Comcast again. I kept the CC (because it mapped the HD channels to Comcast numbers), but do not have it installed currently because it was causing HD tuning problems during football playoffs.



I had to disconnect my set (which is temporarily in the bedroom) when we got the carpets cleaned. Originally I had been using rabbit ears on ANT2 to get the guide to load. Reconnecting it a week later, I left the antenna off, and to my surprise it obtained new program data from the cable input on ANT1. It looks like the fix is in place for my data source. I haven't changed any configuration setting for now, just to make sure it keeps working. The true test will be redoing my config and telling it there is no antenna on 2, just in case it's able to receive my PBS's VBI data even with a snowy picture.



I noticed the upstream menu info as well, and thought the same thing. I have no other info, but am curious as well. Maybe it will require a firmware update, but if they really included the bidir modem hardware, it certainly seems possible. One question about your menu pictures. Are those pix from after the cable card was activated? Trying to figure out what is happening with mine, I did not know what the menus will display when the card is active and decrypting.

Yes the pics are from after the card was activated and working.
How do I tell the firmware version? Would it be one of the numbers on the menus?
All of my channels are mapped to the exact same number as they were on the box.
Yes it is a Motorola card and it should be the latest version because the cable company just got them in. I had been on a waiting list since November.


Jeff
Another day still with no TV Guide listings

Originally posted by cicc85

whjeffs,

Does your cablecard support HD signals? I called my cable provider, CableVision, and asked about this. They said the cablecard only supports the digital signals. No plans right now to support HD. In order to get HD service, I'd have to get the box. What a pain.

I haven't decided yet on the 84 or 94, but it seems like I would be better off with the 84 since I'll need an external tuner regardless. [/B]

Yes the cablecard supports the 8 HD channels that my cable company has now. A friend of mine who has Comcast was told the same thing you were although I don't believe it. I think it is either their lack of knowledge about it or they are just really pushing the boxes so they get more rental fees from you and potentially more $$ from Pay Per Views you may otherwise not be as likely to order when you have the card.


Jeff

Originally posted by kdog044
Thanks for the great information. I think we can finally put to rest the rumors about analog conversions on the HDMI input.:rolleyes:

I totally agreed with you that the 94 model block diagram shows the digital feed from HDMI. But your previous post linked to the block diagram, (I am sure it is the HM84 model), has all the inputs routed to a video switch and then the HD signals is fed into the ADC before going to the digital Genesis chip. The HDMI output is a P/Cr/Br signal, is it digital or analogy?
The other path from the video switch by-passes the ADC, but it doesn't have HD on it. :confused:

I am already stuck ed with the HMX84 model. But I would recommend any future buyers to consider the 94 models because of its HDMI inputs are feeded digitally. And more important, I haven't seen any 94 users complaint about ghosting. Does the 84 models use similar design? I would not take the risk.

Originally posted by KC38
I totally agreed with you that the 94 model block diagram shows the digital feed from HDMI. But your previous post linked to the block diagram, (I am sure it is the HM84 model), has all the inputs routed to a video switch and then the HD signals is fed into the ADC before going to the digital Genesis chip. The HDMI output is a P/Cr/Br signal, is it digital or analogy?
The other path from the video switch by-passes the ADC, but it doesn't have HD on it. :confused:

I am already stuck ed with the HMX84 model. But I would recommend any future buyers to consider the 94 models because of its HDMI inputs are feeded digitally. And more important, I haven't seen any 94 users complaint about ghosting. Does the 84 models use similar design? I would not take the risk.

I, too, am confused about this. The price differential doesn't seem significant enough to explain what apparently is the case regarding fundamental issues re: D-A-D vs. D-D-D... I thought the price difference between the 84 and 94 just reflected the internal tuner.

I have the 94hmx52 and I have not encountered any ghosting. As per the cablecard issue, mine picks up all that are fed into the digital box (I run both of them into the set). As per my Comcast provider...NO TV Guide yet...quit annoying because I could use it with my DVD recorder.....

I hope they fix it in here soon.

Dan

I have been searching the forums for over an hour but have had no luck finding an answer to my problem...

I just purchased a new 52HM84 set and had comcast come out and install HD cable while I was at work (GF was home).... I get home and tune into the HD channels and I have the grey bars on the side no matter what channels I am watching (HD or SD)....When I push the Pic size button on the remote it seems as if it is streching the pic b/c the network icon in the bottom right is cut off and barely visible

I have a Motorola HDTV DVR box from Comcast and it is running into my 52HM84 via component cables connected into the colorstream HD1 feed

Could this be a settings issue with the TV or the Cable box???

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated

Originally posted by Engine Joe
I, too, am confused about this. The price differential doesn't seem significant enough to explain what apparently is the case regarding fundamental issues re: D-A-D vs. D-D-D... I thought the price difference between the 84 and 94 just reflected the internal tuner.

Well, before you guys panic.
I have a 52HMX94, and it doesn't have perfect HDMI.There is some peaking (ghosting), but you see the "ghosting" people are complaining about on everything, the on screen menus, the HDMI input. BUT, either it's worse on some sets, or, as I suspect, some people are just more fired up about it.

With regard to the differences between HMx84 and HMx94, look at page 84 of the schematic. You will see an optional position for the 2nd HDMI connector (PJ202) labled HMX94 only. That would lead me to believe the board is the same, but some components (like the connector) are simply left off. So much for the HMX84 processing HDMI differently.

I've studied the other block diagram (the supposedly HM84 block diagram) and there would have to be logic to recover the HDMI datastream and a D/A in that block for it to make sense. It seems like a lot of stuff to leave out of the block diagram, so I'm not sure what it means.

BTW, before someone notices and panics, the D/A shown after the HDMI RX block on the HMX94 block diagram is to recover the HDMI audio for speakers and rear panel output.


Gary

Originally posted by ridinlow
I have been searching the forums for over an hour but have had no luck finding an answer to my problem...

I just purchased a new 52HM84 set and had comcast come out and install HD cable while I was at work (GF was home).... I get home and tune into the HD channels and I have the grey bars on the side no matter what channels I am watching (HD or SD)....When I push the Pic size button on the remote it seems as if it is streching the pic b/c the network icon in the bottom right is cut off and barely visible

I have a Motorola HDTV DVR box from Comcast and it is running into my 52HM84 via component cables connected into the colorstream HD1 feed

Could this be a settings issue with the TV or the Cable box???

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated

Which Motorola DVR Box do you have? Check your high definition settings under the User Settings. Make sure the Motorola is plugged in but turned off. Leave the TV on. Press the Menu key to get to the on screen display. Sometimes you have to press it several times to get it to stay on the screen. Use the cursor keys to highlight the setting you want to change. Make sure that you have 16.9 checked under TV type.

Originally posted by ridinlow
I have been searching the forums for over an hour but have had no luck finding an answer to my problem...

I just purchased a new 52HM84 set and had comcast come out and install HD cable while I was at work (GF was home).... I get home and tune into the HD channels and I have the grey bars on the side no matter what channels I am watching (HD or SD)....When I push the Pic size button on the remote it seems as if it is streching the pic b/c the network icon in the bottom right is cut off and barely visible

I have a Motorola HDTV DVR box from Comcast and it is running into my 52HM84 via component cables connected into the colorstream HD1 feed

Could this be a settings issue with the TV or the Cable box???

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated

I used to have a Motorola HD box from Adelphia. If the HD box output is set to 480I or 480P, you shall see grey bar. The way to control the video output in my previous box is

1) turn off the HD box
2) turn on the HD box with the menu key (instead of the normal power key)
3) You should have a menu to choose the TV size (16:9), video resolution (1080i) and 3/4 convert to 480i.

if your Motorola box is a different model , I suggest you to search the user menu for your box in the net. Another easy way is to call your cable provider. They usually would give you the instruction to set up the STB. Good luck.

Originally posted by Gwhiz
Well, before you guys panic.
I have a 52HMX94, and it doesn't have perfect HDMI.There is some peaking (ghosting), but you see the "ghosting" people are complaining about on everything, the on screen menus, the HDMI input. BUT, either it's worse on some sets, or, as I suspect, some people are just more fired up about it.

With regard to the differences between HMx84 and HMx94, look at page 84 of the schematic. You will see an optional position for the 2nd HDMI connector (PJ202) la-bled HMX94 only. That would lead me to believe the board is the same, but some components (like the connector) are simply left off. So much for the HMX84 processing HDMI differently.

I've studied the other block diagram (the supposedly HM84 block diagram) and there would have to be logic to recover the HDMI datastream and a D/A in that block for it to make sense. It seems like a lot of stuff to leave out of the block diagram, so I'm not sure what it means.

BTW, before someone notices and panics, the D/A shown after the HDMI RX block on the HMX94 block diagram is to recover the HDMI audio for speakers and rear panel output.


Gary


Gary,

1) When any one try to display JPG photo using HDMI DVD player, one would notice the ghosting problem.
2) The optional second HDMI for HMX94 (2 HDMI) is the difference from HM94 (1 HDMI). I don't think it is related to the 84 models
3) When the tech opened my TV, I saw a silver box at the back of the HDMI connectors. The silver box might contain the circuit that you mentioned. It might convert the HDMI input to P/Cr/Cb before feeding to QV01. When I studied the HMX94 circuit, I notice two spare analog inputs on QV01. These two inputs could be used for the HDMI 84 model.
4) The 84 user manual recommend to use 1080i and the 94 user manual recommend both 720P and 1080i. It doesn't make sense to use 1080i for a 720P native display. But the 1080i is obviously better than 720p for the 84 model.

To all readers,

My digging into more detail would not improve my viewing experience, but I would like to provide new buyers with more precises recommendation.

1) I have the experience of 3 Toshiba (52HM84, 2- 62HMX84), their video settings were quite different (for example: the brightness was 50 and now is 78). It is ok to discuss about the number, but don't just use setting from other people.
2) I don't recommend the 62" 84 models simply because they are not as clear as the Samsung 6163 when connected to PC or HDMI.
3) Unless somebody confirms the 84 models has similar video I/F, I would go for the 94 models. At a minimum, you could use the cablecard and eliminate HDMI interface to STB.
4) Component input is ok for cable/directv STB. There is a noticeable difference for DVD between component and HDMI. Normal DVD component output doesn't support resolution higher than 480P. Future HD DVD player will have the same limitation. DVD HD output only go through digital I/F (HDMI or DVI).
5) I didn't like the grey bar in the beginning and I had tried all the combination in the service menu. I get used to the grey bar after two months; especially CBSHD and ESPNHD both send out grey bar anyway.
6) In my course to eliminate the Ghosting, I have tried quite a few DVD players with digital output. The following is my recommended order:

Denon 3910 (great one, but expensive)
Panasonic S97 (this is what I have now)
Samsung 941
Sony 975
LG DVB418
Toshiba 5xxx
Samsung 841

Originally posted by ridinlow
I have been searching the forums for over an hour but have had no luck finding an answer to my problem...

I just purchased a new 52HM84 set and had comcast come out and install HD cable while I was at work (GF was home).... I get home and tune into the HD channels and I have the grey bars on the side no matter what channels I am watching (HD or SD)....When I push the Pic size button on the remote it seems as if it is streching the pic b/c the network icon in the bottom right is cut off and barely visible

I have a Motorola HDTV DVR box from Comcast and it is running into my 52HM84 via component cables connected into the colorstream HD1 feed

Could this be a settings issue with the TV or the Cable box???

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated For the SD programs I believe you have to set the 4:3 override to "OFF" in the Motorola setup menu. This will allow the STB to create the "black bars" as opposed to the TV which will give you "grey bars". Accessing the menu should be the same for most boxes. With the TV on and connected to the Motorola and the STB turned "OFF" press the menu key on the front panel. Use the up and down arrows to navigate to a selection and the right arrow to change the current selection. To save and exit press the menu or power key.

For HD programs you want the TV type to be "16:9" and the resolution to be whatever your TV's native resolution is (i.e. 720p or 1080i). You might experiment with this setting as the STB is going to upconvert or downconvert some of the signals depending on what you watch in HD. Most of the sports will be in 720p (i.e. FOX, ESPN). Even if your TV converts 720p to 1080i it may do a better job than having the STB do the conversion.

P.S. One other note to keep in mind is that not all HD channels broadcast in HD all the time so make sure it is a true HD program that is displaying the "bars" and not just a SD program.

Originally posted by DanofNJ
I have the 94hmx52 and I have not encountered any ghosting. As per the cablecard issue, mine picks up all that are fed into the digital box (I run both of them into the set). As per my Comcast provider...NO TV Guide yet...quit annoying because I could use it with my DVD recorder.....

I hope they fix it in here soon.

Dan

The TV Guide problem has nothing to do with Comcast or any other cable provider. The TV Guide information is embedded in the signal from your local PBS station. You can get it through cable or an antenna. The problem (according to Toshiba) is in how TV Guide is sending the information. To use my situation as an example, I have my cable split and one line going directly into the TV's ANT1 input (now using a CableCard) and the other line is going to my Panasonic DVD/HDD recorder. The Panasonic also has the built in TV Guide and it is able to receive the info just fine. So far, all the TV will receive is the channel list. No program listings.

Comcast may be confusing the TV Guide with the guide that is built into their cable boxes and they are relating it to one way versus future two way cable cards.
When the guys came to install my cablecard they were surprised to hear that my TV had a guide built in. This was news to them.


Jeff

Jeff,

Thanks so much for the reply..and of course I have the 52mhx92 (it was late :).
In other words, until TV guide can fix the problem, and then send it through PBS, this problem will continue. I wonder why toshiba messed with it if it was working? I can't get a TV signal here or that would solve the problem ...I might have had a chance is Southern Jersey when the WTC's were in place, but the Empire State Building is too far. Oh well...I will post if I get ANYTHING on TV guide. Thanks for the info, really clarified the issue for me.

Dan

TVGuide has essentially been working for me-to a point. After I reset my TV(including the guide) & after a few days TVguide works great, however, a few days after that,when TVguide is starting to download color coded shows & the multiple icons it can display, is when it starts to act up. It almost acts like there is too much info for the guide to handle(not enough memory, perhaps?)-its extremely slow getting the guide to come on & some times it wont turn on at all & I have to hit the reset button.

Ive had the Symbio recorder for 2 weeks now & it works great, but(& this is a big but) when the guide isn't working the Symbio is essentially useless. If I cant access or use the guide then I cant record shows with the symbio(if the guide isn't working & can still record on the fly & pause live tv) from the guide list(such as scheduling recordings) This is important to me(scheduling) because the Symbio/Toshiba TV combo's main downfall is that when you are recording you have 2 choices-watch the show you are recording or turn the TV off. You cant watch another channel or switch inputs while your recording- a major bummer. However, I am keeping the Symbio because(when the guide works) I can record movies in HD which blows away(picture wise)any dvd I currently have. It will also record in 5.1 which is cool.

