Philips 42PF9630A HD Plasma [Text View] - Page 11

Magna2007

02-01-07, 09:33 AM

Yes, its a 42PF9630A/37.

I already printed the letter, attachec copies of my previous work orders and will be mailing it tomorrow.

Here's a list of my grievances:

• Side USB connectors stopped working; could not view photos or perform firmware upgrade using same USB memory stick which I had used previously. This problem was fixed by the second repair.

• Intermittent video/audio dropout. This occurs frequently at startup and occasionally after the set has been on for some time. The loss of video/audio signals do not typically coincide. However, when the video is lost on startup, the on-screen display does in fact work. This problem has existed since the unit was new.

• Color temperature settings are backwards. Cool setting has a red tint while warm setting has a blue tint. Other pre-set color settings are red/brown in appearance. The set did not have these problems prior to the signal board being replaced the first time.

• When changing input selector to HDMI (DVD player), the background screen (which should be blue) occasionally appears bright pink, or freezes up and requires a restart. This problem existed since I purchased a DVD player with HDMI output.

• Attaching DVD player to either HDMI input makes signal appear on both HDMI1 and HDMI2. This is not expected and could cause problems connecting a second HDMI device. This problem existed since I purchased a DVD player with HDMI output.

• I have been unable to connect my Scientific Atlanta 3250HD cable converter to the television via DVI/HDMI using a Philips conversion cable. Either snow appears or I get a screen originating from the cable converter saying that the television is not HDCP-compliant (it is). Occasionally the signal will work but switch back to this message intermittently making it impossible to view programs while using the HDMI inout. This occurs regardless of whether the DVD player is connected to the other HDMI input. I have tried two cables and three different cable boxes and the problem still exists.

Sounds like you had an HDTV with a defective board(s) and then coupled with improperly or incorrectly done repairs. Were the previous repairs were done in your home or did "they" take the TV away to a shop somewhere?

TubaSaxT

02-01-07, 04:28 PM

On the other hand, the shop still hasn't gotten the replacement part from Philips....arg!

So, Philips is being helpful about my situation, but decidedly slow at the same time.

I called the repair shop on 1-24. They still hadn't received the replacement part for my television and that Philips still had no ETA for it. She gave me the order number and urged me to contact them and ask about it. She also mentioned that through my warranty, Philips will replace my set if it sits idle for 45 days in repair, mine was currently at 32. I haven't yet dug up the fine print to confirm this.

I go ahead and finally call Philips that same day. That operator said my part was on backorder, but she was unable to track down why. She said she would forward my claim to consumer relations and that someone there would call me within two days.

Consumer relations calls me exactly two days later on 1-26. The gentleman told me basically the same thing, except that he would be investigating further and get back with me by 1-30 to resolve the situation.

Sure enough, that day passes, no one calls. Nobody called yesterday, nobody called by 3:00PM today. I called customer service back to inquire. That gentleman apologized for me not being called, but couldn't tell me anything better than Consumer Relations would again contact me in two days. I hope he's right...

Of course, I just noticed that when Consumer Relations did originally call me, their number wasn't blocked on my caller ID. The number came from New Brunswick, Canada. I'm gonna try that number today as well, and see if I can't get anything accomplished.

TubaSaxT

02-02-07, 12:42 PM

mlandau

02-02-07, 02:46 PM

It could be that PhilipsPhanatic's work is getting some people to wake up at Philips??!!!!!!

desertfoxaz

02-02-07, 08:19 PM

Sounds like you had an HDTV with a defective board(s) and then coupled with improperly or incorrectly done repairs. Were the previous repairs were done in your home or did "they" take the TV away to a shop somewhere?

They replaced the Ambilight units under recall in home but when we set the TV back up it didn't work. He took the TV with him and three weeks later I got it back after the parts came in and they were installed.

The second time the board was replaced, he did it in my home and I watched him do it. It didn't seem like a very complicated job, aside from having to remove around 50 screws to access the parts that needed to be replaced.

desertfoxaz

02-02-07, 08:22 PM

So, Philips is being helpful about my situation, but decidedly slow at the same time.

I called the repair shop on 1-24. They still hadn't received the replacement part for my television and that Philips still had no ETA for it. She gave me the order number and urged me to contact them and ask about it. She also mentioned that through my warranty, Philips will replace my set if it sits idle for 45 days in repair, mine was currently at 32. I haven't yet dug up the fine print to confirm this.

I go ahead and finally call Philips that same day. That operator said my part was on backorder, but she was unable to track down why. She said she would forward my claim to consumer relations and that someone there would call me within two days.

Consumer relations calls me exactly two days later on 1-26. The gentleman told me basically the same thing, except that he would be investigating further and get back with me by 1-30 to resolve the situation.

Sure enough, that day passes, no one calls. Nobody called yesterday, nobody called by 3:00PM today. I called customer service back to inquire. That gentleman apologized for me not being called, but couldn't tell me anything better than Consumer Relations would again contact me in two days. I hope he's right...

Of course, I just noticed that when Consumer Relations did originally call me, their number wasn't blocked on my caller ID. The number came from New Brunswick, Canada. I'm gonna try that number today as well, and see if I can't get anything accomplished.

If you call their service number, they are in Canada, but if you write them, they're in San Francisco.

I really hope they'll replace my TV because I don't see any number of repairs fixing the problems I'm having. I am afraid that by the time they actually get around to repairing it, my service contract will have expired. I was offered to renew it, but for the price they wanted, it's cheaper to just buy a new TV.

Magna2007

02-02-07, 08:40 PM

ANGLICO

02-02-07, 09:55 PM

In the service menu (i .e. 062596 + INFO), the whitepoint menu has the following settings (and with latest firmware version 1.5.0.0):

Color Temp: Normal
Whitepoint red: 127
Whitepoint green: 78
whitepoint blue: 82
Red BL offset: 9
Green BL offset: 6

Has anyone used a calibration disk on this HDTV? If so, does the disk instruct the user to change any of these settings? Also, does anyone know if these "whitepoint" settings are different in earlier firmware versions?

I tried the disk that Circuit City provided with the set. No mention of the Service Menu. I wouldn't think any of them would direct the user there. Maybe someone with AVIA or something else can be more specific.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-02-07, 10:31 PM

It could be that PhilipsPhanatic's work is getting some people to wake up at Philips??!!!!!!

Too early for that, but I think the fact that I have personally probably gotten about 40-50 people to buy a Philips TV just since September -- probably got their attention.

I think they realize that word-of-mouth and the Internet are very powerful factors for HDTV purchases.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-02-07, 10:33 PM

Not 18 hours later, I got a call this morning from Consumer Relations saying they were going to replace my set. It will be a 9631 and take about three weeks to get here. Still kind of slow, but I'm glad they're taking this step for me...kudos to Philips.

Hmmm....I think speaking to an Exec V.P. and getting a 'thank you' from the CEO of Philips got you some results ! ;)

Seriousley, congrats on the new set -- the 9631 is a great model. :)

Donniewb420

02-02-07, 10:45 PM

I tried the disk that Circuit City provided with the set. No mention of the Service Menu. I wouldn't think any of them would direct the user there. Maybe someone with AVIA or something else can be more specific.

i have used avia, I am pretty certain it gave no mention of adjusting these settings within the service menu, unless by a qualified technician.

ANGLICO

02-03-07, 11:13 AM

i have used avia, I am pretty certain it gave no mention of adjusting these settings within the service menu, unless by a qualified technician.

In the early days of color I would remove the back and adjust the Convergence and other picture quality. A technician I knew showed me how to do it without getting fried, saved a lot of expense. Wouldn't attempt any technician-level adjustments on today's equipment. In most cases it requires specialized test gear.

desertfoxaz

02-05-07, 09:19 PM

Hmmm....I think speaking to an Exec V.P. and getting a 'thank you' from the CEO of Philips got you some results ! ;)

Seriousley, congrats on the new set -- the 9631 is a great model. :)

Who did you talk to? I still haven't heard back from anyone. I need to talk to someone tomorrow. This is absolutely ridiculous.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-05-07, 11:26 PM

Who did you talk to? I still haven't heard back from anyone. I need to talk to someone tomorrow. This is absolutely ridiculous.

My guy was a high-level marketing guy. I will try and find a technical guy who might be able to help you.

The problems you describe and the lack of response is what I am trying to solve at a corporate level, not necessarily your specific repair problem. Hopefully, we can kill 2 birds with 1 stone. ;)

desertfoxaz

02-06-07, 11:41 PM

I've talked to the fifth repair shop and they said that they could probably convince Philips to replace my TV as I described the problems and they thought they'd have to replace the main signal board, which has already been replaced twice. They were supposed to call me back but they did not, but I was too busy at work to call them back myself. I'll call them again tomorrow.

panther_fan

02-07-07, 08:05 AM

I posted this in the 9631 thread and haven't gotten any replies so I thought I would try here. I am just going to copy-paste my question here:

Ok, I have a problem. I just hooked my plasma up last night and I can't get a picture from my dvd player. Right now I only have a dvd player (cable is being installed today) so that is all I can test. I have the dvd player hooked up to AV1 with component cables and composite audio and when I try to play a dvd I only get sound. I've tried hooking up the component cables to AV3 and I still don't get a picture. Does anyone have any idea what could be causing this??? I messed around with the tv for several hours last night and decided to call it quits around 11 or so. I should be able to test cable out today, but I would like to figure out why the dvd won't work. Thanks for any help!

Just to update, I hooked the dvd player up to the side composite inputs and it works fine, but it still won't work for the component. Thanks again.

MarkPow

02-07-07, 10:56 AM

Magna2007

02-07-07, 11:34 AM

I know this is a Widescreen television, and I also have a panasonic widescreen but it seems to me that for DVD's full screen format can be a better choice, atleast for my panny. What's the consensus for this TV?

For DVD's, I set the DVD player/recorder to 480p on the HDMI output. On the 42PF9630A HDTV, I generally use "Superzoom", or "Movie Expand 16:9" format and scaling. I occasionally use "16:9 Subtitle" format.

For SDTV, I almost always use "Superzoom". For HDTV, I use "Automatic".

Hope this helps.

MarkPow

02-07-07, 12:00 PM

Why only 480p on the hdmi? Can it do 780p?

So, it doesn't matter if I have full screen or widescreen format DVD's?

rolento76

02-07-07, 12:23 PM

Donniewb420

02-07-07, 12:39 PM

It sounds like you may need to enable your DVD player's component output and set it at 480P. Maybe your DVD will not output both composite and component at the same time.

I know some dvd players also have a choice of progressive/interlaced I dont know if having interlaced selected on a progressive tv would prohibit it from showing any picture at all... never know though, just a thought. hope u get it to work.

Magna2007

02-07-07, 01:20 PM

Why only 480p on the hdmi? Can it do 780p?

So, it doesn't matter if I have full screen or widescreen format DVD's?

If I enable the 720p or 1080i upscaling on the DVDR, then the 42PF9630A still has to scale it again to it's own native resolution, so the signal is scaled twice in this case. If I leave the DVDR output to 480p, then the signal is scaled by the 42FP9630A to it's native resolution directly, so the signal is scaled only once. In addition, only two of the screen format options ("Widescreen" and "Automatic") are enabled in the 42PF9630A if the DVDR is set to upscale the resolution of the signal output. I always buy widescreen DVD's as opposed to full screen; there is more image in Widescreen DVD's to work with.

indept

02-10-07, 08:56 PM

indept

02-10-07, 09:34 PM

I've found your responses to other posts very helpful. I would like your Philips Tips Sheet . How do I PM you my email? I don't see a link to PM messages?

Also, I don't see a search function here. How, short of looking at every post, do I find a specific topic? I've seen many references to certain posts but it would be nice to see a link to the post that we could click on.

Also Also, I would like to see your response to my prvious questions posted in this topic since you seem to be very knowledgeble about Philips products.

I own a Philips surround sound system, a Philips DVDR75 recorder & a Philips HDRW720 hard drive recorder. I'm no PhilipsPhanatic like you and have purchased these products randomly based on price -vs- features (surround sound & DVDR75), and referall from a friend on the HDRW720. I have to agree with others when it comes to menus, these recorders have the worst menus I've ever seen, but the products, once you've stumbled through the menus, work well.

as far as the menus on the plasma tv's goes, they're a magnitude better than the ones on the dvd recorders, in fact I've found them pretty easy to walk through.

Thanks again for all the great info.

mlandau

02-10-07, 10:08 PM

the 9630's came out in the spring of 2005.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-10-07, 10:35 PM

I have read a lot of these topics and have learned alot, thanks guys. I just purchased a refurbished 50pf9630A/37B 50 in plasma on the Philips outlet site ($200 off ). I heard they use new 2007 furbishes :p . Any comments on experience with the refurbs? I know they only have 90 day warranties but I intend to buy an extended warranty, 5 years for $165 from online site (Repairtech). They are registered with the better Buisness Bureau and have a satisfactory rating. I don't usually buy extended warranties, but figured this situation warrants (no pun intended) it.

Great price, usually 3 year warranties for about 20% of the purchase price are a wise investment. You paid less for more years. Just make sure you know where and how you can get a basic repair. And what if the set is unrepairable at some point -- can you get a replacement TV (probably not).

Questions:
1. What do you think of the 50pf9630A.

I think the 9630 and 9631's are great 1st-time HDTV's. And even if they're not your 1st HDTV's !! ;)

2. Are all "9630's" the same electronics with different plasma displays (42 in vs 50 in)

I would think so. Denser pixel-packing in smaller displays, obviousley, given that they are all 720p native resolutions.

3. What should I look for when it is delivered before I sign for it? There is a "no Return" policy, but I can refuse shipment if I'm not happy with it.

At least open it up and have them check the glass with you. You'll also need 2 people to get it onto the stand and then put it on your furniture. Have them help you if possible.

Better yet, get it up and running and see if it works OK. I doubt they'll want to stay that long, though.

4. What year was this model introduced?

I think 2005.

Face it, LCD is the way to go but a 50 in lcd panel goes for about 4K, so given the final [EDIT] price for this, it was hard to refuse, especially since I can get
the 5 yr warranty.

I disagree, right now aside from heavy PC and gaming, I think plasma is better AND cheaper. LCD's are closing the lagged-response gap, and the new Philips sets are probably among the best of the bunch.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-10-07, 10:40 PM

I've found your responses to other posts very helpful. I would like your Philips Tips Sheet . How do I PM you my email? I don't see a link to PM messages?

Underline your cursor under my name on one of my posts and PM me your email.

Also, I don't see a search function here. How, short of looking at every post, do I find a specific topic? I've seen many references to certain posts but it would be nice to see a link to the post that we could click on.

SEARCH is right above you....right below the ads on the page. Use "Advanced Search" to search for THREADS (not posts, too many things come up) and use specific names. For instance, if you enter just "Philips" you'll get all the Philips threads going back a while so if you posted on recently but can't find it since it got moved back 2 weeks or 2 months, just 1 page of all the Philips threads will certainly find it. You can also search just the Plasma threads or all of AVS.

Also Also, I would like to see your response to my prvious questions posted in this topic since you seem to be very knowledgeble about Philips products.

Asked and answered. ;)

I own a Philips surround sound system, a Philips DVDR75 recorder & a Philips HDRW720 hard drive recorder. I'm no PhilipsPhanatic like you and have purchased these products randomly based on price -vs- features (surround sound & DVDR75), and referall from a friend on the HDRW720. I have to agree with others when it comes to menus, these recorders have the worst menus I've ever seen, but the products, once you've stumbled through the menus, work well.

I call my self "PhilipsPhanatic" just because it's a play on the Philadelphia Phillies mascot, the Philly Fanatic. Since I bought a Philips product, just thought it was a natural. I'm not exclusively sold on Philips and other sets are great too (Panasonic was my runner-up). Great that you like the Philips accessories, I haven't bought any myself. Might look into a Blu-ray player.

as far as the menus on the plasma tv's goes, they're a magnitude better than the ones on the dvd recorders, in fact I've found them pretty easy to walk through.

Menus on my Sony DVD player are tough to comprehend, too. :mad:

Thanks again for all the great info.

Enjoy your TV and get back to me for the Philips Tips Sheet. And keep the C&B settings down !! :)

indept

02-11-07, 12:56 AM

Just for info in case anyone is interested

(sorry, I tried to list a link but this site won't let me until I have posted 5 responses.do a search on google on"newworldvideodirect" and click on TV Warranties)
This may be because I'm located in New Jersey Near Philly and I'm a Filly Phlyers Phan ( Just a joke on PhilipsPhanatic Phonics)

I'm in no way affiliated with them, I found them by searching google, seems like a decent deal. here is the info for anyone interested,. I work for Lockheed martin & they have a deal with Philips which gives us Philips employee pricing. The price is good for a new (non-refurbed) tv, but they want $699.00 for a 3 year warranty.
For that price you might as well buy a spare tv & keep it for parts :D

They cover the same as the manufacturer as stated below:
This warranty gives you 5 years of parts and labor coverage on any television/projector/monitor between $501 & $2500.

What You Get

Buying a RepairTech extended warranty service plan from one of our retail affiliates not only means you are getting the highest level of customer service, [savings, and peace of mind,] but also means you can rest assure in the event your product needs repair. The technicians we have are factory trained and authorized to repair your product and we are using the most up to date computers and state of the art testing equipment needed to properly diagnose and repair your product.

Authorized Repair Centers RepairTech repair centers are authorized to repair for over 150 manufacturers.

Free Annual Cleaning and 21 Point Diagnostic Inspection We will clean and inspect your product annually to ensure of no defects.

Nationwide Service* Local service across the United States.

Worldwide Service* With our worldwide service you can rest assure that your protect is covered wherever you may be.

No Added Charges You will not pay any out of pocket expenses for your repair. Unlike some protection plans that charge a deductible, your service plan covers all expenses related to repairing or replacing your product.

Unlimited Service Calls There is no limit to the number of repairs throughout the life of your service plan. If it is determined that your product can no longer be repaired, it will be replaced with a new product of like kind and quality.

Replacement Policy If your product can not be repaired, it will be replaced with product of equivalent or greater value.

Totally Transferable You can sell or give your product away at any time. The coverage can be transferred to the new owner with one phone call.

No Lemon Policy We want to make sure you are happy with your product. If your product fails and needs repair three times for the same reason (outside the manufacturer?s warranty), it will be replaced.

