Curious how you got such a precise bulb timer count? I have a 60XS955. Sorry for the delay.

Not sure on the XS series but for the WF should be the same (UVArplcd).

Enter Service Menu (From and off position or (1-3 sec) after powering off):
In succession:
Press "display"
Press "5"
Press "Volume +"
Press "Power" - once the screen comes on a green menu should appear in the upper right hand side.

To Navigate the Service Menu:
Change Menu Sections Press "Jump"
Up Item Press "1"
Down Item Press"4"
Up Category Press "2"
Down Category Press "5"
Increment Data Press "3"
Decrement Data Press "6"
To get out of the menu press "power" and "power" again within 1-3 seconds if you wish to keep the TV in the on position.

(this should be very familiar if you have entered the service mene to tweak red push, geometry, etc. - at a very minimum you shoud read the first pages of UMR's tweaks for GWIII (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=2989297&&#post2989297) before entering the service menu)

Once in the service menu press the "Jump" two times to get to editable menus (color, geometry, sharpness, etc...) as described in the whole UMR tweaks or "Jump" three time to get to the PANEL MENU (tv information such as fan, temperature, and lamp times).

Once there in the PANEL MENU - Press "2" nine times until you see 9 Option E and the last line should read LampTM (Lamp timer) #### and LampCT(Lamp turn on/off counts) ####.

In Summary for the WE (lamp timer) and likely WF (XS is likely a variation of this)
With TV OFF: Press "display","5","volume +","power" - wait for the service menu - "Jump","Jump","Jump","2","2","2","2","2","2","2","2","2" = Lamp Timer Count.

Thank you for the info dogdoctor. I appreciate it.

My brother has a kdf-60wf655 that just made a loud popping noise and the screen went blank. He turned it off waited 5 mins. When he turns it back on, no pic and the green light just blinks. Any clues, we are hoping that he is still in warranty. Searching for the receipt.

Looks like the manual says its the bulb. :(

What is the standard warranty on the bulb?

From what I can gather on the warranty card - 1 year from Date of Purchase.

My brother has a kdf-60wf655 that just made a loud popping noise and the screen went blank.

I have a similar set and am waiting for the day for this to happen.

How long has he owned the TV?

I have a similar set and am waiting for the day for this to happen.

How long has he owned the TV?

He has had the set for approx 1 yr, but it was a floor model at sears. So who knows how many hours it has on it. I will have to do a search and try to find the service menu options to get the bulb hours.

Looks like the bulb is about $199 at most places and a few at $165 or so.

I will have to do a search and try to find the service menu options to get the bulb hours.

Thanks... if you find it and post the bulb hours, could you also post the cycle times - how many times it was shut off and on? That might tell more about a lamp's life cycle be than hours used.

Thanks... if you find it and post the bulb hours, could you also post the cycle times - how many times it was shut off and on? That might tell more about a lamp's life cycle be than hours used.

Will try and post all of the info I can get from my brother. :)

Wow hard to find the service menu options, it was a few posts above. :D

service menu (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8045683&&#post8045683)

Hello everyone, I just went into the service menu for the first time because i was curious how many hours my bulb had. i have the kdf55xs955 and my reading was LAMP TM = 4497 and LAMPCT = 1685. My TV is not even 2 years old yet, will be 2 yrs in December. Should I consider replacing the bulb soon?

I would say that you shouldn't need to replace it until the bulb begins to dim or show signs of aging. If all is going well I would just locate or find the way to order the new bulb for the tv once the bulb does have issues. Once the bulb is ordered they only have a 90 day warranty. I would just let the current bulb go as long as it can but prepare to have on hand at hopefully 6000/7000 hours (I think they were rated 6/8K hours). Sounds likes its doing well at 4500, and should do so for a while.

I would say that you shouldn't need to replace it until the bulb begins to dim or show signs of aging. If all is going well I would just locate or find the way to order the new bulb for the tv once the bulb does have issues. Once the bulb is ordered they only have a 90 day warranty. I would just let the current bulb go as long as it can but prepare to have on hand at hopefully 6000/7000 hours (I think they were rated 6/8K hours). Sounds likes its doing well at 4500, and should do so for a while.

Thanks very much for your response. I'll wait till it gets closer to 6000 or if i begin 2 see dimness :-)

I would say that you shouldn't need to replace it until the bulb begins to dim or show signs of aging. If all is going well I would just locate or find the way to order the new bulb for the tv once the bulb does have issues. Once the bulb is ordered they only have a 90 day warranty. I would just let the current bulb go as long as it can but prepare to have on hand at hopefully 6000/7000 hours (I think they were rated 6/8K hours). Sounds likes its doing well at 4500, and should do so for a while.

Hello again :-) Would you happen to know whats the difference between lamp time and panel time?

Good Question: I'm not entirely sure...I've got no tv service educations but through an educated guess the panel time refers to the life of the LCD Panel (sort of like an odometer for a car). Thus the lamp time accounts for the time a bulb has been on and the panel time accounts for how long a optical block/panels have been running. If anyone has a better idea or knows exactly they can let us both know.

I recently purchased a mfgr refurb kdf-60wf655 w/ full Sony warranty for $1650.00 plus $133.33 shipping. The shipper even set it on stand and allowed me to plug it and connect the Comcast cable to it before leaving. The TechCraft PTV-58 that was pre-assembled and locally picked up for 140- no tax.

I was also able to get an open box LG upconverting DVD player for under $100.00 after rebate at BB and a Monster HDMI cable reg $99 for @ $25 and three Monster audio cables for @$8.00 each and no tax at a military base electronics store (50 % off on red tag returns).

My 13 year old top of the line Kenwood receiver and Bose AM-7 speakers really make it right tight. Heck, I even use a 13 year old Pioneer Laser Disc Karoake player with it. There's even room for a 12 year old Sony five disc cd changer, i.e., everything fits in the Tech Craft stand.

I use a cable card with Comcast and I'm very happy with the the PQ and do not notice any issues with the set at all. I checked all the lines and had Comcast tighten up the connection coming in the house from the outside.

This backward compatible big screen on a budget really blows me away!

I tried FredBored's(?) user tweaks and they worked very well. I'm thinking the only thing I should do is install the Kodak filter in front of the light as VideoAdict(?) outlined.

1) I've been in the service menu in an attempt to determine lamp hours, but was too timid to explore (I didn't determine lamp hours). Are the service menu tweaks posted by umr good for the GWIV's?

2) Has anyone been able to determine a set of tweaks specifically for the wf (that they are willing to share via PM)?

3) In lieu of installing the Kodak filter, can black levels and maybe even some of the other advanced user menu options available on the xs be tweaked via the service menu on the wf's?





Thanks,

Friendly Neighborhood Tightwad


I had the ND filter installed along with getting my 60xs ISF'd. My understanding is that you can't even through the service menu, get the same effect as using ND filter. It's supposed to help with the contrast ratio.

Good Question: I'm not entirely sure...I've got no tv service educations but through an educated guess the panel time refers to the life of the LCD Panel (sort of like an odometer for a car). Thus the lamp time accounts for the time a bulb has been on and the panel time accounts for how long a optical block/panels have been running. If anyone has a better idea or knows exactly they can let us both know.

Hmm interesting sounds like something else that might need replacing after a certain amount of usage. So I guess lamp and panel time should be the same if you only had 1 bulb. Thanks for the clarification

I would say that you shouldn't need to replace it until the bulb begins to dim or show signs of aging. If all is going well I would just locate or find the way to order the new bulb for the tv once the bulb does have issues. Once the bulb is ordered they only have a 90 day warranty. I would just let the current bulb go as long as it can but prepare to have on hand at hopefully 6000/7000 hours (I think they were rated 6/8K hours). Sounds likes its doing well at 4500, and should do so for a while.

What would signs of aging be?

All I have ever read on these forums in reference to aging that I can recall is that the tv set just starts to dim, and get dimmer and dimmer. Once the set starts to dim so that you notice it and you need to adjust the brightness, that would be enough of a warning to me to purchase a replacement bulb...particularly if I was in the higher end of bulb timer usage. Of course the random bulb that just flat out goes out without warning could happen too...that just tends to leave you in more of a predicament of not having a spare bulb around.

Hmm interesting sounds like something else that might need replacing after a certain amount of usage. So I guess lamp and panel time should be the same if you only had 1 bulb. Thanks for the clarification
That is the way I interpret the information. I could be wrong. It just seems like a fail safe way to also know how abused a set is if you were purchasing it used. If someone was passign off a tv as used very little, yet replaced the bulb, I would still check and hope to see panel numbers that are low. If not I would be suspicious. Now don't ask me how to reset the lamp timer if you do replace a bulb....I haven't a clue.

My one and hald year old 42WE655 has yellow lines cross the middle of the screen as in attached picure. Does anyone have any idea what could be the cause?

TIA

Peter

My one and hald year old 42WE655 has yellow lines cross the middle of the screen as in attached picure. Does anyone have any idea what could be the cause?

TIA

Peter


I believe it needs a new light engine. There has been a couple of threads on this with Sony back about half a year ago. I tried to find it and still no luck. The other guy had I think purple lines and a big X.

My one and hald year old 42WE655 has yellow lines cross the middle of the screen as in attached picure. Does anyone have any idea what could be the cause?

TIA

PeterYeah that is a light engine problem, it was a big problem topic some months back....if you have an extended warranty you should be fine. If you don't you need to contact Sony asap and be firm yet polite. I think the last info I saw floating was a new light engine was close to 1000$. Sony was making people buy it an have it repaired by an service tech but there was a huge uproar at having a TV for slightly over a 1 year (now out of warranty) and having problems. People specifically called them on the quality control problems and with electronics that cost X amount of dollars you would expect to not to have major problems on not "wear and tear" components such that comsumers won't have to plan on having to buy a new TV every 2 years. In short and in the end after some pressure people were able to get Sony to foot the bill for the light engine if they agreed to pay the service fee to get it installed. All I can say is that I knock on wood every time I see a new picture of the problem and count my blessings. Good luck.

check out this thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=638845&highlight=sony+map

Thanks for the information, I did not purchase extended warranty at the time of purchase. However it looks like that Sony is aware the issue, and they are providing additional service coverage for the optical block repair through Sept 30, 2007

Link (http://esupport.sony.com//perl/news-item.pl?template_id=1&news_id=127&Region_ID=1)

Thanks for the information, I did not purchase extended warranty at the time of purchase. However it looks like that Sony is aware the issue, and they are providing additional service coverage for the optical block repair through Sept 30, 2007

Link (http://esupport.sony.com//perl/news-item.pl?template_id=1&news_id=127&Region_ID=1)
That is great information to save. Thanks for the heads up.

What would signs of aging be?

I hadn't really noticed until recently how dim the TV (60XS955) was getting. Then I realized I was running it on Vivid all the time! :eek: Standard was too dark and Pro was not there! I had the bulb replced today under my BB EW and WOW! The TV is back like new! :D
Now if they can stop the data screen from popping up, we'd have something! Sony disavows any knowlege of the problem!? :confused:

I lost my remote for my Sony KDF-50WE655. Does Sony sell replacements? I cant do any service menu stuff without it. I guess its a pipe dream for us to be able to hook up our computers to the tv and be able to check info that way through a program huh?

Nevermind, I found the replacement remote on Sony's website.

Hello everyone, I just had my lamp and lamp driver replaced and I went back to check if the lamp hours reset itself to 0 and it did not. Any suggestions?

Hello everyone, I just had my lamp and lamp driver replaced and I went back to check if the lamp hours reset itself to 0 and it did not. Any suggestions? Lamp Timer Reset Instructions (http://www.agoraquest.com/viewtopic.php?topic=26033&forum=34&start=10&select_page_number=2)
Once in the service menu:

Procedure for resetting the KDF42WE655, KDF50WE655, KDF55WF655, KDF55XS955, KDF60WF655 or KDF60XS955 lamp timer:
1. Press the JUMP button 3 times on the remote to get to the Panel OSD mode.
2. Next press the remote channel 2 button 9 times to get to the Lamp Timer mode.
3. Press the remote 3 button, mute, then enter to reset the timer to zero.

It will take 45-50 seconds for the timer to reset. After the timer is reset you can shut the TV off. The lamp timer will remain reset (no need to save).