Originally posted by tboo
the Symbio/Toshiba TV combo's main downfall is that when you are recording you have 2 choices-watch the show you are recording or turn the TV off. You cant watch another channel or switch inputs while your recording- a major bummer.

I had settled on the 52hmx94 partly because of the Symbio. Then when i was able to download some of the similar product manuals from Toshiba's web site, I deduced the problem you mentioned above from the manual.
So, we stayed with the the Toshiba TV, but blew off the Symbio.

One thing the manual doesn't answer, and I've gotten conlicting answers form Toshiba about is - can you watch some thing that has been previously recorded while it records something else?
The TACP web guys answered no, the guy at CES (who didn't really even know how to operate the product) said yes, then when he couldn't make it happen said some gobbledygook about you can watch an SD while it records a HD program.

So, ignoring the incompentent Toshiba marketing guys, can you watch something that was already recorded while it records something else?

Gary

Originally posted by Gwhiz
I had settled on the 52hmx94 partly because of the Symbio. Then when i was able to download some of the similar product manuals from Toshiba's web site, I deduced the problem you mentioned above from the manual.
So, we stayed with the the Toshiba TV, but blew off the Symbio.

One thing the manual doesn't answer, and I've gotten conlicting answers form Toshiba about is - can you watch some thing that has been previously recorded while it records something else?
The TACP web guys answered no, the guy at CES (who didn't really even know how to operate the product) said yes, then when he couldn't make it happen said some gobbledygook about you can watch an SD while it records a HD program.

So, ignoring the incompentent Toshiba marketing guys, can you watch something that was already recorded while it records something else?

Gary

Ill try that right now & let you know----ok, no it wont. While i was recording I hit the "list" button, which brings up the recorded shows menu, & "not available" popped up on the screen

guys.
as a newb of this 62HM84 DLP (2nd day ownership), so far I read a lot about GHOSTING problem. does it happen only when connect with HDMI? but can anyone pls show me how GHOSTING looks like?
tks.

Originally posted by xb1032
GHOSTING
-------------

I bought a monster DVI->HDMI cable at lunch from BB. I am going to try it and see if maybe my Acoustic Research 6ft HDMI cable along with the Acoustic Research DVI->HDMI adapter could be the issue. In the past I've seen ghosting issues on PCs when using a VGA extension. I'll post my results tomorrow. I'll test on the PC and the Samsung DVI OTA tuner. If the issue is on both I'll just give Toshiba a call and state my issue with the Samsung tuner only as I know I'll get nowhere with the PC connection.

drmarengo,

Did your contact find out any info regarding the ghosting?

Saloooon and any other with the ghosting issue. Did you find any help regarding the ghosting problem?

As far as the HDMI connecton being too dark I think it's probably a SM setting. With my PC hooked up I brought up a picture of my family room. In the family room is a burgundy leather couch. When I opened the picture the couch was very dark with very little detail as far as the wrinkles and so forth goes. The ATI video card had video settings and I raised the Gamma from 0.5 to 1.25 as well as slightly raising the brightness and I can see details in the couch and it no longer looks like a dark room. The blacks do diminish a little though. I'd guess that if someone with the issue were to venture into the SM and copy down the proper setting for component and apply them to the HDMI input that the darkness issue would be resolved. Hopefully we can work through the issues as I think the Toshiba's have a lot of potential with the proper tweaking.

Samsung users have received some good support as some users had their TVs ISF'ed and some experienced folks helped out. If only we had someone like UMR helping us out we could probably work through these issues.

Originally posted by tboo
[B]TVGuide has essentially been working for me-to a point. After I reset my TV(including the guide) & after a few days TVguide works great, however, a few days after that,when TVguide is starting to download color coded shows & the multiple icons it can display, is when it starts to act up. It almost acts like there is too much info for the guide to handle(not enough memory, perhaps?)-its extremely slow getting the guide to come on & some times it wont turn on at all & I have to hit the reset button.B]

tboo the reset button is on the side of the tv in that little compartment correct? What is the correct steps to reset the tv? I tried pressing the button and then the tv cycles off and back on again but It didn't reset my info...

Any help would be great as I to would love to get my guide to work so I can enjoy my symbio. :)

Has anyone carefully setup and tested the LG DVB418 upconverting DVD player?

I know it's not seen too good at another thread here, but it may be just about setting it up correctly.

Originally posted by BasicCable
tboo the reset button is on the side of the tv in that little compartment correct? What is the correct steps to reset the tv? I tried pressing the button and then the tv cycles off and back on again but It didn't reset my info...

Any help would be great as I to would love to get my guide to work so I can enjoy my symbio. :)

Yes the reset button is on the side of the TV-it just resets the TV when it locks up but you wont lose your settings. A system setting reset can be done in the installation menu-this resets everything including TVguide

Originally posted by Julio Bro!
Has anyone carefully setup and tested the LG DVB418 upconverting DVD player?

I know it's not seen too good at another thread here, but it may be just about setting it up correctly.

There are a few price classes of up-conversion DVD:

Below $200: the LG is better than Toshiba and Samsung 841
Below $300: the Panasonic, Samsung 941 and Sony are very close. I choose Panasonic because it has a lot of adjustment (such as brightness, contrast, sharpness, auto zoom and so on) and it has the least ghosting effect via HDMI (I increase the sharpness on the DVD and decrease the sharpness on the TV). The Samsung 941 is pretty good too, but it generates more noticeable ghosting on fixed DVD menus.

The LG and Samsung support more disk formats.

Anyone have any experience with the Toshiba 52HMX84 and the Sony NS975 DVD connected via HDMI?

ok, sorry for the super super late reply to this but I've been pretty sick. I finally got to my local ABC Warehouse and got a price on the 62" set. the price was terrible. I was given the price of 3850.00 for the tv and 250.00 for the stand if I purchased them both at the same time. and to put icing on the cake, if I wanted to buy 2 they'll even knock an extra 100.00 off on each set. woohoo!!! does anyone want to go in on 2 with me?

yeah right.

One thing the manual doesn't answer, and I've gotten conlicting answers form Toshiba about is - can you watch some thing that has been previously recorded while it records something else?
The TACP web guys answered no, the guy at CES (who didn't really even know how to operate the product) said yes, then when he couldn't make it happen said some gobbledygook about you can watch an SD while it records a HD program.
*************************
You could theoretically pass two Firewire data streams in opposite directions at the same time over a single Firewire link.. you'd need to have TWO separate devices on a daisy chain though - a recorder can NOT simultaneously play & record,.. but if they were separate physical devices it could work. Or the 'gobbledy-gook' about SDTV... what it really means is that you can record one thing while watching an independant source, like the SD tuner or a Component input.

Just so you understand, the Firewire output is only for the internal digital tuner stream - video from the SD tuner or external input will NOT be digitized & compressed for recording.

There's a simple solution. It's called Comcast and the Motorola DCT6412.;)

Originally posted by KC38
There are a few price classes of up-conversion DVD:

Below $200: the LG is better than Toshiba and Samsung 841
Below $300: the Panasonic, Samsung 941 and Sony are very close. The Samsung 941 is pretty good too, but it generates more noticeable ghosting on fixed DVD menus. The LG and Samsung support more disk formats.

Does that mean that the LG produces ghosting too?

Apparently there's no upconverting DVD player that works flawlessly with our DLPs huh.

Originally posted by Julio Bro!
Does that mean that the LG produces ghosting too?

Apparently there's no upconverting DVD player that works flawlessly with our DLPs huh.


I have no problem with my Denon 2910 on my 52hmx94

Originally posted by Julio Bro!
Does that mean that the LG produces ghosting too? I think the "ghosting" problems were limited to a small number of people and mainly the XXHM84 and XXHMX84 sets. Most of them were also using a DVI>HDMI cable from a satellite or dish STB. There may be a couple of people that reported problems on a HDMI>HDMI connected DVD player but I know I've read about more that have been getting great picture and results with this type of connection. I would focus on getting a good DVD player and not worry about ghosting. I wouldn't put the Samsung HD941 in the same class as the Sony and Panasonic. It has problems with "green flashes" that may not be corrected with firmware and does not give good PQ if using 720p. In addition, the previous models HD841 and HD931 have issues as well and do not get good reviews. There have been problems with "tray locking" on the Sony so it might be a gamble but the PQ rivals the Panasonic and doesn't use the Faroudja deinterlacer so doesn't suffer from macroblocking like the Panasonic and the others mentioned. Newer firmware has reduced the problem according to some users. Your best bet is to peruse the threads on the different players and then test them on your set as YMMV.

Originally posted by kdog044
There's a simple solution. It's called Comcast and the Motorola DCT6412.;)

Got to agree with you 100%. :)

Originally posted by Rudy1
Got to agree with you 100%. :) I contemplated purchasing the Symbio recorder but considering Comcast rents the DCT6412 for $10 a month it would take almost 4 years to jutify the cost and by then there will probably be better and less expensive options.;)

Originally posted by chrishicks
ok, sorry for the super super late reply to this but I've been pretty sick. I finally got to my local ABC Warehouse and got a price on the 62" set. the price was terrible. I was given the price of 3850.00 for the tv and 250.00 for the stand if I purchased them both at the same time. and to put icing on the cake, if I wanted to buy 2 they'll even knock an extra 100.00 off on each set. woohoo!!! does anyone want to go in on 2 with me?

yeah right. Check your PM.;)

does anyone know what the box dimensions are for the 46hm84? i'm trying to figure out if i could fit the box in a friend's suv. i ordered a set from costco, but it is taking an painfully long time to arrive (originally ordered 1/25, picked up by trucking company from miami on 2/2, left ohio on 2/7, arrives in northern cali ???). if the tv arrives at the local depot on friday, i'm thinking i'll try and pick it up myself rather than waiting until next week for the slow poke trucking company to deliver the set. thanks for your help.

Not sure about the box but you can get the unit dimensions on page 61 of the manual.

http://tacpservice.toshiba.com/ConsumerProductSupport/Manuals/TV/2004/46_52_62HM84.pdf

Originally posted by tboo
I have no problem with my Denon 2910 on my 52hmx94

No problems at all? Is there a difference watching DVDs at 720p over the HDMI instead of component?

How much did it cost?

Has anyone tested the LG on the Toshibas?

You know, I asked Toshiba why they didn't have a 720p DVD player that worked perfectly with their DLPs. I don't know if this was an honest answer, but You know what was it?

They have not considered manufacturing a fully compatible player with their DLPs. Unbelievable huh?

I told them they had to do player that worked perfectly with their DLPs, and then modified it to work with others. That way "us DLP owners" would be happy...even if the unit costs a bit more than the current one.

Time will tell if they heard. Summertime that is, if they don't make it I'm getting the one that best matches our DLP's performance and hide in the trenches until the HD war passes.

I am using the LG 7832NXC with components and DVI-->HDMI.

Some movies are nicer with components and some with HDMI.

No problems at all with the HDMI connection with the LG. Only the slight Ghosting like every other XXHM84 model out there....

Originally posted by TheGrub
I am using the LG 7832NXC with components and DVI-->HDMI.

Some movies are nicer with components and some with HDMI.

No problems at all with the HDMI connection with the LG. Only the slight Ghosting like every other XXHM84 model out there....

Hey, which is that unit? I haven't check.

Originally posted by kdog044
Not sure about the box but you can get the unit dimensions on page 61 of the manual.

http://tacpservice.toshiba.com/ConsumerProductSupport/Manuals/TV/2004/46_52_62HM84.pdf

thanks kdog, but i was hoping to get the dimensions for the actual box that the 46hm84 ships in. not sure whether it will fit in my friend's suv.

If you live in an area with an American Furniture & Electronics in it, they are having the Family & Friends sale 2/10 - 2/13. The salesman told me that the 62HMX94 would be selling for close to $1000.00 under MSRP. I'll be there right when they open on 2/10. I have been researching for 18 months. Finally ready to buy. Has anyone on this post had ghosting or lag issues with the 94's?

Originally posted by bigdaddy10
If you live in an area with an American Furniture & Electronics in it, they are having the Family & Friends sale 2/10 - 2/13. The salesman told me that the 62HMX94 would be selling for close to $1000.00 under MSRP. I'll be there right when they open on 2/10. I have been researching for 18 months. Finally ready to buy. Has anyone on this post had ghosting or lag issues with the 94's?

I have the 52HMX94. No ghosting via HDMI. Lag issues? Can't answer that coz I don't play games at all. Last time I played a video game it was still the Atari in the 80's.

Are you getting any pixel breakup on fast moving scenes or sports?

on my recent reviews of most RPTVs here, Tosh beats Optoma easily!
checked by cable, DVD, HD dish, Tosh won in all tests!
that's why now 62HM84 is in my living room! :D

Originally posted by Boogie7910
Hey does 52HM94 have good PQ? Is it better than the Optoma RD50? Does it have HDCP?

Help, I need a TV soon.

Originally posted by bigdaddy10
Are you getting any pixel breakup on fast moving scenes or sports?

The only time I noticed this was when I was watching the Matrix Revolution last Saturday on HBO HD. You know that scene when Neo and Smith fighting in the rain? That was the only time I seen pixel breakup. A lot of movement, camera pans and dropping rain. Sports? so far no.

Originally posted by bigdaddy10
Has anyone on this post had ghosting or lag issues with the 94's? The HMX94 series has the game mode to prevent any lag on video games. It also has a nice feature where you can lock out the video input after a period of time (GameTimer). This is nice if you want to limit your kid's game playing.

I have the LGDVB 418 hooked to the a 52hm84 via hdmi.
The DVDs that I have watched looked good, Shrek, Nemo, Chronicles of Riddick, and Star Wars 2 AOTC.
I upconvert to 720p and 1080i, actual think 1080i looks better.
I don't see Ghosting and the color looks Very GOOD. Using the Card reader Goes Slow if images are huge (digital Rebel owner = huge file sizes). I tired some of my Home Made DVDs that I burnt with Sonic DVD software and some play no problem and some have issues. All this stuff is new (TV and DVD player) so I am still testing it all out. I got a Month to make my decision to keep the DVD Player or Not.
Very Happy with TV!
Just wish I had the x94 version with extra HDMI and Firewire and Built in OTA tuner.

Great! That is the information I have been waiting to hear. I really don't play video games at all but I feel that if the Tv has a problem with lag time it might have a problem with other types fast action. I'll be buying an HMX94 on Thurs or Fri.

Originally posted by bmw_68
I have the LGDVB 418 hooked to the a 52hm84 via hdmi.
The DVDs that I have watched looked good, Shrek, Nemo, Chronicles of Riddick, and Star Wars 2 AOTC.
I upconvert to 720p and 1080i, actual think 1080i looks better.
I don't see Ghosting and the color looks Very GOOD.

Man, you're about the only person that's happy with this LG unit. Where did you buy it?