On-Site Service, you will not have to leave your home or business. Let the service come to you.

This warranty may be purchased regardless if the TV was purchased from us.

****Repairtech warranties must be registered within 120 days of invoice date of product being warrantied*****

*Mail in service where local service is not available.

I checked & they are listed as a member @ the better Business Bureau site & have a satisfactory rating

indept

02-11-07, 02:12 AM

I disagree, right now aside from heavy PC and gaming, I think plasma is better AND cheaper. LCD's are closing the lagged-response gap, and the new Philips sets are probably among the best of the bunch.

I agree to disagree. I was at Bj's club recently to buy some Buffalo wings & the LCD, sitting between a DLP & the Philips plasma reached out & grabbed me, it took me a half hour to get to the wings :rolleyes:

I have to admit they had composite running to the Sony LCD & Rf cable ("F" connector) running to the Philips so it was an unfair comparison. Oh yeah, the DLP was... well DLP :D

PhilipsPhanatic

02-11-07, 10:57 AM

I agree to disagree. I was at Bj's club recently to buy some Buffalo wings & the LCD, sitting between a DLP & the Philips plasma reached out & grabbed me, it took me a half hour to get to the wings :rolleyes: I have to admit they had composite running to the Sony LCD & Rf cable ("F" connector) running to the Philips so it was an unfair comparison. Oh yeah, the DLP was... well DLP :D

You can't go by what you see in the B&M stores, for the reasons you cite. You just never know about the cables, TV feeds, settings, lighting, etc.

Much better to research generalities and specifics here on AVS and then make specific model choice, rather than picking a TV by 'what looks good' hanging in a retail store's wall. :)

indept

02-11-07, 01:42 PM

Magna2007

02-11-07, 03:41 PM

I'll hopefully be getting my tv this week, I'll post my experiences with a refurbed unit as soon as I have something to report.
Also, FYI...
I realized that I'd need a bigger tv stand and was dissapointed by the selections at BB & CC, limited & expensive for what they were 200-300 for particle board. Checked online at the furniture stores & they were all in the 400-800 range. My wife had a good idea, she went to Boscovs & found a good selection all under 200 so if anyone needs a decent stand for cheap, give them a try.

If you do get a refurbished Philips HDTV, be sure to check and see that it has the latest firmware update. If not, then you might want to load the latest update yourself. The last round of firmware really did improve the function and PQ of their HDTV's.

Be sure to get an extended warranty of some kind!

My 42PF9630A/37 has worked just fine for almost a year since I bought it from BB .................. until this past week. A reddish "haze" appeared on parts of the screen last week, so I called BB and put in a repair request under their extended warranty (4 years for $400). The AVS repair guys came out last Fri, looked at the set, and took it with away them. They thought it was a bad signal board or possibly the plasma display panel itself. If it really does turn out to be the plasma display panel, I think it would probably be more expensive for BB to fix than that HDTV is worth.

Personally, I hope they CAN fix it. Does anyone on this blog have any experience with BB, their PSP extended warranties, and when they can generally fix vs replace?

indept

02-11-07, 04:04 PM

If you do get a refurbished Philips HDTV, be sure to check and see that it has the latest firmware update. If not, then you might want to load the latest update yourself. The last round of firmware really did improve the function and PQ of their HDTV's.

Be sure to get an extended warranty of some kind!

My 42PF9630A/37 has worked just fine for almost a year since I bought it from BB .................. until this past week. A reddish "haze" appeared on parts of the screen last week, so I called BB and put in a repair request under their extended warranty (4 years for $400). The AVS repair guys came out last Fri, looked at the set, and took it with away them. They thought it was a bad signal board or possibly the plasma display panel itself. If it really does turn out to be the plasma display panel, I think it would probably be more expensive for BB to fix than that HDTV is worth.

I intend to get the 5year warranty I listed in a post above on this page.

let me know what they find with your set. I hope the repair guys don't get to watch mine more than me :cool:

what did the last firmware update improve on your set?

PhilipsPhanatic

02-11-07, 04:20 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

02-11-07, 04:23 PM

I intend to get the 5year warranty I listed in a post above on this page. let me know what they find with your set. I hope the repair guys don't get to watch mine more than me :cool: what did the last firmware update improve on your set?

The August update fixed BSOD and the November/December one improved HDMI picture and a bunch of other little things.

Suggestion: have a USB stick that is ONLY for the Philips upgrades; save the 'old' upgrades under a different name on your PC and/or USB stick so that when you download the 'new' ones under AUTORUN, it doesn't overwrite it and you can always go back to earlier firmware if necessary.

Magna, can you describe the 'reddish haze' a bit more indepth ? :confused:

Magna2007

02-11-07, 04:32 PM

I intend to get the 5year warranty I listed in a post above on this page.

let me know what they find with your set. I hope the repair guys don't get to watch mine more than me :cool:

what did the last firmware update improve on your set?

Check out posts #2302, #2317, #2326 in this blog/thread (and the surrounding replies) for more info on the latest firmware update.

Magna2007

02-11-07, 04:39 PM

The August update fixed BSOD and the November/December one improved HDMI picture and a bunch of other little things.

Suggestion: have a USB stick that is ONLY for the Philips upgrades; save the 'old' upgrades under a different name on your PC and/or USB stick so that when you download the 'new' ones under AUTORUN, it doesn't overwrite it and you can always go back to earlier firmware if necessary.

Magna, can you describe the 'reddish haze' a bit more indepth ? :confused:

The "reddish haze" appeared as reddish pixels that sparkled or shimmered. They did not have any real shape to them, like a logo, indicating a burn-in problem. About 20 to 30 percent of the total screen pixels were shimmering. They were mostly scattered in the center top, center bottom and right-of-center in the middle of the screen. I created a "whitewash" image *.jpg file to produce a totally white image on the 42PF9630A from a USB drive. That definitely showed the reddish haze. The haze also appeared on scenes (with a white background) when viewing video from the DVDR and/or STB. So it was not a cable or peripheral problem. I have heard of this kind of problem before, but on other brands besides Philips.

P.S. I have a 4GB USB drive (with 2GB of crap on it) that I loaded the latest firmware updates from. I think the issue here may be having too many files in the root directory along with any firmware updates that the USB controller has to account for. However, I agree with you on saving older versions of the firmware, just in case.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-11-07, 05:41 PM

The "reddish haze" appeared as reddish pixels that sparkled or shimmered. They did not have any real shape to them, like a logo, indicating a burn-in problem. About 20 to 30 percent of the total screen pixels were shimmering. They were mostly scattered in the center top, center bottom and right-of-center in the middle of the screen. I created a "whitewash" image *.jpg file to produce a totally white image on the 42PF9630A from a USB drive. That definitely showed the reddish haze. The haze also appeared on scenes (with a white background) when viewing video from the DVDR and/or STB. So it was not a cable or peripheral problem. I have heard of this kind of problem before, but on other brands besides Philips.

Thanks....did you consider doing anything in the SM or maybe re-booting/re-programming the plasma ? It seems like it's a computer/electronic glitch that might get 'fixed' by a re-start.

P.S. I have a 4GB USB drive (with 2GB of crap on it) that I loaded the latest firmware updates from. I think the issue here may be having too many files in the root directory along with any firmware updates that the USB controller has to account for. However, I agree with you on saving older versions of the firmware, just in case.

The USB should work fine even if it has MPEG's, Ipod junk, music, videos, etc....but I think it's just best to keep it clean and also not have TOO much memory. I have a 128 mybte and it has worked flawlessly so that's what I'm recommending. No reason why a 4 gigbyte or 10 gibyte stick shouldn't work as well, but these things are funky at times so I think at times it just pays to just KISS: Keep It Simple, Stupid. :D

indept

02-11-07, 08:15 PM

I created a "whitewash" image *.jpg file to produce a totally white image on the 42PF9630A from a USB drive.

How did you create the whitewash image? was it as simple as saving a "blank white" image in photoshop as a jpg?

The Z-Line stand I got at CC is pretty good, can hold a big TV (mine's 42") and looks great...as long as the glass doesn't replicate what that Adveco stand did for another AVS poster

I hear that, I saw the pix's of that guys stand. Lucky it didn't destroy his tv. I think I know the stand you've got, I saw one at CC, It had greenish tint thick glass shelves, we were thinking about that stand.

Magna2007

02-11-07, 08:29 PM

How did you create the whitewash image? was it as simple as saving a "blank white" image in photoshop as a jpg?

Yes, it was as simple as saving a blank white image. I created it in MS Office Picture Manager to help clear any image retension and/or burn-in on the screen the way I heard that rofessional repair shops do. I heard some HDTV's have the whitewash feature built in for that purpose. Since the Philips HDTV had a USB port, I thought I could create the same effect with a blank "white" file posing as a photograph. The whitewash file helped show the scope of the "reddish haze" problem that sent my HDTV to the shop for repair.

indept

02-11-07, 09:10 PM

Yes, it was as simple as saving a blank white image. I created it in MS Office Picture Manager to help clear any image retension and/or burn-in on the screen the way I heard that rofessional repair shops do. I heard some HDTV's have the whitewash feature built in for that purpose. Since the Philips HDTV had a USB port, I thought I could create the same effect with a blank "white" file posing as a photograph. The whitewash file helped show the scope of the "reddish haze" problem that sent my HDTV to the shop for repair.

Thanks, I tried it using Adobe Photoshop which you can select resolutions for tv including 1280x720 HDTV & 1920x1080 HDTV. I saved those & will try it on my refurbed tv when it arrives to see if the screen's burned in already.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-11-07, 11:58 PM

Has anybody tried those 'exercise Pixel' DVD's ??? Someone was posting about one here months ago....not sure if it worked or not. Claimed to fix stuck or problem pixels. :confused:

Ybarra

02-12-07, 10:44 AM

So...as promised... Here is my report on my warranty experience.

First off...problem summary:
1) Purple tinted screen w/ HDMI (sometimes screen is all purple, change channels and it fixes it.)
2) Dark channels on analog coax sources.
3) Distorted screen on ALL component inputs (have to turn off, wait for relays to "click", then turn back on to fix).

The repair shop is a little (< 10 employees) TV shop in my metro area (City of ~1 million in central USA). For almost a month the shop has done nothing for me saying it's hard to correct because the problem is sporatic. Finally, in frustration I record the problem on my camcorder and burn to DVD and give this to the TV shop. ~1 Week later they call me to schedule a time to pick up my set because the part is in (didn't say what part). They picked up my set and returned it the next day with a new small signal module (which is what I figured the problem to be). So far, I'm still getting the purple screen which I think is an HDMI bug in the Philips or the SA cable box. Everything else seems OK. Component source is still a little darker than HDMI (do a split screen from S-Vid on the SA box and HDMI on the SA box). The tuner channels don't seem to be as dark. So far no component distortion. Keeping my fingers crossed. Anyway...I was lucky w/ my repair experience because they let me keep my set while they were waiting on the part.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-12-07, 11:06 PM

Purple tinted screen w/ HDMI (sometimes screen is all purple, change channels and it fixes it.)

I have/had a similar situation with my DVD player and 9631. I first noticed it because the blue SONY screen from the DVD player was purplish. When that happened, the tints for movies and photo CD's were all messed up. You could clearly see the fleshtones off, even my father noticed it. Just 'jiggling' the cable fixed the problem. Clearly, the connections are a bit loose and you have to make sure that nothing 'pulls' on them (I have a long component connecting the DVD player and the plasma) and that the cable itself isn't being interferred with from other cables. There does NOT appear to be a problem with the jacks themselves on the Philips (thank God), but the picture is very sensitive to having a perfect, seamless connection between outlet and component jack.

2) Dark channels on analog coax sources.

Yeah, my VCR (AV2) is way darker than AV1 and AV3 (STB and DVD). Can't have Active Control on MAX (I have it on MED) and should probably have it set to OFF or MIN.

3) Distorted screen on ALL component inputs (have to turn off, wait for relays to "click", then turn back on to fix).

You mean bright white horizontal lines 'in front' of the picture in the background? Had that....signal interference depending on how I switched inputs.

Anyway...I was lucky w/ my repair experience because they let me keep my set while they were waiting on the part.

Good news, get back to enjoying the set ! :D

desertfoxaz

02-15-07, 08:53 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

02-15-07, 09:07 PM

I just wanted to say that Philips called me today to say that they've decided that it isn't cost-effective to repair my TV so I'm going to get a new one. They're sending me paperwork to fill out soon. I don't know if they're going to give me a new Philips TV or if they're going to reimburse me for what I paid for it.

Good...they're doing the right thing. It's cheaper just to give someone a damn new model. Hope it works out for you.

Maybe my letter to Philips helped ! ;)

Let us know how it plays out.

butler77

02-17-07, 02:42 PM

One of my sons friends shot the LCD Panel with air soft gun pellet. I got a repair estimate of $2500 which I declined. I need the part number to check a less expensive price. Does anyone know where I might find a repair manual on line?

Kaliman

02-18-07, 04:27 AM

butler77

02-18-07, 01:39 PM

32PF7320A/37

Kaliman

02-18-07, 01:57 PM

Sorry, I only have the manual for the 42PF7320A. You can download it here: http://www.pcrescueoc.com/philips.htm

butler77

02-19-07, 02:01 PM

Thanks. At least it showed the way to remove the panel. It was still hard to find the part number for the panel. Even though my TV is only a 32". You gave me a good idea. I hadn't used the right terminolgy in my on-line searches. I will keep trying. Thanks again for the reply.

indept

02-21-07, 05:06 PM

Got it from the Philips Outlet Renewed

2 words
AWE SOME

Everything seems good. No burn in, whites & colors look good. Adjusted everything down for the initial 100hrs.
Questions:
1. How do I access the "run time" function in the service menu to find out how many hours it's been run already? (also, how do I get to the service menu).
2. Any suggestions on what to check for on a refurbed unit? I've already checked the component (av1) input & the HDMI1 input.

HDMI is great on an HD channel for both picture & sound(using a commycast Motorola hd/dvr stb), but I noticed if I go to a sd channel using the hdmi input I get no sound out of the TV speakers but if I switch to component video out of the stb on sd I get sound. Does HDMI deliver sound on HD channels only?

I haven't checked the firmware rev yet. I figured if it ain't broke......

The set looks great cosmetically too, no scratches.

Another problem which I'm sure I can work around, I have a Philips surround sound system & when I control it through its remote, the tv responds to the surround sound remote. I switched the surround system off & the tv turned off with it :eek:

After note: sound does come through on HDMI with an sd signal, I had it happen where it didn't but changing the channel then going back again resolved it

Is it the TV, HHMMM :cool: we'll see

PhilipsPhanatic

02-21-07, 09:45 PM

Got it from the Philips Outlet Renewed 2 words
AWE SOME

Congrats, enjoy it and keep the Contrast and Brightness down below 50 for the 1st 100 hours, if not 200 hours. :) ;)

1. How do I access the "run time" function in the service menu to find out how many hours it's been run already? (also, how do I get to the service menu).

"062596" on the Philips remote + INFO. Should enter the Service Menu -- PDP hours and run hours (one is less than the other, it doesn't add 1/2 hour each time you click the TV ON) are the first 2 screens. Don't TOUCH anything in the SM -- just check the hours counters. :cool:

2. Any suggestions on what to check for on a refurbed unit? I've already checked the component (av1) input & the HDMI1 input.

See how component, composite, and HDMI are with SD, HD, a VCR, and a DVR or DVD player.

HDMI is great on an HD channel for both picture & sound(using a commycast Motorola hd/dvr stb), but I noticed if I go to a sd channel using the hdmi input I get no sound out of the TV speakers but if I switch to component video out of the stb on sd I get sound. Does HDMI deliver sound on HD channels only?

Good question...anyone ?? :confused:

I haven't checked the firmware rev yet. I figured if it ain't broke......

See what version you're running when you enter the SM. Write it down and compare to the latest version we're downloading on the 9630/9631 threads or on the Philips website.

The set looks great cosmetically too, no scratches.

Get the Monster screen cleaner and wipe it every 3-4 months. :)

Another problem which I'm sure I can work around, I have a Philips surround sound system & when I control it through its remote, the tv responds to the surround sound remote. I switched the surround system off & the tv turned off with it :eek:

If that's the worst thing that happens..... :D You can probably fix it by using just the Philips TV remote for both items or get a Logitech. ;)

After note: sound does come through on HDMI with an sd signal, I had it happen where it didn't but changing the channel then going back again resolved it
Is it the TV, HHMMM :cool: we'll see

HDMI and digital can be funky...could be the cable provider....watch some TV, look for glitches, report back. Chances are it'll be fine 99.9% of the time. :)

indept

02-21-07, 11:08 PM

Thanks P2

Magna2007

02-22-07, 09:38 AM

Thanks P2

If your HDTV doesn't have the latest firmware, then you might want to check on the Philips Tech Support website for the update:

http://www.p4c.philips.com/cgi-bin/dcbint/cpindex.pl?session=20061212132810_199.209.144.90&scy=US&slg=AEN&ctn=50PF9630A%2F37

Click on "Software and Drivers". The latest firmware did seem to improve the PQ and includes earlier fixes for the HDMI sound dropout issues.

Magna2007

02-22-07, 09:42 AM

"062596" on the Philips remote + INFO. Should enter the Service Menu -- PDP hours and run hours (one is less than the other, it doesn't add 1/2 hour each time you click the TV ON) are the first 2 screens. Don't TOUCH anything in the SM -- just check the hours counters. :cool:

In fact, you might want to look at the settings in that menu and write all of them down for future reference.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-22-07, 09:26 PM

In fact, you might want to look at the settings in that menu and write all of them down for future reference.

Good point...I think the only thing that people want to change in the SM are those white-point and other color settings. That's MORE than enough tough stuff to fool around with.

indept

02-22-07, 10:02 PM

Thanks Magna2007.

Good point...I think the only thing that people want to change in the SM are those white-point and other color settings. That's MORE than enough tough stuff to fool around with.

PhilipsPhanatic

What would you set the white point & color settings to? I didn't look around in the SM much except to get the hours, I will have to look at it again, when I can get the set back from the Mrs. that is.

Figures, I went to watch my first HD hockey game (flyers at Hurricanes) and it was in
SD on the comcast sportsnet HD channel with blue patterned sidebars so the tv wouldn't resize it, so I went to the standard CSN channel to watch it so the tv would stretch th picture and even Sd stretched looked great.