Lamp Timer Reset Instructions (http://www.agoraquest.com/viewtopic.php?topic=26033&forum=34&start=10&select_page_number=2)
Once in the service menu:

Hey dogdoctor - Thanks for the response, i wish I did this yesterday. My TV has been on for hours since the lamp was replaced.

See the attached photo. Does anyone know what is causing this?

The spot starts out lighter and smaller when the tv is first turned on but it gets bigger as you can see. It's not the dreaded roadmap problem but it doesn't sound like the dust problem others reported (because they all claim it is a small spot).

I also noticed that there is a ghost image whenever a static image stays on too long..ie. station logos, cnn news ticker.

Is this related to the optical engine? Thanks in advance for any advice.

Now if they can stop the data screen from popping up, we'd have something! Sony disavows any knowlege of the problem!? :confused:


Well I had the firmware flashed today to version 1.76 0089 we'll see if this helps the pop up issue. :rolleyes:

Care to divulge more info about this firmware flash? Who did it? How did they do it? Where did they get the new fimrware? Sony support states that these TVs are not firmware upgradable, so asking them for it has been a moot process for me. Can you see the firmware version in the service menu somewhere?

Sony sent me a memory stick with an updated firmware in 2005. All you do is insert it in the slot on the front of the TV and it does the rest.

I don't recall which version - but I would guess that they are sending out a newer version these days. Computer and motherboard manufacturers put their firmware updates and notes online for anyone to download - seems a much more rational way to handle this issue. After all, the TV is mostly a mini-computer and a huge display.

Sorry, I usually post in the XS955 thread and reposted there too. My history is there. To update for here, my TV (60XS955) is covered by a BestBuy EW and they did the update by my request. I had a flash earlier in its life to correct dropping channels and cablecard issues. I hope this helps the info popup but have my doubts. I believe but am not sure the firmware IS from 2005. So it might be the same as above.

Sorry, I usually post in the XS955 thread and reposted there too. My history is there. To update for here, my TV (60XS955) is covered by a BestBuy EW and they did the update by my request. I had a flash earlier in its life to correct dropping channels and cablecard issues. I hope this helps the info popup but have my doubts. I believe but am not sure the firmware IS from 2005. So it might be the same as above.


At least it was quick. It popped up today Sunday during the Dallas/Philly game. Back to the drawing board.

Foooey!

See the attached photo. Does anyone know what is causing this?

The spot starts out lighter and smaller when the tv is first turned on but it gets bigger as you can see. It's not the dreaded roadmap problem but it doesn't sound like the dust problem others reported (because they all claim it is a small spot).

I also noticed that there is a ghost image whenever a static image stays on too long..ie. station logos, cnn news ticker.

Is this related to the optical engine? Thanks in advance for any advice.

I have the same issue on a KDF 55WF655. My blotch is much smaller, fluctuating from the size of a baseball to the size of a soccer ball, all coming from the lower left and bottom edges. Had a tech come out yesterday, looked at for about 30 seconds and diagnosed "you need a new light engine." I've got an extended warranty (the tech commented on how it was a wise decision to have purchased that with these tv's, FWIW if any of you are asking yourself "should I buy the extended warranty?") so I'm waiting to hear if my TV goes away for awhile, or if they'll do the swap in place--tech said it could go either way.

I'll update when I have further info for anyone else who ends up in the same boat.

I have the same issue on a KDF 55WF655. My blotch is much smaller, fluctuating from the size of a baseball to the size of a soccer ball, all coming from the lower left and bottom edges. Had a tech come out yesterday, looked at for about 30 seconds and diagnosed "you need a new light engine." I've got an extended warranty (the tech commented on how it was a wise decision to have purchased that with these tv's, FWIW if any of you are asking yourself "should I buy the extended warranty?") so I'm waiting to hear if my TV goes away for awhile, or if they'll do the swap in place--tech said it could go either way.

I'll update when I have further info for anyone else who ends up in the same boat.

My KDF-55XS955 has had an area about 1 to 2 inches tall across the bottom of the screen for the past month or so. It is almost purple in color and doesn't look like any of the examples cited in this thread so far. It doesn't increase or decrease in size or intensity based upon how long it's been on, what input is being used, etc. The lamp has almost 6000 hours on it ( the set was bought in November of 2004 ), and the color does resemble the color one sees in the end of a flourescent light bulb as it dims with age. The tv is, naturally, out of warranty. The question is: should I buy a $200 lamp and see if that's what's wrong or take a chance on being sold a new light engine, even if that is not what is wrong. Like I've said, I've viewed the examples shown in this thread, and mine doesn't resemble them at all.

EC

Sony sent me a memory stick with an updated firmware in 2005. All you do is insert it in the slot on the front of the TV and it does the rest.

I don't recall which version - but I would guess that they are sending out a newer version these days. Computer and motherboard manufacturers put their firmware updates and notes online for anyone to download - seems a much more rational way to handle this issue. After all, the TV is mostly a mini-computer and a huge display.

Hi, did you send the memory stick back to Sony after installing the firmware, or do you still have it?

Hello all,

I bought a KDF55 WF655 in November 2004 with a 5 year extended warranty from Sears. It is still going great - never had a problem so far. I have a couple of questions (apologies if they have been discussed before).

- I have a Dell laptop with DVI out. Is it safe to hook it to this TV using a DVI-HMDI cable? Has any one done this to a RP LCD TV? I don't see the TV manual mention connecting a computer to it inputs. The resolution on the Dell laptop is 1900x1200.

- The pop up issue surfaces once in while. Would Sears technicians do a flash update (the type rmullins got done) and does it do more than the fix the pop up issue? I plan on calling Sears next week for regular maintenance (clean the light engine/bulb).

Cheers.

I got my KDF-60XS955 at Sears as well in late 2004. I have had it hooked to an HTPC with DVI->HDMI ever since I brought it home. Works great. You'll need to set you resolution to an HD format to get it to work though. Either 720p or 1080i. I won't go into much detail here because it could turn into a lengthy discussion. And, there are already threads concerning this out there that explain it much beter than I can.

In my dealings with Sears the technicians no nothing of a firmware update and when one called from my house to talk to a Sony technician they also told him there was no such firmware update. So good luck with that. If you get one I'd like to know who your tech is and where he got it from.

I have the same issue on a KDF 55WF655. My blotch is much smaller, fluctuating from the size of a baseball to the size of a soccer ball, all coming from the lower left and bottom edges. Had a tech come out yesterday, looked at for about 30 seconds and diagnosed "you need a new light engine." I've got an extended warranty (the tech commented on how it was a wise decision to have purchased that with these tv's, FWIW if any of you are asking yourself "should I buy the extended warranty?") so I'm waiting to hear if my TV goes away for awhile, or if they'll do the swap in place--tech said it could go either way.

I'll update when I have further info for anyone else who ends up in the same boat.

I have a 2 year old KDF-60XS955. Bought it Nov 2004 from Sears. Missed the Red Sox in the WS, but caught the Patriots in the SB.

I am having some blue discoloration as well - bottom 2" off the right half of the screen, plus an area to the left of the middle of the screen in the area of the onscreen meno. A bit hard to see unless the background is certain colors (light gray seems to show it the best), but it is there for sure.

My bulb is old and starting to get dim, I wonder if changing it will affect the discoloration?

Thankfully I bought the extended warranty. Time to use it I guess.

I usually don't go the warranty route, but on these RPTVs it seems like the technology is just not that stable so it is a must.

I have a 2 year old KDF-60XS955. Bought it Nov 2004 from Sears. Missed the Red Sox in the WS, but caught the Patriots in the SB.

I am having some blue discoloration as well - bottom 2" off the right half of the screen, plus an area to the left of the middle of the screen in the area of the onscreen meno. A bit hard to see unless the background is certain colors (light gray seems to show it the best), but it is there for sure.

My bulb is old and starting to get dim, I wonder if changing it will affect the discoloration?

Thankfully I bought the extended warranty. Time to use it I guess.

I usually don't go the warranty route, but on these RPTVs it seems like the technology is just not that stable so it is a must.

I'd certainly get the bulb replaced. I did and it was like the TV was new again. Still doing the popups sadly.

I'd certainly get the bulb replaced. I did and it was like the TV was new again. Still doing the popups sadly.

Well, I did. The bulb had some quite positive effects, however curing the blue areas wasn't one of them. I am afraid it is going to be a major operation to cure the blues in the near future.

I have the same issue on a KDF 55WF655. My blotch is much smaller, fluctuating from the size of a baseball to the size of a soccer ball, all coming from the lower left and bottom edges. Had a tech come out yesterday, looked at for about 30 seconds and diagnosed "you need a new light engine." I've got an extended warranty (the tech commented on how it was a wise decision to have purchased that with these tv's, FWIW if any of you are asking yourself "should I buy the extended warranty?") so I'm waiting to hear if my TV goes away for awhile, or if they'll do the swap in place--tech said it could go either way.

I'll update when I have further info for anyone else who ends up in the same boat.
Tech was back in two weeks to replace the light engine, took him about an hour and a half.

The Good: Fixed the blueing on the screen, the engine is not as expensive as he'd thought ($400 their cost-free for me due to the extended warranty).

The Bad: I now have geometry issues which I didn't have previously; picture slanted downward from right to left-which I've corrected by utilizing the "torque method" on the cabinet, as well as opening the back up and loosening one of the support screws for the light engine to help shift its position to straighten the picture--certainly wasn't happy about having to take those steps to have a straight picture. Also have a significant trapezoid affect now in 4:3 on both sides at the bottom--difference from top to bottom is 1/4-3/8"-starting about 2/3rds down, absolutely noticeable and irritating.

So now the next step; to get the extended warranty to cover getting the geometry issues fixed. I'll post again with an update for reference.

Tech was back in two weeks to replace the light engine, took him about an hour and a half.

The Good: Fixed the blueing on the screen, the engine is not as expensive as he'd thought ($400 their cost-free for me due to the extended warranty).

The Bad: I now have geometry issues which I didn't have previously; picture slanted downward from right to left-which I've corrected by utilizing the "torque method" on the cabinet, as well as opening the back up and loosening one of the support screws for the light engine to help shift its position to straighten the picture--certainly wasn't happy about having to take those steps to have a straight picture. Also have a significant trapezoid affect now in 4:3 on both sides at the bottom--difference from top to bottom is 1/4-3/8"-starting about 2/3rds down, absolutely noticeable and irritating.

So now the next step; to get the extended warranty to cover getting the geometry issues fixed. I'll post again with an update for reference.My original set had a slant as well, tilting about 2 degres clockwise......it drove me crazy. Luckily (or not) I got a stuck pixel and they replaced my light engine. Thankfully the new one didnt have a tilt to it...I just had the tech go into the sevice menu and get the screen centered properly. I would not let him leave if it was crooked or not centered...I told him that as soon as he started. :)

I own a 60xs955 with anextended warranty from Sears. Does anyone know if they offer an upgrade path? I am thinking about getting the 70 inch xbr2.
Or does the TV have to be unfixable to any sort of an upgrade?
Thanks
Brian

I have a WE655 and have a problem. I was playing my XBOX360 and was having weird graphical issues on screen. I even turned it off and the Video 6 display was bouncing up and down on screen. I turned the XBOX back on and played for about 30 mins, and then the screen went completely black and the timer light is now on and red. Anyone know what this is?

Edit: I was able to turn it back on but 1-2 mins later the picture went out again. Could it be overheating?

wow that is a weird problem. I also have the WE655 TV. Im not sure if there is a rest buttom or something on the TV but have you tired just turning it off for a little while? The only issues I have with mine are that the video display screem pops up once in a while all on its own. it was annoying at first but I guess I am not the only one with this issue. How old is your TV?

I got it in Jan of 05. I was able to turn it back on and ALL my settings were completely fubared. I had to do a channel scan again, reset all my video options. The menu is now somehow off center, so when I do a channel scan I can see the channels behind the menu off to the right a little. Also, now there's a parental password which wasn't there before. I cannot view anything over a G rating now.

This all happend tonight, last night everything was fine. I don't know what the hell happend.


Here's a picture of the odd menu shift:

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/8972/tv002lj3.th.jpg (http://img149.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tv002lj3.jpg)

The channel scan also won't go past 79 analog now. Where previously I had both analog and digital stations.