Originally posted by bigdaddy10
Great! That is the information I have been waiting to hear. I really don't play video games at all but I feel that if the Tv has a problem with lag time it might have a problem with other types fast action. I'll be buying an HMX94 on Thurs or Fri.

BigDaddy,

You should have searched this thread, I posted long ago about Game Mode and how well it worked. You could have had your TV a lot sooner! :)

I got it at Circuit City and so far so good, I too was sceptical and am still feeling it out, I like the thought of the Kiss 600 DVD player playing WMV 9 Content, but thats not out till May.
bMw

have had my 62hm84 for about 6 weeks now. overall i am very happy with it. I dont notice any ghosting, using components or hdmi.
i do have one problem. I get vertical lines in the picture appearing. mostly when theres red in the screen. like if someone is wearing a red shirt, a thin line of red pixles, carries right up to the top of the picture. basically a red line vertically, but is hidden in the shirt. i have seen it in faces also. there has been as many a 4 lines on the tv at once. i have only noticed it with my directv hd box (toshiba dst-3100). i first saw it on the sd channels. and not on the hd. now it is opposite. the sd channels seem to be fine. while on most all hd channels i can see it. i have a tivo sd hooked up as well and i dont see it at all. nor on my dvds. I have no idea what it could be.
i did read a post on here about the lines on the screen , from a toshiba service bulliten. but wouldnt it be on all inputs not just my hd box. i really have no way of getting another hd box to see if its my box. also if i call toshiba to come look at the tv. they will just tell me its the box anyways.
and probably charge me a service call .'???????
what should i do.

I still have the box - in the playroom for the kids. Will try to remember to measure it tonight for you.

I would like to reiterate the following:

It's been several months now that I've had my DLP set. It has been a long, long time since I've ever noticed a rainbow, even for a microsecond.

I dunno how my brain/eyes did this adjustment, but it seems to be permanent, lol. Seriously though.

I am saddened that many will be wrongly put off from DLP because of this rainbows-forever myth. For this technology overall IMHO is superior to LCD RPTV.

Oh well. You can't boil the ocean, as they say.

I've had mine for about 5 days now and have seen the rainbows when I doing something else and watching a show at the same time.(Snacking,reading,chatting,etc)\

Basically If I'm watching a show I don't see It....And even when I see its gone so fast Its not a big distration.(I mean If I'm eating and watching a show I'm not really giving my full attention to the TV anyway)

Now If I could just get my TV Guide to show up some data....All I get Is It saying There Is no Data and I've had this TV hooked to cable(Midcontinent Communications...There owned by Comcast I believe) since Saturday and nothing.

I tried switching to another local zip code but so far no luck. I'm hoping to figure this out soon ad this was one of the reasons I went with the 52HM94 over the 84( So I wouldn't need a cable box but get most of the same features)

Can anyone offer advice on which Tosh model to purchase? I've narrowed it down to the 52hmx but not sure whether to go for the 84 or 94. I'm not concerned about on-demand services from my cable company and don't want to deal with a separate cable box. I would like to have the option of receiving OTA HD signals and most likely won't be playing video games on this TV.

It seems like a lot of people in this forum have quite a few external components and have opted for the monitor instead of the integrated HDTV. What are the benefits to this? If I get the 84, and stick with Cable, I'll have to rely on my cable provider to rent me whatever tuner they offer. Is that correct or are there options?

Also, can anyone offer up a best price for each model? Somewhere in this thread someone mentioned they paid $2400 for the 52HMX94 which from what I have seen is rock bottom.

Originally posted by TheGrub
I am using the LG 7832NXC with components and DVI-->HDMI.

Some movies are nicer with components and some with HDMI.

No problems at all with the HDMI connection with the LG. Only the slight Ghosting like every other XXHM84 model out there....

I am also using the LG 7832NXC on my 52" via Monster components (yeah yeah I know they're over-priced).
I'm very satisfied with this DVd and Tv combo. I used to have a sony 575 progessive. Newer DVds were okay, but older ones were exremely grainy. I decided to experiment with an HD DVD that does a natural 720 p --therby avoiding any conversions. There was a great deal for the LG (2001 audio-video in Toronto) and I must say it did the trick. Older DVDs are just slightly grainy (90 percent better than before), and nwer ones are amazing. It was worth the extra $125, for sure.

Originally posted by bigdaddy10
Are you getting any pixel breakup on fast moving scenes or sports?

I notice that during VERY slow pans the main objects tend to blur (I think its the DVD compensating instead of pixel break-up). Not a real big deal. I've heard people say that of fast-moving images. I haven't experienced any such thing in the 3 weeks I've had my TV. watched the entire SB in HD, and it was one of the best viewing experiences I've ever had. No problems at all.

Originally posted by cicc85
Can anyone offer advice on which Tosh model to purchase? I've narrowed it down to the 52hmx but not sure whether to go for the 84 or 94. I'm not concerned about on-demand services from my cable company and don't want to deal with a separate cable box. I would like to have the option of receiving OTA HD signals and most likely won't be playing video games on this TV. I think you answered your own question. The 94 series is the only one with integrated tuners and cable card. Whether you choose the HM94 or HMX94 is another matter. The HMX gives you the second HDMI connection and the black bezel. Here is a link to an earlier post in this thread that breaks down the difference between the four models.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=438276&perpage=20&pagenumber=25

Personally, I would pick between the HM94 and HMX94 series but that's just me. Even if you decide to use a STB it's nice to know you don't have to and if you decide to get OTA for free all you need is an antenna and you are good to go.:D Also, if you plan to use the Symbio recorder the 94's are the only ones that will support it.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by BasicCable
[B]Now If I could just get my TV Guide to show up some data....All I get Is It saying There Is no Data and I've had this TV hooked to cable(Midcontinent Communications...There owned by Comcast I believe) since Saturday and nothing.

Don't feel bad. I've had my 62HMX94 for about two months and I haven't gotten anything but "no data" yet. I'm hooked to an outdoor antenna. I've tried several zip codes, as well. Several calls to Toshiba have brought promises of downloads to fix the problem, but nothing has worked, yet.

Originally posted by dtomlinson
[QUOTE]Originally posted by BasicCable
[B]Now If I could just get my TV Guide to show up some data....All I get Is It saying There Is no Data and I've had this TV hooked to cable(Midcontinent Communications...There owned by Comcast I believe) since Saturday and nothing.

Don't feel bad. I've had my 62HMX94 for about two months and I haven't gotten anything but "no data" yet. I'm hooked to an outdoor antenna. I've tried several zip codes, as well. Several calls to Toshiba have brought promises of downloads to fix the problem, but nothing has worked, yet.


I'm just wondering if you guys have the G-Link cable connected to recieve data for the TV Guide setup and have one of the G-Link ends if not in front of the infrared sensor, just near enough where it could take over the cablebox. I had did this once and had recieved TV Guide data aftr 24 hours of setting it up. The only complaint I have with using the Tosh's TV Guide feature was that it takes a whole lot longer to tune in if you change channels.

pbir.
know how to turn 'edge enhancement' off on HM? seems it's too sharp which causes 'ghosting'?

Originally posted by pbir
On an older Toshiba RPTV you needed to start with MOVIE settings before entering your preferences in order to turn off edge enhancements (a.k.a. SVM). This changes internal settings other than the ones you normally access. Suspecting that Toshiba used the same logic here, I have used the same starting point with my 52HM84 and DVD-3910 via HDMI. I still need to do the DVE calibration, which I'll do after applying the -8 firmware which was released earlier today.

Paul.

whjeffs.
do HMX service manual and schemetics work on HM series? if not, can you pls post where I can get HM series files? mine is 62HM84.
tks.

Originally posted by whjeffs
Here are links to the service manual and schematics for the 52 & 62HMX94. They are large pdf files so I hosted them on my own site for now. If anyone can host them on a better server please feel free.

Service manual 7.54M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94SVM.pdf

Schematic 3.98M:
http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94CD.pdf


Please post back any useful info learned from these, such as changing the grey sidebars to black.



Jeff

Originally posted by kdog044


Personally, I would pick between the HM94 and HMX94 series but that's just me. Even if you decide to use a STB it's nice to know you don't have to and if you decide to get OTA for free all you need is an antenna and you are good to go.:D Also, if you plan to use the Symbio recorder the 94's are the only ones that will support it.

Kdog, thanks for the response. As you can probably tell, I'm very new to all this stuff. As such, I humbly ask what does STB stand for and what is a Symbio?

Originally posted by cicc85
Kdog, thanks for the response. As you can probably tell, I'm very new to all this stuff. As such, I humbly ask what does STB stand for and what is a Symbio? Sorry, STB stands for "set top box" (i.e. satellite or cable). Symbio, is Toshiba's new Digital Video Recorder (DVR). It basically allows you to record SD and HD programs to a 160 GB hard drive. It connects to the TV using the IEEE 1394 port (i.e. Firewire). Here is the link to it.

http://www.tacp.toshiba.com/televisions/product.asp?model=160hd4

Originally posted by cicc85
Also, can anyone offer up a best price for each model? Somewhere in this thread someone mentioned they paid $2400 for the 52HMX94 which from what I have seen is rock bottom. We're not supposed to talk about pricing on this forum but you would be hard pressed to find the 52HMX94 for that price. That's about what you can expect for the 52HM94 and the 52HMX94 is about $400 more than the HM. The problem is the HMX is their Cinema series and is only carried in the higher end retailers so it may be difficult to find locally.

lienly,

As I said previously, this is based on my older 50HX81, but it seems to work on the 52HM84.

If you select MOVIE mode before making your adjustments to COLOR, CONTRAST, etc., edge enhancement will be turned off.

In MENU, select the PICTURE icon, then MODE and then MOVIE. Once you start changing the other items (COLOR, etc.), MODE becomes PREFERENCE, but that is normal and it will retain the off setting for edge enhancement. Please remember to SAVE your settings before exiting.

Paul.

Originally posted by FrankieP
I'm just wondering if you guys have the G-Link cable connected to recieve data for the TV Guide setup and have one of the G-Link ends if not in front of the infrared sensor, just near enough where it could take over the cablebox. I had did this once and had recieved TV Guide data aftr 24 hours of setting it up. The only complaint I have with using the Tosh's TV Guide feature was that it takes a whole lot longer to tune in if you change channels.

Frankie I don't have there cable box. Thats the reason I bought the hm94 over the 84 so I wouldn't need to rent a box anymore. Sadly I bought a Symbio on the word of a Toshiba tech and ordered it along with my TV.

Now I have 10 pound, $400 paper weight as its worthless without the Guide working. I'll wait a few till next week to call back to tech support before I get real upset about them misleading me.(I have since getting the tv seen the disclaimer In there manual making no promise that the guide will work for you....Even though there Tech told me It would work in any market and doesn't matter what cable service you have)

Originally posted by whjeffs
Yes the pics are from after the card was activated and working.
How do I tell the firmware version? Would it be one of the numbers on the menus?
All of my channels are mapped to the exact same number as they were on the box.
Yes it is a Motorola card and it should be the latest version because the cable company just got them in. I had been on a waiting list since November.

Jeff
Another day still with no TV Guide listings

whjeffs:
Sorry it took so long to respond, but I was waiting to hear something from a backdoor I have into Motorola engineering.

I was able to see from your pics that we have the same firmware reported on the CC, 4.05. And I also see, from the CA window of your earlier post, that your TV reports the state as "Subscribed", whereas on mine it says "Disabled" (hence the problem). Everything else looks similar, including OOB tuned and ECM PIDs parsed.

The TV firmware, found from the setup->installation->system status->system info menu is:
SW Ver 1.4.1 OCT 19 2004 14:49:19
FW 1.20
DBEP: 65

I'm asking this publicly because it might be of use to other people. Could you please post what your TV reports. If your TV firmware is newer, maybe that is the problem, or maybe there is a hardware fix (revision info unkown) of the CC, as yours is more recent.

Meanwhile, my TV Guide continues to chug along without any problems (12 days), with direct cable connection to ANT1 only (no OTA on 2, which was my original work around). Even after I reinstalled the CC to check its firmware rev. Surprisingly, the guide data did not dump. I have not yet edited the channel display setup, which previously caused the guide data to dump and reload.

For those still having TVGOS problems, I can only speculate that your local PBS station data source has not yet received the update, or as someone just posted, if you have a cable box connected to the antenna input, there is an issue with tuning control so that a PBS stations is chosen at the proper time. Why I was able to sort of receive guide data OTA and not cable, but can now receive over cable, is a mystery. Unless the data was positioned in the VBI where Comcast resyncing was stepping on it, and now has been relocated.

Originally posted by BasicCable
Frankie I don't have there cable box. Thats the reason I bought the hm94 over the 84 so I wouldn't need to rent a box anymore. Sadly I bought a Symbio on the word of a Toshiba tech and ordered it along with my TV. I contemplated the Symbio but at $400 and the fact that Comcast charges $10 a month for the DCT6412 (dual tuner) it would take me about 3 years and 4 months to justify the cost of the Symbio. Also, do you know if you can record two programs simultaneously with the Symbio? I thought someone on this forum mentioned you couldn't.

Originally posted by Hoops2U
I still have the box - in the playroom for the kids. Will try to remember to measure it tonight for you.

hoops2u, that would be great! thanks for your help!

Toshiba 52hmx84 using the Motorola 6412 converter


Hello everyone!

Need some advice!!!!!!!!!!!

Trying to find if someone is using the Toshiba 52hmx84 along with the Motorola 6412 HD converter through Cox Communication or any other cable provider.

I have run into some serious viewing issues with both the analog and digital signals. What I experience is a "fuzzy" effect around any object. I believe they call this artifacts, picture looks very blurry.

HD is very good but can sometimes make me wonder. As for analog, I have split the signal directly to the TV which made things much better but feel that this is a band-aid for a bigger problem. As for digital, there is no way around this that I see since the converter is needed.

I guess my question is, has this been more evident with Toshiba or is it strictly a converter issue which would occur on any set. Seriously thinking about returning set and trying another.

P.S. Cable company has ben out twice to check signals and replace box. Connection to TV is component, which trhe cables were supplied by the cable company.

Thanks,
TAZJT

Originally posted by TAZJT62
I have run into some serious viewing issues with both the analog and digital signals. What I experience is a "fuzzy" effect around any object. I believe they call this artifacts, picture looks very blurry.

HD is very good but can sometimes make me wonder. As for analog, I have split the signal directly to the TV which made things much better but feel that this is a band-aid for a bigger problem. As for digital, there is no way around this that I see since the converter is needed.