Oh, and thanks for the email update on your telcon with the Philips brass. I hope he actually checks out this site to see the comments by those of us that purchase their products.

indept

02-22-07, 11:33 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

02-22-07, 11:52 PM

PhilipsPhanatic...What would you set the white point & color settings to? I didn't look around in the SM much except to get the hours, I will have to look at it again, when I can get the set back from the Mrs. that is.

Whoa, outside of checking the hours used I am not TOUCHING anything in the SM. :eek: I am not going there until (1) I hear back from more experienced people who tell me you can move the numbers around and then bring it back to the factory defaults with no other glitches or (2) I get an ISF guy to do it in my home and show me the ropes.

I'm not sure that touching stuff in the SM, including the white points etc, is like touching Contrast and Brightness and then changing them back. You might move the numbers in such a way that you can't roll them back -- I dunno. But I'm not taking any chances and until I hear back from more experienced vets here at AVS or an ISF guy, I'd live with any minute discoloration that anybody notices (which is probably minimal if that).

Figures, I went to watch my first HD hockey game (flyers at Hurricanes) and it was in SD on the comcast sportsnet HD channel with blue patterned sidebars so the tv wouldn't resize it, so I went to the standard CSN channel to watch it so the tv would stretch th picture and even Sd stretched looked great.

I can stretch those games/channels by doing it from the STB -- try it. You'll want to move it back to NORMAL after the game so it doesn't expand other channels that are already filling the screen. But you can watch the game on the HD channel (it may not be in HD if it has the bars, just broadcast on the channel) and have it fill the screen. My SA 4200 and the SA 8300 have NORMAL, STRETCH, and SUPER ZOOM settings (99.999% of the time it's on NORMAL).

Oh, and thanks for the email update on your telcon with the Philips brass. I hope he actually checks out this site to see the comments by those of us that purchase their products.

Thanks, and to those on this and other Philips threads, I'll post it here on the weekend when I have a few more minutes. :)

desertfoxaz

02-23-07, 07:57 PM

Good...they're doing the right thing. It's cheaper just to give someone a damn new model. Hope it works out for you.

Maybe my letter to Philips helped ! ;)

Let us know how it plays out.

I got my letter from Philips today. They are offering to replace it with the 42PF9631D model. Is this a better model than the 42PF9630A? I am praying I don't have the same headaches with the new TV.

For anyone that had their TV replaced by Philips, how did they do it? The letter said to call but they're already closed for the weekend so I'll have to call on Monday. Do they send you a new TV and take the old one back, or do they reimburse you, or do they give you a voucher to pick one up at a store somewhere? I notice that the price has come down around $1000 from the 9630 back in July 2005 to the 9631 now, which is expected as the technology is getting cheaper in general.

Can I assume that my service contract is now void as they have fulfilled their obligations? If this is the case, I am somewhat reluctant to buy one from Philips again as their service needs major improvement, and their prices are too high. I had originally turned down the service contract from Circuit City thinking it was too high but later found out that Philips costs a lot more and by then CC wouldn't sell me one. I know some other electronics stores offer service contracts for less, but you have to buy it there to qualify.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-23-07, 10:33 PM

I got my letter from Philips today. They are offering to replace it with the 42PF9631D model. Is this a better model than the 42PF9630A? I am praying I don't have the same headaches with the new TV.

Well, it's the successor and it cost a few more $$$ and has a more improved PP and Ambilight feature. But the 2 sets are 99.99% the same.

I notice that the price has come down around $1000 from the 9630 back in July 2005 to the 9631 now, which is expected as the technology is getting cheaper in general.

In July 2005 the 9630 probably cost a bit over $3,000. It was $2500 in early 2006 and the 9631's were about $2,200 in July 2006. They're about $1,400 now.

Can I assume that my service contract is now void as they have fulfilled their obligations? If this is the case, I am somewhat reluctant to buy one from Philips again as their service needs major improvement, and their prices are too high. I had originally turned down the service contract from Circuit City thinking it was too high but later found out that Philips costs a lot more and by then CC wouldn't sell me one. I know some other electronics stores offer service contracts for less, but you have to buy it there to qualify.

Get a warranty from one of the AVS dealers. Service contract from Sears might be an option -- tell them you got a replacement set.

indept

02-23-07, 10:41 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

02-23-07, 10:59 PM

I checked & had firmware ver 1.3 so I installed 1.5. I thought I saw a comment somewhere on this forum (not neccesarily this topic) that this version also updated or added "stereo" ambilight functions not initially available on this model, is there any truth to this?

Yeah, I think 1.5 had the BSOD fix. I think the 9630's have a later update though from Nov/Dec, are you sure you got the latest fix ? Not that that one is as critical, IMO, some minor improvements in HDMI PQ, I haven't even loaded it onto my 9631 since I'm happy with the PQ as it is and I'm not using HDMI

Also why does the Service Menu show 25 hours run time but only 17 hours PDP time? What's the difference & which one do you go by for break in?

The Run Time higher-number adds 1/2 hour ever time the TV is clicked "ON" (and maybe "OFF"). Use the lower number, they'll track over time unless you like to watch your TV for 20-40 minutes at at time and turn it off alot. :D

AlsoAlso...Is there a way to save your "reset" brightness/Contrast settings so when you turn your tv back on it doesn't reset to the initial factory settings.

Yeah, from the Philips Tips Sheet: "If you use HDMI as your SOURCE and call it "Digital STB" or some other items, I think it keeps defaulting to SOFT as the picture setting. Since most of us use PERSONAL, this is annoying. Setting HDMI to "PVR" (or maybe even other designations) seems to fix this glitch."

The above is also true for component I believe. So just change what you call your SOURCE (and since it's just a labeling and not a connection, don't ask me why it matters. It just DOES :D ).

indept

02-24-07, 01:16 PM

Yeah, from the Philips Tips Sheet: "If you use HDMI as your SOURCE and call it "Digital STB" or some other items, I think it keeps defaulting to SOFT as the picture setting. Since most of us use PERSONAL, this is annoying. Setting HDMI to "PVR" (or maybe even other designations) seems to fix this glitch."

The above is also true for component I believe. So just change what you call your SOURCE (and since it's just a labeling and not a connection, don't ask me why it matters. It just DOES :D ).

Thanks for the comeback.
Does anyone know what the factory warranty covers, here's why I ask:
I purchased an extended warranty for 165 for 5years online, I usually don't buy these but since this is a refurb i sleep better at night. They will cover the set for anything the manufacterers warranty covers. Philips doesn't state specifics but I was wondering if the plasma display is covered if a few pixels go south or the colors or PQ don't look as sharp as they did. also if an ambilight burns out are the bulbs covered. I know on laptops LCD's, manufacterers specify that "x" number of pixels must be dead before they'll replace it under warranty. My model is a 50PF9630. the way the warranty is written it seems a lot is left to the imagination, basically whoever can scream louder (you or the philips rep) wins :D

PhilipsPhanatic

02-24-07, 01:29 PM

Does anyone know what the factory warranty covers, here's why I ask:I purchased an extended warranty for 165 for 5years online, I usually don't buy these but since this is a refurb i sleep better at night. They will cover the set for anything the manufacterers warranty covers. Philips doesn't state specifics but I was wondering if the plasma display is covered if a few pixels go south or the colors or PQ don't look as sharp as they did. also if an ambilight burns out are the bulbs covered. I know on laptops LCD's, manufacterers specify that "x" number of pixels must be dead before they'll replace it under warranty. My model is a 50PF9630. the way the warranty is written it seems a lot is left to the imagination, basically whoever can scream louder (you or the philips rep) wins :D

Nothing on the Pixels, and Philips plasmas seem to be alot better at avoiding stuck pixels or batches of pixels than other sets. I am not sure if Pixels would be covered -- I suspect they might not repair/replace for 1 or 2 but if you had a clump of several hundred and it was the size of a golfball, maybe.

Ambilight bulbs can be replaced. Don't use it when lights are on, when it's daylight, or when you're not really watching the TV. Save the bulbs, though I think they are rated for a few thousand hours which should translate into 5-7 years if not more under normal use (probably more since most of us don't use Ambilight all the time).

Plasmas are getting so cheap they're approaching VCR status where if something goes wrong you just buy another one. Your warranty should protect you against catastrophic problems early in the use; anything beyond 5 years with only minor problems is gravy IMO. 7-8 years and beyond is a freebie.

Relax and enjoy. ;)

indept

02-25-07, 01:19 PM

Nothing on the Pixels, and Philips plasmas seem to be alot better at avoiding stuck pixels or batches of pixels than other sets. I am not sure if Pixels would be covered -- I suspect they might not repair/replace for 1 or 2 but if you had a clump of several hundred and it was the size of a golfball, maybe.

I haven't seen the pixel issue as a problem with plasmas, have you? I know it's been an issue with LCD computer displays, but it's getting less frequent.

Ambilight bulbs can be replaced. Don't use it when lights are on, when it's daylight, or when you're not really watching the TV. Save the bulbs, though I think they are rated for a few thousand hours which should translate into 5-7 years if not more under normal use (probably more since most of us don't use Ambilight all the time).

I remember seeing a post that Philips somewhere specs the ambilight bulbs @ 60000 hrs (which isn't surprising since LCD panels are spec'd at that and the backlights are what would go first) but they don't spec the Plasma displays
in their specs

Plasmas are getting so cheap they're approaching VCR status where if something goes wrong you just buy another one. Your warranty should protect you against catastrophic problems early in the use; anything beyond 5 years with only minor problems is gravy IMO. 7-8 years and beyond is a freebie.

Relax and enjoy. ;)

My plan is in 5 or so years to buy my 120 inch lcd panel which will be under $1000 by then :D

seriously though, the new technology is OLED (organic LEDs, do a search on them. there is an interesting article on howstuffworks.com) They're already used in smaller displays, cell phones, pda's etc. They're supposed to be a better PQ than LCD's and don't require backlighting. They're also more efficient than LCD's. The present problem is the life of the blue OLED's is only about 8000 hrs, but once they overcome that, if they can, you'll probably see them more in large displays.

PhilipsPhanatic

02-25-07, 03:50 PM

I haven't seen the pixel issue as a problem with plasmas, have you? I know it's been an issue with LCD computer displays, but it's getting less frequent.

Plenty of non-Philips plasmas here have threads detailing stuck pixel problems. The Philips bashers never give Philips credit for having a display that has very low rates of pixel problems. :mad:

I remember seeing a post that Philips somewhere specs the ambilight bulbs @ 60000 hrs (which isn't surprising since LCD panels are spec'd at that and the backlights are what would go first) but they don't spec the Plasma displays
in their specs

The TV is rated for 60,000 hours, I doubt the Ambilight is rated that much. At any rate it's irrelevant, since if you used the set 8-10 hours day (which would be a ton) after 10 years you'd just be crossing 30,000 hours. I averaged 8 1/2 hours per day when I was working from home Monday-Friday + weekends with football when the set was on 10-14 hours each Sunday; will be interesting to see in a few weeks how many hours per day I've averaged since I started working and commuting.

My plan is in 5 or so years to buy my 120 inch lcd panel which will be under $1000 by then :D

I think the 100" TV's now cost $20,000-plus so I would think in 5 years you MIGHT have a shot at them being under $10,000. Prices are stickier on big TV's and super-Big TV's, though. ;)

seriously though, the new technology is OLED (organic LEDs, do a search on them. there is an interesting article on howstuffworks.com) They're already used in smaller displays, cell phones, pda's etc. They're supposed to be a better PQ than LCD's and don't require backlighting. They're also more efficient than LCD's. The present problem is the life of the blue OLED's is only about 8000 hrs, but once they overcome that, if they can, you'll probably see them more in large displays.

That's alot to overcome. I read a good article on SED's in Computer Power User magazine this week. It's a great technology, but it takes YEARS to make it commercially viable. Remember, Beta was much better than VHS but we know who won that war. And plasma/LCD's were around since the early 1950's, but it too 40+ years to make them commercially viable on a cost-basis.

Bottom Line: Don't wait up for OLED or SED. Esp. since plasma and LCD are entrenched and can improve on their minor weaknesses (i.e., deep blacks). :)

Magna2007

03-02-07, 01:11 PM

Well, my 42PF9630A/37 developed a "red haze" consisting of errant pixels turning red on portions of the screen about a month ago. I called in a repair request under the BB extended warranty. BB, in turn, had contracted with a local repair service (AVS) to come out to the house and fix the Philips HDTV. Three weeks ago, AVS came out, looked at the HDTV, and took it back with them for repair. They said it needed a voltage adjustment, brought the HDTV back a week later, and set it back up in the house. The red haze was still there only worse. AVS took the HDTV back with them again (as a "failed repair"). They had the HDTV for another 1 1/2 weeks while they replaced the PDP panel itself. AVS brought the HDTV back to my house yesterday and set it up again (in between all the thunderstorm/tornado episodes that were going on here in Alabama at the time). This time, the picture and sound was beautiful. All the peripheral stuf (HDMI, USB, ambilight, etc) appeared to work and so I signed off on the repair invoice. Later in the day, however, I discovered that I could not turn the HDTV off! If I powered it down with the remote, then the HDTV would turn right back on about 30 seconds later. I made another phone call to AVS and they are going to come back and get the HDTV on Monday. Hopefully, from this point, it should be simple repair (maybe a mis-connected switch or power wire).

PhilipsPhanatic

03-03-07, 12:07 AM

Magna -- and anybody else reporting a 9630 problem -- can you tell us when you got your TV and how many viewing hours you have on the set (use the lower of the two numbers in the SM)?

Magna2007

03-03-07, 11:22 AM

Magna -- and anybody else reporting a 9630 problem -- can you tell us when you got your TV and how many viewing hours you have on the set (use the lower of the two numbers in the SM)?

Numbers given in the service menu are about 1235 hrs total time and 810 hrs PDP time from an original delivery date of 14 Mar 06. It has a new PDP panel so the PDP time is really ~1 to ~2 hours. The PQ is really good now (with the new PDP panel). It's just that when I turn the HDTV to OFF (or stand-by?) it appears to turn "off" and then a white screen comes up (and stays up unless I unplug it). If I turn the HDTV to ON, then it resumes "normal" operation. I tried reflashing the 1.5.0.0 firmware, but that did not make any difference. I think a power cable or switch was not correctly connected when the HDTV was reassembled. The Audio Video guys are coming back on Monday to (hopefully) fix that. Otherwise, I'm happy with the 42PF9630A again.

indept

03-04-07, 01:18 PM

I originally posted the following on the 7220 thread which Einride responded that ABC broadcasts HD at 720p, NBC at 1080i. I'm posting here to see if other similar models exhibit this, although the 7220 is similar, there may be some differences. I'm running firmware ver 1.5

While watching NBC news (ch 10 here in NJ.) in HD via comcast stb. I noticed the fine detail in their faces, hair etc. when they were still, but when they would turn their heads, the fine detail in both face features & hair "blurred" until they stopped movement, then the fine detail returned til they moved again. I saw this on the NBC show "1vs100" too. I played with different adjustments, turned off enhancements, pixel plus etc with no change. When I went to ABC news, everything looked great, no blurring during movement at all, went back to NBC and they still blurred. Seems like this is a signal problem, not my tv. It did it in both component & HDMI input. Have you seen this? Not all NBC broadcasts do this. Saturday night Live looked great on the HD feed from comcast, no blurring, could it be the local feed from Philadelphia?
If any of you in the Philly , Pa area with 9630 sets could check this, I would be thankfull. I just got my 50PF9630 refurb about 2 weeks ago, and besides this all is great. If it's the feed from NBC that's fine, if not then I may will have to get it checked under warranty before the Philips overly generous 90 day refurb warranty expires. Also, does anyone know if their 90 day refurb warranty is in home?

PhilipsPhanatic

03-04-07, 03:34 PM

While watching NBC news (ch 10 here in NJ.) in HD via comcast stb. I noticed the fine detail in their faces, hair etc. when they were still, but when they would turn their heads, the fine detail in both face features & hair "blurred" until they stopped movement, then the fine detail returned til they moved again. I saw this on the NBC show "1vs100" too. I played with different adjustments, turned off enhancements, pixel plus etc with no change. When I went to ABC news, everything looked great, no blurring during movement at all, went back to NBC and they still blurred. Seems like this is a signal problem, not my tv. It did it in both component & HDMI input. Have you seen this? Not all NBC broadcasts do this. Saturday night Live looked great on the HD feed from comcast, no blurring, could it be the local feed from Philadelphia?

No idea, but will look at the local news or other live-action stuff (ESPN-HD, etc) tonite and report back.

indept

03-04-07, 03:49 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

03-04-07, 04:32 PM

Thanks PhilipsPhanatic. Just for info, the hockeygame on NBC today looked like crap, definitely not HD, but the golf that followed looks real good. I typically see it on the news though. also, any idea if the warranty is in home or does the 90 day warranty make you take or ship it to them? I'll look forward to a reply to see if you see the blurryness.

(1) Missed the hockey game, but the golf actually looks mediocre on my set right now. I'm not seeing super-sharp detail on the few facial closeups that happen. ESPN-HD and MSG-HD (hockey) look better. Could be a mediocre NBC feed or a weak signal on Cablevision's part (my signal is always weak). I'll check news anchors tonight.

I did see a black 'dot' representing a bird when they went to an arial shotl; still saw it from what looked like 500-1,000 feet above the course before I lost resolution.

(2) No idea on the 90-day warranty as I'm well past it. But you're not shipping it, you'd bring it to a local Philips authorized dealer if they don't do in-home. Do you need something fixed ???

I think there's at least 1 firmware upgrade beyond 1.5 for the 9630's; not as major as the August 1.5 one (BSOD) but has some improvement I believe for HDMI PQ, etc.

indept

03-04-07, 06:13 PM

(1) Missed the hockey game, but the golf actually looks mediocre on my set right now. I'm not seeing super-sharp detail on the few facial closeups that happen. ESPN-HD and MSG-HD (hockey) look better. Could be a mediocre NBC feed or a weak signal on Cablevision's part (my signal is always weak). I'll check news anchors tonight.

I did see a black 'dot' representing a bird when they went to an arial shotl; still saw it from what looked like 500-1,000 feet above the course before I lost resolution.

(2) No idea on the 90-day warranty as I'm well past it. But you're not shipping it, you'd bring it to a local Philips authorized dealer if they don't do in-home. Do you need something fixed ???