I was able to turn it back on a little later last night, and I played for a bit to see if it went blank again. It stayed on for awhile but the channel scan, parental lock, and menu shift are still there.

I think I'm just going to call Tweeter's service to come look at it.

Good luck Stryker... fingers crossed. :o

Well it happend again tonight. I was doing a channel scan since my channels were not mapping correctly. I left the room to eat dinner, and right as we're done I hear a loud blaring sound. I came in to our room and the screen is white and it's making a fog horn type noise (deafening). I turned the TV off and got the two red lights again. Here's some more pics. Sorry for the lighting.

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/4088/tv003bt1.th.jpg (http://img182.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tv003bt1.jpg)http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/1814/tv004kp2.th.jpg (http://img182.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tv004kp2.jpg)http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/80/tv005zj4.th.jpg (http://img172.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tv005zj4.jpg)

FINALLY getting the nerve to venture into a place I never thought I'd go.....the service menu. Can anybody point me to the tweaks section for the GWIV's? I have the KDF 55WF655.

Thanks.

I just went into my service menu to check the bulb life. Im hoping someone here can break this down for me. it has LAMPTM 7217 and LAMPCT 1553. Does this mean my lamp has 7,217 hours on it? If so, does that seem like a lot for a bulb in this TV? I bought this TV in Feb of 04. I use it ALOT. its on al day. I have two kids so the cartoons asre on all the time until I decide to take over the remote. Should I be concerned and possibly buy a new lamp just in case mine is getting close to dying?

Also, is there anything else I can do in the service mode? maybe like check to see which firmware version I have? I read that SONY sent someone a firmware update on a memory stick. How can I check on this issue? How much other cool stuff can be accessed in the service mode? I have the KDF-50WE655

Well, I did. The bulb had some quite positive effects, however curing the blue areas wasn't one of them. I am afraid it is going to be a major operation to cure the blues in the near future.

Well I finally hooked up with Sears to get my light engine replaced. WHOA! I didn't realize how bad things were. It's like getting a new TV.

The Sears guy seemed a little nonplussed that I had the warranty coverage, I guess he likes to collect money. He also said he was doing two more light engines the same day - another Sony and a Hitachi. Boy, I'd say for a LCD RPTV you really want to get an extended warranty.

I haven''t noticed any issues with the new engine yey. Geometry and convergence seem good.

Did you ever get an answer to this?

See the attached photo. Does anyone know what is causing this?

The spot starts out lighter and smaller when the tv is first turned on but it gets bigger as you can see. It's not the dreaded roadmap problem but it doesn't sound like the dust problem others reported (because they all claim it is a small spot).

I also noticed that there is a ghost image whenever a static image stays on too long..ie. station logos, cnn news ticker.

Is this related to the optical engine? Thanks in advance for any advice.
Did you ever get an answer to this?

Well it happend again tonight. I was doing a channel scan since my channels were not mapping correctly. I left the room to eat dinner, and right as we're done I hear a loud blaring sound. I came in to our room and the screen is white and it's making a fog horn type noise (deafening). I turned the TV off and got the two red lights again. Here's some more pics. Sorry for the lighting.



I hope you have an EW. What actually happened??

Hello everyone,

I have a Sony Kdf-55wf655 LCD rear projection hdtv and I've read all the problems/solutions to the color discoloration issue. Just today I started getting a bit of the blue discoloration on the far left edge of the picture and in the bottom left corner. The blue seems to come and go, but is noticable against a black background. Now after reading all the replies to this issue, I understand that it could be a old lamp or maybe a light engine issue. I know the my lamp has over 7000 hours on it. Would my situation most likely be solved with the purchase of a new lamp or is it something more serious?

Thank you in advance.

Hi,
Does anyone know if the KDF-50WE655 accepts a 1080p signal through it's HDMI input?
Also does anyone know the bit rate of it's internal processor?

Thanks, John

I hope you have an EW. What actually happened??

I do have an EW. I'm having ALOT of problems with Tweeter. They apparently don't service NJ anymore and are contracting out. So I'm having to call all over to find someone. I'm pretty disgusted with this and may call Sony to see if I can somehow purchase a warranty with them instead.

I do have an EW. I'm having ALOT of problems with Tweeter. They apparently don't service NJ anymore and are contracting out. So I'm having to call all over to find someone. I'm pretty disgusted with this and may call Sony to see if I can somehow purchase a warranty with them instead.

Sorry to hear your woes. Tweeter is the actual carrier of the warranty, like BestBuy does? Ouch. Is there a non-performance clause? What if they don't service you?

I have an RM-Y915 remote that came with my 55WF655 purchased in the summer of '05. The first remote lost function of the "jump" button within 10 months. I received another identical remote from Sony under warranty and that one did the same within 6 weeks! Has anyone else had this problem with this Sony remote?

I have a 55Wf655. My #6 and #7 inputs are stuck in full mode so that all my viewing (4:3 and 16:9) is stretched. Everybody looks stocky on 6 and 7 whether it is HDTV or regular TV. I can't go to the normal setting for wide mode (I can switch to zoom and wide zoom which are even worse). I saw in the instruction manual that if you have a 420p or 1080i feed you can't get to normal wide mode, so I unplugged the power and connections for the cable HDTV/DVR box, hoping that would fix it (the connections from the cable box are to the 6 and 7 inputs). Still have same problem. No problem on OTA or other inputs (DVD). Any suggestions?

Can you switch the inputs for those devices to see if it is really the input or the output of the device hooked to it?

Can you switch the inputs for those devices to see if it is really the input or the output of the device hooked to it?
Thanks, Karl. I did not get to try it because yesterday afternoon when I turned it on for the Steelers' football game it was OK . . . no more problem. The electricity has been going off for split seconds a lot lately and it did it again yesterday, so I don't know what caused the problem or why it went away. I realize now that while I unplugged the input device I did not unplug the TV, so I suspect it had something to do with the electricity problem (it did go out again between the time I unplugged the HDTV cable box and when the TV returned to normal). If it happens again I'll try what you suggested, but the fact it was only on the two inputs that the cable box was connected to (which probably wasn't clear from my initial post) made me think it was most likely the source of the problem.

I spoke to a Sony tech via chat today. He suggested I reset my TV to factory defaults. Is there a more concrete way to do this other than just unplugging it? I want to make sure everything is reset.

Hi,
Does anyone know if the KDF-50WE655 accepts a 1080p signal through it's HDMI input?
Also does anyone know the bit rate of it's internal processor?

Thanks, John
Nope. According to the manual, 1080i is the max!

Hello im ne to this forum. I have a kdf-55wf655 tv. i have had it for a year and half with 3400 hours on the lamp. thanksgiving day it went out. the screen is on then it cycles off after a minute then turns back on. i checked the menu and it says that the lamp driver is bad. so i called the ew people and they came out and told me that the ballast and lamp needed to be replaced. this does not sound right so i had then just replace the ballast and it still gives me the same problem. has anyone else had this problem? i called sony and told them the service code and they asked how i got that . i told them i had the service manual and they asked where i got it from like it was taboo! seems like the ew people just want to sell me a lamp for a quick profit! if the lamp is bad it should be not working or the lamp indicator should come right? someone please help me!

one more thing
sony support sucks!

Last night, for the first time, I checked my lamp hours, turned off the TV and went to bed. Today, the input/channel banner stays on the screen (just the one at the top of the screen, not the one at the bottom of the screen). Although I did not save any changes, I am hoping that somehow some display setting got changed, and that it can be changed back.

Question is, what setting controls this? Anyone know?

Gary

I would try turn off & on within 5 seconds. If this don't work turn off , ( let the fan cool Your Lamp ) .....Unplug for one to two min. Plug in wait another 2 min & turn on. Note : at this point sometimes You have to hit on twice...Don't know why ? Watch Your lamp light...

I would try turn off & on within 5 seconds. If this don't work turn off , ( let the fan cool Your Lamp ) .....Unplug for one to two min. Plug in wait another 2 min & turn on. Note : at this point sometimes You have to hit on twice...Don't know why ? Watch Your lamp light...

Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately, I still have the banner. If anyone has any other ideas, I am all ears. If not, I guess I can try to retrace my way through the menus and find where I might have done something wrong.

Gary

Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately, I still have the banner. If anyone has any other ideas, I am all ears. If not, I guess I can try to retrace my way through the menus and find where I might have done something wrong.

Gary

I found the problem. While in the service mode, I must have pushed the "display" button. I went into the service mode again, and after not finding anything, I pushed the "display" button as a test, and the banner disappeared. After exiting the service mode, the screen is back to normal.

Gary

Does anyone experience TV lockup, unable to change channel or input, when selecting HDMI input? The only way to get the TV working again it to unplug the TV for few seconds. TV is KDF55WF655.

I notice this problem lately when I hookup PS3 to Denon AVR3806 via HDMI and Denon to TV via HDMI.

Hello im ne to this forum. I have a kdf-55wf655 tv. i have had it for a year and half with 3400 hours on the lamp. thanksgiving day it went out. the screen is on then it cycles off after a minute then turns back on. i checked the menu and it says that the lamp driver is bad. so i called the ew people and they came out and told me that the ballast and lamp needed to be replaced. this does not sound right so i had then just replace the ballast and it still gives me the same problem. has anyone else had this problem? i called sony and told them the service code and they asked how i got that . i told them i had the service manual and they asked where i got it from like it was taboo! seems like the ew people just want to sell me a lamp for a quick profit! if the lamp is bad it should be not working or the lamp indicator should come right? someone please help me!

I just experienced the same problem on my KDF-55xs955 - where did you get your service manual from - and have you gotten your issue resolved yet?

Does anyone experience TV lockup, unable to change channel or input, when selecting HDMI input? The only way to get the TV working again it to unplug the TV for few seconds. TV is KDF55WF655.

I notice this problem lately when I hookup PS3 to Denon AVR3806 via HDMI and Denon to TV via HDMI.
Nope - PS3 to HDMI, Harmony Remote always changes the inputs with no problems. I'm running a KDF50WE655.

right down the center of my KDF55WF655. These lines come and go and you have to look fast to see them....but after awhile, it's obvious they are there. Thse lines are mostly blue with an occasional flash of a red one.

I didn't have time to read all 120+ pages for this issue and a search did not pull anything of value.

Any past issues with this problem? If my set has been doing this for a long time, I never noticed. I think it just started.

Thanks for any help and comments

Does anyone experience TV lockup, unable to change channel or input, when selecting HDMI input? The only way to get the TV working again it to unplug the TV for few seconds. TV is KDF55WF655.

I notice this problem lately when I hookup PS3 to Denon AVR3806 via HDMI and Denon to TV via HDMI.
KDF42WE655 here..

When I switch to inputs 1-6... I immediately get the "on screen display" from the TV showing the input, resolution, etc...

But when switching to input 7 (hdmi) I notice a one or two second "pause" while the TV and my Pioneer Elite DV-46A dvd player "hand shake" before the TV's On Screen display shows its info... but that is about it...

No, it sits on top. In the front there are short dowels that hang down to keep it from sliding, and the feet on the long legs in the back have sticky pads to keep the back in place. btw, I didn't take the sticky covering off the feet pads, so for me they just act as cushoning.

It's available on the Circuit City website in platinum and black... just search omnimount center speaker.

Here's another pic:


I'm considering a Klipsch RC-62 Center Channel speaker, which is 32 lbs, 23.5 inches wide, 8 inches tall, and 12 inches deep - here's a link to it - http://www.klipsch.com/products/details/rc-62.aspx

I have the 60xs955. For you guys that have the Ominimount center channel speaker shelf, has it worked out like planned? Will it support this 32 lb speaker, (manufacturer's rec 30 lbs max).

Thanks

I have the same power cycling error and the error code said it was the lamp driver.

I am not sure if 8716v said he had the lamp driver replaced with the lamp because I would think replacing the lamp driver (also called the power supply) would have solved the problem. I am about to replace the lamp driver myself so I'll let you know what happens.

I found this sight that had all types of service manuals. That how I figured out how to replace the lamp driver. Here is the site schematicsforfree( dot)com (slash) archive/dir/Sony/Video I had to alter the address because the this message board is restrictig me.

8716v please let me know if the ew guys replaced the driver and not just the lamp.