I guess my question is, has this been more evident with Toshiba or is it strictly a converter issue which would occur on any set. Seriously thinking about returning set and trying another.
Have you calibrated the component input with a DVD player and either Avia or DVE? This would give you a good starting point and you could adjust from there. Also, what is the STB set to display for HD (i.e.1080i or 720p). Only FOX, ESPN and ABC broadcast in 720p. The TV may do a better job of scaling or downconverting so you may want to experiment with this setting. Lastly, if they supplied the component cables you may want to try purchasing your own. I believe BB or CC carries AR brand cables that are only around $20-$40 or you can find them on-line. You don't have to spend a fortune on cables but there is a difference between cheap video cables. You can always return them if you don't notice a difference. The bottom line is HD should be clear and not how you describe it and I don't think it is because of the TV. Keep in mind that HD channels are not always in HD and SD programs artifacts are more pronounced on large fixed panel displays. You most likely do not want to "stretch" 4:3 programs so make sure the 4:3 Override is set to "off" or experiment with the other settings.

Originally posted by kdog044
Have you calibrated the component input with a DVD player and either Avia or DVE? This would give you a good starting point and you could adjust from there. Also, what is the STB set to display for HD (i.e.1080i or 720p). Only FOX, ESPN and ABC broadcast in 720p. The TV may do a better job of scaling or downconverting so you may want to experiment with this setting. Lastly, if they supplied the component cables you may want to try purchasing your own. I believe BB or CC carries AR brand cables that are only around $20-$40 or you can find them on-line. You don't have to spend a fortune on cables but there is a difference between cheap video cables. You can always return them if you don't notice a difference. The bottom line is HD should be clear and not how you describe it and I don't think it is because of the TV. Keep in mind that HD channels are not always in HD and SD programs artifacts are more pronounced on large fixed panel displays. You most likely do not want to "stretch" 4:3 programs so make sure the 4:3 Override is set to "off" or experiment with the other settings.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks, kdog044 for helping me out with this issue! I have not tried to calibrate the component input as of yet. I actually have a service tech coming out on Saturday to look over the TV since it is under warranty and only 2 weeks old. Should I ask him to do this or would this be something he would normally perform?

The STB is set to display 1080i and yes the cable compnay did supply the component cables. I might wait to see if the tech has a pair he could try. I do understand what your saying in regards to the "Keep in mind that HD channels are not always in HD and SD programs artifacts are more pronounced on large fixed panel displays." but it's so bad that it's irratating to watch sometimes. By the way I am approx. 11 feet from the screen is this too close in your opinion?

Also I've heard that the motorola 6412 converter is horrible in regards to the analog side of things? Have you heard anthing?

TV Guide

I had an email from Toshiba today saying " The TV guide issue has been resolved by the TV Guide company sending out a software download."
However. my TV Guide is still not working. Is anyone else's?

Originally posted by TAZJT62
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Also I've heard that the motorola 6412 converter is horrible in regards to the analog side of things? Have you heard anthing?
The 6412 DVR is notorious for its poor analog conversion. However, my SD and HD are very good. I have the cable split with one end going to the 6412 and on the other output I've installed a Motorola signal booster and have that hooked directly to the 52HMX84. Analog actually rivals SD this way, although I don't stretch 4:3 broadcasts.

Running the signal booster before the split helped the analog signal through the 6412, but it still wasn't near as clear and crisp as the way I described above. Also, I believe it interfered with my HD signal in some way as I noticed a lot more breakup on HD while the signal booster was running through the 6412. Your SD and HD should be excellent. If it's not, your cable provider is responsible for ensuring a clear signal.

Originally posted by TAZJT62
Also I've heard that the motorola 6412 converter is horrible in regards to the analog side of things? Have you heard anthing? I haven't heard that but I don't have it so I can't comment. You might have better luck asking in the HDTV Hardware or HDTV Local Info forums.

Originally posted by sharonf
TV Guide

I had an email from Toshiba today saying " The TV guide issue has been resolved by the TV Guide company sending out a software download."
However. my TV Guide is still not working. Is anyone else's?

No!!!!!!! At one time last week, all eight days had loaded and then mysteriously vanished. Could you post the e-mail address that you are complaining too? Is there anywhere in the menus to find the TVGOS software version that is in use by the set?

Originally posted by sharonf
TV Guide

I had an email from Toshiba today saying " The TV guide issue has been resolved by the TV Guide company sending out a software download."
However. my TV Guide is still not working. Is anyone else's?

Mine still has never worked. 62HMX94 connected to an outside antenna with excellent signal strengths.

You guys keep referring to the TV Guide feature getting the info it needs from PBS...where did you guys hear that PBS is the channel that transmits this info?

Seems strange that PBS would be the channel and not the TV Guide channel which I get through my local cable company. The reason I ask Is If your sure that there the channel I was thinking of connecting them to verify they are sending the signal or not.

I am thinking about purchasing the 62hm84. I've been reading alot about
ghosting problems etc.., is this problem mostly with a computer hooked up
to it, or generally pretty much everything that comes through. I will be
mostly using it to watch tv via dish network with hd receiver, and watching
dvd movies. any comments would be appreciated. Is there anyone that is
happy with this model???

Originally posted by BasicCable
You guys keep referring to the TV Guide feature getting the info it needs from PBS...where did you guys hear that PBS is the channel that transmits this info?

Seems strange that PBS would be the channel and not the TV Guide channel which I get through my local cable company. The reason I ask Is If your sure that there the channel I was thinking of connecting them to verify they are sending the signal or not.

Your cable company has nothing to do with the TVGOS data stream, other than rebroadcasting it on a channel they carry. In fact, they have the right to strip it out, if they so choose -- there's a landmark FCC case between Gemstar and I think Time Warner about this you can Google. I am not aware if TVGOS data is being broadcast in the VBI (vertical blanking interval) of the TV Guide channel. Maybe it is, but it's not included on my cable lineup. Check out this link which explains PBS:

http://www.pbsnationaldatacast.com/Analog_Network.htm

Don't forget that TVGOS is designed for an OTA input as well as cable. People using an antenna won't have access to the TV Guide channel. PBS is the closest thing to universal channel (and they could always use the extra money), which is why the VCR manufacturers implemented the auto clock set feature, which is also based on PBS VBI data. Local network affiliates may have cut deals with Gemstar to broadcast the data stream, but that varies by market.

Since eventually the analog NTSC broadcasting will go away, does anyone know if TVGOS as it exists in our HM94 TV's is capable of operating with channel-specific guide data which may be transmitted in ATSC PSIP?

The TV Guide section gets their information from PBS? Does that mean when PBS is going through their painful pledge drives, TV Guide gets FUBARd ?

:D

Yes, I still have the same TVGOS problem from day 1 - no data. I have never seen any data. This has now been 4 months. I have a 62HM94 with cable input (no cable box).

I believe that dtomlinson and sharonf have the same problem of never having seen any data.

I talked once again with Sharon (Toshiba CSR) earlier tonday. She was surprised that mine hadn't populated yet. Her test model populated at the beginning of this week.

dsr

Originally posted by 196thLIB
No!!!!!!! At one time last week, all eight days had loaded and then mysteriously vanished. Could you post the e-mail address that you are complaining too? Is there anywhere in the menus to find the TVGOS software version that is in use by the set?

My reply came from Scott at Toshiba Customer Support at this email address:
customer_support@tacp.com

I just checked my set again and still no data.

My questions Is are there any other TVGOS users In the ND\SD area that are using Midcontinent Communications for there cable provider? And If you do Is It working for you? I'm trying to figure out if there blocking the transmission or not.

Or Any TVGOS users that are using a antenna In North Dakota and receiving there data?

I've hooked up my indoor antenna but sadly I get terrible reception as I'm currently living In a trailer and since I'm renting It I can't get permission to put up a outdoor antenna.

have had my 62hm84 for about 6 weeks now. overall i am very happy with it. I dont notice any ghosting, using components or hdmi.
i do have one problem. I get vertical lines in the picture appearing. mostly when theres red in the screen. like if someone is wearing a red shirt, a thin line of red pixles, carries right up to the top of the picture. basically a red line vertically, but is hidden in the shirt. i have seen it in faces also. there has been as many a 4 lines on the tv at once. i have only noticed it with my directv hd box (toshiba dst-3100). i first saw it on the sd channels. and not on the hd. now it is opposite. the sd channels seem to be fine. while on most all hd channels i can see it. i have a tivo sd hooked up as well and i dont see it at all. nor on my dvds. I have no idea what it could be.
i did read a post on here about the lines on the screen , from a toshiba service bulliten. but wouldnt it be on all inputs not just my hd box. i really have no way of getting another hd box to see if its my box. also if i call toshiba to come look at the tv. they will just tell me its the box anyways.
and probably charge me a service call .'??????? will they charge me a service call if they say the tvs fine?

what should i do.
thx in advance
bryan

Originally posted by tom_baldridge
I am thinking about purchasing the 62hm84. I've been reading alot about
ghosting problems etc.., is this problem mostly with a computer hooked up
to it, or generally pretty much everything that comes through. I will be
mostly using it to watch tv via dish network with hd receiver, and watching
dvd movies. any comments would be appreciated. Is there anyone that is
happy with this model???

The TV is great. The Dishnetwork 811 is finally settling down after a year of nasty bugs. But if you hook it up via a DVI/HDMI cable, you may see ghosting. I see it bad on mine. So I switched to Component cabling and am thrilled with the picture quality.

Originally posted by TAZJT62
The STB is set to display 1080i and yes the cable compnay did supply the component cables. I just thought about something. With the STB set to 1080i if the signal is 1080i the STB leaves the signal intact and the TV will convert it to 720p. That's probably not a problem as the display has a decent scaler. However, if the signal is 720p then the STB will upconvert to 1080i and then the display will downconver it back to 720p. I wonder what this does to the PQ?

If, however, you set the STB to 720p, if the signal is 720p it leaves it alone (this is good) and the TV also leaves it intact. If the signal is 1080i then the STB will downconvert it to 720p (maybe not that good) and again the display will leave it intact.

With that being said, since the display's native resolution is 720p wouldn't it be better to set the STB accordingly or am I missing something? Any thoughts?

Originally posted by 196thLIB
No!!!!!!! At one time last week, all eight days had loaded and then mysteriously vanished. Could you post the e-mail address that you are complaining too? Is there anywhere in the menus to find the TVGOS software version that is in use by the set?

I made my weekly call to Toshiba again today. (All the emails I've ever sent have been given a generic "call customer service" type reply)
This time while on the phone the girl had me enter a code while in the TV Guide setup menu. This brought up another screen with the software version number and a lot of other info such as the VBI host channel (PBS channel). I didn't have time to write down the code and it was too long to remember but it didn't look like there was anything there you could change so I don't know how much use it would be to us other than when calling customer service.

Anyway, she said all the info looked correct. The VBI host channel was set to my correct PBS channel. She took the software version I read her off the menu for the technical department to look into and hopefully find the problem.

I had gone through the setup again a few days ago and yesterday had the channel list loaded and as of this morning when I called some program listings started to show up but now they are all blank again.



Jeff

Originally posted by kdog044
I just thought about something. With the STB set to 1080i if the signal is 1080i the STB leaves the signal intact and the TV will convert it to 720p. That's probably not a problem as the display has a decent scaler. However, if the signal is 720p then the STB will upconvert to 1080i and then the display will downconver it back to 720p. I wonder what this does to the PQ?

If, however, you set the STB to 720p, if the signal is 720p it leaves it alone (this is good) and the TV also leaves it intact. If the signal is 1080i then the STB will downconvert it to 720p (maybe not that good) and again the display will leave it intact.

With that being said, since the display's native resolution is 720p wouldn't it be better to set the STB accordingly or am I missing something? Any thoughts?

You're not missing something. I didn't understand this either (and still don't). I called Toshiba this morning and asked this question and they insisted the proper setting is 1080i, regardless of the fact that the TV's native resolution is 720p. The service tech didn't elaborate and I felt if I pressed for more info it would have gone nowhere, but that's what they told me.

Originally posted by --Sclaws
You're not missing something. I didn't understand this either (and still don't). I called Toshiba this morning and asked this question and they insisted the proper setting is 1080i, regardless of the fact that the TV's native resolution is 720p. The service tech didn't elaborate and I felt if I pressed for more info it would have gone nowhere, but that's what they told me. The only thing I can think of is that a majority of the channels are broadcast in 1080i so if you set the STB to 720p then it will have to downconvert most of the signals as opposed to the display which has a better scaler/deinterlacer. I've been checking out the other forums and several people have mentioned no difference in PQ at 720p or 1080i at least from the Motorola DCT6412. A few others leave it at 1080i unless they are watching ABC or ESPN sports and switch it to 720p. The best thing is for the STB to have a pass-through so the TV can convert if necessary but the Motorola boxes don't have this feature.

Originally posted by aircasper
hoops2u, that would be great! thanks for your help!

aircasper:

Hope it is not too late:

L - 57 1/4 in
W 22 in
H 36 in

Originally posted by kdog044
I just thought about something. With the STB set to 1080i if the signal is 1080i the STB leaves the signal intact and the TV will convert it to 720p. That's probably not a problem as the display has a decent scaler. However, if the signal is 720p then the STB will upconvert to 1080i and then the display will downconver it back to 720p. I wonder what this does to the PQ?

If, however, you set the STB to 720p, if the signal is 720p it leaves it alone (this is good) and the TV also leaves it intact. If the signal is 1080i then the STB will downconvert it to 720p (maybe not that good) and again the display will leave it intact.

With that being said, since the display's native resolution is 720p wouldn't it be better to set the STB accordingly or am I missing something? Any thoughts?

I have been wondering about this too. I have tried it both ways. Hard to see a difference but then again w/ all the channels/shows and each one being a little different how can you check it all out. I decided to leave it at 1080i except for when I watch sports on a 720p broadcast channel. Then I just go into setup and change it. Not such a burden as there are not that many 720p sports broadcasts - unfortunately! If anyone else has heard a better solution would love to hear it.

Anyone have this set with a Panasonic S97S DVD player?

If so, can you tell me if you notice purple/pink clouds of dust while watching DVD's, especially in scenes that use lots of smoke, fog, or dust.

Feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Originally posted by Hoops2U
aircasper:

Hope it is not too late:

L - 57 1/4 in
W 22 in
H 36 in

awesome! thanks so much for your help! if the tv arrives today at the local shipping depot, it looks like i should be able to pick it up with my friend's suv based on those dimensions! (tv would have to lay on it's back, but it would be a short trip). thanks again!

Originally posted by aircasper
awesome! thanks so much for your help! if the tv arrives today at the local shipping depot, it looks like i should be able to pick it up with my friend's suv based on those dimensions! (tv would have to lay on it's back, but it would be a short trip). thanks again!

Bet you cannot wait! Let me know how you like it. I am very happy w/ it. FYI, I tried hooking it up w/ a HDMI to DVI connection and saw no difference so I am just using my component cable. Plus there were issues w/ STB and TV synching up - have to turn them on/off in a certain way.

Originally posted by aircasper
awesome! thanks so much for your help! if the tv arrives today at the local shipping depot, it looks like i should be able to pick it up with my friend's suv based on those dimensions! (tv would have to lay on it's back, but it would be a short trip). thanks again!