I think there's at least 1 firmware upgrade beyond 1.5 for the 9630's; not as major as the August 1.5 one (BSOD) but has some improvement I believe for HDMI PQ, etc.

Thanks,

I was curious about the warranty in case this issue turned into a need for service. If it needed service & I had to take it in I might as well wait til after the 90 days because I got a Mack ex warranty which is in home.
As far as the firmware, my version is the one I downloaded last week from Philips so it should be the latest.

Magna2007

03-05-07, 09:13 AM

I think there's at least 1 firmware upgrade beyond 1.5 for the 9630's; not as major as the August 1.5 one (BSOD) but has some improvement I believe for HDMI PQ, etc.

Did you get this information from your discussions with the "higher-ups" from Philips?

PhilipsPhanatic

03-06-07, 12:07 AM

Did you get this information from your discussions with the "higher-ups" from Philips?

No, not at all, from the vets and others who posted about the upgrades on the 9630 and 9631 threads.

indept

03-06-07, 12:28 AM

I rechecked yesterday, 1.5 is the latest

Ybarra

03-06-07, 08:31 PM

Good Lord I missed a lot while I was away. Took forever to finish reading all the posts. Some responses in no certain order:

* Do NOT mess with the whitepoint settings in the service menu. The PDP is calibrated in the factory. You should not need to adjust anything in the service menu to achieve a good picture with Avia (or the Circuit City DVD which is the same thing for the most part). Use your blue filter and use the custom setting. Remember to turn off the Philips tweaks when calibrating since they will skew color/brightness/contrast.

* Do use the service menu to turn on stereo ambilight (Inept...it's in the service menu).

* The 9630 has a learning remote and no the yellow key does jack squat.

My repair doesn't seem to have fixed the problem. I got the component distortion again (white horizontal lines in front of picture, picture dark and slightly offset, colors wrong, kinda like a scrambled pay cable station back in the days). At least I'm not getting the HDCP errors anymore on my HDMI. I still get the purple screen (or maybe it's sometimes green...don't remember) on HDMI but flipping channels fixes it which still makes me think it's a firmware problem w/ either the SA8300HD or Philips but not hardware. I'll probably put in a service call...eventually CC will have to replace my TV under my extended agreement and I can get one of those 9631's. The snow on HDMI for whoever asked the problem is the set handshaking w/ the source. I don't know why they don't mute the picture for that, but it's normal.

Does anyone have streaking on their set? For instance, if you pop up a menu item in the SA8300HD or on your DVD player can you see a slight streak of the box edge going off the screen (faint...can just see it). I use closed captions a lot and I can see the slight streak of the CC box. Was wondering if this kind of artifacting is normal for plasmas or if I may have a problem w/ my panel.

Whoever it was that had a kid shoot their screen w/ a BB...did it shatter the front glass only or both it and the PDP. For that matter, is the glass in front part of the PDP or the PDP behind the glass? In other words, if I accidentally scratch my front glass can I buy a replacement glass for ~$250 instead of replacing the entire PDP panel for $2500?

Magna2007

03-06-07, 11:01 PM

Good Lord I missed a lot while I was away. Took forever to finish reading all the posts. Some responses in no certain order:

* Do NOT mess with the whitepoint settings in the service menu. The PDP is calibrated in the factory. You should not need to adjust anything in the service menu to achieve a good picture with Avia (or the Circuit City DVD which is the same thing for the most part). Use your blue filter and use the custom setting. Remember to turn off the Philips tweaks when calibrating since they will skew color/brightness/contrast.

What blue filter?

* Do use the service menu to turn on stereo ambilight (Inept...it's in the service menu).

Good advice (for those who want to use it).

* The 9630 has a learning remote and no the yellow key does jack squat.

I think the yellow key seems to do something if you are looking at photos from a USB flash drive.

*My repair doesn't seem to have fixed the problem. I got the component distortion again (white horizontal lines in front of picture, picture dark and slightly offset, colors wrong, kinda like a scrambled pay cable station back in the days). At least I'm not getting the HDCP errors anymore on my HDMI. I still get the purple screen (or maybe it's sometimes green...don't remember) on HDMI but flipping channels fixes it which still makes me think it's a firmware problem w/ either the SA8300HD or Philips but not hardware. I'll probably put in a service call...eventually CC will have to replace my TV under my extended agreement and I can get one of those 9631's. The snow on HDMI for whoever asked the problem is the set handshaking w/ the source. I don't know why they don't mute the picture for that, but it's normal.

So far on my 42PF9630A, the Philips and BB warranty people have probably spent $3000.00 to fix a $2300.00 HDTV (although my picture IS now beautiful). Since they replaced the PDP panel, the red/purple haze is gone. Sounds like you too might have a bad plasma display panel (PDP) or small signal board (SSB). I would report the HDTV to the warranty people.

Does anyone have streaking on their set? For instance, if you pop up a menu item in the SA8300HD or on your DVD player can you see a slight streak of the box edge going off the screen (faint...can just see it). I use closed captions a lot and I can see the slight streak of the CC box. Was wondering if this kind of artifacting is normal for plasmas or if I may have a problem w/ my panel.

I think that is a signal issue, not an HDTV / component / HDMI issue.

Whoever it was that had a kid shoot their screen w/ a BB...did it shatter the front glass only or both it and the PDP. For that matter, is the glass in front part of the PDP or the PDP behind the glass? In other words, if I accidentally scratch my front glass can I buy a replacement glass for ~$250 instead of replacing the entire PDP panel for $2500?

According to the Audio Video Service (AVS) repair people, who worked on my HDTV, the plastic outer screen is separate from the glass PDP panel. Check out posting #2550. It has a link to download the service manual for the 42PF9630A.

PhilipsPhanatic

03-06-07, 11:05 PM

* Do NOT mess with the whitepoint settings in the service menu. The PDP is calibrated in the factory. You should not need to adjust anything in the service menu to achieve a good picture with Avia (or the Circuit City DVD which is the same thing for the most part). Use your blue filter and use the custom setting. Remember to turn off the Philips tweaks when calibrating since they will skew color/brightness/contrast.

I think some people HAVE done that -- a few people who've gotten the Philips Tips Sheet said they would be doing it, or having an ISF guy touch it. Or some other settings in the SM, but I thought I remember whitepoints.

(Inept...it's in the service menu).

Hey, it's not 'Inept', it's INDEPT !!! :D :D

* The 9630 has a learning remote and no the yellow key does jack squat.

I've gotten to liking the long remote but that useless yellow key still tees me off. It'd be perfect to SWAP the boxes on PIP.

My repair doesn't seem to have fixed the problem. I got the component distortion again (white horizontal lines in front of picture, picture dark and slightly offset, colors wrong, kinda like a scrambled pay cable station back in the days). At least I'm not getting the HDCP errors anymore on my HDMI.

That has happened to me on my 9631 a few times...I think it's a signal interference problem. It happens if I am using AV2 (VCR) and instead of going to AV1 (STB) and THEN turning off the VCR, I turn off the VCR with it still on AV2, the TV goes dark screen (the VCR is off, so no signal to the TV) and then when I goto AV1, the picture is there with fast-moving bright white lines. Sort of like the old vacuum-cleaner interference of the 1970's when TV's had that problem.

I still get the purple screen (or maybe it's sometimes green...don't remember) on HDMI but flipping channels fixes it which still makes me think it's a firmware problem w/ either the SA8300HD or Philips but not hardware. I'll probably put in a service call...eventually CC will have to replace my TV under my extended agreement and I can get one of those 9631's. The snow on HDMI for whoever asked the problem is the set handshaking w/ the source. I don't know why they don't mute the picture for that, but it's normal.

My SONY screen from the DVD while not in use is supposed to be turquoise blue; at times it turned purple. When this happened, it meant that the colors on the TV were off. It had to do with the position/tightness of the component cables. It's almost like the cable connections INTO THE TV are a bit loose, not so much the connection of my cable into the holders themselves. I haven't used HDMI yet so I'm not sure if it's like that with it.

In any event, it's an annoying glitch that takes 5 seconds to fix every few weeks so I live with it. And I don't think it's the picture per-se on the Philips, either minute interference, loose component connections into the Philips, or a loose connection between the component and the connection even though I have the components snugly attached and they are in as far as they can go.

Does anyone have streaking on their set? For instance, if you pop up a menu item in the SA8300HD or on your DVD player can you see a slight streak of the box edge going off the screen (faint...can just see it). I use closed captions a lot and I can see the slight streak of the CC box. Was wondering if this kind of artifacting is normal for plasmas or if I may have a problem w/ my panel.

Yeah, I see that from time to time....again, if that's the worst problem I ever have, I'll be ecstatic. I want good PQ on DVD's and HDTV, I don't care about the edges of menus, that's how I look at it.

Good to see you back, Ybarra !! :)

indept

03-06-07, 11:54 PM

Hey, it's not 'Inept', it's INDEPT !!!

Thanks PP. Hey, I don't care what they call me as long as it's not late for dinner :p

Did you ever get a chance to check NBC news to see if the fine detail in their faces "blurred" when they move their heads?

* Do use the service menu to turn on stereo ambilight (Inept...it's in the service menu).
Ybarra,
What does the Stereo Ambilight do -vs- the "normal" ambilight? Is it a selection in the SM just as in the regular menu?

mlandau

03-07-07, 09:05 AM

The stereo Ambilight allows independent control of the two ambilights.

Ybarra

03-07-07, 08:54 PM

Yikes...sorry Indept. I missed a letter in the worst of places!!! Umm...blue filter. When you get the kit from CC they include a little blue piece of clear plastic. When you use avia or any other color bar source, you use the blue filter to get your color levels and tint right. Again...your whitepoint has been calibrated in the factory so leave it the heck alone unless you have a professional with that special scope measurement thingy (can't remember what it's called) doing it. There is no way you can eyeball your whitepoint setting.

Magma2007 - I already got my SSB replaced. I'd hate to make them replace my PDP as they might as well give me a new one, but I'll put the call in anyway. When I was talking about front, I didn't mean a scratch on the black trim. I mean the actual glass in front of the PDP. It looks like the PDP is behind the glass (I've looked at the service guide also), but I can't tell for sure. I was wondering if I scratch the glass while cleaning it or if my kid throws a lego block at it and nicks it, if I could just buy a new glass for $300 or if the glass is physically part of the PDP. I know it's some kind of antiglare screen. I've worked with other brands where the front glass was actually cracked but the PDP behind it was fine and we just had to get a new glass.

PPhanatic - Yeah...the horizontal lines thingy is why my set keeps going to the shop, though I hadn't been able to narrow it down to a set pattern like you have, though I may try that. I've just noticed the problem with all of my component sources (PS2, DVD, and at one time Cable). It's usually accompanied by a hue change (blue looks green, etc). To fix it, I usually have to power off the plasma until I hear the relays click. I'm sure it's not a loose cable issue as I've tried 3 or 4 different sets of component cables.

The color shift I was talking about is with HDMI and my SA8300HD. Rarely (once or twice a month) when I turn to a channel, the channel will be purple. To fix it I just flip channels back and forth. Again I suspect an HDMI handshaking problem.

The streaking cannot be a signal issue because I'm using HDMI, though it could be artifacting by the PixelPlus or something, but if others see it too then I know it's not my PDP.

PhilipsPhanatic

03-07-07, 09:01 PM

Did you ever get a chance to check NBC news to see if the fine detail in their faces "blurred" when they move their heads?

I couldn't tell but I will try it in 2 weeks (not this Saturday, I'm out) during "Saturday Night Live" and the Weekend Update section. There they have facial closeups and the images are big. I watched a few of the local news from NY in Hi-Def and they didn't stay on the faces long enough and they didn't turn.

I did want to say this: I think if you are looking for something that minute it's probably not worth fretting over. I mean, if I am watching Amy Kolber or whatever her name is from SNL during WEEKEND UPDATE I can see all the facial details she has. I really think worrying about whether a zit on her face maintains it's redness as she turns her face is NOT something to worry about. If the Pioneer and Panasonic people get to see the zit staying red, good for them. I'm not that worried about it.

And sometimes, it's not a TV thing, it's the cable/satellite signal or the cameras used by the broadcasters themselves.

For all the glitches you see, you might be getting better HD than 99% of the people with Hi-Def sets, if you ask an ISF guy to calibrate your TV and ask him to compare your PQ to others he's seen, ya know ?

As long as the PQ is dramatically better than SD, let's enjoy the damn things and not worry about minute details.

That said, I WILL try again tonite and the next few nights to see any 'facial streaking' but again, the closeups on the news aren't big enough to tell even when I'm pretty close to the TV. That's why I recommend you watch "SNL" this Saturday @ 11:30 PM (WEEKEND UPDATE is on at about 12:10 AM) and tell me how their faces look. ;)

PhilipsPhanatic

03-07-07, 09:12 PM

PPhanatic - Yeah...the horizontal lines thingy is why my set keeps going to the shop, though I hadn't been able to narrow it down to a set pattern like you have, though I may try that. I've just noticed the problem with all of my component sources (PS2, DVD, and at one time Cable). It's usually accompanied by a hue change (blue looks green, etc). To fix it, I usually have to power off the plasma until I hear the relays click. I'm sure it's not a loose cable issue as I've tried 3 or 4 different sets of component cables.

Yes, sometimes I turned off my TV. Try this if it happens next time: switch INPUTS, maybe use the TV input to watch a HD or SD station. Then scroll back down to the AV1 or whatever INPUT had the white lines -- usually goes away if I do that, if not, then I power it OFF/ON.

The color shift I was talking about is with HDMI and my SA8300HD. Rarely (once or twice a month) when I turn to a channel, the channel will be purple. To fix it I just flip channels back and forth. Again I suspect an HDMI handshaking problem.

It sounds like the problem I have with my DVD player. It could be a complicated signal interference problem or something. I think these complicated electronic pieces sometimes have glitches and if it's something that happens only ever few weeks or months, you have to live with it and just work around it. I know for the glitches I have no way am I returning the set and getting one with major problems that requires shop time or other aggravation.

The streaking cannot be a signal issue because I'm using HDMI, though it could be artifacting by the PixelPlus or something, but if others see it too then I know it's not my PDP.

My CC boxes look normal, but at times they distort a bit. I really wouldn't worry about that. If CC works and you can read the type, don't worry about it. Beware of IR with CC if you use it for tons of hours on end, though.

indept

03-07-07, 09:53 PM

I couldn't tell but I will try it in 2 weeks (not this Saturday, I'm out) during "Saturday Night Live" and the Weekend Update section. There they have facial closeups and the images are big. I watched a few of the local news from NY in Hi-Def and they didn't stay on the faces long enough and they didn't turn.

I did want to say this: I think if you are looking for something that minute it's probably not worth fretting over. I mean, if I am watching Amy Kolber or whatever her name is from SNL during WEEKEND UPDATE I can see all the facial details she has. I really think worrying about whether a zit on her face maintains it's redness as she turns her face is NOT something to worry about. If the Pioneer and Panasonic people get to see the zit staying red, good for them. I'm not that worried about it.

And sometimes, it's not a TV thing, it's the cable/satellite signal or the cameras used by the broadcasters themselves.

For all the glitches you see, you might be getting better HD than 99% of the people with Hi-Def sets, if you ask an ISF guy to calibrate your TV and ask him to compare your PQ to others he's seen, ya know ?

As long as the PQ is dramatically better than SD, let's enjoy the damn things and not worry about minute details.

That said, I WILL try again tonite and the next few nights to see any 'facial streaking' but again, the closeups on the news aren't big enough to tell even when I'm pretty close to the TV. That's why I recommend you watch "SNL" this Saturday @ 11:30 PM (WEEKEND UPDATE is on at about 12:10 AM) and tell me how their faces look. ;)

It's only on NBC news. ABC & CBS are fine. Also Saturday Night Live looks great on my set. I suspect it's the local NBC news in Philadelphia.. What I see is the facial features (freckles, etc) and hair look crisp & clear when they are still but "blurs" when they move and only their head which is moving blurs, the rest of the picture is clear. when their head stops, their face goes back to great detail. I can see it from 8 feet away and now that I've noticed it I always see it on their news.

Also something I've seen about 3 or 4 times in the last week and a half is when I change channels the picture comes up but no sound. I just hit last channel and the sound returns then I go back to the channel that had no sound & all is fine. I have a Comcast Motorola HD STB connected via HDMI cable so as far as the tv is concerned, nothing has changed, all the changing is in the STB. Have you seen this?

PhilipsPhanatic

03-07-07, 11:29 PM

indept

03-08-07, 10:59 PM

Have you seen this, The Automatic mode for stretching sometimes it will stop working automatically. If I "reset" it by going from Automatic to Widescreen, then back again it starts working again.

Donniewb420

03-09-07, 06:37 AM

Have you seen this, The Automatic mode for stretching sometimes it will stop working automatically. If I "reset" it by going from Automatic to Widescreen, then back again it starts working again.

I dont think Ive ever had it stop... but I think sometimes depending on the way that certain channel operates if the bars on the side of the picture are of a different tint or color it wont stretch it. I think the tv only recognizes black to stretch if its gray or some other color it wont stretch it...

Magna2007

03-09-07, 08:57 AM

It's only on NBC news. ABC & CBS are fine. Also Saturday Night Live looks great on my set. I suspect it's the local NBC news in Philadelphia.. What I see is the facial features (freckles, etc) and hair look crisp & clear when they are still but "blurs" when they move and only their head which is moving blurs, the rest of the picture is clear. when their head stops, their face goes back to great detail. I can see it from 8 feet away and now that I've noticed it I always see it on their news.

Also something I've seen about 3 or 4 times in the last week and a half is when I change channels the picture comes up but no sound. I just hit last channel and the sound returns then I go back to the channel that had no sound & all is fine. I have a Comcast Motorola HD STB connected via HDMI cable so as far as the tv is concerned, nothing has changed, all the changing is in the STB. Have you seen this?

I also have the Comcast Motorola DCT6412-III STB with HDMI connection to my Philips 42PF9630A. I have had the sound "drop-out" (or not come up at all) when changing channels sometimes. If I hit the "mute" button on the STB control, and then un-mute the channel, the sound gets restored. So, I think it is an HDMI "handshake" issue.