Thanks,

Sanson

does this sound normal... I just turned my TV on and the power indicator light blinked green for about 25-30 seconds with a black scren and then the red lamp light came on. I pressed the power button again and then the tv came on without any issues. Im affraid to turn it off now. Should I be looking for a new bulb? and regaurding bulbs, Should I only buy the SONY brand ones and not but the knock offs or have those of you that bought the knock off bulbs had good luck with them

The lamp on my KDF-42WE655 finally went out on me.
I know I need a XL-2100 lamp, and I've found several sources to buy them online, but is there any chance that any retail stores might carry them? How about the "Sony Style" stores? Do they carry this sort of thing, or only the same stuff Best Buy or wherever might have?

see if you have a sears parts store in your area

Looks like I have one "Sony authorized dealer" in the area that's open on Sunday, so I'll check it out.

BTW, is there any difference between an XL-2100 and an XL-2100U lamp? The manual seems to suggest they're completely interchangeable - are they the same item but with slightly different part numbers, or is there some subtle difference between the two?

I did a search on KDF-E50A10, and it look like this is the right thread. Please let me know if it isn't.

My brother has the KDF-E50A10 and uses a Motorola 6412 with component cables. He's had this setup for about a month now, and this issue has just come up today after a power cycle on the 6412. Basically what has happened is he has lost his "Normal" in the wide mode menu, so any 4:3 channel he watches is automatically set to "Full", and he can change it to anything but Normal. All his other video sources seem to behave normally.

What I tried was unplugging the 6412, swapping the cables to a different component input, and tried the HD zoom button on the Comcast remote. Nothing worked. For now I've told him to plan on swapping out the 6412 for a different one on monday, but I thought I'd check in with the experts here and see if anyone had an idea what the problem is, and hopefully a fix.

Thanks,
Sean

The 2100U is a discontinued lamp. You do NOT want that lamp even if its cheaper. Also, I would highly suggest NOT buying a lamp made from an outside company. My dad did that and his lamp lasted about 1 month. It was also the 2100U lamp. We both just bought new SONY lamps from Crutchfield for $200 and they had it at my door the following day for $15 S&H. cant beat that. Dont be tempted to buy the lamps on ebay either. Im sure most of them are advertised as 2100 lamps but are actually 2100U lamps in the box. There is a visual difference between the two. I think my dad said something about there being a coil wrapped around the filiment on the U lamp or something and not on the 2100 lamp. I might be backwards but I know there is a defference. Plus the 2100 lamp is 120W vs. the 2100U which was 100W. I doubt the extra 20W will make you smile more when you swap it but its just something extra with the newer bulb. CC and BB will NOT have bulbs so your choices are Crutchfield, Sonystyle.com or Sears in some areas. They are all $200 so just find one that is close your location or something. Hope that helps.

Huzzah! I went to ProVideo in Rockville, MD, which was recommended by the "find a Sony shop in your area" thing at Sony's web site, and they had the 2100, no fuss.

Huzzah! I went to ProVideo in Rockville, MD, which was recommended by the "find a Sony shop in your area" thing at Sony's web site, and they had the 2100, no fuss.

How hard was it to change the bulb? Did putting in the new bulb make the TV look like new? Mine will be two years old this march.

How hard was it to change the bulb? Did putting in the new bulb make the TV look like new? Mine will be two years old this march.

It was very easy, and I'm no great shakes when it comes to hardware stuff. The only even slightly tricky part was removing the front panel, which you have to pull pretty hard on.

But the actual removal and insertion of the lamp is no more difficult than changing a standard light bulb, really.

I thought my picture before the change was same as it ever was, but with the new lamp it looks significantly brighter!

It was very easy, and I'm no great shakes when it comes to hardware stuff. The only even slightly tricky part was removing the front panel, which you have to pull pretty hard on.

But the actual removal and insertion of the lamp is no more difficult than changing a standard light bulb, really.

I thought my picture before the change was same as it ever was, but with the new lamp it looks significantly brighter!

do you have to be careful about not touching the bulb? do they give you good instructions?

How to check lamp hours and replace? I would love instructions too!

Its very easy. Its in the original owners manual or you can download a pdf from Sony's website. I'm on my second bulb and its getting dark now. Gonna look into getting a new one soon. Had my TV 3 years now. Bought a 5 year warranty so I've got 2 more years of free bulbs... :D

How to check lamp hours and replace? I would love instructions too!
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9135005&&#post9135005

do you have to be careful about not touching the bulb? do they give you good instructions?

The instructions are fine - basically amounting to "don't touch the bulb." :)

But, yes, it's easy to handle without touching it, and really just "Slide in the new lamp, then tighten two screws."

After almost 2 years, and 3000 hours, my lamp was still going. But I changed it out anyway. Dramatic improvement in picture quality. Not only brighter, but color fidelity.
I don't recommend going more than 2 years on a bulb unless you want to squeeze the last drop out of it. You may be missing a nicer picture in the meantime.

I got the lamp directly from Sony. Apparently, many retailers are ripping people off for this lamp. I've seen it as high as $267! And yet they will sell other Sony lamps for a little less than Sonystyle. Go figure...

I just bought a brand new Sony bulb but I dont want to install it until my orignal one blows out. Ya I know I will get a better pic but if it aint broke then dont fix it right. My bulb is about to hit the 8,000 hour mark :eek: . I got the dreaded lamp light last week but the TV came back to life after I turned it back on. I quickly bought a new bulb though. Im trying to hold out until the NASCAR season starts up again. I may try to see how many hours I can get out of the bulb before she blows though. Mind you I have been running this TV on Vivid ever since it was new and I heard that the bulb runs hotter in vivid and it takes away some of the lamps life.

I guess the only bad thng happening here is Im running my 90 days warranty out and Im not even using the bulb.

Mind you I have been running this TV on Vivid ever since it was new

:eek:

Man, your poor retinas...! :D

Just ordered a new bulb for my secondary TV(since getting a new SXRD). I was wondering how many hours my kf-50we610 had on it before the new bulb gets here. 12,463 hours.

That says two things. I'm lucky it lasted this long.....and I watch too much TV. :D

Just had my bulb and ballast replaced under warranty from Magnolia's. 4500 hours. They replace the ballast as part of the lamp changes to avoid problems down the road. I thought they were just going to replace the bulb and be on their way but when he asked me to help him move the tv I was like WTF? He then said the ballast, bulb and full cleaning was part of the service.

The tech was great. Very careful and explained a lot about the inside of these things. He said of all the LCD Sony's he liked this model the best. Said these are well built and other then the bulb and ballast they are very reliable. He cleaned all the boards and fan area of dust. Very professional. I was surprised.

The picture is great again. It had dimmed to me so I placed the call. Now that the new bulb is in I'm glad I did. The wife said at first I was crazy but even she said the picture looks sharper now. I still have 2 years on the warranty so I guess I'll have this done one more time before the warranty runs out. If you're considering this and have a warranty I wouldn't wait. Even if it's just for the bulb replacement you'd be surpised what you've been missing.

After almost 2 years, and 3000 hours, my lamp was still going. But I changed it out anyway. Dramatic improvement in picture quality. Not only brighter, but color fidelity.
.

A big thanks to videoaddikt!!!! :cool:

Over the last couple weeks I noticed my set being not quite as bright as I remember and the whites looking a little blueish. So I ordered a replacement lamp to have in the closet in-case the current one blows at a bad time... say the season premier of 24.

But after reading videoaddikt's post I thought "why is the new good bulb in the closet and we are watching a 2-year old aging bulb...? I should I just swap those".

I was very nervous about changing the bulb, but I'll have to say Sony made a very well designed replacement process in the XS955 line. And afterward... :eek: WOW - I got a new TV!!!!

With the new bulb, the wife and I immediatly noticed:
-increase of brightness of whites
-improved colors... white doesn't have a slight bluish tint
-perceived resolution increase: I know changing a bulb won't make the picture sharper but for some reason it looks like it is!

So to back up videoaddikt's excellent post, I also recommend if you have a spare bulb and the current one is over 2 years old... swap those suckers! It's the easiest improvement you can do to your TV, and it will feel like you upgraded to a better set! :cool:

A big thanks to videoaddikt!!!! :cool:

Over the last couple weeks I noticed my set being not quite as bright as I remember and the whites looking a little blueish. So I ordered a replacement lamp to have in the closet in-case the current one blows at a bad time... say the season premier of 24.

But after reading videoaddikt's post I thought "why is the new good bulb in the closet and we are watching a 2-year old aging bulb...? I should I just swap those".

I was very nervous about changing the bulb, but I'll have to say Sony made a very well designed replacement process in the XS955 line. And afterward... :eek: WOW - I got a new TV!!!!

With the new bulb, the wife and I immediatly noticed:
-increase of brightness of whites
-improved colors... white doesn't have a slight bluish tint
-perceived resolution increase: I know changing a bulb won't make the picture sharper but for some reason it looks like it is!

So to back up videoaddikt's excellent post, I also recommend if you have a spare bulb and the current one is over 2 years old... swap those suckers! It's the easiest improvement you can do to your TV, and it will feel like you upgraded to a better set! :cool:

I have the CC extended warranty and am afraid to call them. i had to deal with them once before with another set and it was process i did not want to repeat. I guess I just ahve the EW incase of a total failure.

I have a local company coming at the end of the month to do some cleaning because i have some spots that show up on white scenes like ice hockey.

Yesterday I replaced the bulb in my Sony 55" that I have had since October 2004. I immediately noticed a HUGE improvement in the picture quality - brighter picture, and whiter whites. I had to lower the brightness setting on my inputs. Colors seemed much brighter and more saturated.

If you have an aging set, you probably will have similar improvements when you replace the bulb. I kept the old (still functioning) bulb as an emergency replacement if the new bulb dies an early death.

KDF-55E2000. Our Sony 55" has a permanent blue glow/left lower corner. Any idea's?
I replaced a 400$ bulb, and the blue radiance is growing.

I currently am at 3751hrs on my bulb. I wonder if I should change it?

The blue glow is caused by the crappy light engine they put in these sets. I replaced mine after replacing the buld and it did the trick.(Bulb and Light Engine cost me $800 after I got my core charge refund) I have read that others are buying the 60" form Costco and switching out the light engines because Sony wont step up and replace these parts. The same light engine is used in the 42,50,55&60. It looked very easy to do. I dont think its the most honest thing to do, but Sony isint doing their part either!

I currently am at 3751hrs on my bulb. I wonder if I should change it?

Mine was at around 3100 hrs and I saw a noticeable improvement. It's pretty easy to do -- I didn't realize the access panel was on the front! :cool: The lamps can be got for around $150 or so off eBay, so to me it's worth it to have the aging lamp as a spare.

My unit doesnt power up, instead I get just 4 flashing green lights then 6 flashing red lights. Any tips?

Hey kids, was flippin through the channels this evening and came across a movie that said it was in 1080p. I've never seen this displayed on my set before and was a bit confused as I thought that this set only does 1080i/720p..Sure had a great picture..

Anyway, grabbed me bloody camera and snapped this:
http://www.pbase.com/image/73633489.jpg

Any thoughts?

Steve
http://www.danasoft.com/sig/desmoface.jpg

Hey kids, was flippin through the channels this evening and came across a movie that said it was in 1080p.

What type of connection are you using? HDMI or Component? What type of channels are you flipping through? Directv, Dish, comcast, Over the Air???? I have the same set! Never seen 1080p in my life. I tried 1080p over component with the 360 HD-DVD addon but didn't work!

Edit: That looks like "Over The Hedge" and I would say it's Over The Air local HD! the 76.2!

Hi cnick..I'm just using the coax plugged right into the tv..no antenna..I don't have digital cable, just basic Time Warner in Mentor, Ohio. For whatever reason, there is a bank of channels, 75.2 to 77.11 where they just throw movies and shows on.

I was kind of surprised to see it in 1080p..It was "Over The Hedge"..had great pq.

Steve
http://www.danasoft.com/sig/desmoface.jpg

Hi cnick..I'm just using the coax plugged right into the tv..no antenna..I don't have digital cable, just basic Time Warner in Mentor, Ohio. For whatever reason, there is a bank of channels, 75.2 to 77.11 where they just throw movies and shows on.

I was kind of surprised to see it in 1080p..It was "Over The Hedge"..had great pq.


Maybe this is a preview of things to come. 1080p local programming! Still an interesting find!

I'm not sure I was actually seeing it in 1080p..sure said 1080p on the screen, though.