Just be very careful with your set if you pick it up by yourself. My first set was damaged by the delivery men when they unboxed the set before bringing it into the house. There was both physical and internal damage. The store replaced my set but the whole thing was till a pain.

Originally posted by Hoops2U
Bet you cannot wait! Let me know how you like it. I am very happy w/ it. FYI, I tried hooking it up w/ a HDMI to DVI connection and saw no difference so I am just using my component cable. Plus there were issues w/ STB and TV synching up - have to turn them on/off in a certain way.

Hoops2U-
What STB to you use? I have an issue with my Dish Network 921 and DVI/HDMI where if the HDMI cable is connected when the TV turns on I'll get no video and the TV will go into some error mode, requiring a hard power-down and disconnect of the HDMI cable. If I connect the cable after all the hardware boots up, no issues...odd and annoying but not worth a tech call for me.

Just curious.

Originally posted by Hoops2U
Bet you cannot wait! Let me know how you like it. I am very happy w/ it. FYI, I tried hooking it up w/ a HDMI to DVI connection and saw no difference so I am just using my component cable. Plus there were issues w/ STB and TV synching up - have to turn them on/off in a certain way.

trust me, the wait has been painful. thanks for the tip about component v. hdmi. i was hoping to be able to use a hdmi to dvi connection to connect the cable stb with the tv, leaving the two component cable inputs for the xbox and dvd player. but if there's an issue with the stb and tv not synching up correctly, i may have to rethink this one. don't know why companies seem to have a hard time implementing hdmi/dvi properly on some of these tvs.

I've been reading most of the posts here on the tosh-dlp-hm forum and on the tosh -crt-h forum. I've narrowed my choices to the 46h84 for $1300 and the 46hm84 for $2200. Please help me make my decision! I would like to hear reasons for the purchase of each set. Thank you!

I saw this on another forum and thought I would post it here in case anyone was interested. It explains the Toshiba model numbers and what they mean.

The nomenclature can be confusing but hear are the basics:
Of course the first number is the size of the TV,
H for High Def, A for Analog.
If theres an M, its a DLP, P for Plasma, L for LCD, (its CRT by default)
X is for Cinema Series
8* indicated no integrated tuner
9* indicates integrated ATSC/QAM tuner
* indicates model year 200*

In some of the previous years, they had a D in that indicated DVI, but they've dropped that since all of the new HDTVs have DVI or HDMI.

Originally posted by alton britt
I've been reading most of the posts here on the tosh-dlp-hm forum and on the tosh -crt-h forum. I've narrowed my choices to the 46h84 for $1300 and the 46hm84 for $2200. Please help me make my decision! I would like to hear reasons for the purchase of each set. Thank you!

I considered the same two tv's recently. $900 difference is significant in my mind. To me that is the first item to consider but only you can decide that one.

I went w/ the 46hm84 for two main reasons:
1) No burn-in issues w/ dlp
2) 720p native res better for watching sports.

Good luck.

Originally posted by --Sclaws
Hoops2U-
What STB to you use? I have an issue with my Dish Network 921 and DVI/HDMI where if the HDMI cable is connected when the TV turns on I'll get no video and the TV will go into some error mode, requiring a hard power-down and disconnect of the HDMI cable. If I connect the cable after all the hardware boots up, no issues...odd and annoying but not worth a tech call for me.

Just curious.

Motorola 6412. From what I gather if you do the following it will synch up:

Always turn the TV on first, then the STB to ensure the proper handshake.
Opposite for turning it off.

Try getting my 3 yr old to remember that!

So you have to disconnect the cable and reconnect each time? To me that would be worth a tech call.

Originally posted by aircasper
trust me, the wait has been painful. thanks for the tip about component v. hdmi. i was hoping to be able to use a hdmi to dvi connection to connect the cable stb with the tv, leaving the two component cable inputs for the xbox and dvd player. but if there's an issue with the stb and tv not synching up correctly, i may have to rethink this one. don't know why companies seem to have a hard time implementing hdmi/dvi properly on some of these tvs.

Let me know how the XBox looks. I am thinking of getting one.

Originally posted by Hoops2U
Let me know how the XBox looks. I am thinking of getting one.

will do. firing up halo 2 will be one of the first things i do when i get this tv. fortunately, it looks like the trucking comany will be able to deliver the tv to my house tomorrow morning! can't wait! :D

TV Guide

Still not working for me either.
I get nothing. Not even a partial listing.

Originally posted by AkaStp
Have you applied the latest firmware update to your S97? It apparently addresses fom Pink issues.

I returned my first unit because of the problem. The next one they sent out to me already had the updated firmware and it only slightly helped if at all.

Do you notice any pink/purple clouds?

Originally posted by Boogie7910
I returned my first unit because of the problem. The next one they sent out to me already had the updated firmware and it only slightly helped if at all.

Do you notice any pink/purple clouds?

What movie/scenes? What settings/resolution etc?

On my 62hmx84 with S97 (720p) I never saw any other than in the DVE testpattern. And they did improve greatly after the Firmware upgrade.

Originally posted by Hoops2U
I have been wondering about this too. I have tried it both ways. Hard to see a difference but then again w/ all the channels/shows and each one being a little different how can you check it all out. I decided to leave it at 1080i except for when I watch sports on a 720p broadcast channel. Then I just go into setup and change it. Not such a burden as there are not that many 720p sports broadcasts - unfortunately! If anyone else has heard a better solution would love to hear it.



Ok, let me see if I have this correct? Set the converter to 1080i and also 480P? With the 6412 you have the option to do both.

Originally posted by Starc
What movie/scenes? What settings/resolution etc?

On my 62hmx84 with S97 (720p) I never saw any other than in the DVE testpattern. And they did improve greatly after the Firmware upgrade.

Movie/Scenes:
Tombstone -- all through the movie.
LOTR: RK EE -- especially at the credits and battle of Mordor in the sky and during the earth quake.
Braveheart

Those are to name a few.

I have tried all the resolutions and it's most apparent with 1080i and 720p. I still can see it with 480p.

The purple/pink clouds of dust occur most on HDMI connection, less with component, and a little with composite.

The picture is not steady and if I look at it right I can see a lot of picture noise in the background. Like if I look at a tea pot or something, it's just not a straight and clear picture, but is cloudy with lots of movement in the picture. It's hard to describe. I'm not sure if this instance is the same purple cloud issue as I don't notice the pink/purple color but it happens on the entire screen.

Purple and pink clouds? I'm having flashbacks of most of my highschool years!!!!!!!

Originally posted by Boogie7910
Movie/Scenes:
Tombstone -- all through the movie.
LOTR: RK EE -- especially at the credits and battle of Mordor in the sky and during the earth quake.
Braveheart


the closest I have is LOTR RK (not EE) and the credits look fine to me, even compared it to my 318, nothing purple or pink ...

On the HDMI settings on S97 side are you using:

ycbcr 4:4:4

HDMI RGB Range standard ?

I'll see if I can rent Tomstone or Braveheart this weekend to see if I can see pink :-) , but then I don't see rainbows ether.

Originally posted by cicc85
Also, can anyone offer up a best price for each model? Somewhere in this thread someone mentioned they paid $2400 for the 52HMX94 which from what I have seen is rock bottom.

I am surprised that people think the 52HMX94 is higher than the above listed quote. I paid $2200 for mine last week. It was a demo, but was replaced with a NIB unit 3 days later since the demo had defects. The price orginally quoted for a NIB unit was $2375.

A 5 year warranty covering the bulb was only $175 extra.

At that price, I had to jump on it.

Originally posted by Hoops2U
Motorola 6412. From what I gather if you do the following it will synch up:

Always turn the TV on first, then the STB to ensure the proper handshake.
Opposite for turning it off.

Try getting my 3 yr old to remember that!

So you have to disconnect the cable and reconnect each time? To me that would be worth a tech call. There's a simple solution to this problem. Leave the STB turned on.;)

Just purchased 62hm84 with stand will receive it in a couple days! Oh yeah
baby, goin hi def!

I have both a Toshiba 62HM94 and an LG LST3410A. They both use Gemstar "TV Guide". The LG does fine. The Toshiba is determined to set the "time" 1 hour and 3 minutes slow. (As if I live in a time zone west of Pittsburgh, but still 3 minutes behind that zone.)This messes up any use of the Toshiba Symbio recorder since it does not have the capability of adjusting time for recording by 63 minutes (It does allow 1 to 5 minutes and then jumps to 15 minute increments so 63 minutes is not an option). I am in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area. I have been in contact with Toshiba since last fall and still no resolution. They do not yet have either a service manual or parts available for this set. Due to this lack of support for my set, they have (just this week) replaced my set with a new 62HM94 but the problem is still there.
I don't know if it is a chipset problem with the Toshiba or a problem with the station(s) that are sending out the guide time and listings information that are used by Toshiba. I cannot get in touch with Gemstar to find out what station(s) are sending out their guide information. The LG works just fine (right time and listings) but the Toshiba gets the time incorrect by 63 minutes no matter if I change zip code, whole TV set, or try to put the time manually.
The LG seems to load listings during the midnight to 6 am timeframe but the Toshiba seems to do it a little later. It may be that they are looking at two different guide broadcasts and one of the broadcasts is just wrong, or the Toshiba is interpreting the broadcast incorrectly.
Anyone know anything?

Originally posted by Bill Shenefelt
I have both a Toshiba 62HM94 and an LG LST3410A. They both use Gemstar "TV Guide". The LG does fine. The Toshiba is determined to set the "time" 1 hour and 3 minutes slow. (As if I live in a time zone west of Pittsburgh, but still 3 minutes behind that zone.)This messes up any use of the Toshiba Symbio recorder since it does not have the capability of adjusting time for recording by 63 minutes (It does allow 1 to 5 minutes and then jumps to 15 minute increments so 63 minutes is not an option). I am in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area. I have been in contact with Toshiba since last fall and still no resolution. They do not yet have either a service manual or parts available for this set. Due to this lack of support for my set, they have (just this week) replaced my set with a new 62HM94 but the problem is still there.
I don't know if it is a chipset problem with the Toshiba or a problem with the station(s) that are sending out the guide time and listings information that are used by Toshiba. I cannot get in touch with Gemstar to find out what station(s) are sending out their guide information. The LG works just fine (right time and listings) but the Toshiba gets the time incorrect by 63 minutes no matter if I change zip code, whole TV set, or try to put the time manually.
The LG seems to load listings during the midnight to 6 am timeframe but the Toshiba seems to do it a little later. It may be that they are looking at two different guide broadcasts and one of the broadcasts is just wrong, or the Toshiba is interpreting the broadcast incorrectly.
Anyone know anything?

Im having my own problems with TVguide which has pretty much turned my Symbio into a $500 piece of wothless junk. I am really pissed off that Toshiba didnt get the TVguide ironed out before they released these products. maybe we should start a seperate thread on "Toshiba TVGuide problems"

Originally posted by tboo
Im having my own problems with TVguide which has pretty much turned my Symbio into a $500 piece of wothless junk. I am really pissed off that Toshiba didnt get the TVguide ironed out before they released these products. maybe we should start a seperate thread on "Toshiba TVGuide problems"

Starting a separate thread may be an excellent idea. From what I've been reading here it seems like Toshibs engineers did not put much work into implementing the TV Guide function on these sets. My 2 LG boxes occasionally have some issues with the guide, but nothing as serious as what you guys have been describing...and both boxes ALWAYS regain full listings eventually.

Thanks to everyone that has posted to "The Toshiba DLP (HM/HMX) Owners Thread".

I received a Toshiba 62HM84 about 8 weeks ago and feel that I have had it long enough to post a review.

The system is a 62HM84 connected to a North East Ohio Time Warner Cable supplied Scientific Atlanta 8000HD DVR cable box and a Toshiba SD-3960 progressive scan DVD player.

I have not attempted to use the HDMI input so I can't say whether the ghosting/ringing issue will be a problem for me. My only interest in the HDMI input is to allow HDCP protected material to be played when it becomes available.

The internal speakers are not used, so I cannot comment on audio quality issues.

Picture Quality:

DVD playback is pretty good, about what I expected for a low end DVD player and the fact that DVDs are only 480p to begin with. It sure would be nice if the big boys would quit fighting over HD DVD vs. Blue Ray and come out with a real standard.

Analog cable channels have poor to fair PQ depending the channel, some are much worse than others.

Digital cable channels are fair to good PQ, the SD up-conversion performed by the 62HM84 seems to do pretty well with a clean signal.

High definition channels (we have 15 in our cable package) are good to great depending on the whether the source material is truly HD quality or just some up converted SD material. The IMAX movies, some HBO HD movies, and NBA HD games are the some examples of high quality material. With excellent source material and careful contrast, brightness and color adjustments the screen almost looks like a window onto the scene. Almost. The remainder of the review will concentrate on picture quality problems.

Small Problem: Gray bars

The SD channel gray bars should, of course, be black. Another issue is that the width of the gray bar on the left is much different from the one on the right. This is such a minor complaint for me that I almost left it out - HD channels are the future, SD channels are the past. Death to SD. Note that the gray bar width (SD picture centering) is the HPOS setting in the service menu and now the SD picture is centered..

Small Problem: Geometry is distorted

The picture geometry is bowed on the sides. This is only noticeable on 4:3 material when the TV's gray bars (SD) or cable box's black bars (4:3 on an HD channel) are on the sides. The picture is about 1/3 inch wider at the bottom than at the top of the screen. I have also noticed very slight bowing along the top and bottom when movies are "letterboxed", of less than 1/4 inch. This is not a bad amount of geometry distortion given the fact the optical system is enlarging a 0.8 inch diagonal DMD to a 62 inch diagonal image. Note that these observations are only casual observations made in the course a watching something.

Small Problem: Phantom bright spot when screen is dark

If there is a light on in the room and the screen is dark (TV is off or during a dark scene) there is a bright spot on the screen, about 5 inches in diameter, just a little above center. This problem is reduced by keeping the room lights low. It may also help to move the room lights to the side of the room instead of at the back. This appears to be an effect of the screen and/or internal optical system collecting, focusing and reflecting ambient light so that it appears to be coming from one spot on the screen. I have observed a similar artifact on other rear projection TV systems.

Small Problem: Rainbows when moving eyes past bright to dark edges

The rainbows are always visible to me if the scene is dark with some bright objects. Vertical areas where light and dark areas intersect are the worst. Any quick side to side eye movement, even when just looking around the pictures causes the rainbow trails to be evident. The ability to see them varies from person to person. Of the 20 people that I have asked about this after they have finished watching a movie on the set, only 1 other person has easily seen them, 3 others saw them every once in a while. The farther away I sit from the screen the less obvious the effect becomes. My normal sitting distance is about 12-14 feet from the screen. I suspect that a smaller set would also make the effect less obvious. Personally This is not a big issue with me because it was expected (I have always had 'quick' eyes).