The blurring effect you are seeing, I believe, is partly a function of the stretching or scaling of the signal by the 42PF9630A. Recall that the HDTV has to do this stretch/scale operation up to 60 times per second for progressive signals. For interlaced signals, the HDTV is de-interlacing and scaling the signal. That is a lot of processing in real time and it is not perfect. I do not notice the bluring or smearing on HD (720p, 1080i) signals, but do notice it on some on SD (480i) signals and occasionally on ED signals (480p) from the DVD. For most SD signals, I found that using the "SuperZoom" mode works best to minimize the blurring. For the DVD recorder/player, I found that "SuperZoom" or 16:9 scale modes work well. Are you watching the HD versions of these news channels or the SD? The HD channel news may or may not be using SD signals and simply transmitting them on the HD channels.

indept

03-09-07, 11:10 AM

I dont think Ive ever had it stop... but I think sometimes depending on the way that certain channel operates if the bars on the side of the picture are of a different tint or color it wont stretch it. I think the tv only recognizes black to stretch if its gray or some other color it wont stretch it...
They're black bars & they could be at the side or top & bottom. I've seen the tv switch back & forth. Watching Fox news in HD the weather screen is a 4:3 that the weatherman stands in front of so it stretches the picture but the weatherman backs off to one side & he stands "in front" of the black bars so the tv resizes, then he stands back in front of the picture & it stretches again, so it's working ok usually. It's an intermittent problem.

indept

03-09-07, 11:14 AM

I also have the Comcast Motorola DCT6412-III STB with HDMI connection to my Philips 42PF9630A. I have had the sound "drop-out" (or not come up at all) when changing channels sometimes. If I hit the "mute" button on the STB control, and then un-mute the channel, the sound gets restored. So, I think it is an HDMI "handshake" issue.

The blurring effect you are seeing, I believe, is partly a function of the stretching or scaling of the signal by the 42PF9630A. Recall that the HDTV has to do this stretch/scale operation up to 60 times per second for progressive signals. For interlaced signals, the HDTV is de-interlacing and scaling the signal. That is a lot of processing in real time and it is not perfect. I do not notice the bluring or smearing on HD (720p, 1080i) signals, but do notice it on some on SD (480i) signals and occasionally on ED signals (480p) from the DVD. For most SD signals, I found that using the "SuperZoom" mode works best to minimize the blurring. For the DVD recorder/player, I found that "SuperZoom" or 16:9 scale modes work well. Are you watching the HD versions of these news channels or the SD? The HD channel news may or may not be using SD signals and simply transmitting them on the HD channels.
I figured it was the STB with the sound issue.

As far as the blurring it's only on NBC during the local news & that is supposed to be HD (It's on the HD channel & advertised as HD) which I beleive it is because the "still" artifacts in the picture look great. I suspect it's the local stations equipment. I also watched Jay Leno, Conan Obrien, Saturday Night Live on NBC and there is no problem at all. The picture is crystal clear.

Donniewb420

03-09-07, 11:19 AM

They're black bars & they could be at the side or top & bottom. I've seen the tv switch back & forth. Watching Fox news in HD the weather screen is a 4:3 that the weatherman stands in front of so it stretches the picture but the weatherman backs off to one side & he stands "in front" of the black bars so the tv resizes, then he stands back in front of the picture & it stretches again, so it's working ok usually. It's an intermittent problem.

yea I know during certain commercials it will be filling the whole screen and maybe the black screen with the price of a car will show up and it will adjust it somewhat, but still filling the whole screen. I think at times the tv may get a bit confused as to what the content is and adjust... mine will always self correct within seconds

PhilipsPhanatic

03-09-07, 05:12 PM

Have you seen this, The Automatic mode for stretching sometimes it will stop working automatically. If I "reset" it by going from Automatic to Widescreen, then back again it starts working again.

It must 'reset' looking for black levels at the end of the picture and then it re-zooms when you cycle from AUTOMATIC to WIDESCREEN. Happens sometimes when credits run on SD programming on a space show with a black background.

I've had it happen to me, again, if this is the worst that happens, I'm popping the champagne cork. :D

PhilipsPhanatic

03-09-07, 05:14 PM

I suspect it's the local stations equipment. I also watched Jay Leno, Conan Obrien, Saturday Night Live on NBC and there is no problem at all. The picture is crystal clear.

You answered your own question.

But check out the WEEKEND UPDATE section on SNL tomorrow night and check any facial closeups/movements on the anchors. That should answer your question, plus it's on NBC. ;)

PhilipsPhanatic

03-09-07, 05:16 PM

yea I know during certain commercials it will be filling the whole screen and maybe the black screen with the price of a car will show up and it will adjust it somewhat, but still filling the whole screen. I think at times the tv may get a bit confused as to what the content is and adjust... mine will always self correct within seconds

Yeah, during credits with a black background all of a sudden the letterings increases by 300% -- it's kinda funny.

Rarely happens during a movie, and besides, you can move off the AUTOMATIC mode. If it happens once a month when I don't want it to during a HD or DVD playing, it's alot.

My friends with Sony's, Hitachis, Panasonics, even Pioneers all rave about the AUTOMATIC function and the mode choices when they watch TV at my house. I told them to get a Philips when they were buying their sets the last few years; they all bashed the company and the TV's. Now they're keeping it in mind for their 2nd and 3rd sets !! :D

indept

03-10-07, 10:09 AM

You answered your own question.

But check out the WEEKEND UPDATE section on SNL tomorrow night and check any facial closeups/movements on the anchors. That should answer your question, plus it's on NBC. ;)
As I mentioned before SNL looked perfect. I suspect it's because the fee's out of NY instead of Philly.

I've had it happen to me, again, if this is the worst that happens, I'm popping the champagne cork.
WOW, your tv came with champagne :D

indept

03-10-07, 10:29 AM

* Do use the service menu to turn on stereo ambilight (Inept...it's in the service menu).

* The 9630 has a learning remote and no the yellow key does jack squat.

What menu or sub menu is the ambilight stereo setting in. I checked the SM and there was something for backlight.

to what extent is it a learning remote?

indept

03-13-07, 10:04 AM

Ybarra
Any info on my post above?

Thanks

PhilipsPhanatic

03-13-07, 11:10 PM

Ybarra Any info on my post above?Thanks

CAREFULLY scroll through the SM, but don't accidentally 'touch' anything until you see something that looks like the Ambilight/Audio control function.

You can also look in the 9630 thread using ADVANCED SEARCH for 'stereo Ambilight' and see if someone identifies it there. :)

indept

03-15-07, 03:51 PM

CAREFULLY scroll through the SM, but don't accidentally 'touch' anything until you see something that looks like the Ambilight/Audio control function.

You can also look in the 9630 thread using ADVANCED SEARCH for 'stereo Ambilight' and see if someone identifies it there. :)
I found it, Thanks.
It was buried in a submenu in the SM.
Next question.
I'm seeing "rainbow" artifacts in skintones. on HD broadcasts (no stretching) i can see very slight rainbows where the skin goes from light to darker as in their face in a partial shadow. Has anyone seen this? I've searced the forums & only found rainbows on plasmas where the viewer moves his eyes across the screen. This is different, I can see this without me moving my eyes. I'm wondering if it's not a setting issue. I played with brightness & contrast & tint a little but still see it. Do you think calibrating the set will help?
Thanks

PhilipsPhanatic

03-15-07, 10:21 PM

I'm seeing "rainbow" artifacts in skintones. on HD broadcasts (no stretching) i can see very slight rainbows where the skin goes from light to darker as in their face in a partial shadow. Has anyone seen this? I've searced the forums & only found rainbows on plasmas where the viewer moves his eyes across the screen. This is different, I can see this without me moving my eyes. I'm wondering if it's not a setting issue. I played with brightness & contrast & tint a little but still see it. Do you think calibrating the set will help? Thanks

It could be the signal...if you're getting sharp HD and good SD, it's probably not the plasma.

indept

03-15-07, 10:53 PM

It could be the signal...if you're getting sharp HD and good SD, it's probably not the plasma.
Thanks PhilipsPhanatic. The picture is good in both sd & hd. I should probably go buy a calibration disc now that I have almost 300 hrs on the set. From what I read, it takes a little while to cal a tv but thats what beer is for :D

PhilipsPhanatic

03-15-07, 11:22 PM

Thanks PhilipsPhanatic. The picture is good in both sd & hd. I should probably go buy a calibration disc now that I have almost 300 hrs on the set. From what I read, it takes a little while to cal a tv but thats what beer is for :D

I have the DVE disk but it's very difficult. Plan on spending HOURS to do even video alone, let alone audio. Other disks are simpler but not as in-depth.

It might be a good idea to get an ISF technician to go into the SM and do a professional calibration. He can also check out your blue-pixel thing and either fix it or diagnose it for you.

indept

03-15-07, 11:36 PM

I have the DVE disk but it's very difficult. Plan on spending HOURS to do even video alone, let alone audio. Other disks are simpler but not as in-depth.

It might be a good idea to get an ISF technician to go into the SM and do a professional calibration. He can also check out your blue-pixel thing and either fix it or diagnose it for you.
Where did you get the DVE disk at?
The blue pixel was Pilotgeg in the 42PF9631 thread. My issue was the rainbow artifacts. Now tonight I don't see it. Maybe I was just tired & seeing things, but I still want to cal it. I'll tell you, so far I'm pretty fortunate, my 9630 is doing damn good right now, after reading some of the other posts, especially the 7220's. I complained about NBC news last week with blurring when they moved their heads, but now realize even though it's a HD channel that newscast is in SD. Considering that the detail looks as good as it does when they're still, I'm impressed with my 9630 PQ.
Oh yeah, one more thing, What is B&M. I've seen other thraeds where they say they buy @ B&M, is it anything like S&M :D ?

Yerp

03-16-07, 08:59 AM

B&M = Brick & Mortar store (i.e, Best Buy, Circuit City, etc) Basically, a store that you can physically walk into and buy stuff.

Chiahead

03-16-07, 10:35 AM

The picture is good in both sd & hd. I should probably go buy a calibration disc now that I have almost 300 hrs on the set. From what I read, it takes a little while to cal a tv but thats what beer is for :D

You thought you had rainbows before... :D

indept

03-16-07, 05:13 PM

B&M = Brick & Mortar store (i.e, Best Buy, Circuit City, etc) Basically, a store that you can physically walk into and buy stuff.
Thanks.

indept

03-17-07, 12:36 AM

PhilipsPhanatic,

anything on the previous question about the cal DVD would be greatly appreciated.

And a happy Patty's day to all, may green beer flow through your veins.:) Here comes some green beer now.... :D

PhilipsPhanatic

03-17-07, 04:28 PM

Indept, it's called Digital Video Essentials. It's a very detailed, intricate, and tough DVD to calibrate unless you're an ISF technician or have been doing this for a while. I thought I read where someone said they were updating the DVD for HDTV's (the disk I have is for digital TV, a few years earlier) and hopefully they simplify it.

The ELF disk available from AVS for a charity might not be a bad thing to consider.
An ISF technician might not be bad, either, you would probably learn alot for the $$$ (I might do that in a few months).

There's also GETGRAY, a website and link somewhere on AVS. Designed by some AVS guys, but I think you have to download it and there's not a physical disk available (or wasn't when I looked).

ANGLICO

03-17-07, 07:36 PM

I tried to calibrate with the disk Circuit City provided with the TV. I gave up after several attempts. For one thing, all adjustments are made through the TV on screen menu which overlays some of the test patterns. The on screen instructions are poor. I manage without it. I figured out how to adjust after reading some of the postings here, for which I'm grateful. I simply turn off the Auto settings and adjust the Contrast and Brightness. Actually the only reason I need to make adjustments is because I watch a lot of Black & White movies. These are movies from the 30s, 40s and 50s. and dark scenes tend to get a lot of purple in them. I can reduce that and in some cases eliminate it by adjusting the contrast and brightness. I have no complaints about color display. In any case I believe people spend too much time analyzing the picture quality rather than enjoying what they have. If there are major discrepancies visible, that's one thing. If you keep looking for defects, you will find them. They are there, they've been there since the first TV was produced back in the 1920s. Anyway, that's my rant, my 9630 sure beats my 2 36" CRTs and anything else I've had in the past.

PhilipsPhanatic

03-17-07, 08:14 PM

ANGLICO

03-17-07, 09:00 PM

Anglico, great post. Sometimes we fiddle too much when we should just accept 95% of perfection and enjoy the damn sets.

BTW, I see purplish-bars alternating with blacks on SD material on black scenes (space documentaries, movie credit endings, etc). Not bothersome since it doesn't really show up during a movie, but what specific settings minimize the purple ? :confused:

I don't see bars. what I get is what I believe they call false contouring or some such. it gives a purplish haze to dark grays such as clouds or fog. I also get it in many dark backgrounds of which there a many in those old movies.

To compensate, I turn off all the auto settings, then I increase the Contrast and Brightness. Sometimes the Contrast goes up to about 85 and brightness to 60 or more. Then I try the picture at Rich or normal. It takes a little playing around for each movie, some don't require any adjustments at all. When I go back to regular TV I just reset the Contrast and Brightness and leave it alone. I usually leave all the auto on OFF. Sometimes they reset so I turn them off.

I think it has a lot to do with the transfer quality of the films. Most of those B&W have not gone through a comprehensive restoration process. I just prefer to watch them. By the way, I just recorded QUO VADIS from TCM and the color was spectacular. Just as good as when it first came out. I saw it then.

PhilipsPhanatic

03-18-07, 12:14 AM

PIP TIP: You can have the small PIP box show ANY of your cable or regular channels by running your STB through the VCR input (on my TV it's AV2). So tonight I was watching a DVD in the big box and the little box could only show the HiDef channels in the TV's tuner run from the splitter (via TV input).

But using AV2, I could change channels thru the STB and it showed up via the VCR's input. Same channels do NOT show up if you try AV1 and the STB.

Mikead

03-18-07, 06:48 PM

I have had my 9630A for 9 months now. Do I still have to worry about burn-in? My contrast is at 57 and my brightness is at 52. Are these good settings?

indept

03-18-07, 11:35 PM

The ELF disk available from AVS for a charity might not be a bad thing to consider.

The "ELF" Disk? Where do I get it? And what Charity do I have to give for it :D

Also, I tried to find it by searching but had no luck. Does anyone have the link available of the thread showing a jpg of the glass tv stand that shattered

ANGLICO

03-19-07, 12:00 PM

I have had my 9630A for 9 months now. Do I still have to worry about burn-in? My contrast is at 57 and my brightness is at 52. Are these good settings?

Burn-in, yes; Break-in no. They are two different things. Burn-in refers to the ghostly image retention when a still scene is kept on the display too long. Most last only a short time, others can be permanent. The "Break-in" generally is felt to be about 100 hours. You should be OK and the settings you gave are good, but you'll have to be the judge. Experiment with them. A little adjustment of each up or down may or may not improve the picture for you. My settings vary somewhat higher. Play around with them.

PhilipsPhanatic

03-19-07, 11:17 PM

I have had my 9630A for 9 months now. Do I still have to worry about burn-in? My contrast is at 57 and my brightness is at 52. Are these good settings?

You're still at risk for burn-in......IF you only use your TV 15 minutes a day. :D :D

PhilipsPhanatic

03-19-07, 11:18 PM

The "ELF" Disk? Where do I get it? And what Charity do I have to give for it :D

Email or PM Dave Botts or one of the Mods.

Also, I tried to find it by searching but had no luck. Does anyone have the link available of the thread showing a jpg of the glass tv stand that shattered

Use Advanced Search and look for "shattered" in the thread title.

indept

03-20-07, 12:33 AM

Email or PM Dave Botts or one of the Mods.

Use Advanced Search and look for "shattered" in the thread title.
Thanks. I found the shattered glass thread using google. When I used the search forums it came up with 100 pages of results. I want to show a coworker who just bought glass shelves what he might be putting his new 46in Mit LCD on :cool:

Mikead

03-20-07, 07:41 PM

You're still at risk for burn-in......IF you only use your TV 15 minutes a day. :D :D

Isn't that an exageration...only 15 minutes? It would take longer than that to burn an image on!

PhilipsPhanatic

03-20-07, 10:17 PM

Isn't that an exageration...only 15 minutes? It would take longer than that to burn an image on!

I was referring to increased BI-risk by not doing a break-in...since he had his TV for 9 months, the only way he wouldn't have 100-200 hours of viewing was if he used it only 15 minutes a day. ;)

PhilipsPhanatic

03-20-07, 10:22 PM

Thanks. I found the shattered glass thread using google. When I used the search forums it came up with 100 pages of results. I want to show a coworker who just bought glass shelves what he might be putting his new 46in Mit LCD on :cool:

The Z-Line from CC has tempered glass....the one I bought for my 100-pound 9631 supposedly can handle 300+ pounds on the top shelf.

Buy tempered glass and quality and you should be OK.

indept

03-24-07, 02:09 AM

The way I see it, Philips can't be that bad if this post has fallen into oblivion. For the record, I have had my 50PF9630 refurb for 1 month now & all is good. No problems & still an awsome picture. I had 1 problem today, went to watch a dvd & the picture came up blank, that's what happens when you select an input that the DVD player IS NOT connected to :p . s So far the Philips outlet has come through for us, lets hope I'm singing that song for years to come :)

indept

03-26-07, 12:05 AM

Donniewb420

03-26-07, 06:35 AM

John C.

03-26-07, 08:08 AM

Oh man,yea,that is "must see" T.V.,stunning! We watched 3 in a row last night.To me,that's what these panels were made for. And maybe baseball,football,boxing... :)

PhilipsPhanatic

03-26-07, 08:19 PM

Well, the wife talked me into watching a series of specials on discovery, the "Planet Earth" specials. Absolutely awesome in HD. If the people that put down Philips are right, then I don't know if I can handle a better HD tv :cool:

Yes, AWESOME and DiscHD is one of the better shows to watch HD on -- they use HiDef cameras and it also (usually) an uncompressed channel which means it has extra clarity (or so I've been told). :)

But I had to tape the 3rd hour on a 1980's VCR for re-watching tonite. :mad:

PhilipsPhanatic

03-26-07, 08:30 PM

Oh man,yea,that is "must see" T.V.,stunning! We watched 3 in a row last night.To me,that's what these panels were made for. And maybe baseball,football,boxing... :)

DiscHD had the episodes finishing in 45 minutes (only 1 small commercial break); the regular Discovery Channel took an hour. ;) We saved 15 minutes. :)

I just got DiscHD and NatGeoHD last week. NationalGeoHD is a simulcast of regular NG channel so lots of stuff there isn't optimized for HD.