Steve
http://www.danasoft.com/sig/desmoface.jpg

I've been looking on every channel but I can't find the supposed "On Demand" channels that you're supposed to pick up (if people in your area use it) with an internal tuner. I do find movies on the 114 channel but they're older (80s) movies. The other night I found "Chances Are" and "...And Justice for All" with Pacino. I never see anything new. I guess no one in my area orders anything.

I have the CC extended warranty and am afraid to call them. i had to deal with them once before with another set and it was process i did not want to repeat. I guess I just ahve the EW incase of a total failure.

I have a local company coming at the end of the month to do some cleaning because i have some spots that show up on white scenes like ice hockey.

I lucked out I did not call Circiut City I called a local company to come out and clean some dust from my TV. The tech showed up and said the light engine was bad. He told me to call CC and reqeust a them a 3rd party vendor to replace the LE.

I called and i did not even have to ask they just assigned it to the same company.

Does anyone else see a "brightness flicker" when viewing bright scenes. It's a really fast flicker. I always see it when there's bright scenes on the TV. I have a warranty on my TV, but I just want to prepare myself if I have to get it replaced. I have over 6200 hours on my bulb. It was a "display" purchase!

Could this be a bulb issue?

Does anyone else see a "brightness flicker" when viewing bright scenes. It's a really fast flicker. I always see it when there's bright scenes on the TV. I have a warranty on my TV, but I just want to prepare myself if I have to get it replaced. I have over 6200 hours on my bulb. It was a "display" purchase!

Could this be a bulb issue?? BUMP

Does anyone else see a "brightness flicker" when viewing bright scenes. It's a really fast flicker. I always see it when there's bright scenes on the TV. I have a warranty on my TV, but I just want to prepare myself if I have to get it replaced. I have over 6200 hours on my bulb. It was a "display" purchase!

Could this be a bulb issue?

Nope - no problems on my TV - at >6200 hours, you really might just need a bulb change, it might have dificulty with bright screens due to its age/usage. It couldn't hurt to change the bulb and have a the old one as spare as back up.

Nope - no problems on my TV - at >6200 hours, you really might just need a bulb change, it might have dificulty with bright screens due to its age/usage. It couldn't hurt to change the bulb and have a the old one as spare as back up.
I'm going to try to get the service guy to order me a new bulb. Does the bulb have to be out, for these warranty repair guy to give me a new bulb? 1 st HDTV :confused: !

I'm going to try to get the service guy to order me a new bulb. Does the bulb have to be out, for these warranty repair guy to give me a new bulb? 1 st HDTV :confused: !

I wouldn't think so.

Replacing the lamp yourself shouldn't be too hard. If your TV is like mine, there's an access panel right in the front bottom part that pops off. Behind that there's a door with a screw lock -- the lamp is behind that.

I bought one off ebay for about $150 and it came with the allen wrench needed to remove the lamp. I'll admit it was scary to do it, but it turned out to be easy once done and the picture looked much better afterwards. And my bulb was only at 3000 hours and some change.

Oh, if you do replace it, don't forget to reset the lamp hours setting on your TV. There's instructions on how to do that here at AVS.

GOOD LUCK!

I wouldn't think so.

Replacing the lamp yourself shouldn't be too hard. If your TV is like mine, there's a access panel right in the front bottom part that pops off. Behind that there's a door with a screw lock -- the lamp is behind that.

I bought one off ebay for about $150 and it came with the allen wrench needed to remove the lamp. I'll admit it was scary to do it, but it turned out to be easy once done and the picture looked much better afterwards. And my bulb was only at 3000 hours and some change.

Oh, if you do replace it, don't forget to reset the lamp hours setting on your TV. There's instructions on how to do that here at AVS.

GOOD LUCK!
Thanks. I'm trying to take advantage of the warranty I purchased. Really don't want to buy the bulb out of pocket. That's why I purchased the warranty. Well If the guy won't order me one, due to the flicker, I will have to buy one.

Does anyone else see a "brightness flicker" when viewing bright scenes. It's a really fast flicker. I always see it when there's bright scenes on the TV. I have a warranty on my TV, but I just want to prepare myself if I have to get it replaced. I have over 6200 hours on my bulb. It was a "display" purchase!

Could this be a bulb issue?So no one else has experienced this?

So no one else has experienced this?
Sorry, all I can say is no. I have never ever seen this.

Sorry, all I can say is no. I have never ever seen this.
No problem I have a repair guy coming out Feb 13th to replace the bulb! I told the warranty people the lamp was out. So the guy will have a lamp with him. Instead of him having to order it and then come back to install it. :D

No problem I have a repair guy coming out Feb 13th to replace the bulb! I told the warranty people the lamp was out. So the guy will have a lamp with him. Instead of him having to order it and then come back to install it. :D

Have not seen the flicker but you might want him to check the ballast also. I had my bulb replaced about a month ago and they did the ballast to. My service guy said they do these under warranty to avoid problems later. Picture looks great now, brighter, colors look richer, sharper, etc...

Have not seen the flicker but you might want him to check the ballast also. I had my bulb replaced about a month ago and they did the ballast to. My service guy said they do these under warranty to avoid problems later. Picture looks great now, brighter, colors look richer, sharper, etc...
Thanks, will do!

Does anyone else see a "brightness flicker" when viewing bright scenes. It's a really fast flicker. I always see it when there's bright scenes on the TV. I have a warranty on my TV, but I just want to prepare myself if I have to get it replaced. I have over 6200 hours on my bulb. It was a "display" purchase!

Could this be a bulb issue?
Well I got my bulb changed today. Haven't noticed the flicker issue yet. I had over 7000 hours on my bulb :eek: Much, much brighter picture.

After two years and 6100 hours on my bulb, I got the thing changed a few minutes ago, the CC warranty came in handy. My wife and I can not believe the color, brightness and clarity from the set. It is like a brand new set. After reading the other post about the dramatic difference, I figured it was just placebo, it is clearly not.

After two years and 6100 hours on my bulb, I got the thing changed a few minutes ago, the CC warranty came in handy. My wife and I can not believe the color, brightness and clarity from the set. It is like a brand new set. After reading the other post about the dramatic difference, I figured it was just placebo, it is clearly not.
Yes. My TV has never looked this good. I got it at a discount because it was a display unit. The new bulb has improved everything. Brightnes, clarity, contrast...you name it. Call me crazy but my Dish HD looks to be improved too! Probably due to the TV's pq improvement. I haven't seen the flicker problem I was having either! Watched the TV for about 2 hours this morning.

My 50we610 was serviced 2mos into warranty to have a component soldered on to board to prevent failing powerups. No problems since then (March 04). Finally had to replace bulb. Hours on bulb reads 09574. Is this accurate?

Oh, if you do replace it, don't forget to reset the lamp hours setting on your TV. There's instructions on how to do that here at AVS.

How does one check and reset the lamp hours on my 2 year old KDF-50WE655? I can't find the thread.

Thanks

How does one check and reset the lamp hours on my 2 year old KDF-50WE655? I can't find the thread.

Thanks

To check it, it's here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8045683&&#post8045683)

To reset it, it's here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8494955&&#post8494955)

Thanks. I've got 5737 hours with 2144 on/off. Picture still looks great, but if the bulb ever goes, I've got the service plan from CC for two more years.

Asked and answered before I'm sure but I'm having trouble accessing the Gamma Correction screen in setup. It doesn't get highlighted using the normal VHF, cable, composite or DVD inputs. I sem to recall somewhere that some function needs to be selected before the Gamma Correction screen is able to be accessed. If any of you guys remember (it's not in the manual) I'd appreciate your help. Thanks :)

Asked and answered before I'm sure but I'm having trouble accessing the Gamma Correction screen in setup. It doesn't get highlighted using the normal VHF, cable, composite or DVD inputs. I sem to recall somewhere that some function needs to be selected before the Gamma Correction screen is able to be accessed. If any of you guys remember (it's not in the manual) I'd appreciate your help. Thanks :)

I think it's only available in "Pro" video mode. ...maybe? :confused:

Thanks. I've got 5737 hours with 2144 on/off. Picture still looks great, but if the bulb ever goes, I've got the service plan from CC for two more years.

I've got the exact same TV you have. Also got mine a little over 2 years ago at CC. I have the extended warrenty as well from CC. I've noticed the picture is not quite as bright as it once was.

Anyway I decided to call the CC warrenty number yesterday. On advice from someone else I did not press the button for in-home service, but rather for parts. I think #5 then #3. Anyway I explained the the rep that I had had my TV two years and picture was getting dimmer and needed a new bulb. She immediately placed an order for a new free bulb under the warranty. She said it would come via UPS in about 10 business days and she also gave me a tracking number.

I'm planning to put this one in as soon as I get it and use the old one for a back-up in case I need one. BTW I have about 5100 hours on my bulb. All in all a very easy process assuming the bulb shows up as promised. I'd give it a try if I were you!!

I connected a PC to my KDF-50WE655 via the HDMI input and it works very well....mostly.

Problem is the overscan is too much and I loose the top/bottom/sides of the Windows XP screen. I went into the setup and adjusted the overscan settings, but there is not enough adjustment to be able to see the entire Windows XP screens.

Any other options to reduce the amount of overscan?

I connected a PC to my KDF-50WE655 via the HDMI input and it works very well....mostly.

Problem is the overscan is too much and I loose the top/bottom/sides of the Windows XP screen. I went into the setup and adjusted the overscan settings, but there is not enough adjustment to be able to see the entire Windows XP screens.

Any other options to reduce the amount of overscan?
Since the regular options didn't work for you, you can always go into the service menu if you are capable and fudge around with the vertical/horizontal hight/width/position. But just remember if you screw it up, you can render the TV useless until a service person can fix it for you. I managed to properly approximately center the picture (an average of 2 digital inputs for me) by adjusting these settings. I was able to move the displayable image across the screen one pixel at a time - pretty cool, but I could see how you could really screw stuff up if you went to fast or didn't know what you are doing. Try reading UMR's tweaks information for more on this if you are interested. You will have to do a lot of digging to find and understand the info your lookin for, but it will make you much more informed before you delve into this.

Couldn't you also just adjust the resolution on the computer to compensate for the TV too?

Thanks for the guidance. I was hoping I wouldn't have to get into the service menus.

I tried various resolution settings on the PC, but each had the same overscan issue loosing part of the top/bottom/sides.

What gfx card and drivers are you using? I fixed my overscan quite easily with the nvidia drivers, as well as in the past the ati drivers. I am sure I could tweak the service menu to make it even better, but it isn't worth the effort right now.

What gfx card and drivers are you using? I fixed my overscan quite easily with the nvidia drivers, as well as in the past the ati drivers. I am sure I could tweak the service menu to make it even better, but it isn't worth the effort right now.

I have a GeForce FX 5500. Looked at the nvidia driver settings and didn't see anything that would help. Which settings worked for you?

I have a GeForce FX 5500. Looked at the nvidia driver settings and didn't see anything that would help. Which settings worked for you?Which drivers are you using? You should be able to enter a mode in the control panel where you adjust the desktop size with two sliders.

I lucked out I did not call Circiut City I called a local company to come out and clean some dust from my TV. The tech showed up and said the light engine was bad. He told me to call CC and reqeust a them a 3rd party vendor to replace the LE.

I called and i did not even have to ask they just assigned it to the same company.

Last week ABL electronics came out and replaced my light engine and cleaned dust out of the TV. What a huge difference. The tech said it was like a $1200.00 dollar repair I dont't know if that is BS or not but I felt like CC really came through for me. The picture looks awesome again.

The next day CC called to tell me a EW expired and wanted to know I wanted another two years coverage for approx $400.00. I jumped on it. Since I have yet to replace the lamp.

I have one other question. Does anyone know how to avoid dust build up?

I was thinking of covering the back vent with furnace filter material. Not pleated just the cheap blue stuff in the $1.50 filters.

Last week ABL electronics came out and replaced my light engine and cleaned dust out of the TV. What a huge difference. The tech said it was like a $1200.00 dollar repair I dont't know if that is BS or not but I felt like CC really came through for me. The picture looks awesome again.

The next day CC called to tell me a EW expired and wanted to know I wanted another two years coverage for approx $400.00. I jumped on it. Since I have yet to replace the lamp.