Medium Problem: Grainy pattern in white areas

Bright areas in a scene (snow, clouds, sun, etc.) have a graininess superimposed on them. This is not the same as what has been called graininess in low resolution source material. Instead it is more like an the grain pattern of black and white film or the interference pattern that can be seen in a laser beam that has been projected from some distance onto a smooth white surface. Its location never changes relative to the physical screen. It can be seen most easily when the scene moves (camera pans) because the grain pattern does not move. This has nothing to do with the pixels and actually appears to be sub-pixel in size and seems to be at different focus distance than the projected image. It is probably caused by something in the optical projection system or even the screen itself. It is quite annoying to me. Reducing the brightness helps a little, but not much. Note that the effect is most noticeable toward the center of the screen. Any ideas as to cause or fix would be welcome.

Big Problem:

Now for my main complaint with the 62HM84. A lot of potential detail is lost in dark and (to a lesser extent) light areas of a scene. This is most noticeable with black/dark gray or bright white items. A dimly lit scene may have large areas of black showing no detail at all. A black shirt in sunlight will show a similar problem. It is not as noticeable in dimly lit but colorful items, this may be because colored objects often change color along with brightness, providing more information about the object which helps to mask the problem. Turning the contrast down and the brightness up helps to bring out more detail in shadow areas but there is still a big problem with lack of detail in both dark and light areas. The SD-3960 does a fair job with blacker then black and has a control that allows the brightness to be increased which helps a bit, but this is not enough. It may be possible that a formal calibration would help. Does anyone know where to get instructions for performing a calibration (service mode R/G/BDRV, R/G/BCUT, etc.)?

Schematic Review:

I just receive the service manual from a company that was selling them on eBay (search for 62HM84 "service manual") and did a quick review of the schematic for the 46/51/62HM84 series.

Schematic Issue: HDMI converted to analog Cr/Cb/Y signal

I cannot find the actual HDMI connector and HDMI receiver chip on the schematic, so I must assume that it is on a separate board (possibly on the tuner assembly which is also not included in the schematic set). I have found the connector (sheet 3/52, connector PV14) that contains the signals from the HDMI receiver chip and there are only 5 signals - Cr, Cb, Y, HD, VD. These signals go to an analog video switching chip which is controlled by the "video input" menu. There is no doubt that the HDMI signal has been converted to analog Y/Cr/Cb. The ghosting/ringing issue with the xxHM84 series could be caused by a cable or circuit board trace impedance mismatch somewhere in the HDMI Cr/Cb/Y signal path (it could also be caused in other ways as well).

Note: For those interested in the xxHM94 series. I checked the schematic and the HDMI signals remain in digital form all the way to what appears to be the main video processing chip.

Schematic Issue: 8 bit per color A/D conversion

The output of the analog video switch chip is connected to a Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) that outputs only 8 bits per color for a total of 256 possible intensity levels per color. Because A/D converters are never perfect only 7 to 7 and 1/2 bits of resolution will be available giving 21 to 22.5 bits total or between 2.1 to 6 million possible colors. The problem with this becomes obvious when you consider a for gray image. All colors in a gray image are the same level so the possible number of gray tones is only 128 to 181. This may be OK for a display with a low contrast ratio, but not adequate for a high contrast display. The Toshiba TALEN specifications claimed a 9 bit system, but this may just be the light engine specification. A true 9 bit system would not have any signal paths of less than 9 bits per color and any analog to digital or digital to analog converters should be at least 10 bit.

After the A/D conversion the signal goes to the Genesis (deinterlacer?) chip and all remaining video signal processing appears to be performed in the digital domain. Note that the Genesis chip inputs only appear to support 8 bits per color.

Summary:

I have not discussed any problems that are caused by the cable box, DVD player or the source material. These problems include image compression artifacts such as pixelization, color blocking (clay face), blurring during slow camera panning, etc.

For the most part I am pleased with the 62HM84 and am looking forward to the day when most channels are HD and all new DVDs are released in HD on a standard format media.

I probably should have stuck with my original plan to get a small CRT RP HDTV (46H84) and upgrade to DLP after the 1920x1080 DMDs became available (I saw the first announcement last week), but life is short and I never liked the picture on the CRT RP units anyway.

And now for the confession. The TV that the 62HM84 replaced was a 25 inch 1973 GE modular chassis that had just blown the red gun on its second CRT. I kept the thing working for many years, but I certainly don't miss it now! I do miss seeing the reaction of people that came to visit for the first time, especially hearing children say to their parents - "Look! Their TV has knobs!". Now visitors have a different reaction to the TV.

Originally posted by Starc
the closest I have is LOTR RK (not EE) and the credits look fine to me, even compared it to my 318, nothing purple or pink ...

On the HDMI settings on S97 side are you using:

ycbcr 4:4:4

HDMI RGB Range standard ?

I'll see if I can rent Tomstone or Braveheart this weekend to see if I can see pink :-) , but then I don't see rainbows ether.

You don't have to bother renting them. I'm obviously the only person with this problem.

I have tried everything I could think of. The one thing that does effect it, is when I use the color button on the DVD players remote. Every time I slide the color + or - then I will get a shift in the pattern of the pink clouds. -1 or -2 on the remote is the most tolerable option.

It's weird though because when I mess with the color on my TV it doesn't change a thing to the pattern.

Can you tell me what all this means?

waited18years,

Thanks for taking the time to post such a detailed review.:cool: I do think you can get better results by upgrading your DVD player at least as far as that goes. One suggestion, if you haven't already done so is to split your cable feed, one to the STB and one directly to the display for SD programs. STB's have notoriously poor analog tuners and it should improve your PQ at least for SD programming. I don't know if the 84 and 94 series is the same but the service manual for the HMX94 was posted in this thread. Here is the link.

http://www.angelfire.com/md/jeffrichards/Toshiba/52_62HMX94SVM.pdf

At least you can see if the menu options are the same (RCUT,BCUT, etc). Good luck and if you decide to tweak the set use caution.;)

in general, this 62HM84 is a great TV!!! very happy of its PQ, stunning!
but ghosting is a drawback. especially in bright scene. component input.
anyone has solution?
http://funimg.pchome.com.tw/img_upload/PRODUCT/l/i/20050213_lienly_143902.jpg

Originally posted by tom_baldridge
I am thinking about purchasing the 62hm84. I've been reading alot about
ghosting problems etc.., is this problem mostly with a computer hooked up
to it, or generally pretty much everything that comes through. I will be
mostly using it to watch tv via dish network with hd receiver, and watching
dvd movies. any comments would be appreciated. Is there anyone that is
happy with this model???

no matter what $ is, you guys always get best deal.
FYR, I paid $4500 for 62HM84 here! :(
high TW import taxes and high importer margin. :mad:

Originally posted by sharonf
An example from TVAuthority:
The HM94 is $3800 andthe HM84 is $3099.
At OneCall the HM84 is $3000 and the HM 94 is $3899.

Hey guys please help me out here.... I bought a 52HM84 awhile ago and have been using a cheap panasonic dvd/vcr combo to hold me over, but i know have been relentlessly researching an upscaling player that will hold me over until HD/BlueRay DVD. I was set to probably get the panny s97 to throw over the HDMI, but after reading about 1/3 of the 80+ pages here, I'm getting the jist it might just be better to upscale via component....Everytime i think i've figured this out another problem crops up (TV converts HDMI to analog, etc). I would like to just get a iscan HD+ and call it a day, but at 1,500 and a new model lurking that sounds alot more functional, i just cant do that, so a lower cost player sounds about right...any info from you guys? What player looks good on this TV? With what connections?

my current ideas:
1) Panny S97
2) Toshiba v592 dvd/vcr combo
3) Sony 975
4) Denon 2910

---Thanks guys & gals

Originally posted by Boogie7910
You don't have to bother renting them. I'm obviously the only person with this problem.

I have tried everything I could think of. The one thing that does effect it, is when I use the color button on the DVD players remote. Every time I slide the color + or - then I will get a shift in the pattern of the pink clouds. -1 or -2 on the remote is the most tolerable option.

It's weird though because when I mess with the color on my TV it doesn't change a thing to the pattern.

Can you tell me what all this means?

No idea, you should probably ask Paul or the other experts on the S97 thread.
I ended up watching the first 50mins of Braveheart and no clouds or color issues (maybe your TV settings are way different from mine? Low Power lamp/Medium Color Temp and DVE self calibrated Contrast etc.).

Originally posted by peckXP
What player looks good on this TV? With what connections?

my current ideas:
1) Panny S97
2) Toshiba v592 dvd/vcr combo
3) Sony 975
4) Denon 2910

---Thanks guys & gals I think any of those choices would be fine. Obviously there wouldn't be any MB issues with the Sony and it appears as they have a fix for the tray-locking problem. There is the issue with SD colorspace that could result in green depression but I've seen response from another user on this forum that he hasn't noticed it with his TV but he hadn't really compared it with the component input (you might want to PM varkus who has this combo). The other three all use the Faroudja FL2310 so the potential of MB is there. Supposedly the Panasonic's new firmware corrects some of that. Your best option is to find a retailer with a good return policy and check out as many as possible. I know Denon has a good reputation but I haven't seen any compelling evidence to justify the cost difference between the 2910 and the Panasonic, unless having SACD in addition to DVD-A is important to you.

If you're talking about using the display as opposed to the player to upscale you may want to check out the Sony 775 for a low cost progressive player. It has been getting good reviews but hasn't been tested at Secret's yet.

You don't mention audio but that could narrow it down. The Panny only plays DVD-A, the Sony SACD, and the Denon both. The Toshiba does not play either.

P.S. The Panasonic is hard to come by now. Supposedly their new S77 is going to replace it but it isn't expected until the end of April. I think One-call had some in last week but they went pretty fast.

Originally posted by tboo
Yes the reset button is on the side of the TV-it just resets the TV when it locks up but you wont lose your settings. A system setting reset can be done in the installation menu-this resets everything including TVguide

I don't think that this is accurate. I had to reset my 62HMX94 recently because the TV would not respond to the remote and the TV behaved as if there was no cable signal. All TV Guide data was lost. Can you provide more detail about how to reset the TV without losing TV Guide data ?

I am finally going to receive my 62HMX94 on Wednesday............my wife will be there to receive the beauty............wait a minute I feel a tickle in my throat........I think by Wednesday it will be a full scale cold. I'm sorry boss I can't come in......I'm feelin a little under the weather today.

I believe that is how it is going to play out. I can't wait until Wednesday

Newbie needs help.

I just got my Toshiba 62HM84. Called local cable company up (TWC) and had them bring out box for digital cable that should handle HD as well. Problem is I am not seeing any difference from HD to non HD.

Could it be the box the cable company gave me?

Could it be how it is hooked up (type of connection)?

Are there settings I need to change on the T.V. itself?

Anything else?

Thanks in advance

Just got my 46hm84 over the weekend. Haven't had much time to play around with it, but so far it seems to be working well. Comcast came out over the weekend to hook up the cable tv service, but I'm having them come out again on Wednesday to check the signal strength because the analog/SD channels are pretty bad. I wonder if I need a signal booster. I still have my directv tivo service connected and the channels look better coming from the satellite (which are all digital of course).

Does anyone know if there is a way to have the tv display the type of signal that is being transmitted to the tv (e.g., 480p, 720p, 1080i)?

Medan, you need to connect the cable box to the tv using either the component video or hdmi inputs on the toshiba. those are the only inputs on the toshiba that will accept a 480p or higher signal.

Originally posted by Medan
Newbie needs help.

I just got my Toshiba 62HM84. Called local cable company up (TWC) and had them bring out box for digital cable that should handle HD as well. Problem is I am not seeing any difference from HD to non HD.

Could it be the box the cable company gave me?

What kind of box did the cable company bring you? There should be a model number on the back. You need a HD box to receive HD programing.

Could it be how it is hooked up (type of connection)?

How do you have it hooked up?

Are there settings I need to change on the T.V. itself?

You will need to calibrate your set to your liking but the HD on my Toshiba 62HM94 looked great right out of the box. You should definitely see if difference between HD and SD.

Anything else?

Thanks in advance

[QUOTE]Originally posted by aircasper
[B]Just got my 46hm84 over the weekend. Haven't had much time to play around with it, but so far it seems to be working well. Comcast came out over the weekend to hook up the cable tv service, but I'm having them come out again on Wednesday to check the signal strength because the analog/SD channels are pretty bad. I wonder if I need a signal booster. I still have my directv tivo service connected and the channels look better coming from the satellite (which are all digital of course).

I have my cable split with one cable going to the cable box and one cable going directly to the TV. I also have a Motorola Signal Booster which I have the cable from the wall connected to. It should go before the splitter. The Sd channels come in very clear with the direct connection. The DVD cable box seems to degrade the signal somewhat. When I want to watch SD channels I just change the input on the TV to that connection.

thanks sharonf, i may have to try out a signal booster depending on what comes out of comcast's service visit on wednesday.

Well, I ended up "buying" the 52HMX84 and stand for $2850 today (not including tax). I had to put 10% down today since it was the last day of the promotional sale. I have 6 days to decide if I want it. If I decide I don't want it, they will give me my money back.

I had a hard time deciding between the Toshiba and the Mits. I decided to go with the Toshiba because of previous experience with them. I had a Toshiba TW40X81 for close to 4 years and never had a problem with the set. I hope I am as lucky with the new DLP projector :)

Now I'm going back to page 20 of this thread. Not sure how long it will take me to get to page 84 :)

here has no Mits to compare. but Tosh quality is quite good! previous CRT last about 9 yr.

paid $4500 for 62HM84. :( really expensive.
PQ is stunning.
2 problems: ghosting and gray bars on 4:3/POP cable.

it took me about 6 days to go thru whole threads, really long! :eek:
someone can pls explain following words, can't get it. tks.

LOL.
SOL.
OOTB.
YMMV.


Originally posted by 3NF
Well, I ended up "buying" the 52HMX84 and stand for $2850 today (not including tax). I had to put 10% down today since it was the last day of the promotional sale. I have 6 days to decide if I want it. If I decide I don't want it, they will give me my money back.

I had a hard time deciding between the Toshiba and the Mits. I decided to go with the Toshiba because of previous experience with them. I had a Toshiba TW40X81 for close to 4 years and never had a problem with the set. I hope I am as lucky with the new DLP projector :)

Now I'm going back to page 20 of this thread. Not sure how long it will take me to get to page 84 :)

Originally posted by bob62
I don't think that this is accurate. I had to reset my 62HMX94 recently because the TV would not respond to the remote and the TV behaved as if there was no cable signal. All TV Guide data was lost. Can you provide more detail about how to reset the TV without losing TV Guide data ?