DiscHD is separate from Discover regular; sometimes they show the same stuff (like last night, though they weren't in-synch). But DiscHD shows lots of repeats of the same HD-material, rather than fill time with non-HD 'junk.' :)

ANGLICO

03-26-07, 09:44 PM

I missed that last last night. Didn't even know I had DischovHD. My 8300 is now set to record all episodes. If anyone is interested, I believe the original BBC series is on DVD. I don't know if it's HD.

semi-noob

03-30-07, 04:41 PM

4. Use the TVGOS menu(s) again.
Definitely noted. :) Any update on this?

When I had enabled the TVGOS (when it used to be part of the firmware), it did work with Cablevision and I was able to get updated guide info for the TVGOS.Mine worked also: Cable One in Boise, Idaho - using cable card.

PhilipsPhanatic

03-30-07, 08:51 PM

Any update on this?

On TVGOS? I'm not sure what it is, maybe the 9630's had it....I have the 9631 and my Electronic Program Guide button now gives me information on QAM-tuned channels that I get directly into the Philips via the 2nd cable splitter. Won't work when I use the STB, obviousley. Hitting the GREEN button goes forward in programming on the EPG, YELLOW goes backwards (glad to finally put the Yellow button to use !! :D )

desertfoxaz

03-30-07, 09:04 PM

I just wanted to tell everyone that I got my 42PF9631 last week and so far everything seems to be working great. The color temperature actually performs as it ought to and I can now use both HDMI inputs. I haven't had any black screens or audio dropouts, or any of the other odd behavior my old 42PF9630 had.

It took 8 months to get it resolved, but my lemon is now gone.

Mikead

03-31-07, 11:30 AM

indept

03-31-07, 12:06 PM

I have the 9630 for 9 months and it works perfectly. Not one glitch. I also have the matching Philips Upscaling DVD player, and I get magnificient pictures quality with it on my Philips HDTV. Does anyone else have this combination of Philip products? Whats your response?

How big is your screen, I have a 50fp9630, love it. I also have a philips surround sound system. I've found if I turn on / off the surround sound the tv responds to it's command. It has the same command so I've resorted to toggling power on the surround system from its front panel. Do you find the same with your DVD player?

TubaSaxT

03-31-07, 12:47 PM

I have the 9630 for 9 months and it works perfectly. Not one glitch. I also have the matching Philips Upscaling DVD player, and I get magnificient pictures quality with it on my Philips HDTV. Does anyone else have this combination of Philip products? Whats your response?

I've had what I presume is the same DVD player with both the 9630 and 9631 and have been quite pleased with my DVD viewing as well. My only complaint is that the remote control for the DVD player has to be aimed just right and is probably made from the cheapest hunk of plastic they could find.

Mikead

03-31-07, 01:50 PM

I've had what I presume is the same DVD player with both the 9630 and 9631 and have been quite pleased with my DVD viewing as well. My only complaint is that the remote control for the DVD player has to be aimed just right and is probably made from the cheapest hunk of plastic they could find.

I agree about the quality of construction on the remote. But I am very please at the construction of the player itself. Top notch typical Philips quality.
By the way. I was a bit disappointed when I got it that the disc door didnt have an open button on the remote. But I soon learned the drawer open and close control is with the stop button. Just hold it in.

indept

03-31-07, 02:05 PM

I was a bit disappointed when I got it that the disc door didnt have an open button on the remote. But I soon learned the drawer open and close control is with the stop button. Just hold it in.
Is that really an issue, I mean, don't you have to go over to it to insert/remove the disc anywhose or is there a insert/remove button too? :p

PhilipsPhanatic

03-31-07, 03:49 PM

I also have the matching Philips Upscaling DVD player, and I get magnificient pictures quality with it on my Philips HDTV. Does anyone else have this combination of Philip products? Whats your response?

I am looking to get a quality DVD player down the line, but undecided right now between a top-notch one costing up to $500 like Denon; a Blu-Ray player, or a PS3.

If I could get a Blu-Ray player that would play regular DVD's great, I think that would be my prefered solution. When are Denon and Panasonic and Philips going to start churnign out HD-DVD or Blu-Ray player ??? :confused:

PhilipsPhanatic

03-31-07, 03:51 PM

Is that really an issue, I mean, don't you have to go over to it to insert/remove the disc anywhose or is there a insert/remove button too? :p

Maybe he wants the tray already opened by the time he leaves the couch and gets to the DVD player; sorta like when you hit the garage door opener and the door is waiting for you to go through when you arrive. :D

Mikead

03-31-07, 09:21 PM

Maybe he wants the tray already opened by the time he leaves the couch and gets to the DVD player; sorta like when you hit the garage door opener and the door is waiting for you to go through when you arrive. :D
I find it an extra convenience to have. I think most other players have it. Atleast the other 3 I have in my houes do. Dont yours?

indept

03-31-07, 09:49 PM

I find it an extra convenience to have. I think most other players have it. Atleast the other 3 I have in my houes do. Dont yours?
Isn't that why we have kids, to put discs in for us :D

PhilipsPhanatic

03-31-07, 09:49 PM

I find it an extra convenience to have. I think most other players have it. At least the other 3 I have in my houes do. Dont yours?

I'd rather have backlighted remotes...I think I can eject the DVD's hitting some buttons. One of my DVD players does have an OPEN/CLOSE button.

indept

03-31-07, 10:40 PM

I'd rather have backlighted remotes...I think I can eject the DVD's hitting some buttons. One of my DVD players does have an OPEN/CLOSE button.
My remote has a "Get Beer" button. let me see you top that!! :D which can only be topped by th BJ button, I'm referring to BJ's wholesale club of course (yeah, right :rolleyes):)

Quatre

04-01-07, 12:23 AM

why as one guy posting aout his 50" and then asking wha size someone else has? hello the thread is 42pf9630 not 50. i mean ive posted in 50" verson for my 60" rp panny lcd but only cus others di & there was no thread fo he 60 & sae everything applied. leas i nevr asked anyone what size theres was.

anyway i mostly jut wanted to say that in watching one of the last eps of 24 season 1 on dvd the picture was too ark on natural setting. but rich & multimedia looked better.

i like o keep in automatic pic size but when 24 goes to multiple split screens the auto pi size function gts messed up. we all kno about that though and its a ie ffec to what is ultimtely a grea feature.

speakking of features i need to check when the lates update was & apply it. i jut hesitated cus evrything worked fin after he lst couple updaes befoe that but might be time for newest upate anyway.

looking into the 50pf9631 o 9731 2 & 3 sided ambilight plsmas for shore condo & may ultimately gt the 42" 4 sided ambilight lcd to replce this 42pf9630 but realy its been grea fo bdroom.

just wish CC subcontracted wal mount install guys had mounted it higher on the tv mount bck panel of my piece of furniture cus its a tad low & worried if i ever change thatt he ol holes will be viibl or cause some problem.

anyone har about philips not selling tvs in the ua aymore? that is what magnolia home theatre salesperson said & why they were sold out of all philips ambilight models. tha theywere discontinued ent down in price & sol what they had. i ee they till have online though & for more money then mot other plces & doesnt look like they went down any.

i havent heard this anywhere else eithr so i onder if isjut bstbuy not carrying them anymore? i know they re stopping carrying jvc.

i jut havent heard that philips wont be selling in us anymore nor seen prices rop or them selling out oher then one magnolia i went to.

Donniewb420

04-01-07, 09:52 AM

My remote has a "Get Beer" button. let me see you top that!! :D which can only be topped by th BJ button, I'm referring to BJ's wholesale club of course (yeah, right :rolleyes):)

lol priceless ;)

indept

04-01-07, 12:46 PM

jdef

04-01-07, 03:55 PM

I bought my 50PF9630A in January, 2006. Based on advice in this forum I enabled stereo Ambilight.

My set has been trouble free, and I am thrilled with the picture. Everyone who has visited me and seen it has commented on the great picture. After I got my set I got a job working for a huge Plasma TV company. I really liked their sets too but still would stick with Philps because the Ambilight is wonderful (and Philps' aggressive pricing makes it a real bargain.

Enjoy your set and good luck with it! Remember to check the web site from time to time for firmware updates.

I have read a lot of these topics and have learned alot, thanks guys. I just purchased a refurbished 50pf9630A/37B 50 in plasma on the Philips outlet site ($200 off ). I heard they use new 2007 furbishes :p . Any comments on experience with the refurbs? I know they only have 90 day warranties but I intend to buy an extended warranty, 5 years for $165 from online site (Repairtech). They are registered with the better Buisness Bureau and have a satisfactory rating. I don't usually buy extended warranties, but figured this situation warrants (no pun intended) it.
Questions:
1. What do you think of the 50pf9630A.
2. Are all "9630's" the same electronics with different plasma displays (42 in vs 50 in)
3. What should I look for when it is delivered before I sign for it? There is a "no Return" policy, but I can refuse shipment if I'm not happy with it.
4. What year was this model introduced?

Face it, LCD is the way to go but a 50 in lcd panel goes for about 4K, so given the final [EDIT] price for this, it was hard to refuse, especially since I can get the 5 yr warranty.

indept

04-01-07, 09:14 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

04-01-07, 10:12 PM

anyone har about philips not selling tvs in the ua aymore? that is what magnolia home theatre salesperson said & why they were sold out of all philips ambilight models. tha theywere discontinued ent down in price & sol what they had. i ee they till have online though & for more money then mot other plces & doesnt look like they went down any.i havent heard this anywhere else eithr so i onder if isjut bstbuy not carrying them anymore? i know they re stopping carrying jvc.
i jut havent heard that philips wont be selling in us anymore nor seen prices rop or them selling out oher then one magnolia i went to.

Philips is supposed to not be selling plasmas outside the US and a few other locations, but LCD's are still big. But I did go to 2 different CC's and neither had any Philips TVs -- plasma or LCD's -- at all.

Didn't see one at a BB either a week ago. :confused:

Anybody else seeing them somewhere? Sears ?? :confused:

indept

04-01-07, 10:22 PM

Philips is supposed to not be selling plasmas outside the US and a few other locations, but LCD's are still big. But I did go to 2 different CC's and neither had any Philips TVs -- plasma or LCD's -- at all.

Didn't see one at a BB either a week ago. :confused:

Anybody else seeing them somewhere? Sears ?? :confused:
I saw them at BB's about 2 weeks ago in Maple Shade & Deptford NJ., not in the "magnolia" section though but out on the wall with the rest of the common flat panels.

jdef

04-02-07, 02:14 PM

That's for you to guess but I did leave a hint!

Joe

I agree, my 9630 has been awesome. SD is very good on this set & HD doesn't suck :cool: This tv has a lot of nice features, ambilight, automatic stretch mode, pixel plus 2 etc. What "HUGE" plasma tv company are you refering to?

PhilipsPhanatic

04-02-07, 10:47 PM

The price for the 7321 is ridiculous and the 63" for $5500 is even worse. And what's this CINEOS tagline for the plasmas ?? That used to be Philips' old LCoS technology.

Mikead

04-03-07, 12:07 AM

I just heard CC owes Philips much money and they refuse to supply them anymore. And also CC is in big finiancal trouble and is laying off 4,000 employees.

PhilipsPhanatic

04-03-07, 01:27 PM

I just heard CC owes Philips much money and they refuse to supply them anymore. And also CC is in big finiancal trouble and is laying off 4,000 employees.

Err...not exactly. CC is downsizing but they aren't anywhere in trouble financially. They may be having a dispute with Philips, but I'm surprised since Philips sets are not premium models like Pioneer where CC might want to haggle on wholesale prices and make more $$$ on each sale. Not as much in bargaining with Philips, LG, Panny, etc.

As for the BB link above, I don't know about the 'CINEOS' tag, but $5,500 was supposed to buy the forthcoming 1080p 63" set. $5,500 for a 720p model with no Ambilight and no swiveling stand? I think it's a misprint.

Or ripoff. :D

semi-noob

04-03-07, 04:49 PM

On TVGOS? I'm not sure what it is, maybe the 9630's had it....I have the 9631 and my Electronic Program Guide button now gives me information on QAM-tuned channels that I get directly into the Philips via the 2nd cable splitter. Won't work when I use the STB, obviousley. Hitting the GREEN button goes forward in programming on the EPG, YELLOW goes backwards (glad to finally put the Yellow button to use !! :D )

TV Guide On Screen. Yes, the 9630s had it, but upon a firmware upgrade (probably 5 or 6 versions ago) it was taken off. Just wishing it was put back as mine worked great. I believe I still have the old firmware version that supports it, if anyone is interested..... :o

Donniewb420

04-06-07, 02:30 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

04-07-07, 11:54 PM

Does anyone know how to remove the channels that go into the preferred channels list after doing a scan? Obviously i know you can uncheck them and they wont show up as you channel up or down, just curious if you could completely refresh that list and make it empty.. thanx in advance.

No, because they're still 'there' or available, which is what the QAM tuner is showing.

You have to uncheck them. I know it's a PITA. :(

Donniewb420

04-08-07, 12:21 PM

No, because they're still 'there' or available, which is what the QAM tuner is showing.

You have to uncheck them. I know it's a PITA. :(

yea thats what I figured, its a shame because the qam tuner picks up like 300 or more channels yet maybe 12 are actual viewable stations. wouldnt be so bad if U didnt have to do them one by one;) thanx tho!

PhilipsPhanatic

04-08-07, 10:40 PM

yea thats what I figured, its a shame because the qam tuner picks up like 300 or more channels yet maybe 12 are actual viewable stations. wouldnt be so bad if U didnt have to do them one by one;) thanx tho!

Hey I saw a Panny 60U today...50"...nice PQ and blacks and nice features...but the booklet wasn't as helpful as the Philips manual (hard to believe, I know ;) ) and the 'stretch' functions aren't as good for either SD or DVD (on HD they have more choices but why would you want to stretch something that already fills the screen?).

Sometimes we Philips owners bitch alot and don't recognize what we have that others don't.

The AUTOMATIC function is light-years ahead in ease-of-use and functionality compared to what I've seen elsewhere. :) :)

Donniewb420

04-09-07, 03:10 PM

Hey I saw a Panny 60U today...50"...nice PQ and blacks and nice features...but the booklet wasn't as helpful as the Philips manual (hard to believe, I know ;) ) and the 'stretch' functions aren't as good for either SD or DVD (on HD they have more choices but why would you want to stretch something that already fills the screen?).

Sometimes we Philips owners bitch alot and don't recognize what we have that others don't.

The AUTOMATIC function is light-years ahead in ease-of-use and functionality compared to what I've seen elsewhere. :) :)

Is there any news on when phillips will make a plasma that is 1080p? have they already released a lcd that is 1080 p? Just curious. trying to generate some chit chat here, its been too quiet ;)

PhilipsPhanatic

04-09-07, 10:41 PM

Is there any news on when phillips will make a plasma that is 1080p? have they already released a lcd that is 1080 p? Just curious. trying to generate some chit chat here, its been too quiet ;)

There's a Philips 63" 1080p thread.....coming out in June/July....$5,500 MSRP, but supposedly Panny's 58" will retail for $4,800. :eek:

KYBLLUE

04-11-07, 12:42 PM

Yeah. I'm getting the green screen on my HDMI port. I suspect my small signal board is going out. I'm getting the following problems:

1) Sync'ing on my component ports. The screen is dark, the wrong color, and has distorted horizontal lines. Changing cables or flipping channels back and forth doesn't fix it. Usually the only thing that fixes it is turning off the TV until you hear the relays "click" and then turning it back on.

2) Dark picture on coax input on all analog stations (both cable and OTA).

3) HDCP error message with my SA HD box. Again fixed by turning the TV off until the relays "click" and then back on.

4) Green screen with SA HD box. Usually fixed by changing to any source of a different resolution (i.e. going from 480i to 480p or 720p and then back).

I've got a tech ticket in and I assume I'll be getting a new small signal board and/or power supply soon.
did you ever resolve this green screen issue. i am having the same symptons.
i have the latest firmware 1.5.0 installed.
hdtv is getting signal from hdmi port on a motorola dct 6412 III. -- could it be the stb?

kybllue

PhilipsPhanatic

04-12-07, 10:04 AM

did you ever resolve this green screen issue. i am having the same symptons. i have the latest firmware 1.5.0 installed.
hdtv is getting signal from hdmi port on a motorola dct 6412 III. -- could it be the stb? kybllue

Ybarra, KY....how many hours did each of you have on your sets when the problem started?

In fact, anytime anyone here posts a problem that is set-related, please tell us how many years you've had the TV and what the hours of operation from the SM says hour-wise.

noahhadas

04-14-07, 01:22 AM

kenny713

04-14-07, 10:15 AM

OK, I've lurked here for a very long time but haven't had the need to post until now. Sorry my first post will be such a lengthy one.....

I used this forum 20 months ago when I was researching which plasma screen to buy and received a lot of good information and decided to purchase the Philips from Circuit City. Along with the plasma, I bought the 3 year extended warranty.

I've been really happy with it until two weeks ago. Starting two Saturday's ago, the set would just shut off and the red led would blink seven times, pause and blink seven more times. The power button would not work on the set or the remote. The only way to power it off was to unplug the set and plug it back in. 15 minutes later and the same thing.

Thank God I had the extended warranty, right? Called CC on 3/30 and was told someone would be out that Monday (4/2). Tech showed up and luckily the problem re-created itself while he was there. He said that he would order a new board and power supply and would call to set up a repair. Got a call that Wednesday (4/4) and was told the tech would be back out on Friday to complete the repair.

Here is where it gets interesting......

Took off work on Friday and waited for the tech to call to let me know when he was coming out. He calls just after lunch and, get this, said that the part came in and that someone signed for it but that they now can not find my parts. He said they would continue looking for it and would be out Monday to fix the set. I was a bit agitated about that but hey, mistakes happen, and said "no problem." Took off of work again Monday and lo and behold, dude calls and said that they still could not find the part and that he would re-order the parts overnight. I was going out of town on business and told the guy to call me Thursday to set up a Friday service visit. He said he would and that was that.

Called dude on Thursday 'cause he hadn't called me and left a message. Nothing. Called yesterday and left another message (more strongly worded this time) and he calls back after that and said that the re-ordered parts still haven't come it. I ask "what about the overnight delivery?" He said that he requested overnight but was overruled by either CC or the manufacturer (Philips). I asked what my options are at this point as I am growing increasingly frustrated with the whole thing. After letting him know (in the nicest way possible) that I was really pissed, I agreed to wait until this Friday to see what happens.

Here is where my question comes in....I thought I read somewhere (possibly here) where CC owes Philips a lot of money. I've also noticed that there are no Philips TV's available on CC's website. Is it possible that the CC tech is feeding me a line of baloney with regards to the status of my parts? Seems to me if CC owes Philips money that they would not be sending them parts on a line of credit. I hate for people (especially retailers that have taken $3500 from me - TV, tax and extended warranty) to lie to me - just tell me the truth and give me my money back (I doubt they'd be able to supply me a replacement set with ambilight if they don't carry them any more) and let me go purchase a new set elsewhere if you can't supply the parts needed to repair my set.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks.

ballers34

04-14-07, 08:09 PM

Hey I was just wondering if someone could post some setting for there set I cant get the picture quite right any help would be appreciated

indept

04-14-07, 11:20 PM

Hey I was just wondering if someone could post some setting for there set I cant get the picture quite right any help would be appreciated
PM PhilipsPhanatic (Right click on his name in his post above) & give him your email, He'll send you the settings

PhilipsPhanatic

04-15-07, 12:39 AM

I haven't been checking this thread in about a year since my 9630 has been working without problems and I've been very happy with its performance. Tonight, however, after watching about 3 hours the screen went black and I couldn't turn off the power. I finally had to unplug the set to get the green led and ambilight to turn off. After about a minute, I plugged it back in and everything was working fine. Is this the "black screen of death" I remember reading about a while back? My software version is 1.3.0.0, which is (I believe) the version that supposedly fixed this problem. Any thoughts? Thanks!

It sure sounds like it.....although in my case I thought I could turn it back on immediately or it came back on itself.

Your software version sounds way out of date...if you haven't checked here for a year and haven't updated in the same time, you missed the BSOD fix. Goto Philips.com and get the right update for the 9630. The latest software should fix the problem as the updates are additive.

Please report back so we can confirm your problem was fixed.

PhilipsPhanatic

04-15-07, 12:43 AM

I've been really happy with it until two weeks ago. Starting two Saturday's ago, the set would just shut off and the red led would blink seven times, pause and blink seven more times. The power button would not work on the set or the remote. The only way to power it off was to unplug the set and plug it back in. 15 minutes later and the same thing.

Hmmm.....not sure, but it's still possible that this could be a BSOD issue. Are you running the latest software ?

Here is where my question comes in....I thought I read somewhere (possibly here) where CC owes Philips a lot of money. I've also noticed that there are no Philips TV's available on CC's website. Is it possible that the CC tech is feeding me a line of baloney with regards to the status of my parts? Seems to me if CC owes Philips money that they would not be sending them parts on a line of credit. I hate for people (especially retailers that have taken $3500 from me - TV, tax and extended warranty) to lie to me - just tell me the truth and give me my money back (I doubt they'd be able to supply me a replacement set with ambilight if they don't carry them any more) and let me go purchase a new set elsewhere if you can't supply the parts needed to repair my set. Any thoughts would be appreciated.Thanks.

I do not know why CC isn't carrying Philips sets all of a sudden. CC is NOT in financial trouble; they may have a dispute with Philips or something. Are Philips sets available from their website? Have you contacted Philips ?

PhilipsPhanatic

04-15-07, 12:45 AM

Hey I was just wondering if someone could post some setting for there set I cant get the picture quite right any help would be appreciated

Plenty of sample post-breakin settings throughout the 9630 and 9631 User Threads (mostly early in the threads) and also on the Philips Tips sheet.

BTW, for those of you waiting on the Philips Tips Sheet update, I should have it finished in a few weeks. Sorry for the delay but the older version still has most of the critical stuff. The update mostly has reviews and useful tips that are secondary in nature.

kenny713

04-15-07, 10:33 AM

Hmmm.....not sure, but it's still possible that this could be a BSOD issue. Are you running the latest software ?

I do not know why CC isn't carrying Philips sets all of a sudden. CC is NOT in financial trouble; they may have a dispute with Philips or something. Are Philips sets available from their website? Have you contacted Philips ?

It's not the black screen of death - my understanding is that with the BSOD the green LED is still lit. Mine has a blinking red LED. Also, I do have the latest firmware installed.

I found out yesterday that the tech lied to me when he told me that he ordered the parts for a second time on 4/9. I was out yesterday afternoon and received an automated message on my answering machine from CC telling me that my parts had to ordered and that they were ordered on 4/13. I thought this was odd since this is the first message that I had received from them with regards to ordering parts. I called the 888 # for CC Advantage and had the person there check to see how many times parts were ordered and when. They told me that they were ordered on 4/2 and 4/13. I then filed a complaint due to the tech lying to me and they are supposed to get back with me within 72 business hours.

If you make a mistake, just admit it and then apologize or offer concessions in order to make up for it. But don't lie and make it worse.

PhilipsPhanatic

04-15-07, 11:50 AM

It's not the black screen of death - my understanding is that with the BSOD the green LED is still lit. Mine has a blinking red LED. Also, I do have the latest firmware installed.

Sounds right but still could be it. If you have the latest firmware then you probably don't have BSOD, I do recall the update number(s) as being higher than your version.

I found out yesterday that the tech lied to me when he told me that he ordered the parts for a second time on 4/9. I was out yesterday afternoon and received an automated message on my answering machine from CC telling me that my parts had to ordered and that they were ordered on 4/13. I thought this was odd since this is the first message that I had received from them with regards to ordering parts. I called the 888 # for CC Advantage and had the person there check to see how many times parts were ordered and when. They told me that they were ordered on 4/2 and 4/13. I then filed a complaint due to the tech lying to me and they are supposed to get back with me within 72 business hours.
If you make a mistake, just admit it and then apologize or offer concessions in order to make up for it. But don't lie and make it worse.

Terrible....find out from CC what happened....but this is a CC problem, not Philips.

I think your set has a relatively easy problem to fix that was compounded by the CC-Philips situation (whatever that is).

Keep us apprised of developments, hopefully your set is back to 100% within a week or so.

noahhadas

04-15-07, 01:25 PM

It sure sounds like it.....although in my case I thought I could turn it back on immediately or it came back on itself.

Your software version sounds way out of date...if you haven't checked here for a year and haven't updated in the same time, you missed the BSOD fix. Goto Philips.com and get the right update for the 9630. The latest software should fix the problem as the updates are additive.

Please report back so we can confirm your problem was fixed.

I updated the software yesterday to the current version. I'll let you know if the BSOD rears its ugly head again.

Thanks for the help.

Mikead

04-17-07, 10:37 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

04-18-07, 12:35 AM

The blinking red light mean the TV shut down because there was a static electrical interference. It explains it all in your manual. i had the same thing happen about a year ago. Just unplug and replug. No big deal. It's a safety function to protect the TV.

Great insight, thanks for the help. I'll put this in the next Philips Tips Sheet. ;)

Is it possible to go into the SM and READ how the TV records these failures? I don't mean fooling around with settings, just seeing how they record. When I went to look at hours of operation, I thought I remember seeing something on ERRORS (it was zero on my TV).

kenny713

04-18-07, 06:37 PM

[QUOTE=kenny713]It's not the black screen of death - my understanding is that with the BSOD the green LED is still lit. Mine has a blinking red LED. Also, I do have the latest firmware installed. QUOTE]

The blinking red light mean the TV shut down because there was a static electrical interference. It explains it all in your manual. i had the same thing happen about a year ago. Just unplug and replug. No big deal. It's a safety function to protect the TV.

Sorry, but you're wrong with regards to my situation. When mine locks up, I unplug it and wait a minute and then plug it back in. 5-10 minutes later it's the same thing and it gets gradually worse from there where it will only go 1-2 minutes without locking up. Don't know about you, but I don't like having to constantly unplug and plug in my TV in order to keep watching it.

Tech was back out today and replaced the main control board. When it turned back on, the screen was filled up with only half of the picture that it should have been and only 30 seconds later it shut off again and the red LED started blinking. It got worse, not better, after the repairs were done. Tech said he'd reccomend a new TV for me but I don't know how they can give me the same thing since CC doesn't carry Philips anymore. I'm preparing for a huge fight with CC - only thing I'll accept if they can't produce an ambilight TV is my purchase price back.

The new 42" Panny is looking righteous. I may go that route once I get done wrestling with CC.

PhilipsPhanatic

04-19-07, 04:13 PM

[QUOTE=Mikead]Tech said he'd reccomend a new TV for me but I don't know how they can give me the same thing since CC doesn't carry Philips anymore. I'm preparing for a huge fight with CC - only thing I'll accept if they can't produce an ambilight TV is my purchase price back. The new 42" Panny is looking righteous. I may go that route once I get done wrestling with CC.

Ask CC why they don't carry Philips.

What about getting a refund with $$$ and using that to get a 9631 at Sears (good warranty policy) or a 9731 ?

I would not buy a Philips or any TV from a place with lots of refurbs, returns, or a retailer that is no longer carrying a manufacturer. Too high a chance of getting a lemon.

Mikead

04-19-07, 09:53 PM

[QUOTE=kenny713]

Ask CC why they don't carry Philips.

What about getting a refund with $$$ and using that to get a 9631 at Sears (good warranty policy) or a 9731 ?

I would not buy a Philips or any TV from a place with lots of refurbs, returns, or a retailer that is no longer carrying a manufacturer. Too high a chance of getting a lemon.

Best Buy is a Philips dealer. And they give Philips very high marks for quality.

kenny713

04-20-07, 05:17 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

04-22-07, 12:21 PM

Just found out that my 42PF9630a/37 is going to be replaced under my extended warranty. I've finally come to grips with the fact I won't be getting an ambilight as a replacement. Frankly, I'm not too disappointed with that since my one and only experience with the Philips brand has not been all that great. Spend $2700 on a set and only have it operate for 19 1/2 months? No thank you.
Panasonic, here I come.

Sorry you are losing out on Ambilight and your negative experience. But understand, all manufacturers and models have lemons. Panny is no exception (if you doubt me, check out some of the threads in this AVS section). :(

Did you tell Philips or the retailer your desire for an Ambilight set? I would think if you told them THAT was the reason you bought the 9630 they would try and get you a new model or at least credit you a generous amount from your older 9630. :confused:

The 9630 is generally reliable but the Ambilight models since then (with the exception of the 9431) have a very low problem-rate.

Whatever transpires, good luck and happy viewing. ;)

Mikead

04-29-07, 10:26 PM

Anyone know why if I have my 9630 set to automatic format and all my SD channels stretch except one, what might be the problem?

Chiahead

04-30-07, 11:22 AM

Does the one standard channels have black bars on the side, or grey. The TV only expands if there are black bars.

Donniewb420

04-30-07, 12:43 PM

Does the one standard channels have black bars on the side, or grey. The TV only expands if there are black bars.

if they are gray and are using a set top cable box, they usually have an option of what colors you want the bars to be, try to get them as dark as possible.

Mikead

04-30-07, 10:32 PM

Guess Im answering my own message...oh well...here goes!

It must have been a broadcasting issue cause tonight it was stretched. Thanks for the quick replys!

PhilipsPhanatic

05-02-07, 12:38 PM

Guess Im answering my own message...oh well...here goes!
It must have been a broadcasting issue cause tonight it was stretched. Thanks for the quick replys!

And sometimes you might re-set it to AUTOMATIC and it will re-set parameters and stretch.

The analyzer sometimes gets confused and needs to be reminded of its mode, just like when it sometimes stretches and de-stretches during a dark scene.

kevin04

05-07-07, 09:12 PM

Is there a way to display captions even though DVD disc dont have any. I mean this particular movie has subtitles in french and spanish no english.
On my old set up, panasonic dvd payer and sanyo hd tv it used to work but with the new set up Oppo DVD player & Philips. i tried everything, turning on caption on /off on both dvd and TV . can some one help me out

TIA

PhilipsPhanatic

05-08-07, 08:36 AM

Is there a way to display captions even though DVD disc dont have any. I mean this particular movie has subtitles in french and spanish no english. On my old set up, panasonic dvd payer and sanyo hd tv it used to work but with the new set up Oppo DVD player & Philips. i tried everything, turning on caption on /off on both dvd and TV . can some one help me out TIA

If the disk doesn't have it, then the DVD player and the TV can NOT show you anything.

Sorry. :(

PhilipsPhanatic

05-10-07, 01:41 PM

Anybody with the 9630 and HDMI detected an improved PQ with the last firmware upgrade?

Doubtful, but anybody with a 9630 and the latest upgrade see an improvement with COMPONENT PQ (the upgrade says it applies to HDMI, but who knows) ?

Donniewb420

05-10-07, 07:31 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

05-10-07, 09:16 PM

I saw a slight improvement yes.

Component or HDMI?

On SD, HD, all channels, or just a select few ?

Donniewb420

05-10-07, 09:37 PM

Component or HDMI?

On SD, HD, all channels, or just a select few ?

sorry about that I connect thru hdmi. Saw an improvement as it related to my cable thru a set top box. Dvd appeared to be the same but that is connected thru component. I think my cable could look even better if twc didnt compress the **** out of image.

indept

05-11-07, 12:22 AM

PhilipsPhanatic

05-11-07, 08:04 AM

Phanatic, Is there a newer upgrade than th 12/06 one?

Not according to the PDF at the Philips website. I believe that applies to both the 9630 and 9631.

Donniewb420

05-11-07, 11:15 AM

Not according to the PDF at the Philips website. I believe that applies to both the 9630 and 9631.

I heard somewhere that this would probably be the last upgrade to the firmware for this model... I assume because they dont make it anymore.

PhilipsPhanatic

05-11-07, 04:11 PM

I heard somewhere that this would probably be the last upgrade to the firmware for this model... I assume because they dont make it anymore.

Possible and probable, but I would hope any MAJOR updates would be forthcoming. Though since most 9630 and 9631 owners are very happy with the quality of their sets (with only the BSOD being a "fatal" problem), if my TV continues to work as is and I never get another firmware upgade, I'll be one happy camper. :D

Mikead

05-14-07, 07:37 PM

Is there a notable difference between a 720p resolution and a 1080p? And is it possible that there could be a resolution even higher than 1080p in the future?

PhilipsPhanatic

05-14-07, 08:51 PM

Is there a notable difference between a 720p resolution and a 1080p?

Tons of threads on this, if this is your 1st HDTV, don't worry about it. If you have multiple HDTV's and are going to be getting a big (60"+) HDTV and watching froma a CLOSE distance and/or utilizing a 1080p source (none right now except some applications from Blu-Ray PS3)....then yes.

Bottom Line: Marginal benefit, if any, for ALOT more $$$. :eek:

And is it possible that there could be a resolution even higher than 1080p in the future?

Yes, as long as the public continues to pay up for stuff with marginal benefits through the wallet. Same thing as with PC's that have features you never utilize in everyday daily usage.

iontyre

05-17-07, 12:11 PM

Tons of threads on this, if this is your 1st HDTV, don't worry about it. If you have multiple HDTV's and are going to be getting a big (60"+) HDTV and watching froma a CLOSE distance and/or utilizing a 1080p source (none right now except some applications from Blu-Ray PS3)....then yes.

Woops, error there!!! The latest second generation HD DVD players also output 1080p resolution. You don' t by any chance work for Best Buy, do you, this is the kind of misinformation they like to peddle. :D

For now, my 720p 9630 is fine, but my next set will be 1080p.

Mikead

05-17-07, 10:39 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

05-17-07, 11:53 PM

My guess is if you don't have a 720 and 1080 side-by-side, you could hardly tell the difference.

Bingo !! ;)

PhilipsPhanatic

05-17-07, 11:54 PM

Woops, error there!!! The latest second generation HD DVD players also output 1080p resolution. You don' t by any chance work for Best Buy, do you, this is the kind of misinformation they like to peddle. :D For now, my 720p 9630 is fine, but my next set will be 1080p.

No, no afffilation with BB ;) .....but the DVD players are more expensive and very few have them.

And even if they output 1080p, is it a true 1080p output and is the TV receiving it as such or altering the signal ?

I just think that getting 1080p right now is like getting HDTV in 1994. It's a few years too early.

iontyre

05-21-07, 12:37 PM

No, no afffilation with BB ;) .....but the DVD players are more expensive and very few have them.

And even if they output 1080p, is it a true 1080p output and is the TV receiving it as such or altering the signal ?

I just think that getting 1080p right now is like getting HDTV in 1994. It's a few years too early.

Yes, it is true 1080p. Lots of sets being sold now support 1080p too. 1994 is a bit exteme, more like 2004.

PhilipsPhanatic

05-21-07, 09:02 PM

Remote Controls: I own the 9631 and we gripe about our remote, too. However, it's a bit more rugged and sleeker than the 9630's. I was wondering....

(1) Have any of you somehow gotten a 9631 remote and are using that with your 9630 plasma?

(2) Have any of you gotten a 'backup' 9630 or 9631 remote and put it away for storage so if your original remote has buttons that go bad in a few years, you have a backup?

(3) If not (1) or (2), are any of you using a regular universal or an upscale Harmony remote? Any recommendations that work best with Philips and are simple to program/use ?

Chiahead

05-22-07, 12:42 PM

I am using the Harmony 880. Works great. Saving my original remote for if I ever need it again though. I have the 9630.

PhilipsPhanatic

05-22-07, 03:59 PM

I am using the Harmony 880. Works great. Saving my original remote for if I ever need it again though. I have the 9630.

Congrats....any 'loss of buttons/features' when you use the Harmony 880 ? Is the 9630 remote totally unneeded, even for Ambilight features ?

Chiahead

05-23-07, 12:00 PM

all i need is there. I added ambilight as one of the buttons on the LCD screen. I added it to each of my activities (TV, PS3, VCR, etc) so it was there for whatever activity I was on.

PhilipsPhanatic

05-23-07, 10:32 PM

all i need is there. I added ambilight as one of the buttons on the LCD screen. I added it to each of my activities (TV, PS3, VCR, etc) so it was there for whatever activity I was on.

I'll have to look into a Harmony....I'm also tired of a remote for my STB, DVD, and VCR....it would be nice to get rid of 3 of the 4 remotes at least, if not all 4.

Can I get this remote at CC or BB? How much -- about $150 or so ?

Chiahead

05-24-07, 11:35 AM

Retail for the 880 is $250.

I got mine through Dell, with coupons and Logitech rebates totaling about 50% off. (heard about it in the remotes section of this forum)

MY wife thought I was crazy, but now using one remote, and treaching others to use the system is a snap (even my mom can figure it out now).

880 is infared, 890 is RF, there is even a 1000 out now. Going the other way model wise is cheaper, and the only real difference to some of the lower models is the 880 has a color LCD instead of Black and White.

If you go with the 880, check out this site:
http://squareworld.com/harmony/
(maybe no longer working), but you can get color logos for almost any station out there, for programming your favorites channels. Instead of text, you will have a nice colored logo.

Chiahead

05-24-07, 11:50 AM

check www.htguys.com (HT Podcast guys) Their site is selling the 880 for almost 50% off retail.

ANGLICO

05-24-07, 11:59 AM

AMAZON has it for $129

Donniewb420

05-24-07, 03:15 PM

I'll have to look into a Harmony....I'm also tired of a remote for my STB, DVD, and VCR....it would be nice to get rid of 3 of the 4 remotes at least, if not all 4.

Can I get this remote at CC or BB? How much -- about $150 or so ?

i dont know about the 9631 but my 9630 remote(which I love) quickly learned my STB and DVD/surround sound remotes. I only use the 9630 remote for all my functions.

PhilipsPhanatic

05-25-07, 03:02 PM

i dont know about the 9631 but my 9630 remote(which I love) quickly learned my STB and DVD/surround sound remotes. I only use the 9630 remote for all my functions.

Wait...you use the 9630 remote or the Harmony 880 ?

Seems like the 880 is very-highly recommended....not sure if it's Harmony's top-of-the-line but I think I will go price one this weekend.

Donniewb420

05-25-07, 04:58 PM

Wait...you use the 9630 remote or the Harmony 880 ?

Seems like the 880 is very-highly recommended....not sure if it's Harmony's top-of-the-line but I think I will go price one this weekend.

I use the remote that came with my 9630... I have it operating all my components, but yes I also hear u cant go wrong with harmony remotes

Mikead

05-26-07, 10:28 PM

I use the remote that came with my 9630... I have it operating all my components, but yes I also hear u cant go wrong with harmony remotes

I have DirecTV Satellite. Can the 9630 control that too?

Donniewb420

05-27-07, 06:42 AM

I have DirecTV Satellite. Can the 9630 control that too?

It should there is a process on the 9630 remote that you can point the driect tv satellite remote and hit say the channel up button and then a corresponding button on the 9630 remote and it should copy over... it explains in detail in the manual how to do it.

PhilipsPhanatic

05-27-07, 08:24 PM

check www.htguys.com (HT Podcast guys) Their site is selling the 880 for almost 50% off retail.

Are these guys reliable or used by AVS people?

Also, is it a regular 880 in the Logitech box, w/charger? I don't want to buy a refurb, used, etc.

The site says shipped via AMAZON.com -- why? If you goto Amazon.com directly, it's more expensive.

PhilipsPhanatic

05-27-07, 11:43 PM

AMAZON has it for $129

No they don't..... :mad: :(

ANGLICO

05-28-07, 12:09 PM

PhilipsPhanatic

05-28-07, 06:56 PM

They did then. Now it's $142. Added- While I was rechecking AMAZON, I decided to glance at some of the reviews. UNBELIEVABLE! it appears some of those people expected the unit to work with their equipment out of the box. One person even claimed it took a professional installer 8 hours to program it. It took me about 45 minutes to gather the information and program the 9630, Cablevison's DVR, and 3 DVD players.

Could you explain how you programmed your 9630 into the Harmony 880 ?

Also, what's with these channel logos -- are they free, legit, do they work in the 880, etc ? It's not coming from the Harmony website.

ANGLICO

05-28-07, 08:03 PM

Could you explain how you programmed your 9630 into the Harmony 880 ?

Also, what's with these channel logos -- are they free, legit, do they work in the 880, etc ? It's not coming from the Harmony website.

I don't remember the exact steps, but here goes:

I made a list of all the unit model numbers. I then logged onto the Logitech Harmony site. They have a utility that you install on your computer. You then go to the appropriate site for your remote model. It will guide you to setup your procedure for each activity, ie: Watch TV, Watch DVD, Watch DVR, etc. For instance, which units should be turned on for each activity, which unit is used for channel change, volume, etc. Many of the functions are preset for each unit based on the model, but they can be changed or taught. in some cases you need to have the remote for that particular unit. The site has an extensive list of MFR's models. When ready, the utility prompts you to connect your 880 via the USB cable(provided with the remote). When the remote is updated, you can disconnect it, test it and return to make adjustments if necessary. It's very easy to change settings I've changed them several times. One of the really convenient items for the 9630 is that I can change the ASPECT with the 880 without having to go through the 9630 menu. One button is set for that.

Hope this helps. Feel free if there are other questions.

I don't know what channel logos you're referring to.

ANGLICO

05-28-07, 08:19 PM

About the HTguys. It looks as if they just redirect to the seller's site. I don't believe they sell. They appear to be just an info site. If I'm "redirected", I simply close and then go to that merchant directly. There's no way of knowing what sort of 'intercept' might be in place.

Chiahead

05-29-07, 11:54 AM

HTGuys, are a redirect. They get a little off the sale to help support the podcast.

The icons are free from the web site I posted (looks like it was only down temporarily). You upload them to your harmony account for the remote during programming. You can use pics of the family dog if you want...

Get it working how you want, then you can change the delays to make changing the volume quicker and smoother. Also you place delays on starting the items. i.e., when you power on the TV, it will not accept any other commands for a while, so you don't want to set it to HDMI 1 before it is ready. I have my TV set to a 15 second delay start up. That seems to work best from a cold boot. Now I just need to play with the HK AV receiver I use. I think I need to set the delay for that longer before switching to the correct audio setting.

ANGLICO

05-29-07, 04:18 PM

CHIAHEAD,

I don't understand why you have to set any delays on the units. I merely click on Watch TV and that brings up my Cable Box, TV and ONKYO receiver all at once. Everything comes up as it should. The Cable on Ch.2, TV on HDMI1 and the receiver on Video 1. From there I just do my normal Favorites scan. Everything is ready to roll as soon as it is turned on.

PhilipsPhanatic

05-31-07, 01:08 PM

Pumped !! My Harmony 880 arrives today and if it's as easy to program as my mom's 550 was (took about 7 minutes), should be a piece of cake even though I have 4 remotes and she only has 2 !! :) :) :) :) :) :)

Chiahead

05-31-07, 02:28 PM

for some reason, when my TV turns on, it does not accept any other command for about 15 seconds. Same with my HK receiver. It takes about 4 seconds to respond to commands.

It isn't a problem if I want i tto be on the same setting I was last using. But if I am on PS3 using HDMI 2, and power off. Then later want to watch TV, I need to switch to HDMI 1 and the AV receiver from PS3 to Dish, those changes are not recognized unless I add the delay.

Magna2007

06-01-07, 06:48 PM

It appears that Philips has now released firmware version BX23U-1.6.0.0_03541 and the release notes say it solves the following problem:

BX23U-1.6.0.0_03541
Following problems are solved:
• Non-active digital antenna channels lost when cable is disconnected.

The link for this firmware update can be found here:

http://www.p4c.philips.com/cgi-bin/dcbint/cpindex.pl?scy=US&slg=AEN&cat=FLAT_TV_CA&sct=PLASMA_LARGE_32_42_SU&session=20061212132810_199.209.144.90&grp=TV_GR&ctn=42PF9630A/37&mid=Link_Software&hlt=Link_Software

When you first click this link, the notes only go through 1.5.0.0, BUT when you download the file, the 1.6.0.0 change and writeup is in there.

Enjoy.

PhilipsPhanatic

06-01-07, 09:11 PM

It appears that Philips has now released firmware version BX23U-1.6.0.0_03541 and the release notes say it solves the following problem:
BX23U-1.6.0.0_03541Following problems are solved:• Non-active digital antenna channels lost when cable is disconnected.he link for this firmware update can be found here: http://www.p4c.philips.com/cgi-bin/dcbint/cpindex.pl?scy=US&slg=AEN&cat=FLAT_TV_CA&sct=PLASMA_LARGE_32_42_SU&session=20061212132810_199.209.144.90&grp=TV_GR&ctn=42PF9630A/37&mid=Link_Software&hlt=Link_Software
When you first click this link, the notes only go through 1.5.0.0, BUT when you download the file, the 1.6.0.0 change and writeup is in there.Enjoy.

Sounds good...wonder if they have this for the 9631, perhaps not, I'm not sure it's happened with our models.

Report back 9630'ers and let us all know if this fixes what I think was a bigtime bugaboo for many Philips detractors and even Philips fans.

PhilipsPhanatic

06-01-07, 09:23 PM

ANGLICO

06-02-07, 02:11 PM

Harmony 880 questions:

Set up my Harmony 880 and it works pretty good. Couple of questions:

(1) I noticed that some functions activate a pulsating series of lines near the battery indicator but that's all that happens. Does this indicate a button being hit that doesn't activate anything?

(2) The same pulsating waves appear when I hit the VOL +/- button when I am on DVD or VCR...but the TV volume changes (which I want). Any reason why those pulsating lines still appear (maybe because a TV function, volume, is changing but not a VCR or DVD function)?

(3) VOL changes volume on my plasma when it's on TV, DVD, or VCR -- which is how I like it. But when it's set to STB it changes the volume on the STB (which I prefer fixed/unchanging). Any way to make it just change VOLUME on the plasma?

(4) What do the silver arrow UP and DOWN buttons right above EXIT and GUIDE do? I can't find anything they control on any of my 4 functions (TV, STB, VCR, DVD).

(5) Any Philips plasma functions that you can activate easily compared to having to go into the menu? I figure it will offset alot of the functions on the STB/VCR/DVD that I now have to go into the menu for.

(6) Is the remote supposed to light up when you hold it and it detects motion? Seems to be acting that way, I wondered why if you had that GLOW button to turn on/off the backlight.

(7) Any other novice/newcomer tips for the Harmony 880, please post it.

It's a great remote, and I like not having to have 4 remotes nearby, but I will have to get used to accessing menus and scrolling through the menu pages for most of the 4 items.

1- That only seems to indicate that a signal is being transmitted. This should answer (2)

3- When you ran the setup, there was a selection for volume control. I have mine set to my A/V receiver. The STB doesn't change unless I use the STB remote. The TV volume is set to Off. You must have it set for both. When you setup the activity, make sure that you indicate TV as volume control

4- the Direction Up/down arrows can be programmed for anything you want. Mine are inactive as yet.

5- I control Aspect. Don't remember if it was programmed by default or if I did it. That's all I have for now. I'm thinking of trying to program Picture quality controls such as contrast, Bright, Rich, etc. I manipulate those when I watch old B/W movies and documentaries.

6- It lights up when you move it. Don't know why they put that Glow button on it.

PhilipsPhanatic

06-02-07, 11:25 PM

Thanks a bunch, Anglico...report back on any useful 880 tips. :)

Chiahead

06-04-07, 03:43 PM

hey, I was in the mountains for the weekend, but looks like most of the questions were answered.

I use the up down buttons for page up and page down on my dish guide, so I don't have to go one line at a time.

As for programming I too have Aspect programmed for each of my activities, and ambilight (on/off) for each. I also added a few for watch DVD like time so I could see how much time is left, and a few other DVD specific buttons.

The way to figure out what to program is use it without any for a while and pay attention to what items you need to grab the other remote for, or what functions you need to press device, then choose the item to specifically change. These functions are ones that would be great to program into your activities.

Donniewb420

06-04-07, 06:25 PM

I just ordered a 880... U guys better still be around when I have problems ;) might need the help.

ANGLICO

06-05-07, 02:26 PM

I must have been asleep. I use the up/down arrows to scroll thru my Favorites channels. I do it so automatically, I forgot I was using it, don't even look when pressing the key.

Donniewb420

06-05-07, 02:35 PM

I must have been asleep. I use the up/down arrows to scroll thru my Favorites channels. I do it so automatically, I forgot I was using it, don't even look when pressing the key.

I was looking around about programming and whatnot for the 880 and saw people place logos for their favorit channels, squareworld.com/harmony seems to have a lot of good .jpgs already formatted to the right pixel size for the remote.just thought Id throw it ur way. sorry if U are already way beyond this:)

tyoung88

06-06-07, 12:23 AM

Just upgraded to the Panny TH-50PZ700U but have a hard to find Philips compatible VGA -> 5 RCA adapter. Send me a PM if you're interested.

PhilipsPhanatic

06-06-07, 08:44 AM

I must have been asleep. I use the up/down arrows to scroll thru my Favorites channels. I do it so automatically, I forgot I was using it, don't even look when pressing the key.

Can those 2 buttons be programmed to control the STB channels -- either UP/DOWN or an abbreviated FAVORITES list -- no matter what device the 880 is controlling?

In other words, can they be set to control only the STB, even if the rest of the buttons are for the VCR or TV or DVD player ?

I'm guessing not, if only because the PLAY/REWIND/etc buttons -- which can ONLY be used for the DVD and VCR -- still won't activate those items unless I hit DVD or VCR beforehand.

Chiahead

06-06-07, 02:04 PM

ANGLICO

06-06-07, 06:33 PM

Can those 2 buttons be programmed to control the STB channels -- either UP/DOWN or an abbreviated FAVORITES list -- no matter what device the 880 is controlling?

In other words, can they be set to control only the STB, even if the rest of the buttons are for the VCR or TV or DVD player ?

I'm guessing not, if only because the PLAY/REWIND/etc buttons -- which can ONLY be used for the DVD and VCR -- still won't activate those items unless I hit DVD or VCR beforehand.

When you access the Watch TV Activity on the update screen, click on the Customize Buttons. Set the Up Arrow or Down Arrow to Digital Set top box and Favorites.

PhilipsPhanatic

06-06-07, 08:12 PM

Thanks Chia and Anglico....I'll give it a shot, maybe tonite. Some buttons I definitely only need to control 1 device and others might be 2 or more.

I may even make the CHANNEL UP/DOWN just for the STB since I rarely use it on the TV's own tuner, since I only use that for a few HD/Digital channels and the STB is normally used.

PhilipsPhanatic

06-06-07, 08:22 PM

When you access the Watch TV Activity on the update screen, click on the Customize Buttons. Set the Up Arrow or Down Arrow to Digital Set top box and Favorites.

And that allows you to input STB as the default for CHANNEL UP/DOWN even if I just hit TV or VCR on the device manager, right ?

I may want to do that for other buttons, too, including those 2 buttons that aren't controlling anything right now.

Can someone post the link at the Harmony site to make changes to remotes ?
The icon brings up a blank white error page and I can't navigate through the Harminy website when I start at Harmony.com.

Am I totally reprogramming the 880, making changes, what?

PhilipsPhanatic

06-06-07, 10:07 PM

When you access the Watch TV Activity on the update screen, click on the Customize Buttons. Set the Up Arrow or Down Arrow to Digital Set top box and Favorites.

There is no WATCH TV activity on the screen...just WATCH DVD or PLAY VCR.

Where is CUSTOMIZE BUTTONS ?

ANGLICO

06-06-07, 11:15 PM

And that allows you to input STB as the default for CHANNEL UP/DOWN even if I just hit TV or VCR on the device manager, right ?

I may want to do that for other buttons, too, including those 2 buttons that aren't controlling anything right now.

Can someone post the link at the Harmony site to make changes to remotes ?
The icon brings up a blank white error page and I can't navigate through the Harminy website when I start at Harmony.com.

Am I totally reprogramming the 880, making changes, what?

I don't remember how I got to it the first time. Go to the Logitech.com then navigate through the support/downloads section. You can select your product under universal remote. Download the appropriate software. It should be Logitech Harmony 880 Version 5.5.x.x. When that's installed on your system, and you register, all you have to do is connect your 880 with the USB. The update software should come up automatically. You make all your adjustments then select Update. it will then program your remote.
get back to me if you need more help.

PhilipsPhanatic

06-07-07, 08:45 PM

you can. But you need to set the buttons for each activity. You can override any button, but you will need to either learn the IR code on each activity, or try to import it. Also, you can program the functions to the 8 soft buttons (left and right of the LCD) to control that on each activity. Mine has soft buttons for aspect and ambilight on every activity.

Chia, I think this is what I'm trying to do. Can you guide me through it? What are your 8 softies controlling if you hit TV....if you hit STB...if you hit VCR or DVD or PVR or something else?

Ambilight on 1 of the 8 soft buttons isn't critical since I only hit AMBILIGHT 2 times at most (ditto the MODE) during an evening of viewing. But I have the UP/DOWN ARROW buttons doing nothing and I'd like to have them control the STB CHANNEL UP/DOWN all the time -- even if I hit another device.

This can be done, but how? I entered Customized Buttons as per Anglico, and changed the drop arrows next to the 2 silver buttons for each to CH UP/DOWN (it was defaulted to PAGE UP/DOWN) -- and they still do nothing, let alone controlling the STB all the time.

Chiahead

06-08-07, 11:16 AM

We have to get our terminology the same. If I am using the ACTIVITY "watch TV" that is when my soft buttons are programmed for Aspect and Ambilight. If I use DEVICE TV, then the soft buttons show something different. (TV command only).

You have to get out of the mind set of using this remote to control your TV separate from your STB. It works better when using it to control an activity, like watch TV, or watch DVD.

Now, onto how to map it... I don't have it with me, so I looked at the Harmony web site, here is a setup DOC:
http://logitech-en-amr.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/logitech_en_amr.cfg/php/enduser/fattach_get.php?p_sid=dWLlNCDi&p_accessibility=0&p_tbl=9&p_id=5135&p_created=1152806515&p_olh=0

in it is states the following to change the behaviour of a button (page 12):
1. Go to your Harmony Home Page.
2. Click Customize next to the appropriate Activity.
3. Click Change the Behaviour or Buttons.
The first page you see can be used to change the behavior of buttons in your default or Activity mode.
This page displays the:
Buttons that have a command associated with them
Device being controlled
Command being sent to the device.

Hope that helps a little...