I have one other question. Does anyone know how to avoid dust build up?

I was thinking of covering the back vent with furnace filter material. Not pleated just the cheap blue stuff in the $1.50 filters.I was quoted by the Sears tech the same price for the light engine repair. So no, I do not think it is BS.

I've got the exact same TV you have. Also got mine a little over 2 years ago at CC. I have the extended warrenty as well from CC. I've noticed the picture is not quite as bright as it once was.

Anyway I decided to call the CC warrenty number yesterday. On advice from someone else I did not press the button for in-home service, but rather for parts. I think #5 then #3. Anyway I explained the the rep that I had had my TV two years and picture was getting dimmer and needed a new bulb. She immediately placed an order for a new free bulb under the warranty. She said it would come via UPS in about 10 business days and she also gave me a tracking number.

I'm planning to put this one in as soon as I get it and use the old one for a back-up in case I need one. BTW I have about 5100 hours on my bulb. All in all a very easy process assuming the bulb shows up as promised. I'd give it a try if I were you!!

Got my bulb yesterday... put it in this morning. The picture is slightly brighter and I had to make adjustments to the user settings. Now I can keep the one with 5100 hours on it for a spare.

Now I can keep the one with 5100 hours on it for a spare.
Did you utilize the CC extended warranty? I did, and the new bulb came with a return label. It seems they want the old bulb back. I wonder what would happen if I never shipped it back, although it's so much dimmer than the new one I don't know why I'd keep it.

I wonder what would happen if I never shipped it back, although it's so much dimmer than the new one I don't know why I'd keep it.

It's nice to have a spare on hand in case something happens during the SuperBowl, Oscars or season finale of 24.

Did you utilize the CC extended warranty? I did, and the new bulb came with a return label. It seems they want the old bulb back. I wonder what would happen if I never shipped it back, although it's so much dimmer than the new one I don't know why I'd keep it.

Yes, I did use the CC extended warrenty. According to the documentation in the box I got the return label is only for two reasons:
1) They sent you the wrong bulb in the first place OR
2) You own an RCA or Mits brand of TV, then they want the old one returned for some reason. Stated that all other brands do NOT need to return the old bulb!

Turned on my 55SX this morning and the picture is tinted fully green -- it's not the source -- happening on all inputs. I check the menu color/hue settings and they are normal, but the picture looks as if the green was turned up all the way. Any ideas why this would happen?!?

Update -- unplugged the TV and the problem corrected itself -- strange but i'll take it...

set was getting dimmer- replaced my bulb with 5400 hrs and 1100 cycles- back to normal again- I reset lamp hrs to -0-. anyone know how to reset cycles back to 0?

anyone know how to reset cycles back to 0?

Not sure, but maybe you can't? :confused: Maybe it's like a car odometer and it's not just for the lamp but how many times the set has been turned on and off.

Anyone know for sure?

set was getting dimmer- replaced my bulb with 5400 hrs and 1100 cycles- back to normal again- I reset lamp hrs to -0-. anyone know how to reset cycles back to 0?
From all I've googled - you can't reset it. You might try to reset it like the lamp timer and see what you get. Let us know.

Like an Oil change ... I log the Hours when You change. Use math to see how many Hours You got on each lamp.....

In the bottom left corner of my set a puple haze has developed. It's on every input, and really visible with bright content. Like white, yellow. It's an odd shape, almost like smoke. No movement.

I'll try to get a pick of it. Not sure how long it's been there, but when going through DVE-HD it was there.

It's under warranty, and a tech is coming to look at it Wed evening. Just trying to see if this can be fixed or should I get a new set?

Well I got my bulb changed today. Haven't noticed the flicker issue yet. I had over 7000 hours on my bulb :eek: Much, much brighter picture.
Still no flicker, but a new problems is here!

In the bottom left corner of my set a puple haze has developed. It's on every input, and really visible with bright content. Like white, yellow. It's an odd shape, almost like smoke. No movement.

I'll try to get a pick of it. Not sure how long it's been there, but when going through DVE-HD it was there.

It's under warranty, and a tech is coming to look at it Wed evening. Just trying to see if this can be fixed or should I get a new set?
The tech didn't even come out, he called and said he was ordering a "engine" so he could replace it. Light engine? Sounds major. The purple haze is bigger today, than it was yesterday. I can see it in 2.35 movies, which means it's now above the black bars! Well the good news is my TV is under warranty until Nov. 2009.

Should I be looking to get a new set? Anyone else had a "engine" change?

The tech didn't even come out, he called and said he was ordering a "engine" so he could replace it. Light engine? Sounds major. The purple haze is bigger today, than it was yesterday. I can see it in 2.35 movies, which means it's now above the black bars! Well the good news is my TV is under warranty until Nov. 2009.

Should I be looking to get a new set? Anyone else had a "engine" change?

Replacing the light engine should make it as good as it can be. If it doesn't, your warranty should cover further repairs.

If the set is relatively new, it should be as good as new. If the set is somewhat old, replacing the internal lamp (about $200) will return it to as good as new.

Just be sure that when the light engine is replaced, you have the technician verify that the picture is straight (it can get tilted if the light engine isn't carefully aligned). Don't let him leave until it is straight.

Thanks Jim. I was reading through some other post and this is a ongoing problem. Always get the service warranty! I'll make sure the picture is straight. What's the best way to check this? I have a copy of the DVE-HDdvd, this should do the trick!

Thanks Jim. I was reading through some other post and this is a ongoing problem. Always get the service warranty! I'll make sure the picture is straight. What's the best way to check this? I have a copy of the DVE-HDdvd, this should do the trick!
I'm no expert on the display, I simply am also an owner. Yes, DVE should be a good way to check it. But for a quick check the tech would sit still for, simply tune to a channel with a sports score bar or financial ticker. Verify that the bar at the bottom or top is uniform height and is straight. Heck, even CNN should work.

In the bottom left corner of my set a puple haze has developed. It's on every input, and really visible with bright content. Like white, yellow. It's an odd shape, almost like smoke. No movement.

I'll try to get a pick of it. Not sure how long it's been there, but when going through DVE-HD it was there.

It's under warranty, and a tech is coming to look at it Wed evening. Just trying to see if this can be fixed or should I get a new set?

My 60XS955 did the same thing. The Best Buy tech (EW) called it in and after many different repairs, "lemoned" the set. It was the light engine by his observation.
I posted in the XS forum. You should be good as new, minus any other issues...
Good luck. Now I have to shop :confused:

That sucks Joe. These new digital TV just don't last like my 7+ year old tube TV.

That sucks Joe. These new digital TV just don't last like my 7+ year old tube TV.


Yes it does. My friend's 32" Panny tube only lasted 8 years. It was more expensive to fix than a new tube would cost. He's in a waiting mode on a new technology TV. Moved the bedroom TV to the LR. For now.

Me I have to spend $3200 at BB or lose the remainder. Trouble is most TVs in the size I need cost about 2800 and they don't have the higher models that would fit my money (including Magnolia!). :mad: I can't use the difference to buy the new EW, noooo that would be the nice thing to do! Oh well, better than nothing. I do get 1080P now!

In the bottom left corner of my set a puple haze has developed. It's on every input, and really visible with bright content. Like white, yellow. It's an odd shape, almost like smoke. No movement.

I'll try to get a pick of it. Not sure how long it's been there, but when going through DVE-HD it was there.

It's under warranty, and a tech is coming to look at it Wed evening. Just trying to see if this can be fixed or should I get a new set?
Look at the bottom left portion of this pic.

http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/8596/20070504image0077jh2.th.jpg (http://img100.imageshack.us/my.php?image=20070504image0077jh2.jpg)

Here's my TV. I put on a light gray screen from DVE. It shows it well. Ignore the Red ball that's the flash from my camera. I was covering it with my finger, still can't figure out the friggin' camera menus. :mad:

I started a Thread in the BluRay forums but I was wondering if I posted this in the TV (GWIV) thread I might get more responses if anyone here has a PS3. The title and the link should say it all. Any help would be appreciated.

EDIT apparently the thread got merged into the PS3 thread - I'm not pleased about the merge but reguardless, here is the link to my posts.

Post 1 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10634761&&#post10634761)

Post 2 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10645305&&#post10645305)

Guys over here changing out the light engine. Unhooking lots of stuff. Damn.

Guys over here changing out the light engine. Unhooking lots of stuff. Damn.


Good Luck!! I feel your pain! I'm still in limbo, waiting for BB to get inventory on the sets I'd like to choose from. My time is running out and my set is getting "bluer" every day.
What I'd like:
1) Samsung HL-T6189S (Not a sku)
2) Mitsubishi WD-65734 (Not a sku yet)
3) Samsung HL-T6187S (an in stock and cheapest choice) :(

He says the part is like $1100. That's a new set. Oh well, like I said before I have until 2009.

He got finished about 20-30 minutes ago. I was checking everything out. Picture is perfect as far as I can tell. Looked at a few DVE-HD patterns and the kids are watching Happy Feet for the 20th time. The PQ is better for some reason. Like a new set!

Does the light engine include the 3LCD panels?

He got finished about 20-30 minutes ago. I was checking everything out. Picture is perfect as far as I can tell. Looked at a few DVE-HD patterns and the kids are watching Happy Feet for the 20th time. The PQ is better for some reason. Like a new set!

Does the light engine include the 3LCD panels?

My light engine was replaced in March. It is like getting a new tv. I can't imagine what it would be like with a new bulb.

My light engine was replaced in March. It is like getting a new tv. I can't imagine what it would be like with a new bulb.
I had just gotten my bulb changed about 2-3 months before, I think? There was a PQ improvement then too. Thanks to my service contract :D

I turned my TV on last night and the green power light blinks for like 1-2 mins then goes solid but I have no picture. I can tell the bulb is on because I can see the light bleed but no picture at all. Anyone ever hear of this?

Edit: Unplugged my TV for a few mins and it's back on. I have no idea why this happened though.

I turned my TV on last night and the green power light blinks for like 1-2 mins then goes solid but I have no picture. I can tell the bulb is on because I can see the light bleed but no picture at all. Anyone ever hear of this?

Edit: Unplugged my TV for a few mins and it's back on. I have no idea why this happened though.

Yeah, sometimes a "reset" fixes the problem. Good Luck and I hope you have an EW!!

I turned it on this morning and got the same thing (flashing green light for 1-2 mins before I got a blank screen.) I unplugged it for 2 mins then plugged it back in. When the power light finally stopped blinking this is what I got.

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/2806/tv002qq1.th.jpg (http://img179.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tv002qq1.jpg)

I guess it's time for a service call. I have an extended warranty.

I turned it on this morning and got the same thing (flashing green light for 1-2 mins before I got a blank screen.) I unplugged it for 2 mins then plugged it back in. When the power light finally stopped blinking this is what I got.

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/2806/tv002qq1.th.jpg (http://img179.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tv002qq1.jpg)

I guess it's time for a service call. I have an extended warranty.

Look at the pretty colors daddy! :D :eek: :eek: :eek: :(

I feel your pain! TG for the EW!

"TG for the EW" is easy for you to say! I didn't buy the extended warranty 2-1/2 years ago when I purchased my Sony, now I am suffering from the dreaded Blue Blur syndrome.

The guy at Sam's Club told me that if I purchase a replacement set there, I can return it any time within 3 years for any reason for a refund or exchange. Bulb burns out - new set. Blue blur - new set. Newer models come out - new set.

Well my KF-50WE610 I've had since 12/03 has lines going horizontally across the screen and it flickering a little. I've already had the light engine replaced twice in this set. Now I guess I'm going for number 3 soon. They last 2 times I had the fog like colored spots. This problem is different but I bet its the same part. Wish I could get the lemon classification on my set. Bought from a small company called "Handy TV Warehouse". Thank God I has the sense to buy a 5 year extended warranty. So I'm repair cost free till 12/29/08. I guess by then I'll need a flat 1080P set anyway. Think I could call Sony and shed a tear or no? ;)

"TG for the EW" is easy for you to say! I didn't buy the extended warranty 2-1/2 years ago when I purchased my Sony, now I am suffering from the dreaded Blue Blur syndrome.

The guy at Sam's Club told me that if I purchase a replacement set there, I can return it any time within 3 years for any reason for a refund or exchange. Bulb burns out - new set. Blue blur - new set. Newer models come out - new set.