The little tiny hole on the side of the TV where the memory card slots are is the reset button. If i push that button(like when my tvguide locks up)-then the tv will reset but I never lose any of my settings. When you go into the installation menu & do the system reset(go to the system info option, scroll though to you get the system reset menu, hit 0000 & then when the tv shuts off unplug the set for a few seconds & then plug it back in)-this resets everything to the factory defaults.

Originally posted by lienly
here has no Mits to compare. but Tosh quality is quite good! previous CRT last about 9 yr.

someone can pls explain following words, can't get it. tks.

LOL.
SOL.
OOTB.
YMMV.

Acronyms (http://www.netlingo.com/emailsh.cfm)

Can someone tell me the next best DVD player for this TV after the S97S in the $300 range?

im also interested in what upscalling players you guys are using?
thinking about the
panny s97
sammy 841
lg 418
zenith 318
sony 975
tosh v592 vcr combo

if anyone is using any of these players please comment....
i play alot of dvd-r would an upconverting player be worth it (loss of quality on a slightly compressed dvd-r).

also is a hdmi player going to be better than a dvi player?
thx
bryan

I no longer have the Toshiba but during the 3 months I had one I used an HTPC and set it up over component at 1080i using an ATI All In Wonder card and I could watch a movie like Second Hand Lions which is fairly grainy and about 80-90 of the graininess was wiped out. I don't think you'll get nearly as good of a picture with the current upscaling players out there FYI.

lienly, I can't believe you paid $4500 for it. I guess that's because of your country. It can probably be had in the US for around $2800. Anyway, I had the exact same issue with ghosting that you had and couldn't get it fixed. I think a lot more people have this issue and don't realize it. If you try a test with more mid colors like blue it will be more noticable than white on black. I had ghosting over component but it was really bad using the HDMI port. They tried replacing the HDMI module and even replacing the TV but I still had the same issue. I know it wasn't a cabling issue as I replaced it with the Mitsubishi DLP and no ghosting at all. While I do like the Mitubishi better and glad my set was replaced, I will say that the Toshiba was a good set (especially for the money) and has the best blacks and is probably the brightest of all the DLPs out there now.

Quick questions on signal boosters. I already have an amplifier at the
cable drop entering the house before the splits to different locations. What are the issues around adding a Motorola Signal Booster on the specific drop to my 62HMX84? Will this result in too strong of a signal?

folks.
also found 1 issue when enter 'service mode'.
the BLOCK shows MAIN SUB which means NG.
normal condition should be GREEN
but don't get what it means?
anyone knows what's wrong and how to repair it? tks.
below is the photo.
http://funimg.pchome.com.tw/img_upload/PRODUCT/l/i/20050215_lienly_212723.jpg

BTW, tks Starc again for those abbr words. now can get know more of what Americans say.

Motorola cable box, did not see a model #

TV is connected to box via A/V cables Y,Pb,Pr,L,R

How do I check the TV to see if it is set to HD?

Thanks for the help so far!

Well, after my 5-year old 32" Toshiba set decided to stop displaying red, my girlfriend and I decided to go shop for a new tv.

We ended up choosing the 52HM84 set. It's coming in next Tuesday.

I really can't wait!

I don't have the high-quality equipment some of you have. I'll be hooking an XBOX console with component cables and a Scientific Atlanta (Videotron, in Montreal. Quebec) HD cable tuner, also with component cables.

I was just wondering if the standard cable quality picture is decent enough? I'll be watching a lot more of that than anything else, so it's always good to know before hand if there's some tweaking to do.

Also, about the 4:3 / 16:9 matching... are the options for stretching or zooming any good or do they deform the picture badly like some sets do?

oh, and you guys are freaks! 84 pages!? how am I supposed to read all of that!

:D

Originally posted by lpellerin
Well, after my 5-year old 32" Toshiba set decided to stop displaying red, my girlfriend and I decided to go shop for a new tv.

....I was just wondering if the standard cable quality picture is decent enough? I'll be watching a lot more of that than anything else, so it's always good to know before hand if there's some tweaking to do.

Also, about the 4:3 / 16:9 matching... are the options for stretching or zooming any good or do they deform the picture badly like some sets do?


:D

You own a great set, but Good Luck! Standard cable is NOT the best way to go. Unless cable is perfect (yeah, right!) , you'll see every flaw in the picture with this amazing TV. This will make you CRAZY. Also, you will need to stretch the 4 x 3 image to fill the 16 x 9 screen, which will further magnify analog cable flaws. You can choose not to stretch the screen, but then you will be forced to live with the infamous "Gray Sidebars"., which can also drive you crazy.

I urge you to go digital, either via cable, OTA (in Canada???) or Dish. and get your hands on some HD program source.

Of course, this is IMHO.

Originally posted by davehg
I am surprised that people think the 52HMX94 is higher than the above listed quote. I paid $2200 for mine last week. It was a demo, but was replaced with a NIB unit 3 days later since the demo had defects. The price orginally quoted for a NIB unit was $2375.

A 5 year warranty covering the bulb was only $175 extra.

At that price, I had to jump on it.

Davehg,
From what I was politely told, I guess this forum wasn't meant to discuss pricing. However, I wonder if I could ask if you bought the HMX94 online or brick and mortar? From your post I would gather it was bought from a store. I've decided on the 52HMX94 and am now weighing the options as to the point of purchase.

xb1032: Can you recommend a movie, xbox game or other screen where I can quickly and definitely determine if I have ghosting? I always thought there was a bit of ghosting on my set, but when I show people, they just tell me that is "noise" magnified by the fact that the screen (a 62") is so large and that it is inherent on all sets. I just want an example of something to say "look, there it is, GHOSTING".

Originally posted by moman19
You own a great set, but Good Luck! Standard cable is NOT the best way to go. Unless cable is perfect (yeah, right!) , you'll see every flaw in the picture with this amazing TV. This will make you CRAZY. Also, you will need to stretch the 4 x 3 image to fill the 16 x 9 screen, which will further magnify analog cable flaws. You can choose not to stretch the screen, but then you will be forced to live with the infamous "Gray Sidebars"., which can also drive you crazy.

I urge you to go digital, either via cable, OTA (in Canada???) or Dish. and get your hands on some HD program source.

Of course, this is IMHO.


Oops, my bad, when I meant "standard cable", I actually meant "digital cable", but not HDTV. I have a htdv-ready digital cable box, but I was wondering if digital cable picture quality is any good. There aren't many HDTV channels available here, and almost all of them are in english. It's not really a problem for me, but my girlfriend doesn't really understand english (we're both french-speaking frogs). She will want to watch her own french tv shows which are not broadcasted in HDTV, and probably won't be for quite a while. I just hope digital cable quality will not make her regret our new set.

I also doubt we can catch over-the-air hdtv programming here... we're always a (big?) step behind...

I didn't read the whole thread... any info about xbox picture quality/needed tweaks? I have the high-def pack with component cables...

Originally posted by Medan
Motorola cable box, did not see a model #

TV is connected to box via A/V cables Y,Pb,Pr,L,R

How do I check the TV to see if it is set to HD?

Thanks for the help so far!

Does it say HDTV capable on the front of the box? If not you should call your cable company to see just what you have.

Also, try this: With your TV on but the cable box off, press menu on the cable box remote or on the front of the box. You may have to press it a few times until it stays on the screen Make sure that the TV Type is set to 16:9. Also see what the DVI/YPbPr output is set to....it should be either 1080i or 720p. I have mine set to 1080i but others use 720p. You will have to experiment to see which looks best to you. If these options don't show up in your user menu you probably don't have the HD box.

lpellerin,

You have a PM.

Paul.

Originally posted by lpellerin
Oops, my bad, when I meant "standard cable", I actually meant "digital cable", but not HDTV. I have a htdv-ready digital cable box, but I was wondering if digital cable picture quality is any good. There aren't many HDTV channels available here, and almost all of them are in english. It's not really a problem for me, but my girlfriend doesn't really understand english (we're both french-speaking frogs). She will want to watch her own french tv shows which are not broadcasted in HDTV, and probably won't be for quite a while. I just hope digital cable quality will not make her regret our new set...........



I own a 52HMX84 and live in Toronto. The Standard Digital (SD) that I am getting from Bell Express VU is very good to excellent. It is all depending on which channel you are watching and how strong of a signal that you are getting.
The signal on my Satellite is between 93% to 95% and this is a good damn signal.

And about your girl friend not able to understands English, you can always translate for her.............and if you are watching DVD.........then turn on the French Subtitle from the DVD.......:D
Good Luck & Enjoy your new TV.....:p

Originally posted by pbir
lpellerin,

You have a PM.

Paul.

What do you mean?

** Edit: nevermind... me dumb...

does anyone know whether there is a way to adjust the picture size when displaying a 720p signal? i noticed on my 46hm84 that a 4:3 aspect ratio broadcast on hdtv will result in black side bars, and there doesn't appear to be a way to stretch the image to fill the entire screen (the picture button becomes inoperative on hdtv) or to zoom in. sometimes there will be a widescreen image within the 4:3 aspect ratio broadcast, meaning i have black bars all around (although that's more unusual).

also, is there any way to have the tv display the type of signal that's being input into the tv (e.g., 480p, 720p, 1080i)?

thanks for your help.

Originally posted by aircasper
does anyone know whether there is a way to adjust the picture size when displaying a 720p signal? i noticed on my 46hm84 that a 4:3 aspect ratio broadcast on hdtv will result in black side bars, and there doesn't appear to be a way to stretch the image to fill the entire screen (the picture button becomes inoperative on hdtv) or to zoom in. sometimes there will be a widescreen image within the 4:3 aspect ratio broadcast, meaning i have black bars all around (although that's more unusual).

also, is there any way to have the tv display the type of signal that's being input into the tv (e.g., 480p, 720p, 1080i)?

thanks for your help.

The TV will not allow any changes to the aspect ratio when the signal is 720p; aspect ratio adjustment is only possible with 480i, 480p, and 1080i signals on the Toshibas. Sets without built-in tuners don't have the capability of displaying which resolution is being received.

thanks Rudy1 for the info! do you have any thoughts about whether it's better to run a 720p or 1080i signal to the toshiba? i noticed the manual seems to say that the 1080i is the highest quality signal to input into the toshiba, but i'm wondering if that's really true. i thought normally you want an input signal that matches the native resolution of the tv. confused. :confused:

Originally posted by aircasper
thanks Rudy1 for the info! do you have any thoughts about whether it's better to run a 720p or 1080i signal to the toshiba? i noticed the manual seems to say that the 1080i is the highest quality signal to input into the toshiba, but i'm wondering if that's really true. i thought normally you want an input signal that matches the native resolution of the tv. confused. :confused:

Well what I thought is it's best to use 1080i because it's the highest signal and your TV will then downscale it to 720p.

Personally I don't notice a difference.

As of yet, I have not had any TV Guide data at all. It has been two months :).
I have Comcast, and a 52hmx92 model. Cablecard is installed.

My questions is:

Has anyone with Comcast received TV Guide in NY/NJ area?
Has anyone received TV Guide with a Cablecard installed?
Has anyone received TV Guide on Ant. 2

This problem is really annoying. I wish I could get it because the picture with cablecard is superior.

Thanks,

Dan

Originally posted by aircasper
thanks Rudy1 for the info! do you have any thoughts about whether it's better to run a 720p or 1080i signal to the toshiba? i noticed the manual seems to say that the 1080i is the highest quality signal to input into the toshiba, but i'm wondering if that's really true. i thought normally you want an input signal that matches the native resolution of the tv. confused. :confused:

I used both DVI/HDMI and component video cables to test the picture quality with my Comcast DVR, my LG DVR, and my upscaling DVD players. I spent several hours on this over a weekend, and decided to use 720p only from the LG LST3410A....the images were somewhat sharper at this resolution from that source....in particular text and most noticeably the onscreen displays. However, I found the same NOT to be true for either of the two DVD players I tested the TV with, nor with the Comcast DCT6412. In those 3 instances, setting the devices to output 1080i produced a slightly sharper image, but you have to look really close to be able to tell the difference.

By the way, in case you're interested, the two DVD playes I'm using are the Zenith DVB318, and the Oppo. The Zenith truly rocks via component video at 1080i, but because of the serious Y/C delay issues with the Oppo I'm running it at 480p via DVI/HDMI. In both cases the images are clean, sharp and almost HD in quality.

Has anyone received TV Guide with a Cablecard installed?

I have a cablecard & receive TVguide on my 52hmx94

i had a tech come out and look at my hm84 and i mentioned the ghosting over hdmi and he said he would tlak to the tech at toshiba, he called them and they said they have heard of no such thing. has anyone here filed a complaint with toshiba about the ghosting issue?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=510125

can anyone tell me the box size for the 62hm84. Going to pick it up soon
and i want to know what size vehicle (truck) I will need.

thanks!

From the 62HM84 detailed specs at the toshiba web site:

Weights and Dimensions
Weight: 105 lbs.
Dimensions: 67 1/16" x 40 15/16" x 18 3/16" (WxHxD)
Weight With Packaging: 131 lbs.
Dimensions With Packaging: 71 13/16" x 46 1/4" x 23 11/16" (WxHxD)

I don't recommend laying it down on the front or back.

Has anyone played DVDs using a regular xbox (no media center or whatever) with component video cables?

I also own an old toshiba dvd player but it doesn't do progressive scan output, so I feel it ends up being pretty much the same as my xbox.

So I'm curious about the picture quality of non-progressive dvd movie playback on the 52hm84.

thanks

I have a 62HM84 connected to a Toshiba SD-3960 DVD player with selectable progressive scan output and I could not see a difference between progressive and interlaced mode. I only played with it once during "The Return of the King" so it was only a casual test and a better DVD player may show other results. The xxHM84 does seems to have a good deinterlacer chip (Genesis).

Originally posted by lpellerin
Has anyone played DVDs using a regular xbox (no media center or So I'm curious about the picture quality of non-progressive dvd movie playback on the 52hm84.

thanks You may want to read the following link.

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_7_4/dvd-benchmark-part-5-progressive-10-2000.html

Sharonf,

Thanks..will try that tonight when I get home. I have the cable company coming back out on Thursday since I am now not getting any channels above 100.

Originally posted by lpellerin
Has anyone played DVDs using a regular xbox (no media center or whatever) with component video cables?

So I'm curious about the picture quality of non-progressive dvd movie playback on the 52hm84.

thanks

I currently use my Xbox through component cable as a DVD/divx player for my 62HM94. The default XBox DVD player is non-progressive, but still looks very good, IMO.

My xbox is modded, and I can also play DVDs with the dongle-free dvd player, or XBMC (XBox Media Center). The DVD/divx player in XBMC is progressive, and the picture looks great, though in my experience XBMC doesn't work at all DVDs. This could just be my setup..

I thought about getting an upconversion DVD player, but in my case I'm sticking with XBox until I see what comes out with the HD-DVD players

I have the LG dvb 418 upconverting DVD player and I love it, just got SHarks Tale for my BOY and It Look Unreal!!!

I am using 1080i upconvert and it looks very close to what I see on HBOHD!!

Very Impressed with this Player!!


No issues SO far, Knock On WOOD!

Originally posted by lpellerin
Well, after my 5-year old 32" Toshiba set decided to stop displaying red, my girlfriend and I decided to go shop for a new tv.

We ended up choosing the 52HM84 set. It's coming in next Tuesday.

I really can't wait!

I don't have the high-quality equipment some of you have. I'll be hooking an XBOX console with component cables and a Scientific Atlanta (Videotron, in Montreal. Quebec) HD cable tuner, also with component cables.

I was just wondering if the standard cable quality picture is decent enough? I'll be watching a lot more of that than anything else, so it's always good to know before hand if there's some tweaking to do.

Also, about the 4:3 / 16:9 matching... are the options for stretching or zooming any good or do they deform the picture badly like some sets do?

oh, and you guys are freaks! 84 pages!? how am I supposed to read all of that!

:D

Wow, more HAB lovers on this board. Go leafs,..not this year.
llperin, I heard horror stories about SD before I got my TV. And while there are a couple channels that hurt my eyes, most are the same as my 32" CRT -- no better or worse, as long as I keep it in 4:3 display. digital SD is slightly superior to my CRT -- again as long as its in 4:3. There are a few big-budget stations that have pretty good SD digital even in widescreen: TSN etc..CBC's not bad (not that I ever watch the Communist Broadcast Corp), so I imagine french CBC is good too.
HD, however is out of this world. I was actually suprised how many HD broadcasts there are on prime-time, which really, is the only time I get to watch TV. The show "24" is in HD, and that's enough for me..and NFL football, of course, but I have to wait another 7 months for that to come around again.
I think that SD will be fine for you in the short term--but if you're going to spend this kind of $ on a TV, it really makes sense to go a step further and get HD.

someone needs to post calibration settings. i heard to start in the movie pic setting and enter cause it turns off EE? anyone confirm that?

just thought we'd get more pics up. this tv is beautiful

someone needs to post up shark tale running ffdshow off their htpc, i'd like to see pics of that

folks, welcome to take a look of the PQ of my 62HM84.
factory default, medium color temp.

photos of TV (http://photo.pchome.com.tw/photos1.html?nickname=lienly&s=s04&books_id=17&page=1)

quite satisfy except ghosting and gray bars.

I tried looking at the photos but my browser sees them in a script(not photo) format and does not open anything.

Originally posted by kdog044
waited18years,

One suggestion, if you haven't already done so is to split your cable feed, one to the STB and one directly to the display for SD programs. STB's have notoriously poor analog tuners and it should improve your PQ at least for SD programming. I don't know if the 84 and 94 series is the same but the service manual for the HMX94 was posted in this thread. Here is the link.



Kdog, I'm confused. Is it possible to split the cable and have one wire go directly to the HM84? I thought a tuner was required and in this case the STB. In order to do so, would you have to have a 94 series Tosh?

The split idea would work with our cable company feed. The analog channels are unencoded and don't need a cable box. The upstairs TV is connected that way. I have not checked the PQ on the 62HM84 using the direct feed for the analog channels (mostly because I don't watch them anymore ;-).

Originally posted by bmw_68
I have the LG dvb 418 upconverting DVD player and I love it, just got SHarks Tale for my BOY and It Look Unreal!!!

I am using 1080i upconvert and it looks very close to what I see on HBOHD!!

Very Impressed with this Player!!


No issues SO far, Knock On WOOD!

Man, glad you've had no problems. Have you tried the 720p setting with other movies, does it look any better?

Where did you buy it?

I wrote LG about the player and it's issues and they say everything's corrected and whoever has one with issues can just fix them with the firmware update.

Anyone tried the firmware fix?

Julio.

I have bounce between 720p and 1080i and over all I think the 1080i looks best. I have tired Chronicals of RIddick, SW AOTC, Monsters Inc, Nemo, Shrek 1 and 2, and Sharks Tale (can you tell I have a kid). Sharks Tale and Riddick look Unreal, think it might be that they are some of the newest releases. Not sure about Firmware update, not sure where I can get that if anyone can clue me into that I be Very Grateful!
I personal think that having it hdmi with a very good HDMI cable go direct to a TV like the 52HM84 may make the diffrence, all the issue I have seen on various thread with the lg dvb418 were peeps doing a dvi to hdmi cable thing , just my thoughts.




52hm84
Yamaha receiver
JBL sub
JBL speakers
dvd lg dvb 418
SA hd8300 hdDVR from BHN
xbox

Hmmmm...bmw_68, what about the other features like image cds, Divx material, and memory cards?

Regarding firmware, I thought it was available a the site, but apparently not. I'm waiting for a reply with the link.

I have a canon 300d and my pics are huge files so they take a while to load, but when they do they look very good. I have tried various DVDs I have created using Sonic My DVD, and they look good very watchable and def will play with out issue. I have not tried to burn just jpegs or mp3s on a cd-r but will and report back. Nor have I tried Divx files, dying to try that thou.

Let me know if you find firmware always like to be up to date!

bmw

what are people's thoughts on using component versus dvi/hdmi to connect my 46hm84 to my comcast motorola hd dvr? i've noticed that the picture seems a bit dark in general when comparing the picture versus my directv connected via svideo. i'm wondering whether investing in a dvi/hdmi cable to connect to the cable stb would be an improvement. and if so, is there a particular brand or type of dvi/hdmi cable that people recommend? i noticed monoprice has good prices on both regular dvi/hdmi and gold plated (don't know if the gold plated stuff makes a difference here). thanks.

Originally posted by aircasper
what are people's thoughts on using component versus dvi/hdmi to connect my 46hm84 to my comcast motorola hd dvr? i've noticed that the picture seems a bit dark in general when comparing the picture versus my directv connected via svideo. i'm wondering whether investing in a dvi/hdmi cable to connect to the cable stb would be an improvement. and if so, is there a particular brand or type of dvi/hdmi cable that people recommend? i noticed monoprice has good prices on both regular dvi/hdmi and gold plated (don't know if the gold plated stuff makes a difference here). thanks.

I've got the same TV and DVR; I find the PQ via component (@1080i) a little more "natural" and appealing. I calibrated the input for the DVR using a Zenith DVB318 DVD player (it scales to 1080i via component) and the Avia test disc, and the picture is phenomenal.

To see if a repair warrantee was worthwhile I checked with a local Toshiba repair service on Lamp pricing. $200 + tax. Not too bad. Still with a new technology, I am buying a 5 year plan(with bulbs covered too) for $459 from Onecall, where I got the 62HM94.

Has anyone received a 62HMX94 recently? I bought my tv on 2/11 and the salesman told me it would probably be 10 days before they got any in. I called on Monday 2/14 to set up a delivery. They then told me that they had some in the warehouse and I requested a delivery for 2/16 from 12:00 - 3:00. Knowing the TV was coming in 2 days I rearranged my family room and in the process accidentally cut the answering machine on. We usually use Call Notes thru SBC. Well I waited and waited on Wed for the delivery........nothing. I checked the answering machine and they had apparently called and left a message stating that they did not have the TV in the warehouse and that I needed to call my salesman. I called the salesman and I was told they had 1 in the St. Louis area but it was promised to someone else who bought their TV before I did. He them looked in the system and said they would not be getting any until the 23rd. After I read them the riot act I told him to call me as soon as it comes in.

Today my neighbor brought over a postcard that said that I needed to call for delivery within 10 days of purchase or the items may not be available for delivery. The post card was dated 2/15. So on top of all this the mailman put the postcard in the wrong box and they somehow don't realize I scheduled a delivery 5 days ago.

I called the warehouse and they said OH.......we don't have that item. It is scheduled to hit our warehouse in Wisconsin on 3/2!!!!
I was livid.
Then they proceeded to tell me that it would be 2 weeks after it hits the warehouse before I can get a delivery.

Right now I do not see a television that rivals the 62HMX94 for the price that I got it for. Now I'm wondering if Toshiba pulled the stock due to the ghosting issues and problems with the guide. Has anyone received this television in the last 2 weeks?


Crutchfield does show the television available. It is at $750.00 more then I paid for it though.

Originally posted by Rudy1
I've got the same TV and DVR; I find the PQ via component (@1080i) a little more "natural" and appealing. I calibrated the input for the DVR using a Zenith DVB318 DVD player (it scales to 1080i via component) and the Avia test disc, and the picture is phenomenal.

hey rudy1, if it's not too much trouble, would you mind telling me what your pictures settings are for the component input connected to the motorola dvr? unfortunately i don't have an upconverting dvd player to set up the tv properly so i was hoping i might be able to copy your settings to see how it looks. thanks!

BIGDADDY10

I got my 62hmx94 from onecall.com about 2 weeks ago. Got here in 3 days. Matching stand was not in stock and was shipped from St Louis a week later. I'm very satisfied with the PQ. No ghosting that I can tell. Time-Warner changed the cable box to a HD receiver which turned the grey bars black. TV guide does not work.

Price with matching stand, 4yr service warranty, and shipping was $400 more than current price of the TV at Crutchfield now.

Just out of curiosity )akman, does your tv guide work? I am on my second 62hm94 with a guide that has been nothing but trouble. I am on Off the air reception and 1 hour and 3 minutes behind real time on my guide plus very reluctant to load.

Oakmqn,

That is right at the same price I bought all of my equipment for. I got a different stand and I got a 5yr warranty. I just hope they get me some news soon on delivery.

Does your guide work?

Originally posted by aircasper
hey rudy1, if it's not too much trouble, would you mind telling me what your pictures settings are for the component input connected to the motorola dvr? unfortunately i don't have an upconverting dvd player to set up the tv properly so i was hoping i might be able to copy your settings to see how it looks. thanks!

Here they are:

CONTRAST= 50
BRIGHTNESS= 40
COLOR= 36
TINT= R -5
SHARPNESS= 55
COLOR PREFERENCE= WARM
DNR= OFF

Incidentally, when I started to perform calibrations with the INHD TUNE UP recording I made on the Motorola DVR I realized that the settings I'd come up with using the Avia test disc on my DVD player were spot on, so I didn't need to make any changes to the settings. Try using my settings on your set then check them using the TUNE UP program (I think it's on Saturday mornings at 7 am on INHD 1).

Rudy1,

Are these the same settings you have on all inputs?

Originally posted by bigdaddy10
Rudy1,

Are these the same settings you have on all inputs?

Yes.

Good to know. I did not know if the colorstream and HDMI settings were different because of the input.

Rudy1

I don't have my HMX94 yet but my sister has the HM84. I just applied the settings that you listed and the picture looks marvelous. Very realistic , the colors were perfect and the blacks were detailed and very dark. Thank you for your input. I can't wait to apply these settings to my television.

i use 67 contrast , 44 color, 42 brightness, 2 tint, warm. it seems okay, ill try the new settings though

Are any of the Toshiba DLp owners having problems with pixel breakup. Might it be tied to source. I have satellite and I wonder if the picture through HD cable will be better due to less compression.

Originally posted by bigdaddy10
Are any of the Toshiba DLp owners having problems with pixel breakup. Might it be tied to source. I have satellite and I wonder if the picture through HD cable will be better due to less compression.

Nope. I have Dish Network and never see this unless there's a bad storm over my head. Have you checked your signal strength lately? Perhaps your dish is not exactly on target. I would expect HD cable to be worse than satellite, although your actual mileage my vary.

thanks rudy1 for the settings! i'll try them out and see how they work with the inhd tuneup.

Moman19,

I have not received my television yet but it is ordered. My sister has digital (Non HD Cable) she is having a a problem with pixel break up on her system. I'm hoping that I will not have an issue with dishnetwork. I rewired my system and I am getting an unbelievable signal strength of 120 - 124 on all satellites.

Can an HM84 owner tell me ... when using POP, can you resize either of the windows, or is the only option to have it split screen? Thanks!

for the pop option
what you see it what you get.
no resizing options

Originally posted by hb2
Can an HM84 owner tell me ... when using POP, can you resize either of the windows, or is the only option to have it split screen? Thanks! That's the difference between PIP and POP, no moving or resizing of the picture.

Well, not exactly. The Sony LCDs, for example, have POP but the windows can be re-sized. Pretty handy for keeping track of another program but still having the main program appear bigger. I am disappointed that most manufacturers have ditched PIP.

Originally posted by hb2
Well, not exactly. The Sony LCDs, for example, have POP but the windows can be re-sized. Pretty handy for keeping track of another program but still having the main program appear bigger. I am disappointed that most manufacturers have ditched PIP. Which model are you referring to? I know some displays have both PIP and POP. My understanding is POP is similar to the "twin view" of earlier displays and does not allow resizing or moving the picture. I believe the Sony LCD's call this "twin view" and NOT POP.

Of the Sonys, I'm referring to the 50WE655, for example. You can have side-by-side windows and change the sizes of both. I did not realize there was a diff in twin view and POP. The features are probably not a big deal but for $3,000 I'm just disappointed that PIP and (at the very least) resizable POP is not an option for many TVs.

Originally posted by hb2
Of the Sonys, I'm referring to the 50WE655, for example. You can have side-by-side windows and change the sizes of both. I did not realize there was a diff in twin view and POP. The features are probably not a big deal but for $3,000 I'm just disappointed that PIP and (at the very least) resizable POP is not an option for many TVs. Sony doesn't use the term POP they refer to it as "Flexible Twin-View™ 2-Tuner Picture-and-Picture ".

"You'd no wonder they never display regular TV (non HDTV) feeds in the store."
Dave MacGowan on 20-Dec-2004 06:15:56 PM
Pros: excellent picture with a high quality source- i.e. hdtv or dvd; multiple video inputs

Cons: absolutely atrocious picture for fast moving and wide angle shots of NFL and other sporting events using a regular satellite (non HDTV) feed; no computer input (despite what I was told by the salesman who sold it to me; required viewing distance defeats the advantages of having a big screen
Dear all, I just saw this review from cnet
As it said, I know the DLP has very good QP on DVD/HDTV, the black is real back, not like LCD RPTV.
However, everyone only talks about DVD or HDTV, rare people talk about the regular TV source.
I know the HDTV is great, but for me, regular satellite is about 80%.
There are no stores show HM84 near my place, so, would you please help me.
How do you think the regular satellite on HM84?
If compare Toshiba HM84 vs SONY WF655, which one has better picture for fast moving and wide angle shots of NFL/NBA and other sporting events using a regular satellite (non HDTV) feed?
Thanks a lot~

if your interested in sd tv then get an edtv. you will be very happy
it also accepts hdtv 1080i and 720p, as well as dvds native (edtv native as well) 480p. it will handle 480i sattilite awsome
bryan

some one post up pics of shark tale on their tosh. i am getting it on netflix and ill post up some pics when i watch it