Sorry :( Costco is now only 90 days. So Sam now trumps the big C.

Well I know now I won't be going back to Tweeter for my business. I called in for service today and they said they only have 1 technician for my entire area. So they'll have to subcontract the work. The main reason I went with Tweeter is the great word of mouth from here over their service. Below is the letter I just fired off to them.

I just wanted to express my sincere dissatisfaction at your in home service department. I've had to have my TV serviced twice in the last six months and both times the service is being subcontracted to a third party. The main reason I went with Tweeter and paid the higher price was due to your service reputation and the fact that you used your own technicians and did not subcontract like all the other "big stores."

I had to call in today to get service on my TV since it is completely unusable. I have rainbow lines on my TV and cannot get any response from any input. (see picture: http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/2806/tv002qq1.jpg). I was told by your service department that only 1 technician services my area and that he's backed up for the next three weeks. So my only alternative is to have a third party take over the work. The last time I needed service the third party came said there was nothing wrong and left!

If this is how Tweeter handles their service I will be taking my business to Sears for my next TV.

Tweeter in my area went out of business last month.

Same with me but there are still a few others throughout NJ.

I just ordere my new bulb through CC Warranty. No Hassles. No worries. New Bulb next week.

I am covered until Jan 2009. Every blind squirrel finds a nut sometimes.

Tweeter has really gone down hill over the years. I went into the new store here in Marlton, NJ last week. I will not make that mistake again.

The earliest I can get my TV serviced is 6/12, and I'm positive they'll need parts so it looks like it'll be a few weeks before it gets fixed. :(

I just ordere my new bulb through CC Warranty. No Hassles. No worries. New Bulb next week. Not only no hassles, but the guy who came out to replace my bulb under CC warranty didn't even turn on the television to check the bulb brightness before replacing it! Mine was dimmer than when new (now the TV is 2 years old), but not really "defective". He replaced the bulb and was gone in less than 10 minutes. And no paperwork. Nice. Too bad the warranty for the next year goes up to $400 :(

Not only no hassles, but the guy who came out to replace my bulb under CC warranty didn't even turn on the television to check the bulb brightness before replacing it! Mine was dimmer than when new (now the TV is 2 years old), but not really "defective". He replaced the bulb and was gone in less than 10 minutes. And no paperwork. Nice. Too bad the warranty for the next year goes up to $400 :(

I think it is money well spent. I just renewed with CC. So far I have gotten one new tv and a new light engine. I was told the light engine was a $1250 repair. Not to mention the tech cleaned the insides while he was in there. It was like getting a new TV.

So I moved my TV into the other room for easier access for the repairman. I set it all up and turned it on and still doing the rainbow thing. Two minutes later my wife walks in asks if it's still broken to which I said yes, and then she hits the power button on the front of the TV (ya know to double check). So what should happen? Of course the TV comes right on and works fine. So now I have no idea what to tell the guy tomorrow as I know something is really wrong but now have no way to show him. I did take the pictures so I guess that's all I can use now. :(

Also, I checked my bulb and I'm at 4300 hrs. I might just go ahead and have him replace it.

Well they changed the bulb without me even asking so I got a new one. I knew that wasn't the problem but they did it anyway. They didn't find out what was wrong so they took the TV. Can anyone who bought from Tweeter look over the EW info and tell me if they're allowed to take it? I was under the impression they had to fix it in your house.

Chalk me up as another two year owner of a Sony KDF55WF655 with the purple / blue bar problem in the lower left corner of the screen. Just started today. 7584 hours on this set just over 2 years old and no EW.

If they don't do something about this light engine this will be the last Sony Product I ever buy. E-V-E-R!

Paid $3K for this set new.

My KDF55WF655 Blue Blob

After two deeply frustrating phone calls with Sony "tech" support, I have filed a formal complaint with the Better Business Bureau. I strongly advise anyone with this problem to do the same.

I just finished with Sony's chat support and it was pretty good. They have a refund program in place for the repairs. Unfortunately, I can't post the link to the form because this is my second post. Thanks Admin. Jeez

http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/support-info.pl?template_id=1&info_id=316&mdl=KDF55WF655

It's under the tab News and Alerts

It's good that Sony has finally acknowledged the issue and is taking care of it. For me this wasn't the first problem, and some can never be fixed (the info pop-up) and my set is now "lemoned" under the BB EW. Good riddance.

Sony calls it the "blue dot or star on screen" and has some photos that look like they could have been taken of my KDF55WF655:

http://esupport.sony.com/perl/news-item.pl?news_id=206&mdl=KDF55WF655

Another good bit of news is that Sony is extending warranty coverage for this problem thru December 31, 2008.

why anyone would spend 2k plus on a TV and not buy a relatively cheap EW (insurance policy) which will at the very least replace the light bulb (and pay for itself) is beyond me. I'm glad to hear sony is doing something to recognize these problems, my set it 2.5 years old, still on the original bulb and looking good (may be time to replace the bulb, it has probably dimmed and i've not noticed it) but I am very impressed with this sony product and I'd buy again.

I know that i'm probably one of the lucky few who've not had problems. BBU/Power conditioner what i use on all my AV equipment. Don't know if it helps.

I turned it on this morning and got the same thing (flashing green light for 1-2 mins before I got a blank screen.) I unplugged it for 2 mins then plugged it back in. When the power light finally stopped blinking this is what I got.

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/2806/tv002qq1.th.jpg (http://img179.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tv002qq1.jpg)

I guess it's time for a service call. I have an extended warranty.

Had the same exact thing about 6 months ago and posted here about it. Didn't have a pic of it, just explained it to all here but nobody had experienced it yet. Somebody here suggested I unplug it for awhile and plug it back in. Voila! It's been fine ever since. I still wanted to know what the hell caused it, so I got in touch my warrant co. and asked if they had any clue what it was. The lady on the phone said it sounded like it could've been "re-trace lines." Other than that, my set has been great. The only thing I have, very occasionally, is the info banner pop-up. Too bad that little glitch couldn't warrant a "lemon" so I could get a new set! I like my GWIV, but a 'comparable' replacement set today would certainly best mine.

... add one more ... replacing the bulb has not made any improvement whatsoever.

Had the same exact thing about 6 months ago and posted here about it. Didn't have a pic of it, just explained it to all here but nobody had experienced it yet. Somebody here suggested I unplug it for awhile and plug it back in. Voila! It's been fine ever since. I still wanted to know what the hell caused it, so I got in touch my warrant co. and asked if they had any clue what it was. The lady on the phone said it sounded like it could've been "re-trace lines." Other than that, my set has been great. The only thing I have, very occasionally, is the info banner pop-up. Too bad that little glitch couldn't warrant a "lemon" so I could get a new set! I like my GWIV, but a 'comparable' replacement set today would certainly best mine.

I had it repaired and they said a circuit board was ordered from Sony. I get it back today so we'll see if it's fixed or not.

My brother has the blue blob on his KDF-60WF655.

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/9543/img0833kl9.jpg

Ok my TV is back and working but one question. My father in law told me when they were at the house they installed a new bulb to see if that cleared up the issue which it didn't, and they took the TV. I got it back tonight and it doesn't look any brighter/better than before. So, how do I know if they kept the new bulb in or just put the old one back in?

My brother has the blue blob on his KDF-60WF655.

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/9543/img0833kl9.jpg

Try it with no flash.

... and some can never be fixed (the info pop-up) and my set is now "lemoned" under the BB EW. Good riddance.


Hey all - kind of late to this thread (not on AVS very much) but recently I started noticing some kind of flicker or dimming of my set on all inputs.

Basically - it's like someone is switching the display modes from Pro -> Vivid -> Pro every now and then. It's pretty random and I notice it across all inputs (SD, HD, HDMI etc.).

I'm going to guess this is the "flicker" y'all post about and the fix is possibly a new bulb. I don't know my hours on the bulb, but I read the post on how to find it. My set is right around 3 years old and is EW'd until close to the end of 2008. No blue blobs as of yet.

It seems that some folks just got a bulb in the mail and that was it and others have had the in-home service. Is there any reason to go with one over the other? I'm thinking of doing the in-home service as it seems that some people get a little "extra" done with out even asking - like cleanings, light engine replacement etc.

I quoted the other person because I have that problem as well with the info information popping up randomly. Is that a lemon'able item or just a known issue tagged by Sony as a 'won't fix'?

My EW is through CC if that matters in your response.

Thanks all! This thread has been very helpful, although I didn't have time to read all 100+ pages. :)

bump....

Anyone confirm whether or not the information screen randomply popping up is a lemon'able item or something sony just can't/won't address?

Called the EW number and they're coming out next Tuesday to replace the bulb.

Anyone confirm whether or not the information screen randomply popping up is a lemon'able item or something sony just can't/won't address?


I can't confirm anything, but it's been an unresolved problem for a couple years, so I think it's a design flaw in these models.

Fair enough - that really doesn't bother me all that much, but if my EW could get me a new TV because of it - I'd persue it. :)

Gulp!!! - I'm at 8037 hours and 2236 cycles - I guess it *IS* time for a bulb change. :)

Can't wait to see the difference!!

This thread rocks! Thanks all!

Gulp!!! - I'm at 8037 hours and 2236 cycles - I guess it *IS* time for a bulb change. :)


Pull out the sunglasses after you change it. :cool:


:D

Dave you have the sequence to find out bulb life again? I always lose it.

To check lamp hours, it's here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8045683&&#post8045683)

To reset lamp hours, it's here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8494955&&#post8494955)

Just got the optical block / light engine replaced on my KDF55WF655 via the new warranty coverage for blue blob:

http://esupport.sony.com/perl/news-item.pl?news_id=206&mdl=KDF55WF655

The good news was that it took less than an hour for the transplant, and the GREAT news is that seemingly I have a new television. The set looks better than it did brand new out of the box in the fall of 2004. I had to reduce the color level several notches, since the new optical block puts out a much more vivid and perhaps more detailed picture. The tech did not alter any of my service menu tweaks or change any of my user settings, so the only thing that changed was the new hardware he installed.

This has renewed my flagging confidence in Sony.

did you have a warrenty? I have the NSI plan good till dec 09
Im worried I have not had any issues and have about 6500hrs in it
and dont feel like dealing with a bad light engine. has anyone found out just how many
have failed vs sold?

Today I received a letter from Sony about the "blue blob" problem, and how Sony is now covering the issue. Later, I also received an email from Sony with the same message.

Looks like Sony has gotten the message, and is trying to be a lot better about this. Better late than never, I guess.

Finally: thanks, Sony!

Just got the optical block / light engine replaced on my KDF55WF655 via the new warranty coverage for blue blob:

http://esupport.sony.com/perl/news-item.pl?news_id=206&mdl=KDF55WF655

The good news was that it took less than an hour for the transplant, and the GREAT news is that seemingly I have a new television. The set looks better than it did brand new out of the box in the fall of 2004. I had to reduce the color level several notches, since the new optical block puts out a much more vivid and perhaps more detailed picture. The tech did not alter any of my service menu tweaks or change any of my user settings, so the only thing that changed was the new hardware he installed.

This has renewed my flagging confidence in Sony.

Don't get too happy, I'm on my 3rd block. My TV is an early batch of this model and is a major lemon. I'd be really mad if I hadn't have bought a 5 year extended warranty. So I'm covered till Jan of 09. When it dies after that its time for a 1080p TV.

I've got the KDF060WF655 and today the green light started flashing; the picture cycles on and off.

I assume this is the ballast. The lamp light has never gone on.

If I buy the replacement lamp($200), does this include the ballast as part of the assembly? I've had the set about 3 years, so it may be time for a lamp change. I hope this fixes the problem.

Just buy a new bulb and you should be all set. mine did this and I ended up just needing a new bulb. I bought my bulb from Cruthfield.

You don't know how happy I am that I checked out this forum before dumping my Sony KDF-60XS955 because the picture was getting so bad. I have the blue blob happening, and I figured I was just SOL. Do I just call Sony and they set up a technician to come fix the problem?

how is is that unit?

I've got the KDF060WF655 and today the green light started flashing; the picture cycles on and off.

I assume this is the ballast. The lamp light has never gone on.

If I buy the replacement lamp($200), does this include the ballast as part of the assembly? I've had the set about 3 years, so it may be time for a lamp change. I hope this fixes the problem.


Welcome to my nightmare. My set (KDF42WE655) is just about 3 years old as well and 3 weeks ago, my set started doing the exact same thing. My image would go out and then come back several times and then finally, it stopped coming back entirely. When I power cycled the set, the lamp light warning LED started flashing and that was all she wrote.

Called the customer service for the extended warranty I had (thank God) and told them what happened. They came to the same conclusion as most posts on this subject that it was the lamp. They dispatched a service tech for the following week to replace the lamp. 2 replacement lamps later, no go. The set still wouldn't light. The tech came to the conclusion that it must then be the ballast (no, it is not included with the bulb) so he ordered a new ballast and the tech returned the following week to replace it. Again, a 3rd new lamp and a new ballast and my TV still fails to light. The tech even replaced one of the thermal sensors just incase. The ballast indicates it is working or at least trying to start but the lamp never gets energized. The tech (whom was very knowledgable and fairly experienced) said he had never come accross this before and had to phone Sony for the next step.

He is returning Saturday to replace some more parts so I am keeping my fingers crossed that 3rd times the try.

Hope your trouble is much simpler.
Phil

how is is that unit?

The new lamp should be coming in today. I hope this works. I'll let you know.

Welcome to my nightmare. My set (KDF42WE655) is just about 3 years old as well and 3 weeks ago, my set started doing the exact same thing. My image would go out and then come back several times and then finally, it stopped coming back entirely. When I power cycled the set, the lamp light warning LED started flashing and that was all she wrote.

Called the customer service for the extended warranty I had (thank God) and told them what happened. They came to the same conclusion as most posts on this subject that it was the lamp. They dispatched a service tech for the following week to replace the lamp. 2 replacement lamps later, no go. The set still wouldn't light. The tech came to the conclusion that it must then be the ballast (no, it is not included with the bulb) so he ordered a new ballast and the tech returned the following week to replace it. Again, a 3rd new lamp and a new ballast and my TV still fails to light. The tech even replaced one of the thermal sensors just incase. The ballast indicates it is working or at least trying to start but the lamp never gets energized. The tech (whom was very knowledgable and fairly experienced) said he had never come accross this before and had to phone Sony for the next step.

He is returning Saturday to replace some more parts so I am keeping my fingers crossed that 3rd times the try.

Hope your trouble is much simpler.
Phil


Well, in my case, the tech tried to replace another part that Sony recomended and still nothing. The set fails to start so the tech called in for me to get a replacement set. Best Buy exchanged my KDF-42WE655 for a brand new KDF-46E3000 and I was even able to upgrade to the KDF-50E3000 for $145. I still had to buy a new warranty but at least they stand by their promises. I hope everyone else has better luck but I'm going to have to switch to the KDF-50E3000 forum now.

Thank you,
Phil

Well, in my case, the tech tried to replace another part that Sony recomended and still nothing. The set fails to start so the tech called in for me to get a replacement set. Best Buy exchanged my KDF-42WE655 for a brand new KDF-46E3000 and I was even able to upgrade to the KDF-50E3000 for $145. I still had to buy a new warranty but at least they stand by their promises. I hope everyone else has better luck but I'm going to have to switch to the KDF-50E3000 forum now.

Thank you,
Phil


Me too. It took a while to resolve everything (mostly me wanting a set they tried to special order) but my 60XS955 now sleeps with the fishes and my Mits WD-65833 arrived on Saturday. So far so good.
The BB warranty is expensive but they stand behind it.
I wouldn't buy any of these high technology TVs without an EW, it's so expensive to have repaired that after the EW they basically become near disposable.

Hey...can anyone share their settings that they have for their TV? I have my own AVIA disc and have used it but I believe I've set my Picture (contrast) too low...I noticed on the newer SXRD's that people are setting their Picture settings to 80+. Mine is ~ 50...granted, this is for an older TV but still...

how is is that unit?


Replaced the lamp Monday, everything seems to be working fine now; had to turn down the brightness.

Real simple fix.

Noticed about a week ago my pic wasn't as bright as it used to be. Checked the forum and decided to check my bulb hours. WOW! 9300 plus and around 2200 on/offs.

So, called Circuit City warranty and they sent me a new bulb. Installed it and expected to be back to normal.

NOT EVEN CLOSE! Same dark, dull, picture with a faint red line running down the right side of the screen. I tried turing up the brightness and picture up all the way and it still sucks.

Any clues or suggestions???

Sony KDF-60XS955

Sears came by and fixed the "blue blob" effect, changed out the optical block/light engine and my picture is back to perfect. Sony covered the whole thing under their special warranty repair of this problem. Bought my TV in November of 2004. The cost if not covered was around $1500. I have about 11,000 hours on my bulb. The Sears technician sold me a 3 year warranty, and told me when my bulb goes out (should be soon) that he will come out and replace the bulb for free. They will come and clean the unit every year, and replace anything that breaks until Oct 2010.

Thanks AVS Forum members for helping get my problem fixed.

Turned out I had a defective replacement. Got another bulb that worked fine!

alright... I need help here.

First, I have a KDF-55WF655

What does it mean when the top 2 inches of the TV has a red push while the bottom 2 inches of the TV is pushing green?

I just started noticing it recently.

As for bulb time, I replaced my bulb about 2 months ago.

Thanks!


EDIT: I still have warranty with CC till next year.

So in regards to the blue blob issue ... my KDF50-WE655 is showing some blue lines, though not a blob specifically. There is a blue line running down the left side of the screen about 6 inches in from the border. There is another blue line along the bottom, about 3 inches up from the bottom of the screen. Do you all think this is the same issue? I've got a BB extended warranty, do you think its better to go with BB or Sony on this?

Thanks!

sbrown23 -- I think I would just have the BB extended warranty people come and check it out. If it is the blue blob issue, they will either replace the light engine unit on their dime, or they will contact Sony and have Sony pay the bill under warranty. My guess is they are authorized to do Sony warranty work.

So in regards to the blue blob issue ... my KDF50-WE655 is showing some blue lines, though not a blob specifically. There is a blue line running down the left side of the screen about 6 inches in from the border. There is another blue line along the bottom, about 3 inches up from the bottom of the screen. Do you all think this is the same issue? I've got a BB extended warranty, do you think its better to go with BB or Sony on this?

Thanks!

Thats how it starts.:mad:

I have a KDF-42WE655. I turned the unit on and there was no picture. The "Power / Standby" was blinking for a few minutes. Then it went to a solid green light but the picture never came back on.

I turned off the unit for a few minutes and then picture did come on.

What does this mean? Is my lamp going?

I have a 60xs955 showing a blue line on the bottome right of the screen.
I have a sears warranty on it. Does anyone think it is the light engine? What needs to happen to qualify for Sears Lemon replacement? I would love to upgrade.

Thanks
Brian

Brota -- I have the same TV, and if you look above about 7 posts you'll see that I just had my light engine replaced. Mine started out with just blue at the bottom left corner, but soon thereafter started to appear across the whole tv. Sears will take care of it under warranty for Sony, but I doubt you'll be able to claim lemon law and upgrade. Scott

Wow ... just looked on my 50WE655 and checked the lamp hours. 11390 on the original lamp, with almost 3000 power cycles. I didn't think the lamp was supposed to last this long, but I won't complain.

Wow just had Valley TV here and the Tech had a new light engine installed in 30 min. The Picture is better then new ,its so fantastic i cant believe it.The blacks are inky black the colors are so saturated ,Thanks to all if you who busted sony's balls and fought for this repair. The tech told me I was very lucky so many people raised hell with Sony, or they never would have changed out this whole light engine...:D:D:D:D

opps forgot picture of old and new engine..

One more pix...

I had mine changed due to dust issues. The spots are starting to form a again. I can see some dust in your cabinet.

If you Compare pix 86 to 88 you see a white round filter in pix 88, notice its dark grey in pix 86.
It should be serviceable ,blew out a lot of the dust while it was apart, but didnt want to blow dust into the projection cavity.
Sony did do a good job of sealing the area where the mirror and lens are.
My old CRT Rear proj. TV was not sealed in this area and would get dust in all the lenses.

my light engine is getting replaced today! hope it fixes the issue...then again, hope it doesn't so i get a new TV :D

I apologize if this problem has already been reported but I was unable to find it in this thread.

I have a KDF-55XS955 that turns itself off after about 20 minutes of operation, with the red standby light blinking four times. I can turn it back on, but it will happen again with progressively shorter amounts of time before it turns off. Eventually it turns off as soon as the picture "warms up".

It is under BB warranty until next year. Back in 2004 I had the light engine replaced. When the BB tech came out to service it this time (after over a month from my first trouble call, but that's another issue) he replaced the lamp and the thermal fuse. Unfortunately the problem still persists.

Has anyone else run into this and if so, what was the fix?

Thanks,
Jason

has been revised over the original?

About 13,000 hours on this unit. just replaced the blub about 2 months ago. Now I am getting the blue blobs. Not worried because I have extended warranty and understand sony is covering the problem until 12-08.

I am curious as to whether the replacement light engine is a upgrade or just a new one of the same that seem to be going bad at an alarming rate.

Also, is there any real upgrade to the picture with the replacement?

Hi folks,

I know this has probably been asked a thousand times but I need that warm, cozy feeling before I spend $200 hard earned cash! I have a KDF60XS955, purchased in Jan 2005. Recently, the picture has shut off, the green light flashes like 30 times and then the picture comes back on. This is regardless of input source (Cable, DVD and PS3). I followed the directions listed on this thread and found LampTM = 6342 and LampCT = 2587. Is it time for a new lamp?

Thanks all!

I had this problem I replaced the lamp and it still did it.
The technician came out
I think the screw for the door was not seating enough he put a spacer on it to make the contact a little better.

Wow - maybe I'll try that before replacing the bulb. Thanks!

I think the guy just put some tape at the bottom of the bulb door screw.
I am going to have them come in to fix it again soon. I am trying to get the lemon clause invoked for my tv so I need 4 part replacements in a year

Hi,
does anyone know if/how the TV can be tweaked to pass the dolby digital signal that's carried by the HDMI input out the optical (toslink) output?
All I ever get is just the analog 2-channel (downmix?) out the RCA-out connectors. Is there perhaps a firmware upgrade available that enables dolby digital pass-through OR is it something that can be tweaked via the service menu?

thanks!
Joe

Hi,
does anyone know if/how the TV can be tweaked to pass the dolby digital signal that's carried by the HDMI input out the optical (toslink) output?
All I ever get is just the analog 2-channel (downmix?) out the RCA-out connectors. Is there perhaps a firmware upgrade available that enables dolby digital pass-through OR is it something that can be tweaked via the service menu?

thanks!
JoeJoe - the optical out is linked to the OTA tuner for HD. It is only capable of sending 5.1 sound from OTA HD, all other audio brought into the TV will be downmixed as you have seen. I don't think there is a way to do what you ask, becuase it comes up time and time again, and the answer is always the same. You need an HDMI AV receiver and effectivly bypass the TV.

Thanks for the response and confirming my findings.
After doing some more research and googling it myself, I am starting to see that it's a real problem with all HDMI devices (except for receivers of course) but including HDMI switches...that's just horrible. So, now I will have to go and buy the component cables for the 360 just so that I can get the digital sound out of it into my receiver!
I will start avoiding anything HDMI from now on....

Thanks for the response and confirming my findings.
After doing some more research and googling it myself, I am starting to see that it's a real problem with all HDMI devices (except for receivers of course) but including HDMI switches...that's just horrible. So, now I will have to go and buy the component cables for the 360 just so that I can get the digital sound out of it into my receiver!
I will start avoiding anything HDMI from now on....Joe...I wouldn't avoid all HDMI devices. But you need to be sure that there is an alternate output of audio for you to use. I would totally pick up an HDMI receiver, but I don't nearly have the need yet. All my digital deviced pass 5.1 audio via the optical so I just run the video feeds via HDMI and, audio the other route. Now, if you have just one HDMI on your TV, then the switcher comes in handy, but again only as long as you can get the audio another route. Can't you use the HDMI for the 360 for video to the TV and use the optical for the audio to your reciever?

dang, I just checked my bulb usage and found I have 14532 hours and 2207 cycles. Just ordered a new one and am hoping this one makes it til it gets here. Can't wait to see the pop in the picture again. :cool: