could someone please walk me thru ota set up on this tv. I plug my antenna into uhf/vhf coax, and do a channel scan and can not pick up any thing!!! I only live 12 miles from the nearest towers. any help would be appreciated

Yep, that's pretty much all you should have to do - plug it in and do a scan.
Had you been using the antenna before?
If not, you might want to check the connections at the antenna itself.
Or, if you can, try the antenna with an analog TV and see if you are able to get signals - even snowy ones.


Mitch

Hey all,
I am back again... So the tech came out today and concluded that the light engine is bad. He ordered a replacement and should be back in about 10 days to replace. All covered under Sony warranty of course.
The tech had actually never heard of the flicker problem, and of course the set was not flickering while he was here. But he did notice the 7 inch horizontal line that is ghosted on the left side of the screen and thus is replacing the engine on that basis alone.
He says that replacing the engine should fix any flickering as that is probably attributed to the bad light engine. Only time will tell.
I will keep you posted, I think I am going to see if "Unsolved Mysteries" is still airing episodes and see if I can submit this story.

See ya,
Chris

Hey all,
I am back again... So the tech came out today and concluded that the light engine is bad. He ordered a replacement and should be back in about 10 days to replace. All covered under Sony warranty of course.
The tech had actually never heard of the flicker problem, and of course the set was not flickering while he was here. But he did notice the 7 inch horizontal line that is ghosted on the left side of the screen and thus is replacing the engine on that basis alone.
He says that replacing the engine should fix any flickering as that is probably attributed to the bad light engine. Only time will tell.
I will keep you posted, I think I am going to see if "Unsolved Mysteries" is still airing episodes and see if I can submit this story.

See ya,
Chris

It's good to see you're keeping your sense of humor in all this!!

If it's any hope, I had a bad power supply and they messed up a circuit board during the replacement, but it was fixed about a year ago (under extended warranty) and has been as good as new ever since!!!

Ive searched this thread, couldn't find a good answer, so maybe someone can answer.

With the bulb, I read how to check the hours on it, and plan on doing it tonight. But I am curious to how the lamp timer gets reset.

Does it automatically reset when you replace the lamp?
Does the update for the power up/down reset the lamp hours?
If you do need to reset it manually in the service menus, how is this done?

Thanks

So I looked online and bought a service manual for the TV, pdf, for 8 bucks and followed how to remove the light engine.

Where did you get the pdf file from? What website?

Thanks

Buyer beware! My KDF-E50A10 is just out of warranty and purple blobs have shown up at the bottom of the screen. They are getting larger by the week. I did some online research and the consensus is that the optical block needs replacement. I have seen figures from $1200 - $1800 for the parts and labor. Now I get to effectively rebuy my TV or live with the blobs. My wife is going to have a fit. Thanks, Sony! Akio Marita must be so proud of what Sony has become.

They look like this on mine

http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/9711/img0001gi3.jpg

My A10 looks exactly the same as JMabry's above. Hoping for Sony to do something for all of us that are having this failure.

I was unsure which keywords to search with. BUt I am having an issue with the input overlay constantly popping up when i connect my laptop to the vga port. Seems like when there is a major shift in the image it happens and it occurs on my lenovo t61 and my mac powerbook pro.

Doesn't happen on any other input.

All help is greatly appreciated
and so far after 3700 hours this is the only issue.

I was unsure which keywords to search with. BUt I am having an issue with the input overlay constantly popping up when i connect my laptop to the vga port. Seems like when there is a major shift in the image it happens and it occurs on my lenovo t61 and my mac powerbook pro.

Doesn't happen on any other input.

All help is greatly appreciated
and so far after 3700 hours this is the only issue.

This was discussed some time back in the Grand Wega Tweeks thread, but I can't remember how folks resolved it. At one time, it was suggested to unplug the antenna from your set and that would take care of the problem. But I think a member named Mr Pibb came up with another solution, so I can't say for sure. If you look for posts by Mr Pibb, I am sure you can find his discussion of the problem.

Ok, I have had this wonderful TV for 2 years now with no problems. Got up this morning & now none of the inputs work. Only the Tuner will display a picture. Menu over worksss, but I get no sound or video. I know that all the input devices I have connected (DVR, DVD, & good old fashioned VCR) are working . Any ideas? TIA.



edit: It got even stranger. Got home from work today & noticed that the TV was still on. so I hit the remote & then try the inputs. Still no dice. So I turn the power off, the green light goes out, but the TV stayed on. I still see the menu on the screen. This is way out of warranty so if anybody has any idea what's wrong & a possible fix, I would be ever so grateful.


edit 2: Disaster averted. I unplugged it for about 10 minutes & now it is working again. whew!!

Ok, I have had this wonderful TV for 2 years now with no problems. Got up this morning & now none of the inputs work. Only the Tuner will display a picture. Menu over worksss, but I get no sound or video. I know that all the input devices I have connected (DVR, DVD, & good old fashioned VCR) are working . Any ideas? TIA.



edit: It got even stranger. Got home from work today & noticed that the TV was still on. so I hit the remote & then try the inputs. Still no dice. So I turn the power off, the green light goes out, but the TV stayed on. I still see the menu on the screen. This is way out of warranty so if anybody has any idea what's wrong & a possible fix, I would be ever so grateful.


edit 2: Disaster averted. I unplugged it for about 10 minutes & now it is working again. whew!!
There is a software update that fix this issue. Check with sony they will do the update for free.

It was a major recall.

There is a software update that fix this issue. Check with sony they will do the update for free.

It was a major recall.


I remember getting something from Sony, about 6 months after I bought the TV. I thought, at the time it did not pertain to me. Guess I need to check into that.

I remember getting something from Sony, about 6 months after I bought the TV. I thought, at the time it did not pertain to me. Guess I need to check into that.

I believe they are offering the free update until MAR '08.

I'm a noobie to this forum and have found it to be a wealth of information.

I've had my KDF-E42A10 for about 2.5 years now and have always had a problem with losing channels. randomly every couple days when I turn no the tv it says "no signal" I then have to go thru the menu and reset my cable card at which time the tv will work until I turn it off again.

I have done a seaerch on this and found that this is a somewhat common problem that can be fixed by having a heat shield installed between the bulb and the card reader as the reader is being overheated.

I called Sony to see if they had heard of this as a common solution but got the cold shoulder since I am out of warranty. They gave me 3 service numbers to call but none have heard of this solution.

Has anyone in the chicagoland area had this done that can reccomend a service company? Also, by chance is this something that I could do? Doesn't seem that complicated to put a ehat shield between the card reader and bulb but then again, I'm not a tv repair man.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

Wow, I escaped from having to buy a new tv. Found my reciept and luckily I haven't had the unit for more than a year. Service techs coming on wednesday.

You know I looked at newer TV's than our but I've yet to see anything that is enough of an improvement over ours that I would throw money down for. My 50" A10 still has a great picture and I'm still impressed by it.

Wow, this just seems to be getting better and better.
As you may know I have been chasing a bit of a ghost on my A10 along with a few other members. The main annoyance has been an intermittent flickering issue.

Well the tech came out the other day to replace the optical block, or light engine.

Holy crap this problem just got 400% worse, and it still flickers!!! Except now the flickering seems to be the least of my worries. Let me just vent this out real quick.
1) now the TV has an extremely red tint in most of the upper right of the screen and an extremely blue tint in most of the lower left of the screen. The Upper left and lower right seem to be fine.
2) My iris control no longer works, 0 to max its all the same...super bright.
3) Because the iris is locked at some super high level, the black level performance is atrocious! What black, i now have illuminated grey. And it just flickered on me!! damn!
4) The entire Center area of the screen is noticeably soft on focus. And it extends downward from the center of the screen to the bottom right. It looks fuzy while the upper left and upper right are razor sharp...like the whole screen should be.

This is going to kill me. I have to live with this for today and tomorrows game. I think I may go to a friends house, just to see my A10 in this shape makes me sick. Come monday morning at 9:01 am the service center [opens at 9:00] is going to make a new friend and he better bring his A game this time. thank someone wonderful that Sony is footing the bill for all of this. If anyone has an ideas I should give to the tech please feel free to let me in.

Thanks,
Chris

p.s. thanks for having this site where I can dump my problems for someone else to read. peace.

I had the same problem 2 weeks ago, Unplugging it for a few minutes worked for me as well




Ok, I have had this wonderful TV for 2 years now with no problems. Got up this morning & now none of the inputs work. Only the Tuner will display a picture. Menu over worksss, but I get no sound or video. I know that all the input devices I have connected (DVR, DVD, & good old fashioned VCR) are working . Any ideas? TIA.



edit: It got even stranger. Got home from work today & noticed that the TV was still on. so I hit the remote & then try the inputs. Still no dice. So I turn the power off, the green light goes out, but the TV stayed on. I still see the menu on the screen. This is way out of warranty so if anybody has any idea what's wrong & a possible fix, I would be ever so grateful.


edit 2: Disaster averted. I unplugged it for about 10 minutes & now it is working again. whew!!

Wow, this just seems to be getting better and better.
Come monday morning at 9:01 am the service center [opens at 9:00] is going to make a new friend and he better bring his A game this time. thank someone wonderful that Sony is footing the bill for all of this. If anyone has an ideas I should give to the tech please feel free to let me in.

Thanks,
Chris

p.s. thanks for having this site where I can dump my problems for someone else to read. peace.


Just a thought, but you might want to tell them to bring a loaner & take your set back to the shop and hold onto it until they really get it right.

(I've seen them try to take mine apart in my family room and was just as happy to see them take it back to the shop where they can do this stuff the right way AND have a chance to make sure it's actually fixed!!!)

Thats a good idea. I will run that by them.

Chris

There is a software update that fix this issue. Check with sony they will do the update for free.

It was a major recall.

How can you tell if your TV needs this update?

Thanks,
T

How can you tell if your TV needs this update?

Thanks,
T

I don't know if this is the same issue, but you can go to this site and at the bottom there is a place to enter your serial number tio see if your set needs it.

http://www.updatemytv.com/

There is a software update that fix this issue. Check with sony they will do the update for free.

It was a major recall.I had the update performed and the problem still happened again. Simply unplug...wait 30 seconds...plug in. Solved the problem. I can do this since it seems to happen no more than once a year.

Wow, this just seems to be getting better and better.
As you may know I have been chasing a bit of a ghost on my A10 along with a few other members. The main annoyance has been an intermittent flickering issue.

Well the tech came out the other day to replace the optical block, or light engine.

Holy crap this problem just got 400% worse, and it still flickers!!! Except now the flickering seems to be the least of my worries. Let me just vent this out real quick.

Come monday morning at 9:01 am the service center [opens at 9:00] is going to make a new friend and he better bring his A game this time. thank someone wonderful that Sony is footing the bill for all of this. If anyone has an ideas I should give to the tech please feel free to let me in.

Thanks,
Chris


Hey Chris,

So what happened????????

They ordered a new optical engine, coming out next week to swap. We will see if that is the problem. As far as I am concerned they can keep trying until it is fixed. I will keep you posted on the problem, and hopefully a solution.

Chris

Well, after 2+ years of service my 42A10 decided to take a dump. It just shut off while I was watching a movie and then the power light turned red and started to blink. It blinks four times rather than three, so it's not the lamp. Now, the TV will power on for a few seconds (the lamp does light) and then power back off. Some research indicates a power or fan issue of some sort.

I'm going to call the local Sony repair shop and have them look at it. If it's a cheap fix I will have it taken care of and sell it if I can get anything out of it.

Dark Rain, that's it? After 2+ years you're ready to get rid of your TV after spending countless hours trying to improve the picture quality for yourself and all of us? Have you seen displays that are now that much better than this TV or you just looking to get a larger screen?

Larry

I actually bought a new Samsung 42" Plasma and was planning on selling the A10. It was a good TV but it's no match against a Plasma. The prices have dropped low enough on flat panels and I always wanted a Plasma.

I've had no issues with the TV, still on the original bulb, but I am considering and upgrade to the 55A3000. Was never a Sony fan but I'm going to stay with them.

I had the update performed and the problem still happened again. Simply unplug...wait 30 seconds...plug in. Solved the problem. I can do this since it seems to happen no more than once a year.

I also had the update done and had the problem 6 months later. The reboot (unpluging it) worked great.

I actually bought a new Samsung 42" Plasma and was planning on selling the A10. It was a good TV but it's no match against a Plasma. The prices have dropped low enough on flat panels and I always wanted a Plasma.

I certainly respect your opinions on these matters. So what sold you on the Samsung? Did you look at all the sets in this price/size range. Just curious, and in case something where to happen to my trusty set.

What sold me on the Samsung (other than the low price) was numerous features and the 15,000:1 contrast ratio. I did look at the 42" LG and Panasonic models but thought the Sammy had a better picture overall. The Sammy has the ability to adjust the white balance (grayscale) within the user menu rather than going into a service menu.

Plasma does have a CRT look to it, so it's nice to get that look back. The deep blacks and high contrast are awesome.

need help guys when into the service menu to check my lamp hours well I have 5982 hours on my lamps I turned off tv and turned it back on but im still in service menu. How do you get out of the service menu?? Need help fast before I mess something up

Unplug the tv for about 10 minutes! I did the same thing once, too.

Unplug the tv for about 10 minutes! I did the same thing once, too.

ok thanks. I unplug it for maybe a min. and now the service menu is gone. Thanks

could someone please walk me thru ota set up on this tv. I plug my antenna into uhf/vhf coax, and do a channel scan and can not pick up any thing!!! I only live 12 miles from the nearest towers. any help would be appreciated

Hi Hurbo,

I live in Bellbrook, have a 42A10 and can pick up 2, 7, 16 and 45 HD channels on an indoor antenna. Sounds like you're setting it up right. If you are plugged into the UHF/VHF input connector (and not the Cable connector) do you have Antenna selected (not Cable) in the setup menu? Can you check your ant/coax setup with another TV to be sure you are getting enough signal out of the coax?

Jim

Unplug the tv for about 10 minutes! I did the same thing once, too.

In the future, you can just press Jump to go back to the original debug screen. Then power off.

Larry

In the future, you can just press Jump to go back to the original debug screen. Then power off.

Larry

The time it happened to me pressing jump didn't do anything. The tv didn't respond to the remote control commands at all, so I ended up unplugging the set.

What sold me on the Samsung (other than the low price) was numerous features and the 15,000:1 contrast ratio. I did look at the 42" LG and Panasonic models but thought the Sammy had a better picture overall. The Sammy has the ability to adjust the white balance (grayscale) within the user menu rather than going into a service menu.

Plasma does have a CRT look to it, so it's nice to get that look back. The deep blacks and high contrast are awesome.

I too like the look of a CRT. Thanks for the feedback, and I hope I won't need to take this advice any time soon. :)

I'm a little confused how to fix the flickering problem. I have it in my 42" A10. I think one guy posted that he had the problem and tried a different bulb that was not new, and the problem persisted. He had the light engine replaced but the problem got worse. Would replacing the bulb with a brand new replacement bulb fix the flickering problem? Or is it definitely the light engine? Thanks.

This does suck indeed! I just started noticing the flickering (albeit BEFORE I began researching the problem so no one thinks it was AVS induced). At first, I thought it was something to do with my PS3 as I only noticed it on lightly colored background screens in games. Sadly, I now notice it watching movies as well (not so much on cable but I don't watch a whole lot of TV).

At any rate, it's definitley there. The TV is right at two years of ownership. I will check again but when the original software update came out, I checked my serial # through the website and I didn't need it. I bought the TV through one of the B&M places and bought the extended warranty, only b/c it covered bulb replacement and I thought I could be savy enough to have them cover two bulb replacements during the life of the warranty and thus zero out the cost. So, I'm gonna go that route and see if that corrects the problem even though those that have posted here says it hasn't.

What is even more disturbing is that Dark Rain's TV has crapped out! A sign of the times? Maybe so.

Truly sad as I do enjoy this TV! What's more is that I have been contemplating a bigger TV for my living room so I definitely am not looking to replace this one in the den. One set at a time please!

Oh well, let's keep each other posted on this flickering issue.

I too am starting to experience a flicker.. It seems to be totally random. I seen a new bulb fixed it for people? I bought the warranty off this site (Mack?) that comes with I think 3 year bulb replacement..

What are the requirements to get that replaced under warranty or does anyone have any other ideas?

Thanks much.

So I have a red tint in the lower left part of the TV now after also two years of ownership. It's not very noticable in brighter colors or scenes but black and white content, dark areas, you can see it. It's not enough for other people to really notice but I see it, and it bothers me. I have a Best Buy service plan, so, is that my best bet then? Anybody deal with them on anything before or even better yet, one of the A10 TV's?

So I have a red tint in the lower left part of the TV now after also two years of ownership. It's not very noticable in brighter colors or scenes but black and white content, dark areas, you can see it. It's not enough for other people to really notice but I see it, and it bothers me. I have a Best Buy service plan, so, is that my best bet then? Anybody deal with them on anything before or even better yet, one of the A10 TV's?

I'm no expert, but you and tbird2340 are both trying to diagnose these problems.

I have a different service plan, but with an earlier problem, I just called them up and said "fix it."

Next thing I know, I'm back in business........

Well diagnose sure, I'd fix it if it was an easy fix but I know it may not be the issue. So Best buy shouldn't give me a problem?

Set up an appointment for January 7th, Best Buy is going to have a qualified Sony serviceman come to my apartment.

I didn't notice it as bad last night though... of course. Either way, when a problem even if it's just barely noticeable is there, it'll get worse over time so... hopefully he doesn't come and say 'there's nothing wrong' because maybe the issue won't be reproduced. I still feel that the lower left hand area of the screen has blacks a little more washed out than the rest of the screen though.

Replacement lamps for the A10s are still on backorder.

Anybody have info when they will be available?
I'm trying to be proactive because my TV may be dimming some.

Replacement lamps for the A10s are still on backorder.

Anybody have info when they will be available?
I'm trying to be proactive because my TV may be dimming some.

eBay $150 to $160 plus shipping.

When I bought the Sony, my salesperson said I would get around 2000 hours out of the bulb. I've had the set for two years now and I can tell you that we've watched way over 2000 hours of fine television enjoyment. When I bought the set I got the 4 year extended service plan from Magnolia HiFi in Seattle. This included a bulb that would be replaced for free with in the four years. They sent me a bulb to have as a back up for when the original goes bye bye. Except for the "red push". the set works great for me.

2000 hrs? I got 9300 out of mine before it crapped out. Granted mine was extraordinary, but 7,000 hrs. certainly shouldn't be out of the question.

When I bought the Sony, my salesperson said I would get around 2000 hours out of the bulb. I've had the set for two years now and I can tell you that we've watched way over 2000 hours of fine television enjoyment. When I bought the set I got the 4 year extended service plan from Magnolia HiFi in Seattle. This included a bulb that would be replaced for free with in the four years. They sent me a bulb to have as a back up for when the original goes bye bye. Except for the "red push". the set works great for me.

A tweak in the service menu will fix that red push though. There's a thread for that though in this forum too. Just google 'grand wega tweeks'.

I have the KDFE42A10 got it back in Feb 06 and has developed a problem recently, when I turn it on after about 15 sec. the green light goes solid and I get sound but no picture.

The screen comes on like the tv has no signal but there is sound. If I press the remote to switch between inputs nothing appears on the screen like you normailly see when switching inputs.

So if I just let it sit for about 5 minutes the picture will then come on but when it does it shows the usual screen input menu like when you first turn it on. To me it appears the bulb and screen are on but the receiver has not turned on other wise you would think the screen did come on that the input menu would be gone off the screen. I am just trying to rule out the bulb.

Can anyone confirm it is not the bulb and this only happens after the tv has been off all night. Once you turn it on in the morning you can turn it on and off the rest of the day without and hesitation.

Thanks for any input on this.

Ok, well it is good to see all of you back again.
Dark Rain, I am very sorry to hear about your set...
So the second light engine is in the set and it seems to have fixed everything that was wrong with the exception of the iris not working and there is still a few soft focus spots in the center area of the screen. But those are only visible when using the tv as a computer monitor with text. Not too bad.
As far as the iris, the tech did not transfer the cable from the original engine...so it got sent back to sony on accident. He ordered a new one and should be out next week to reinstall the attachment cable to the iris motor.
If I can lend any info on the flickering problem it is that I think it has to do with the light engine and not the bulb. This is why:
The first light engine they installed with all of the problems actually made the flickering worse and at times it would slow way down from the usual somewhat fast frequency of darkening and returning to normal. It was really easy to see and I even got it on video, since it acts perfectly normal when the tech comes out. Since he replaced it I have not seen one flicker. Been two days now. I will of course not consider the case closed until I get a weeks worth of perfect operation out of this set. I can not give an absolute verdict yet but will definately keep you all posted since a few more of you are experiencing the same problem. I am sorry for that, it seems to be contagious. Just like this damn cold I have.
Any ideas on the soft focus? I can live with it to be honest since it is only in about the center 3-4 inches of the screen, just wish it was a razor sharp as the edges and everywhere else. I did check the lens surface and it looks clean, I dare not touch it to make sure...no visible smudges or fingerprints from the tech.
Until next time...

Chris

Ok, well it is good to see all of you back again.

So the second light engine is in the set and it seems to have fixed everything that was wrong with the exception of the iris not working and there is still a few soft focus spots in the center area of the screen.

Chris

Chris,

Just to clarify, are the iris and soft focus spots in the center new developments?

Were they present before the flicker?

Are they only present since the second light engine?

I'd think you have grounds to ask them to fix those deficiencies also....

Philherz,
The iris is being fixed, he just forgot to transfer the cable from the original light engine to the new one. He will replace the cable for me when it arrives next week. That may also fix the soft focus, I can only hope.

Chris

Philherz,
The iris is being fixed, he just forgot to transfer the cable from the original light engine to the new one. He will replace the cable for me when it arrives next week. That may also fix the soft focus, I can only hope.

Chris

Chris,

I saw that you mentioned a missing cable, but wasn't sure of it's impact.

I guess the over-riding question is whether this set will be as-good-as it used to be after he returns? If not, they should keep working......

Well which way are you folks going to go now that Sony isn't going to make rear projectors anymore? I still love my 50" A10 and was thinking of getting a 42" RP Sony for my living room but if they're going to halt production I may have to lean another way.

Replacement lamps for the A10s are still on backorder.Keep checking e-bay. Bought one two weeks ago for $135 plus $10 FedEx ground shipping. :cool:

Well which way are you folks going to go now that Sony isn't going to make rear projectors anymore? I still love my 50" A10 and was thinking of getting a 42" RP Sony for my living room but if they're going to halt production I may have to lean another way.

My 42a10 is still working great also for over 2 yrs now( knock on wood), the other night I got to go over my cousins house and he just got a 50 inch panasonic plasma 768p and I must say it is very sharp. He got is for 1700 which is what I paid for my a10 2 yrs ago. He has the same setup I have directv hr 20 dvr and I must admit the hd picture looked awesome and the sd channels looked very good also. For me I want larger and I want 1080p but I think I am leaning toward plasma and panasonic. Pioneer plasmas are the best but they want alot of money for those.

grateful11,

I don't think Sony makes a 42" Rp anymore. 37" and 46" are your smallest choices.

I'm leaning toward the Sony flat panel 46XBR4 personally.

My 42A10 is now almost 27months old and is basically flawless.

Do the ebay lamps have the same warranty as what is not available at Sonystyle?

Do the ebay lamps have the same warranty as what is not available at Sonystyle?

That may be a problem even though they're supposedly sealed if you don't have an actual receipt the warranty may not be valid. I'm just speculating here.

How long did it take for them to order a light engine? Via the best buy service plan, I have somebody coming out on the 7th to look at the set for the issue I'm having and it's most likely an issue with the polarizer in the light engine so.... I'm probalby looking at something to wait for long term for my fix here, ugh. This sucks to have any issues after just a little over two years.

Well Im having the faint flicker problem too. I can make it happen just by going to video 5 then turning on my xbox360. If i turn on my 360 let it boot up then go to video 5 it seems to be allright more often than not. It almost seems as if going from regular cable stations to an HD source or vice versa brings this flickering on. Although im not 100% comfortable on my theory or what it could mean. Bulb is at about 3600 hours.:confused:Actually It does seem funny that when I dont use an hd source for days the tv is fine (no flickering) It just seems to happen or come back again when switching From SD cable to An HD source like the xbox360. I wonder. Oh and I have used both a vga cable and component cables with the 360 and get the same results.

Any one care to post their PS3 HDMI settings for this set? I just got a PS3 and was curious about the general consensus on settings.

Well Im having the faint flicker problem too. I can make it happen just by going to video 5 then turning on my xbox360. If i turn on my 360 let it boot up then go to video 5 it seems to be allright more often than not. It almost seems as if going from regular cable stations to an HD source or vice versa brings this flickering on. Although im not 100% comfortable on my theory or what it could mean. Bulb is at about 3600 hours.:confused:Actually It does seem funny that when I dont use an hd source for days the tv is fine (no flickering) It just seems to happen or come back again when switching From SD cable to An HD source like the xbox360. I wonder. Oh and I have used both a vga cable and component cables with the 360 and get the same results.Sorry to quote myself but I am wondering if this flickering stuff has anything to do with the advaced iris going wacky for a time or not? Also has anyone replacing the bulb for this problem have any last good effect?

bumpa

My 42a10 is still working great also for over 2 yrs now( knock on wood), the other night I got to go over my cousins house and he just got a 50 inch panasonic plasma 768p and I must say it is very sharp.

Just moved my 42a10 to the bedroom after two years of flawless service. I wanted something bigger, plus I noticed the deeper blacks and more depth offered by the flat panels.

I considered selling it, but the amount I would get wouldn't match the value of keeping it. Also it has some sentimental value.

I now have a 52in. Sharp LCD in the living room. Skipped the plasmas due to glare. I often question if the upgrade was worth it, but movies on the 42a10 sure look awsome in the bedroom.

When I got my TV way back when, I did a channel scan. I have Comcast Extended Basic and no STB. All my local HD Clear QAM channels appeared at their real channels. I think I had to manually find a couple, but they're all above 100.

If I do another scan, what are odds they will now appear at their virtual VHF channel numbers? And if they do, will I still also receive them at their actual channels?

My Panasonic DVD recorder originally scanned and got some of these same channels at the actual above 100 numbers and some were mapped to their VHF virtual channels. IOW they were split up. Later I had to re-scan & all are now mapped downward & I cannot manually tune them in at the real frequencies/channels. The downside of this is that the response time in changing to these channels has slowed down.

I don't want my Sony to end up having sluggish response, and I don't know if it would, but I've been reluctant to do another channel scan. If the HD channels appear at both real & virtual channels that's OK.

Can anyone tell me what their experience has been?
Thanks ahead of time.

My 42" A10 has always been a little slow to show HD channels.

I did a rescan recently due to the fact that one of my HD channels that was above 100
(they were all above 100 at the time) disappeared.

For reference my main local chaannels are 2, 5, 7, 9, and 32, after the rescan my HD channels were at 2.1, 5.2, 7.1, 9.2, and 32.1.

If they are still at their virtual location, I don't know, I never checked because they are available where they should be.

The acquisition time for the HD channels did not change.

Guys Im really not good at such, all I know is I got the 50" A10. The manual says it can support 1080i, but is that the native? Or is it 720p?

THANKS!

Native resolution is 720p. But as you said, it supports 1080i as well.

OK thanks! Anyone tried a PS3 game/Blu-Ray on an A10? How are they? Cuz I know these TVs are a couple of years old, just wondering if theyre still good for PS3. Im planning to get a PS3 this April, so Im wondering if I should get a new TV or this will just do.

My 42" A10 has always been a little slow to show HD channels.

I did a rescan recently due to the fact that one of my HD channels that was above 100
(they were all above 100 at the time) disappeared.

For reference my main local chaannels are 2, 5, 7, 9, and 32, after the rescan my HD channels were at 2.1, 5.2, 7.1, 9.2, and 32.1.

If they are still at their virtual location, I don't know, I never checked because they are available where they should be.

The acquisition time for the HD channels did not change.

That's what happened with my DVD recorder, the above 100 channels disappeared and they are now at 2.1, 5.2, 7.1, 9.1, 11.2 and 32.1. But again they were split up before that. Either way is OK, I just don't want to have the Sony end up with half above 100 & half in the VHF range.

OK thanks! Anyone tried a PS3 game/Blu-Ray on an A10? How are they? Cuz I know these TVs are a couple of years old, just wondering if theyre still good for PS3. Im planning to get a PS3 this April, so Im wondering if I should get a new TV or this will just do.

Your current TV will be fine.


Fantastic picture for both games and Bluray from the PS3 to my A10 over HDMI.
Of course a 1080p TV would probably be even better.;)

Just make sure to set your output from the PS3 to 1080i or less for the A10.

Your current TV will be fine.


Fantastic picture for both games and Bluray from the PS3 to my A10 over HDMI.
Of course a 1080p TV would probably be even better.;)

Just make sure to set your output from the PS3 to 1080i or less for the A10.

OK MANY THANKS! Here in the Philippines, theres no HD broadcast yet, so my access to HD experience is thru current gen consoles and Blu-ray. Cant wait!

OK MANY THANKS! Here in the Philippines, theres no HD broadcast yet, so my access to HD experience is thru current gen consoles and Blu-ray. Cant wait!

That's not bad, Blue-ray/HD-DVD delivers a better HD experience compared HD broadcasts, which are quite often bandwidth starved.

I also have this TV, is there a way to just scan for over the air HD channels with it?

I also have this TV, is there a way to just scan for over the air HD channels with it?

Yes... you have to switch to the Antenna input first. Then go into the Settings Menu, then into the Channels sub-menu. From there you probably want to use the autoprogram feature to scan for any digital signals you can pick up...

On a side note, AVS also has OTA forums specific to certain geographic areas that you might want to check out (if you didn't find them already)...

Update: So Monday the repair guy came to the apartment and just saw what my red tint color issue was on the left hand side of the screen, which he said was as I already thought, it was the light engine that was going bad. My part has shipped and my next appointment for actual repair is on Wednesday, so that didn't take very long at all. Although after a couple/few hours use I'm noticing some flickering. The repair guy said that may be because of the light engine too but, my bulb has 4500 hours on it, so, we'll see after wednesday i suppose.

Update: So Monday the repair guy came to the apartment and just saw what my red tint color issue was on the left hand side of the screen, which he said was as I already thought, it was the light engine that was going bad. My part has shipped and my next appointment for actual repair is on Wednesday, so that didn't take very long at all. Although after a couple/few hours use I'm noticing some flickering. The repair guy said that may be because of the light engine too but, my bulb has 4500 hours on it, so, we'll see after wednesday i suppose.
Good luck mzuperman. I have been through 3 light engines so far and they all have a little red in more of the screen than the other. The tech said that is just what you get when you have 3 separate lcd's, one for each color. You can reduce your overall red, but that will tend to put skin tones into the greenish-yellow color. I am learning to deal with it. It seems easier to accept if you know it is not a defect with your particular set but that everyone has it to an extent, not just you.
As far as the flicker goes:
I am not completely cured yet. But I am finding a correlation to high power devices sharing the same outlet causing a slight flicker. For example, I live in an apartment and that could have something to do with it. But sometimes, at different times of the day I will notice a flicker continuously. I will turn off my computer, which shares my tv's power strip and the problem goes away after a few minutes. Other times it is fine. Totally weird. Maybe someday a bright soul will determine what causes this.

Peace,
Chris

Good luck mzuperman. I have been through 3 light engines so far and they all have a little red in more of the screen than the other. The tech said that is just what you get when you have 3 separate lcd's, one for each color. You can reduce your overall red, but that will tend to put skin tones into the greenish-yellow color. I am learning to deal with it. It seems easier to accept if you know it is not a defect with your particular set but that everyone has it to an extent, not just you.
As far as the flicker goes:


Peace,
Chris

Chris-

I'm surprised to hear that 3 light engines won't cure the red problem!!

When these sets came out 2 1/2 years ago, people went crazy over minor issues and something like that would've been a major discussion.

Are you sure this isn't the red-push (?) that can be resolved from the service menu?

At the beginning there was a lot more traffic and some real pros offering advice. You might want to look at the early posts and send a PM to one of those guys, perhaps umr....

OK. I just took some footage of my flicker issue.. You'll see in the video that it is intermittent.. In the beginning it is doing it, then stops, then does it some more..

For those that say they have a flicker, is this similar to what you see?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71RlHsMtBjo

Well my red push was fixed via service menu, and with about two years and three months of use, there's never been this 'red tint' issue. The 'that's just what happens' excuse does not work when I know what the picture is supposed to look like. I have a service plan via best buy. If it needs to get fixed more than three times, it's getting replaced for free. And when the light engine is replaced and I get a flicker still, it's going to be a call to best buy again to get the bulb ordered finally, since they wont' replace it yet until they see if the light engine fixes the flicker.

It's hard by the way tbird to see that flicker on that youtube video. All I know is that mine is intermittent as well, I don't get it all the time. It starts usually after a few hours of the TV being on, and from there? ....

There is no fix for color tint in the corners. This issue was brought up more than two years ago and it was determined to be poor quality polarizers used in the light engine. Some sets had it worse than others. Using the AI seems to make it worse. It was mentioned by UMR that this problem can get worse over the life of the set or look the same as the day you first turned it on.

This problems you guys are mentioning, all sets are affected? Or just selected ones? Is this the one that can be updated with that firmware?

There is no fix for color tint in the corners. This issue was brought up more than two years ago and it was determined to be poor quality polarizers used in the light engine. Some sets had it worse than others. Using the AI seems to make it worse. It was mentioned by UMR that this problem can get worse over the life of the set or look the same as the day you first turned it on.

But they're replacing the light engine... that wouldn't fix it? If the poor polarizers are in the light engine, I don't see what the problem would be as long as I have a service plan, which I do.

UMR mentioned that a light engine replacement wouldn't guarantee a fix. I do hope in your case that it does lessen the red tint to the point that you can't notice it.

These sets do not have perfect screen uniformity from corner to corner although turning off the AI will improve it. But you know that reduces the contrast ratio and the picture looks more washed out.

UMR mentioned that a light engine replacement wouldn't guarantee a fix. I do hope in your case that it does lessen the red tint to the point that you can't notice it.

These sets do not have perfect screen uniformity from corner to corner although turning off the AI will improve it. But you know that reduces the contrast ratio and the picture looks more washed out.
I would have to agree with dark rain on the fact that the red tint in corners is not fixed by a light engine swap. My second light engine was very very red in the upper right corner. My original light engine was somewhat redish in the lower left corner. And the light engine I have now is kinda red in the upper right, but it is way better than before.

Something kind of interesting that I have been playing with that may be old news to you guts. The service tech forgot to transfer a cable that connects the AI to the control board, therefore disabling it. The part has been ordered and is being replaced, but on a side note. I have noticed that the set seems to automatically adjust the color temperature for you depending on how high you have the iris set at. For instance a setting of min or 1 with have slightly more red, and it is adjusted out of the picture by the tv when moved to 2 or higher. I thought the image changing before was the iris adjusting, but since it is now disconnected that is not possible.

I do have to say though through all of this trouble I have experienced, the A10 is a wonderful TV. The picture and clarity blow me away still and the black level is so much better than other LCD sets. I love my A10 and am anxiously awaiting the replacement of my AI cable so my picture is not so "washed out" as dark rain put it. Besides the new SXRD sets and even the new LCD series 3000's, I cant think of another RPTV that can rival the A10 picture quality and price vs. performance ratio.

Peace,
Chris

I do love my 42a10.

If the light engine doesn't take away all the red when it's replaced, then I'll keep making service appointments until it is fixed. I have a service plan with Best Buy. As long as I can get my TV to look the way it did up until a few weeks ago, then that's fine. I mean the picture still looks pretty good, I just want the problem I notice from time to time in greys and blacks to go away. It's not TOO noticable but it's there none-the-less. They say that on the service plan if the TV needs to be repaired a fourth time then you get something else, and that's fine by me if it comes down to it. So I'm not really concerned.

I had to have the firmware update installed by a service tech at one point. I'm having the light engine replaced now. I know I'll need the bulb replaced, and the guy wouldn't just order it for me even though I told him about the intermittent flickering. He said that may be a product of the light engine going too, so we'll have to see. I know the firmware update won't count, but I still have a couple/few years on a service plan. If it keeps having issues, then I get a new TV. I will NOT watch this TV without the adv. iris turned off. That's unacceptable. And if a fix can't be had for my adv. iris on low, then I don't want the TV anymore.

If the issue is with polarizers in the light engine, I don't see why a new light engine wouldn't fix it unless the replacement wasn't good either. New light engine, new polarizers... maybe they got a little jacked up during shipping if it wasn't working right for you. I don't know. If color uniformity has never really been perfect from each corner of the TV, then whatever, I can deal. Again, as long as it ends up looking to be nothing really noticable like what I had before? I'm good.

I know a service guy is trying to save money time, but I'm trying to save my time. My bulb is going and I know that by end of this week, I'll be making another appointment for bulb replacement.

So guys, this tint.. this problem with the light engine, does this affect all A10 sets? Or just a half/minority/half?

So guys, this tint.. this problem with the light engine, does this affect all A10 sets? Or just a half/minority/half?
All of them to some degree. Most people don't notice it because it is faint but can get worse over time. It can be easily seen if you turn the color to 0 or watch something that is in B&W. The recommendation is to turn off the AI and the problem is lessened.

All of them to some degree. Most people don't notice it because it is faint but can get worse over time. It can be easily seen if you turn the color to 0 or watch something that is in B&W. The recommendation is to turn off the AI and the problem is lessened.

So when you say "but can get worse over time", theres a chance it wont? And most dont notice it, so its only to those who are very sensitive to what they see huh? And forgive my ignorance, but what is AI?

Mine never got worse and I had it for over two years. I'd say if you're very picky it would really bother you.

AI = Advanced Iris or Dynamic Iris.

OK MANY THANKS again!

I have had a Mac Mini computer connected (DVI to HDMI) to my 50" A10 for the last year or so and everything worked very well. I used DisplayConfigX to alter the signal sent to the TV so the menu bar and dock were visible.

I had to replace the hard drive on the computer so I upgraded to Leopard at the same time. Everything is working but I can't find the correct settings for DisplayConfigX. I've searched the web and this thread but the settings listed from Mr. Pibb don't seem to work (maybe because that was for the VGA port and not the DVI/HDMI connection).

Does anyone have the correct parameters for connecting a computer to the A10 via the HDMI port?

All help is appreciated.

// ScottA

If you ever learn the "correct parameters" for connecting a computer to the A10 via the HDMI port, please post your learnings here so that others can benefit from the same information.

Thanks.

So, light engine was replaced today. Great news! The new light engine, does not have that red tint problem I had before.

No, now I have spots of color on the screen. Mid left hand side of the screen is a red ball. Bottom left area is a lightish green color. Another ball similar to that in the center. I swear there's another spot or two on the TV that are just barely visible. Highly noticable when the screen is dark or black. So another one has been ordered. Gay.

But, that'll make repair number 2 on the way, right after #1. Yeesh.

I am really happy that my 50A10 has been running superbly ever since i bought, i guess its been 2 years or so now. But i was watching my TV yesturday and it seems like i could notice the screendoor effect. Before i havent even seen it, but i was playing Assassins Creed and i watched Transfomers HD and i could see something weird going on. It looked like there was windex or something on the screen or something, kinda like a rainbow effect in the pixels or something. I dont know, i sat off center and it looked better. Is this silk screen effect?

Edit: Well i just read up on SSE and it seems like that what i am seeing, the little sparkling effect is what i was seeing. Mostly in bright areas like white or a blue sky. I read that decreasing the contrast and brightness will reduce it, is that correct?

Anyone know what websites that have the bulb for the A10 at great prices. So far ebay is cheapest.

TIA

I am really happy that my 50A10 has been running superbly ever since i bought, i guess its been 2 years or so now. But i was watching my TV yesturday and it seems like i could notice the screendoor effect. Before i havent even seen it, but i was playing Assassins Creed and i watched Transfomers HD and i could see something weird going on. It looked like there was windex or something on the screen or something, kinda like a rainbow effect in the pixels or something. I dont know, i sat off center and it looked better. Is this silk screen effect?

Edit: Well i just read up on SSE and it seems like that what i am seeing, the little sparkling effect is what i was seeing. Mostly in bright areas like white or a blue sky. I read that decreasing the contrast and brightness will reduce it, is that correct?

I don't know about Assassins Creed, but Transformers was filmed to purposely be over-exposed, especially in the beginning desert scenes. I can't believe you didn't notice SSE unitl now! That's what I noticed at first and now I rarely notice it. I love the TV, although I'd like to get the higher contrast of some of the newer LCD's and Plasmas.

Did anyone see this:
http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/12/27/sony-officially-quits-rear-projection-tv-production/
Looks like we're using a dying breed of TV's...

If you ever learn the "correct parameters" for connecting a computer to the A10 via the HDMI port, please post your learnings here so that others can benefit from the same information.

Thanks.

I just built a HTPC and am using an ATI 2600XT video card. Using the Catalyst Control Center I set up a resolution of 1232 x 688 which gives perfect 1 to 1 pixel mapping via HDMI.

I just built a HTPC and am using an ATI 2600XT video card. Using the Catalyst Control Center I set up a resolution of 1232 x 688 which gives perfect 1 to 1 pixel mapping via HDMI.

Any chance you could at least temporarily install Powerstrip and copy the timing paramters you are currently using and share?

If you can do it, here are the quick instructions on how to get the data I'm looking for if you don't know:

Once installed, right click the tray icon and select this option:
http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g93/Mr_Pibb/2powerstrip1.jpg

Click this button:
http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g93/Mr_Pibb/3powerstripadvancedtiming.jpg
Then on this screen copy the current timings by clicking the button to the left of the clipboard on the bottom right (ignore the circled button) :
http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g93/Mr_Pibb/4PowerstripCustomResolutions.jpg
paste the data into your response and I can at some point try that out on my older HTPC which I'm currently using VGA to connect to the A10. I've never been able to get 1:1 pixel mapping with HDMI. Check my signature for the VGA settings. There's a file on there that will allow you to verify that you are really getting 1:1 pixel mapping.

Actually, if you view this picture (http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g93/Mr_Pibb/720P_test.jpg)full size you should see vertical and horizontal 1 pixel wide lines on the right and a 1 pixel checkerboard on the left.

paste the data into your response and I can at some point try that out on my older HTPC which I'm currently using VGA to connect to the A10. I've never been able to get 1:1 pixel mapping with HDMI. Check my signature for the VGA settings. There's a file on there that will allow you to verify that you are really getting 1:1 pixel mapping.

My research continues: Reading the TV's documentation, it said that HDTV was only available if the signal was received from a component or HDMI port. When you connect via VGA, are you able to view recorded HD shows in HD? :confused:

// ScottA

My research continues: Reading the TV's documentation, it said that HDTV was only available if the signal was received from a component or HDMI port. When you connect via VGA, are you able to view recorded HD shows in HD? :confused:

// ScottA

It works just like a computer monitor. If you can view it on a computer monitor you can view it on your TV.

It works just like a computer monitor. If you can view it on a computer monitor you can view it on your TV.

Right. But it won't be in HD like it is going from the computer via the HDMI port.

// ScottA

Any chance you could at least temporarily install Powerstrip and copy the timing paramters you are currently using and share?


So here is what powerstrip says:

PowerStrip timing parameters:
1280x720=1280,56,136,192,720,1,3,22,74571,534

Generic timing details for 1280x720:
HFP=56 HSW=136 HBP=192 kHz=45 VFP=1 VSW=3 VBP=22 Hz=60

VESA detailed timing:
PClk=74.57 H.Active=1280 H.Blank=384 H.Offset=40 HSW=136 V.Active=720 V.Blank=26 V.Offset=1 VSW=3

Linux modeline parameters:
"1280x720" 74.571 1280 1336 1472 1664 720 721 724 746 -hsync -vsync

However, I know my resolution is not 1280 x 720. In Catalyst Control Center it says it is 1232 X 688. Maybe I'm doing something wrong with powerstrip?

So here is what powerstrip says:

PowerStrip timing parameters:
1280x720=1280,56,136,192,720,1,3,22,74571,534

Generic timing details for 1280x720:
HFP=56 HSW=136 HBP=192 kHz=45 VFP=1 VSW=3 VBP=22 Hz=60

I put these into DisplayConfigX and things are very close but it is not 1:1. Using the color test, the 2 outer bands are not visible on the screen. I cannot find the arrows in this app to shift or expand/contract the picture and I don't know what numbers to change.

Thanks for checking and I would appreciate any further suggestions.

//ScottA

Edit: Well i just read up on SSE and it seems like that what i am seeing, the little sparkling effect is what i was seeing. Mostly in bright areas like white or a blue sky. I read that decreasing the contrast and brightness will reduce it, is that correct?
Yes, reducing the contrast will help. SSE is the end product of increasing viewing angles on microdisplays.

Ok cool thanks. I just recently did the red push fix and used Chewbacas settings after the spyertv thing he got. This has seems to has helped alot! Thanks everyone for keeping this thread going!

What are the remote control commands to enter the service menu to check the bulb hour usage? I searched multiple threads on AVS Forums and couldn't find anything. I guess the commands were maybe discussed really early on but after 30 mins of looking I couldn't find anything. I'm trying to see if my bulb is close to dying on me. Thanks.

This is a great thread for the A10 series. Thank you all for posting.

I regret to say that my KF-E50A10 is starting to display the flickering issues now as well. I noticed it a couple months back when using my X-Box 360. It occurred randomly and was very faint. Over the months it started getting worse. Now I notice it all the time on any video source going into the tv including my HD satellite system.

It is disappointing to hear that no one has a solution for the problem yet.

I haven't had the TV for even 2 years yet. Sony's warranty is only one year which is absurdly short for such a large purchase.

I may give sony a call tomorrow just to register my issue with them.

It is unfortunate, but it seems this is not an uncommon problem from what is being discussed on this forum. I have about 4200 hrs. on the bulb. I did try a quick pull out of the bulb and put it back in. It seemed to cure the problem for a short period of time, but that may just be that the tv had a chance to cool down a bit.

I sure hope someone can find a resolution to this.
It is really not worth fixing considering the cost of TV's now. I sure won't be purchasing a sony again. It really stabs me in the gut that this happened so soon. I have a crt samsung that lasted me 15 years and is still going fine.

What are the remote control commands to enter the service menu to check the bulb hour usage? I searched multiple threads on AVS Forums and couldn't find anything. I guess the commands were maybe discussed really early on but after 30 mins of looking I couldn't find anything. I'm trying to see if my bulb is close to dying on me. Thanks.

check this post here:http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11997791#post11997791

when you're done checking the hours press [jump] to get back to the service menu screen and you can then turn off the power. GL!

I really hope borgdaddy has achieved 1:1 via HDMI, I'll be keeping an eye here to check and see if it's just an isolated case. I'd love to keep my 360 on VGA and migrate my PC over to HDMI. Of course I'll have to pick up an HDMI 3x1 switch to handle my future PS3 slot and current PC & Toshiba HD-A2.

Does the HDMI port on this TV suffer from underscan problems like the VGA port?

I'm thinking of putting in a home theatre PC with either DVI to HDMI or buy a video card with straight HDMI, but I don't want to spend money if it's not going to be 1:1 (without Powerstrip tweaking).

Thanks!

Does the HDMI port on this TV suffer from underscan problems like the VGA port?

I'm thinking of putting in a home theatre PC with either DVI to HDMI or buy a video card with straight HDMI, but I don't want to spend money if it's not going to be 1:1 (without Powerstrip tweaking).

Thanks!


What underscan problems does the VGA port have?

See the link in my signature.

This is a great thread for the A10 series. Thank you all for posting.

I regret to say that my KF-E50A10 is starting to display the flickering issues now as well. I noticed it a couple months back when using my X-Box 360. It occurred randomly and was very faint. Over the months it started getting worse. Now I notice it all the time on any video source going into the tv including my HD satellite system.

It is disappointing to hear that no one has a solution for the problem yet.

I haven't had the TV for even 2 years yet. Sony's warranty is only one year which is absurdly short for such a large purchase.

I may give sony a call tomorrow just to register my issue with them.

It is unfortunate, but it seems this is not an uncommon problem from what is being discussed on this forum. I have about 4200 hrs. on the bulb. I did try a quick pull out of the bulb and put it back in. It seemed to cure the problem for a short period of time, but that may just be that the tv had a chance to cool down a bit.

I sure hope someone can find a resolution to this.
It is really not worth fixing considering the cost of TV's now. I sure won't be purchasing a sony again. It really stabs me in the gut that this happened so soon. I have a crt samsung that lasted me 15 years and is still going fine.

I am seeing the flicker A LOT more now.. I got my TV in April of 2006.. I bought the extended warranty from this site (I think it was a Mack).. Looking at Sony's warranty it says 1 year parts and labor and 2 years parts.. Who do I contact for someone to look at it? Sony or Mack?

Thanks :(

PS. I seem to notice the flicker the most when playing my 360 or watching via my HTPC (hooked up vga).. It almost seems to happen the most when the hard drive and / or cd drive is being accessed on either device.. The flicker does happen when just watching OTA broadcasts as well though..

Hello all, Chris here again. I am still trying to diagnose this flickering problem and as of yet am unable to secure a source or cause...but the pc being on will definitely induce some flicker with some time.

I recently wrote a letter to Sony electronics detailing my experiences with this tv and getting my problems fixed. I was then contacted by the VP of Repair Services via telephone. I was somewhat shocked but he was very professional and seems to really want to help. He gave me his direct line and asked me to call him after my next repair appointment to let him know if everything is fixed.

Here is what I am thinking, if I can get the names and addresses of everyone who is experiencing this flickering problem. I will call him and alert him of the situation and perhaps make him aware of this problem that many of us A10 owners are suffering from. Its worth a shot and anything I can do to help is my pleasure. If you feel like sharing your information with me i assure you the only person I will share it with is Sony unless you instruct me not to.
Please provide the following:
Name
Address
Phone #
Serial Number of your TV
Model Number
Date of Manufacture
Original bulb, or replacement...how many
When you see the flicker the most, and least.
Any other info you think will be helpful.

Thanks all,
Peace

Hello all, Chris here again. I am still trying to diagnose this flickering problem and as of yet am unable to secure a source or cause...but the pc being on will definitely induce some flicker with some time.

I recently wrote a letter to Sony electronics detailing my experiences with this tv and getting my problems fixed. I was then contacted by the VP of Repair Services via telephone. I was somewhat shocked but he was very professional and seems to really want to help. He gave me his direct line and asked me to call him after my next repair appointment to let him know if everything is fixed.

Here is what I am thinking, if I can get the names and addresses of everyone who is experiencing this flickering problem. I will call him and alert him of the situation and perhaps make him aware of this problem that many of us A10 owners are suffering from. Its worth a shot and anything I can do to help is my pleasure. If you feel like sharing your information with me i assure you the only person I will share it with is Sony unless you instruct me not to.
Please provide the following:
Name
Address
Phone #
Serial Number of your TV
Model Number
Date of Manufacture
Original bulb, or replacement...how many
When you see the flicker the most, and least.
Any other info you think will be helpful.

Thanks all,
Peace

I'll PM you later.. I have to get most of that info.

Guys, is the A10 there made in Japan? Just wondering, cuz its called a different model here in Asia, and made in Japan.

Here is what I am thinking, if I can get the names and addresses of everyone who is experiencing this flickering problem. I will call him and alert him of the situation and perhaps make him aware of this problem that many of us A10 owners are suffering from. Its worth a shot and anything I can do to help is my pleasure. If you feel like sharing your information with me i assure you the only person I will share it with is Sony unless you instruct me not to.
Please provide the following:
Name
Address
Phone #
Serial Number of your TV
Model Number
Date of Manufacture
Original bulb, or replacement...how many
When you see the flicker the most, and least.
Any other info you think will be helpful.

Thanks all,
Peace

If you have an email I can send you the information, I would be more than happy. It definitely started about 3-4 months ago. I was watching the TV last night and it is occurring just as bad on my HDMI (HD Satellite) input as it is on the other component ports. I still haven't given sony a call yet. I was waiting to see how your situation paned out, as you had some significant components replaced already and it didn't seem to help.

The problem is getting significantly worse this week. It also seems like the picture is starting to darken out. Which I assume is sign of the bulb going. I only have 4250'ish hours on the bulb. I really want to believe it is just the bulb acting up. I have all Auto Iris features disabled.. and have tried a hundred setting to try and alleviate the problem.

If we can piggy back off of your current status in the repair line, that would be great. I believe my TV was manufactured in Feb.2006.

For anyone who wants to participate in my survey, here is my email addresss: keo19sd@san.rr.com. That is temporary as I am moving on feb. 2nd to Phoenix, Arizona. If you would like to participate just send me your info. I am going to wait until I am in phoenix to call sony. Just to see if the flicker follows me to our new house. I am sure it will and will be calling sony shortly after arriving.
Quick note, just be sure to send your info before the 31st of January as my email account will be turned off on that day. I will forward everyone who responds my new email account once it is setup by cox. We will get this figured out sooner or later.

Peace,
Chris

My regular cable signal looked terrible for months, it was fuzzy and pixelated. I thought it was due to old cables in my wall, but after I upgraded to a digital cable and bought brand new RG6 cables, the picture still looks the same. How does you TV picture look, is it just our TV or is it my setup. (My upstairs CRT TV looks clean and crisp from the same splitter)

My regular cable signal looked terrible for months, it was fuzzy and pixelated. I thought it was due to old cables in my wall, but after I upgraded to a digital cable and bought brand new RG6 cables, the picture still looks the same. How does you TV picture look, is it just our TV or is it my setup. (My upstairs CRT TV looks clean and crisp from the same splitter)


Hows the quality of DVDs and such?

Though due to screen size, it tends to stretch it and sometimes look worse than a regular sized CRT.

DVD and Blu Rays look awesome

I put these into DisplayConfigX and things are very close but it is not 1:1. Using the color test, the 2 outer bands are not visible on the screen. I cannot find the arrows in this app to shift or expand/contract the picture and I don't know what numbers to change.

Thanks for checking and I would appreciate any further suggestions.

//ScottA

First of all, thanks to Sparcstack @ 123Macmini.com for his help on this.

After playing with his settings and SwitchResX, I have used the following settings to connect to my Sony Wega KF-E50A10 via HDMI from my Mini running Lepoard:

Horizontal Active=1258, FP=121, Sync=40, BP=231, Scan=45 KHz
Vertical Active=690, FP=20, Sync=5, BP=35, Scan=60Hz

This is not 1:1 mapping but it looks pretty good.

// Scott A

I'd like to hear your thoughts on getting an HDMI switch for the A10. Do you all have troubles with the TV not being calibrated optimally for several sources on the same input? It seems it would be difficult to have the PQ look its best when you have multiple sources with one setting.

I use an HDMI switcher with mine. I have 3 sources(PS3, Cablebox, and hd-dvd) all going into the HDMI on the A10 from the switcher. The settings seem to be good for me with all 3 sources and none are much different to the point that I'd want to re-adjust for each one. The only one that is maybe a little off is the PS3's video. I'd probably tweak the brightness and contrast a little differently on that one if it had its own input on the TV. But its still a "happy medium" with the other 2 sources and the PQ on all 3 is stellar.

Well, my A5010 (purchased Jan 06) finally had its first problem. The notorious "won't turn off" trick. Sony is coming out on Wed. to do the update.

Unlike most of you, though, unplugging it didn't reset it. No matter how long I leave it unplugged it still won't turn off.

Anything else I should ask the technician while he's here?

Well, my A5010 (purchased Jan 06) finally had its first problem. The notorious "won't turn off" trick. Sony is coming out on Wed. to do the update.

Unlike most of you, though, unplugging it didn't reset it. No matter how long I leave it unplugged it still won't turn off.

Anything else I should ask the technician while he's here?

The TV stays on with no power? I wish I had a magic TV, too.

I use an HDMI switcher with mine. I have 3 sources(PS3, Cablebox, and hd-dvd) all going into the HDMI on the A10 from the switcher. The settings seem to be good for me with all 3 sources and none are much different to the point that I'd want to re-adjust for each one. The only one that is maybe a little off is the PS3's video. I'd probably tweak the brightness and contrast a little differently on that one if it had its own input on the TV. But its still a "happy medium" with the other 2 sources and the PQ on all 3 is stellar.


Thanks. I think I'm ready for an HDMI switch. I notice too much of a benefit from HDMI just with sound, not even mentioning the video.

The TV stays on with no power? I wish I had a magic TV, too.

Thank you for your most helpful reply.

Have a good day.

Well, my A5010 (purchased Jan 06) finally had its first problem. The notorious "won't turn off" trick. Sony is coming out on Wed. to do the update.

Unlike most of you, though, unplugging it didn't reset it. No matter how long I leave it unplugged it still won't turn off.

Anything else I should ask the technician while he's here?
This happened to my 42A10 two days ago. It wouldn't turn off and only the ATSC tuner worked (OTA HD), std cable channels wouldn't tune-in. I unplugged it in the morning and it worked when I came home. I haven't read this thread in months so I didn't know about this issue with A10s, but I'm glad I discovered a solution that worked. I bought my TV in Sept. '05 and it hasn't had any updates.

Can anyone please help me on how to customize the setup; which Ill use(for brightness, picture, etc.) and all? Ill be getting a PS3 very soon(my first HD experience, since Im from the Philippines); and I just want the best I can get from my a10 thats all. I saw a couple of setups here, but I want more input... esp. that for a PS3-BR player quality.

And if it helps, I got the 50" one, and sitting distance is 7-8 feet.

MANY THANKS! I will really appreciate it!

I recently did a pre-emptive lamp replacement of my 50A10 after 9100 hours (yikes?, need to get the family out more). The picture was still good, but decided to keep the original lamp as an emergency spare.
However, when checking the "lamp" and "panel on" timers in the service menu, both still indicated 9100 after the replacement? I can understand the panel timer remaining at 9100 but I would have assumed the lamp timer would have reset. If the lamp timer doesn't reset, what would be the point of having 2 timers? Is it possible because the TV itself didn't detect a faulty original bulb, it won't reset the timer. Anyone experience this or get their lamp timer to reset?
Regards,
atek99

I recently did a pre-emptive lamp replacement of my 50A10 after 9100 hours (yikes?, need to get the family out more). The picture was still good, but decided to keep the original lamp as an emergency spare.
However, when checking the "lamp" and "panel on" timers in the service menu, both still indicated 9100 after the replacement? I can understand the panel timer remaining at 9100 but I would have assumed the lamp timer would have reset. If the lamp timer doesn't reset, what would be the point of having 2 timers? Is it possible because the TV itself didn't detect a faulty original bulb, it won't reset the timer. Anyone experience this or get their lamp timer to reset?
Regards,
atek99

You need to reset the lamp time in the Service Menu, it does not do it automatically.

Mel

Thanks for the info Mel. Do you know how to do this?
There is no mention in the manual or service manual. I assume Sony only wants service techs to do this if they replace the lamp since we are not supposed to be accessing the service screens.
Thanks
atek99

Yea, it's kinda funny that the lamps are user replaceable, but they don't tell us how to reset the timer in the user manual. The directions are on page 15 of the service manual, toward the bottom of the page. I think you have to go through the entire process listed there, but I'm not sure, since I have not changed a lamp yet. Did the new lamp improve your picture? I am thinking of doing the same soon.

Mel

Thanks Mel, I found the info. I may decide to try it some day but I suppose there is no harm in just leaving it. I was suprised at how much brighter the picture was after I changed the lamp (although brightness is not the perfect description; the picture became sharper with slightly better contrast and better overall light distribution, just like when the TV was new). I had to lower the iris at least 1 step on all inputs and then the brightness and picture controls at least 5 steps. Mind you, these had gradually been raised over the last couple of years to compensate for deterioration in the original bulb. Thanks for your help!
atek99

Update ! OK, I broke down and did it. I followed the steps on page 15 of the service manual and it worked. Lamp timer now shows 0 hours with the panel showing 9100. Be careful with step 5 (pushing channel 5 seven times followed by channel 1. Make sure the display shows the info as shown in the manual before continuing.I also used jump after the final step to get back to the service start screen before powering off the TV

just wanted to say i love my a10 (60') :)

Update ! OK, I broke down and did it. I followed the steps on page 15 of the service manual and it worked. Lamp timer now shows 0 hours with the panel showing 9100. Be careful with step 5 (pushing channel 5 seven times followed by channel 1. Make sure the display shows the info as shown in the manual before continuing.I also used jump after the final step to get back to the service start screen before powering off the TV
The service manual - is that one of the manuals that comes with the TV? If not, could you post the instructions here? I'm thinking about replacing my bulb soon and after reading this, I'd want to reset the timer too. Thanks.

The service manual does not come with the TV. I believe I downloaded it from a link in this forum, unfortunately I can't quite remember. If you cannot find, let me know.
atek99

UPDATE: The second light engine was installed yesterday, and this one is color spot free unlike the first one they installed for repair. If flickering ends up being an issue though for me again, I just call Best Buy and the repair guy said they shoudl just order and ship it to me. I'm all good again.

The service manual does not come with the TV. I believe I downloaded it from a link in this forum, unfortunately I can't quite remember. If you cannot find, let me know.
atek99This may have been posted before, but I wasn't about to sift through all of this thread to find out.

Here is the A10 service manual for downloading:
http://www.docs.sony.com/release/kdfe42-50a10_sm.pdf

Use at your own risk. MitchSearched and found the link above from a post about a year ago. Unfortunately the link is dead. Tried to find it at Sony but no luck either. If any kind soul has the service manual .pdf, can you post here if not too large (wishful thinking), or please PM me for my e-mail address. Thanks for your help!

My KDF-E42A10 (purchased Jan 06) is exhibiting the "flicker" problem. Around the first of the year, I was playing COD4 a lot on my PS3. That's when I began to notice the flicker, especially after extended gaming sessions, say 2-4 hours.

I haven't been playing any games in recent weeks but tonight, I watched Spiderman3 and after the movie was over, there was the flicker again.

So, at least for me, I think therein lies some (if not all) of the cause and effect. The PS3 is hooked up via HDMI whereas before, I had the PS3 hooked up via component and a Sony upconverting DVD player hooked up HDMI. No flicker.

I don't know how, what or why but I can say it tends to be brought on or worsened by the PS3/HDMI connection and related usage.

I'm curious to hear what you guys think and if anyone has had similar experiences.

Discuss!

My KDF-E42A10 (purchased Jan 06) is exhibiting the "flicker" problem. Around the first of the year, I was playing COD4 a lot on my PS3. That's when I began to notice the flicker, especially after extended gaming sessions, say 2-4 hours.

I haven't been playing any games in recent weeks but tonight, I watched Spiderman3 and after the movie was over, there was the flicker again.

So, at least for me, I think therein lies some (if not all) of the cause and effect. The PS3 is hooked up via HDMI whereas before, I had the PS3 hooked up via component and a Sony upconverting DVD player hooked up HDMI. No flicker.

I don't know how, what or why but I can say it tends to be brought on or worsened by the PS3/HDMI connection and related usage.

I'm curious to hear what you guys think and if anyone has had similar experiences.

Discuss!Well i am having the same problems as many others here. I thought that my use of a vga cable with my xbox was the culprit but it does not matter what i do as the random flickering persists even when using a pure power supply source for the tv. Anyone who's reading this to decide if they will buy any Sony rptv's steer clear of this garbage as they are only good for about 10 or 11 months of use.

Anyone who's reading this to decide if they will buy any Sony rptv's steer clear of this garbage as they are only good for about 10 or 11 months of use.

It's kind of a moot point now... Sony has said they are not producing RPTVs any longer.

Well i am having the same problems as many others here. I thought that my use of a vga cable with my xbox was the culprit but it does not matter what i do as the random flickering persists even when using a pure power supply source for the tv. Anyone who's reading this to decide if they will buy any Sony rptv's steer clear of this garbage as they are only good for about 10 or 11 months of use.

I had mine for 2 years 2 months now, no problem at all. Though since Im from the Philippines, it got a different model name, and is made in Japan. Bout the ones you got in US, Japan made too?

hey guys, I recently just got an HD Box for my a10, and I wanted to install it through DVI/HDMI.

I do that same with my ps3 but with hdmi and I view the ps3 on video 6. So I connected my hd box and view it on video 6 but the image is shifted to the left but 2 inches. Is there any way to fixing this. Please help.

If any Canadains are reading this...its a rogers HD Box.

hey guys, I recently just got an HD Box for my a10, and I wanted to install it through DVI/HDMI.

I do that same with my ps3 but with hdmi and I view the ps3 on video 6. So I connected my hd box and view it on video 6 but the image is shifted to the left but 2 inches. Is there any way to fixing this. Please help.

If any Canadains are reading this...its a rogers HD Box.

Are you saying it displays properly with the PS3, but is shifted only with the cable box?

If so , go into the cable box display settings and see if there is an adjustment there.

If you are using an HDMI switcher, switch the inputs and see if the shift follows the source or stays on the same switcher input.

On the A10 itself, I don't believe there is any way of fixing this without going into the service menu.

Does anyone know how to adjust the vertical position in the service menu? I need to move it up about a quarter inch.

I had mine for 2 years 2 months now, no problem at all.

Consider yourself lucky, most of us (self included) that are having the flicker problem are at 2+ years of ownership. My set has been flawless up to this point.

I haven't watched much TV today (been too busy) but I would almost bet that the flickering has subsided and has seemingly gone away.

But the true test will be tomorrow as I had planned to game on it with the PS3 most of the day...the flickering will be back with a vengence I'm sure!

My KDF-E42A10 (purchased Jan 06) is exhibiting the "flicker" problem. Around the first of the year, I was playing COD4 a lot on my PS3. That's when I began to notice the flicker, especially after extended gaming sessions, say 2-4 hours.

I haven't been playing any games in recent weeks but tonight, I watched Spiderman3 and after the movie was over, there was the flicker again.

So, at least for me, I think therein lies some (if not all) of the cause and effect. The PS3 is hooked up via HDMI whereas before, I had the PS3 hooked up via component and a Sony upconverting DVD player hooked up HDMI. No flicker.

I don't know how, what or why but I can say it tends to be brought on or worsened by the PS3/HDMI connection and related usage.

I'm curious to hear what you guys think and if anyone has had similar experiences.

Discuss!

In my case, it flickers on all inputs.. I have my Xbox 360 hooked up via component, I get flicker.. I have my HTPC hooked up via VGA, I get flicker.. And I have my TV hooked up just via OTA Antenna and I get flicker..

:(

Does anyone know how to adjust the vertical position in the service menu? I need to move it up about a quarter inch.
d-v-c gives instructions in this post http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7498312#post7498312

I believe he talks about it around Step 16. Good Luck.

Mel

I'm pretty sure I've seen my flickering via component too while watching cable. I have a bulb on the way, and when the repair guy fixed my color spot issue by replacing the light engine, he looked at my bulb and said it's getting ready to go, it's a little foggy so that's not normal. I get the flickering usually only after the TV's been in use a while, didn't always do that so I'm assuming it's my bulb since there is about 5,000 hours of use on it. I'll keep you all posted on if replacing the bulb fixes my flickering issue.

Searched and found the link above from a post about a year ago. Unfortunately the link is dead. Tried to find it at Sony but no luck either. If any kind soul has the service manual .pdf, can you post here if not too large (wishful thinking), or please PM me for my e-mail address. Thanks for your help!

I am also looking for a copy of the service manual.

If someone could pm me if you have a copy that you can send or post online somewhere I would appreciate it.

2.5 years now with my 42A10 without issue (knock wood). Will probably go plasma when the next gen Panny plasmas come out in the spring.

Are you saying it displays properly with the PS3, but is shifted only with the cable box?

If so , go into the cable box display settings and see if there is an adjustment there.

If you are using an HDMI switcher, switch the inputs and see if the shift follows the source or stays on the same switcher input.

On the A10 itself, I don't believe there is any way of fixing this without going into the service menu.


thxs alot for the help, i just went into the hd box and adjusted the screen from there.

I need another post to ask my other question

I need some major help in setting up a home theatre system.

I just bought a simple sony home theater system (its has 1 HDMI OUT, and 2 HDMI IN ports, plus two for optical out)



http://www.sonystyle.com/wcsstore/So...f/HTDDW990.pdf

The setup is on page 9-12

So here is what I am trying to set up

- PS3

- HD Box via DVI-HDMI


I want to get this optical cable (for the ps3 and for the hd box) Good Choice?

http://www.monoprice.com/products/pr...seq=1&format=2


So finally to get to my question. How will I set this system up. Could someone direct me as to where to connect what cable where


All help will be greatly appericiated.

Consider yourself lucky, most of us (self included) that are having the flicker problem are at 2+ years of ownership. My set has been flawless up to this point.

I haven't watched much TV today (been too busy) but I would almost bet that the flickering has subsided and has seemingly gone away.

But the true test will be tomorrow as I had planned to game on it with the PS3 most of the day...the flickering will be back with a vengence I'm sure!

Wait, so most flickering happens on HD? And how long did you have the TV before it started? Is it made in Japan too? Or in a China Sony warehouse?

I'm pretty sure I've seen my flickering via component too while watching cable. I have a bulb on the way, and when the repair guy fixed my color spot issue by replacing the light engine, he looked at my bulb and said it's getting ready to go, it's a little foggy so that's not normal. I get the flickering usually only after the TV's been in use a while, didn't always do that so I'm assuming it's my bulb since there is about 5,000 hours of use on it. I'll keep you all posted on if replacing the bulb fixes my flickering issue.Im glad that you will post the results. I sent out a letter to Sony support through Sonystyle.ca explianing the problem that I and others have been having. I gave them my model# serial# and told them that us owners should not have to spend time and money trouble shooting their product. They sent me back a letter saying that my tv was not in their data base because it is not a Canadian model! Although I bought mine at a Best Buy right here in Canada. They never even tried to help me by trying to point me in the right direction. I guess we are on our own then.:mad:

It could just be very early warning signs of a bulb that's been used a ton. The light engine was replaced on my TV. Again, the first time they replaced it, the 'new' one had issues too with color, and the second one, the one just installed last week, is fine. That flickering still shows up for me so it has nothing to do with the light engine. I don't know if the Iris shutter is connected all in that light engine, I'd sort of assume so, but, I guess that the frustration of a flicker that comes on once in a while and isn't there all the time, is a good way to be warned of a bulb going... as bulbs will at times just go dim or blow. Now again, my issue usually only happens after the bulb has been on a little while.

I'd be interested in knowing how many hours estimated you people have on your sets, because I'm hearing people say they've been using their TV for two years. For me, it's over 4500 hours, just under 5,000 I believe. Bulbs have a lifespan of anywhere between 4,000-8,000 so, that's the average. I could even see some lasting just under that too. And even now, I don't get the flickering issue all that often. It's sporadic and not something I can really recreate at a whim.

My new bulb should be here by Friday so, I should let you know about a week from now or a little later, just so I have time to put into my new TV to see if it happens anymore.

If it solves the flicker problem for you then I too will try buying a new bulb. When my flicking problem showed up I was at 2300 hours on the bulb. I didnt want to go out and get a new one if that was not the problem. Here in Canada at the Sony store and others a new bulb is $299. I cant understand why it cost $100 more here. Thank you and others for posting your experiences here.

How about E-bay?
http://search.*********/xl2400_W0QQ_trksidZm37QQcatrefZC6QQdfspZ1QQfposZ43035QQfromZ R9QQfstypeZ1QQftrtZ1QQftrvZ1QQsabfmtsZ1QQsacatZQ2d1QQsaobfmt sZinsifQQsconfZ1

Edit: OK, I guess they block e-bay addresses here. Anyway, do a search for XL2400 there...

If it helps, my bulb hours is at 4,700+.

Anyway, how heavy is the bulb(along with the box)? For info sake.

FWIW, I've had my 42A10 for 2.5 years now still with the original bulb and no flicker at all. Interestingly though, I did notice a flicker(2 years ago) immediately after leaving the service menu back when I had done the red push fix that is posted in this thread and also noticed a flicker after the TV guy had updated the FW on the set a couple years ago. Both times it was very noticeable mainly on the upper right part of the screen and it gradually subsided to completely going away after maybe 5 min.s or so. Weird. Never had it happen again(knock on wood)

FWIW, I've had my 42A10 for 2.5 years now still with the original bulb and no flicker at all. Interestingly though, I did notice a flicker(2 years ago) immediately after leaving the service menu back when I had done the red push fix that is posted in this thread and also noticed a flicker after the TV guy had updated the FW on the set a couple years ago. Both times it was very noticeable mainly on the upper right part of the screen and it gradually subsided to completely going away after maybe 5 min.s or so. Weird. Never had it happen again(knock on wood)

Your post puts me at ease... lol. I just hope mine remains "healthy"; and that the problems aint affecting all or even most units.

Yeah, knock on wood FTW!

Great thread! I have a 50A10 and recently got a PS3. What settings should I go with on the PS3 I really get confused? Like stuff for cd playback, display is set at 720p or should I set it at 1080i? BD playback etc.

TIA

Oh I have my A10 since Dec. '05 and was wandering any good sites or ebay deals on the replacement bulbs?

Wait, so most flickering happens on HD? And how long did you have the TV before it started? Is it made in Japan too? Or in a China Sony warehouse?

I wouldn't say the flickering happens as a result of HD viewing...for me, it seems to happen after extra long sessions on the PS3.

I'm right at 2+ years of ownership/usage. This TV has been the "family central" in the den since I broke it out of the box. Before I give up on it, I'm willing to consider the flickering could be signs of the bulb going. I'm probably somewhere in the neighborhood of 4500-5000 hours on the bulb. When I bought the TV, I caved in and paid for the CC extended warranty which covers the bulb so I at least plan to get my money out of it for a bulb replacement. My flickering isn't a daily thing so what do I have to lose by changing the bulb.

I wouldn't say the flickering happens as a result of HD viewing...for me, it seems to happen after extra long sessions on the PS3.

I'm right at 2+ years of ownership/usage. This TV has been the "family central" in the den since I broke it out of the box. Before I give up on it, I'm willing to consider the flickering could be signs of the bulb going. I'm probably somewhere in the neighborhood of 4500-5000 hours on the bulb. When I bought the TV, I caved in and paid for the CC extended warranty which covers the bulb so I at least plan to get my money out of it for a bulb replacement. My flickering isn't a daily thing so what do I have to lose by changing the bulb.I wish you luck with the new bulb. Somedays I get no flicker at all which makes this problem seem so weird. When its working properly I absolutely love this tv.:)

Check your bulb peoples, do they look brand spankin' new or do they look a little foggy now?

Check your bulb peoples, do they look brand spankin' new or do they look a little foggy now?Are you talking about the glass face of the bulb or the middle electrode or elsewhere on the bulb? Can you show us an example or pic please? Im just not to sure of how it looks new.

I wouldn't say the flickering happens as a result of HD viewing...for me, it seems to happen after extra long sessions on the PS3.


Personally, I don't think the flickering is due to the type of program being viewed.

On my TV, it is most obvious when using it as a monitor (VGA port) for a Personal Computer.

Since typical PC screens (view a web page, use a word processor, etc) and video games can have images which have a background that has 1 or a few solid colors, it is easy to see the flickering.

It is harder (but not impossible) for me to see the flickering in TV or movies. Usually the only time that I notice it during a TV show is after I became "sensitized" to the flickering because I just used the TV as a computer monitor and am aware of the problem.

A day later, I use the A10 only for watching TV shows and it seems like the flickering is "gone" (or at least not noticeable) until the next time I use the PC for any extended length of time.

This is just a quick observation by me that may or may not be true. I really haven't tried to study the "flicker" effect seriously and do any organized experiments since I rarely use the PC with the A10 and hardly ever notice the flicker during normal TV or movie viewing.

My flickering issue has happened once in a while, but wasn't due to the content. I'd rewind the DVD and rewatch the same part later and it would be fine. New bulb should come to me today, funny though, because I haven't had the flicker issue all week long.

My flickering issue has happened once in a while, but wasn't due to the content. I'd rewind the DVD and rewatch the same part later and it would be fine. New bulb should come to me today, funny though, because I haven't had the flicker issue all week long.

LOL! Isnt that ironic... Alanis Morisette. Good luck though bro, keep us updated.

Not sure if this is old news or if it's even correct, but I just saw this posted by DWBoston in another forum.....

I have a Sony 60XS955 RP LCD TV - Sony had to extend the warranties on nearly all of their rear projection LCD's built from 2003-2005 because the optical blocks were defective. The defect resulted in a "blue cloud" effect that would worsen with time. Out of pocket the repair would cost about $1000 - I had mine replaced last summer. Even with the warranty extension they're only replacing failing blocks and the warranty extension is only for a limited period. My set is just over 3 years old. The previous year's sets had prematurely failing lamps that Sony had to cover as well. My next set will definitely be a flat panel LCD. I've had good luck with Sony stuff previously but my next set might be another brand.

Here's the link to his post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13197822

Not sure if this is old news or if it's even correct, but I just saw this posted by DWBoston in another forum.....

I have a Sony 60XS955 RP LCD TV - Sony had to extend the warranties on nearly all of their rear projection LCD's built from 2003-2005 because the optical blocks were defective. The defect resulted in a "blue cloud" effect that would worsen with time. Out of pocket the repair would cost about $1000 - I had mine replaced last summer. Even with the warranty extension they're only replacing failing blocks and the warranty extension is only for a limited period. My set is just over 3 years old. The previous year's sets had prematurely failing lamps that Sony had to cover as well. My next set will definitely be a flat panel LCD. I've had good luck with Sony stuff previously but my next set might be another brand.

Here's the link to his post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13197822




Thanks for that. First time I heard of it though, and no one replied to his post. Can anyone confirm if this is true?

Thanks for that. First time I heard of it though, and no one replied to his post. Can anyone confirm if this is true?


He posted his information in a forum about an HD cable box: SA 8300 HD Tips & Tricks -- SARA

I don't think it really registered with anyone since it was a bit off-topic!!

I'm curious if it's true and whether anyone here will pick up on it?

I have someone coming Tuesday to look at and give me an estimate for the flickering issue. I'll keep everyone posted.

He posted his information in a forum about an HD cable box: SA 8300 HD Tips & Tricks -- SARA

I don't think it really registered with anyone since it was a bit off-topic!!

I'm curious if it's true and whether anyone here will pick up on it?

Yeah I guess. Anyway I checked Sony sites - US and International, no such news. Theres an extended warranty, but for another model, and it was from last year.

I have someone coming Tuesday to look at and give me an estimate for the flickering issue. I'll keep everyone posted.

Please do. Its great that we help eachother...

THANKS!

Yeah I guess. Anyway I checked Sony sites - US and International, no such news. Theres an extended warranty, but for another model, and it was from last year.

I heard back from DWBoston who posted the info on the SONY recall.

Looks like this model WAS NOT included---


"The A10 models weren't included in the "blue cloud" optical block campaign. My brother has an A10 set and has had no issues with it. The warranty extension was only for the optical block. Below is the link for the KDF series item from Sony."

http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/new...55&news_id=206

UPDATE: My new bulb didn't get delivered on Friday as expected. Bad snow in this area on Friday, so it'll be delivered on Monday. Will report next weekend on if that fixed my flickering issue. I had it flicker a little last night, and a little today so. We'll see.

UPDATE: My new bulb didn't get delivered on Friday as expected. Bad snow in this area on Friday, so it'll be delivered on Monday. Will report next weekend on if that fixed my flickering issue. I had it flicker a little last night, and a little today so. We'll see.Thank you for the updates. I am looking forward to your results and I hope that they are positive.:)

Well, got it today, put it in. And first of all, I know something was up for sure with the old bulb because WOW! This new bulb, on the settings I had the TV adjusted to over time, felt like I was going to burn my retinas out! I set the picture from 90-75 just to make the whites more easy on the eyes, I had to turn my brightness down two notches as well. It's amazing how you can't really tell through normal usage how your bulb gets dim. You just think over time 'gee, I need to make it a notch brighter' or something.

Anyways, more usage will have to be had on the set to tell for certain as the TV usually had to be on for a while before I got intermittent flickering, but the TV was on for probabably close to three hours tonight so, no problems with flickering as of yet. I've got high hopes though, especially seeing the difference of power between the old and new bulbs.

I posted this in the Tweaks thread but wanted to post it here as well since that thread does not get very much traffic. (sorry for double posting)

FYI I have the kdf-e50a10 model

Lately I have noticed that sometimes I am missing a slight amount of picture at the bottom of my TV. For example:
during car commericals when they show the fine print at the bottom of the screen at the end of the commercial I can only see the very top of the bottom line of words.

Most of the TV logos in the bottom right corner are fine when watching cable. Sometimes the FOX logo is VERY slightly cut off at the bottom. (It seems to be lower down than most other channel logos).

Here are some pics of my TV with the DVE overscan test pattern.

You can see that my image is off center a bit (shifted down and to the right)and I am missing the bottom 3.5% of the screen or so. I still have the 5% "safe zone" for action..

Does this look like a problem? Is this an acceptable amount of overscan?

I never really noticed this before but it has probably always been there.


Here are some pics of the overscan test pattern


http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n89/dblackm/DSC00266.jpg



http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n89/dblackm/DSC00268.jpg



http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n89/dblackm/DSC00269.jpg

Well service man just left regarding my flicker issue..

I was a little disappointed because he didn't really check anything. He didn't go into the service menu or anything.. I told him what the problem was and of course it wasn't doing it at the time..

He simply replaced the bulb (which took all about 60 seconds)..

Let's hope that fixes it.

2 of you changed the bulb recently; keep us updated.

How about the red tint a lot were complaining about?

Well service man just left regarding my flicker issue..

I was a little disappointed because he didn't really check anything. He didn't go into the service menu or anything.. I told him what the problem was and of course it wasn't doing it at the time..

He simply replaced the bulb (which took all about 60 seconds)..

Let's hope that fixes it.Wishing you good luck with the new bulb and thanks for the updates.:)

Well I'm giving updates on the light sweetmisery, and I've also reported the red tint was fixed by having a new light engine installed.

Anywho, four hours use and no flickering today either.

Which was more annoying? The red tints or the flickering though?

THANKS!

Well I spent $2000 on the TV. Both were equally annoying. The red tint I guess overall was more annoying since in horror movies where it was really dark, the black wouldn't be black like usual. The flickering is a once in a while intermittent thing so, I guess the tint.

How much did it cost for a new light engine, or was it under warranty?

Well with the part and then the labor, the service would cost you about a thousand dollars. I don't know why anybody would buy such an expensive item for a home theater without some kind of store extended warranty for the very reasons you read about in a thread like this but, my TV was covered under a four year Best Buy service plan.

Can anyone tell me the method to check how many hours are on your bulb in the service menu?

Thank.

Can anyone tell me the method to check how many hours are on your bulb in the service menu?

Thank.

Since these threads are such a pain to search... I'll post it for those who haven't seen it...


Originally Posted by FFFred
{regarding getting to a bulb life hour counter in the service menu . . . } I did. I can't remember sitting here at work how I got there, but it is available in the very mystical service menu. The Service Manual actually says how to access it. In fact, other than the hour meter for the bulb (AND another for the display, interestingly), that's the only useful info that service manual has...

I'll give it a shot, with the caveat that I am not responsible for any resulting harm done to anyone's set by anyone delving into the service menu. I am not a tech. Proceed at your own risk:

In standby mode, press the buttons on the Remote Commander sequentially, in rapid succession, like this:

A. Press [Display] , Channel [5] , Sound Volume [+] , Power [ON]

B. You want to be in what Sony calls the "BE-micro service menu," press JUMP two times to get into this cryptic menu.

You'll see something like this on your display (note the forum message editor doesn't seem to let me format the below, so this is a bit jumbled compared to what you actually see):

CONFIGRATION 00 SERVICE
CP18_COLOR_SYS 00 00A0 BE Micro

Press channel 4 once to go one item down into the lamp time display (4 = next adjustment item down; 1 is up) You'll see something like this on your display:

GW_SPECIAL 34 SERVICE
LAMP_TIME 02 00000032 BE Micro

That's your lamp time - a zero-filled 8-digit number, in this case: 00000032. This means "lamp time = 32 hours". Now you know how long your lamp/bulb has been on.

To see how long your panel display has been going, press 4 again. You see this on your display:

GW_SPECIAL 34 SERVICE
PANEL_TIME 01 00000032 BE Micro

. . . .your panel has been on a total of 32 hours . . . .

Exit service mode by turning off your set.

There you go. Again, proceed with EXTREME caution in this completely unknown service menu . . . once you get into the service menu per above, if you start pressing the channel buttons haphazardly, all sorts of wierd stuff comes up. BE CAREFUL.

I bought this TV (kdfe50a10) for $1500 in August of 2006.

I was not about to pay the $400 they wanted for the service plan at circuit city as that is more than 25% of the cost.

I figured I would roll my dice on that one I guess.

Wow, they want that much for a plan? It was $150 for a four year plan at Best Buy.

Wow, they want that much for a plan? It was $150 for a four year plan at Best Buy.

I'd say a 4 year plan for $150, IF it includes a bulb, is a pretty fair deal!!!

Wow, they want that much for a plan? It was $150 for a four year plan at Best Buy.

So far, no more flickering?

So far so good with me.. It was replaced on Tuesday..

I got the Mack Warranty off this site.. I'm pretty sure it was $210 and that was for 3 years AFTER the manufacturer warranty and up to 2 bulb replacements in 3 years..

Worth every penny, obviously, since the bulbs are over $250 alone.

tbird- tell me how the Mack warranty works when you requested a new bulb. Did you buy it and they reimbursed you or did you have to send the old one to you? I'm curious because I have a Mack warranty and am thinking of ordering a new bulb. Thanks.

Mel

Yeah, so far, no more flickering. I'm pretty damn sure that that fixed my flickering.

Also yeah, the $150 plan at Best Buy did include a bulb replacement, but just one bulb replacement during the four year period. It was a great deal.

THANKS! Atleast now I know whats the cause...

Bout others, you also get this red tint? Or is it limited to some?

And another question, are your A10 sets made in Japan? Im from the Philippines, and we got a different model name thats why.

THANKS! Atleast now I know whats the cause...

Bout others, you also get this red tint? Or is it limited to some?

And another question, are your A10 sets made in Japan? Im from the Philippines, and we got a different model name thats why.

Got mine in Sept '05 and, back then, they were mostly made in Mexico. (I think some were also made in the US, but I'm not totally sure...)

Got mine in Sept '05 and, back then, they were mostly made in Mexico. (I think some were also made in the US, but I'm not totally sure...)

OK thanks! Got mine Dec. 05, made in Japan.

Does this make any difference? Cuz I really fear this infamous red tint!

OK thanks! Got mine Dec. 05, made in Japan.

Does this make any difference? Cuz I really fear this infamous red tint!

Who knows!!??

When they first started shipping out of Mexico there were lots of folks concerned the quality control would go down, but I don't remember anything ever being conclusively shown about a difference......

This will be my last update on the flickering issue I had... glad to report that bunch of viewing with the new bulb, no flickering anymore.

I just got my bulb replaced today and all I can say is "wow"! It's like a new TV again. I need to tone it down a notch so that I don't get sunburned from the new brightness.

tbird- tell me how the Mack warranty works when you requested a new bulb. Did you buy it and they reimbursed you or did you have to send the old one to you? I'm curious because I have a Mack warranty and am thinking of ordering a new bulb. Thanks.

Mel

No, I first requested service through their online form: https://secure3.datafabrication.com/mack/main_selectwartype.asp

Filled that out telling them I had flicker on all inputs. I then got an email from them with a form attached that I had to fill out (required copies of my warranty and tv receipt and to describe problem on form). I filled that out and sent it in..

They told me to call Sony and find the local authorized service center. They said to have them come out and give an estimate, when they give the estimate, fax it into them.. If they charged for the estimate to get back to them w/ the centers contact info.

My local shop did charge for an estimate ($85) so I had to tell Mack that and I guess they took care of it..

So the guy came out (he had the bulb with him).. It wasn't flickering at the time he came (of course).. He called the shop to make sure the bulb was under my warranty then replaced it and left.. All in about 15 minutes total.

No problems since!

Hmm, we've had a couple posters earlier in this thread report that putting in a new lamp did not fix the flickering problem, so this news is rather surprising to hear. I'm glad it did the trick for you guys and I hope it lasts. I'm really not sure what to do myself, I'm out of warranty and there's no way I'm paying a grand for a new light engine. Ugh, what a mess.

I did discover a temporary fix for now. If I turn the set off for 20-30 seconds and pop it back on again the flicker miraculously disappears. And it usually doesn't come back for at least an hour or two. Has anyone had the same experience? The only thing I worry about is stressing the circuitry somehow. Outside of shortening the bulb's life, is there any risk to turning the set off and on again in a 30 second span?

They told me to call Sony and find the local authorized service center. They said to have them come out and give an estimate, when they give the estimate, fax it into them.. If they charged for the estimate to get back to them w/ the centers contact info.

So the guy came out (he had the bulb with him).. It wasn't flickering at the time he came (of course).. He called the shop to make sure the bulb was under my warranty then replaced it and left.. All in about 15 minutes total.

No problems since!

Thanks for the reply, tbird. The process you describe is a different than what was reported by Brian Pool at Tapeworks Texas and one other account I read (maybe in this thread, I don't remember). Brian said that you just call Mack and they will charge the lamp to their credit card and it is sent to you, no questions asked. The other poster said that he purchased the lamp himself and then Mack reimbursed him the cost in about three weeks. I guess I will need to call them myself to see how they are going to handle my lamp replacement. Thanks, again, and I am glad to hear that your flickering has been solved.

Mel

can i get a link to optimal display settings(for ps3 over hdmi), for the Sony KDF-E42A10 ? thanks

This will be my last update on the flickering issue I had... glad to report that bunch of viewing with the new bulb, no flickering anymore.

That is great news mzupeman. A little history on my flickering issue..

It started about 6-7 months ago.. I have about 4500 hours on the bulb. I started noticing it most with the Xbox 360. Regular Satellite TV was fine for the most part. Basically last December/January I started to notice the flicker more on my other video sources and more so on the Satellite TV. I eventually started to occur more frequently. I can definitely also tell that the bulb is getting dimmer.

The flicker seemed to occur most when the screen was flooded with bright white content. I think someone mentioned that it occurred more in the top right corner. Mine seemed to be from the top right corner as well

Your replacement of the bulb is a great outcome. I might give it a try soon too. The flickering is generally tolerable, and it is good to know that it is most likely just the bulb needing replacing. I can live the rest of this bulbs life knowing that it can be fixed.

It makes sense that it is the bulb.. I would think that as the bulb gets dimmer the TV tries to adjust the brightness levels. It is almost like an interlace look. Please keep us informed if there is any change.

Thanks!

As I had mentioned, my screen would flicker as well, not really in just one specific area though. It was the whole screen, but again, this flicker was nothing major and it too, was tolerable. But that again depends on the definition of 'tolerable'. To me a TV I spend two grand on, shouldn't have any flicker period, so, yeah, I had the bulb replaced.

As you could also tell from my earlier posts, I didn't really know my TV was dimmer than it used to be. Over time I would adjust my settings so the picture still looked really good, just a minor tweak here or there. But when the new bulb went in, WOW. But if you notice that your screen is dimmer, and you have flickering, I would definitely say that a bulb would be your best bet, especially with the time you're reporting having it used for.

And even if a bulb won't fix your problem... a bulb is the cheapest way to find out. If you have no extended or store warranty, then you're probably looking at a part and labor that will cost you a grand. May just want a new TV at that point then. So you lose a couple hundred only instead of a thousand if you try replacing your bulb.

As for the other member that said that he wants to try turning his TV off and then on to get rid of his flickering, I wouldn't suggest it. If the screen is flickering, again, the cheapest thing to replace is the bulb. And there's no labor because it's ridiculously easy to replace yourself! Turning the TV off and then on, is a pain. You really should wait for the fan in your TV to turn off before you turn your TV back on again. And you're also shortening the already dimming lifespan of your bulb. You're likely to finish the job and just blow the bulb inside, and then you'll have nothing.

My flickering was intermittent. I could watch TV for two or three hours, and then it would start... and maybe ten minutes later it would stop and I may not see it again all day. These bulbs are tough, for how much they light up for the screen and the thousands of hours they last? Just replace the bulb, that's my only advice. And if you have a service plan, you truly have nothing to lose.

And nope, no change in my bulb either... it's still good. No flickering with the new bulb at all.

And even if a bulb won't fix your problem... a bulb is the cheapest way to find out. So you lose a couple hundred only instead of a thousand if you try replacing your bulb.




Don't forget eBay! If you buy a bulb to see if it'll fix your problem & it doesn't, just sell it on eBay and say: ".....only used twice just to see if it would fix my broken TV...."

I bet you'd get at least half back!!!!!

Thanks for the reply, tbird. The process you describe is a different than what was reported by Brian Pool at Tapeworks Texas and one other account I read (maybe in this thread, I don't remember). Brian said that you just call Mack and they will charge the lamp to their credit card and it is sent to you, no questions asked. The other poster said that he purchased the lamp himself and then Mack reimbursed him the cost in about three weeks. I guess I will need to call them myself to see how they are going to handle my lamp replacement. Thanks, again, and I am glad to hear that your flickering has been solved.

Mel

Well I didn't know if it was the lamp what was the issue.. That's why I called for service and I got a tech sent out. He just happened to bring a bulb with him and replaced it right then.

My E50A10 bulb has 4500 hours on it. Do you think I'd see an improvement by getting a new one? I just increased the brightness the other day as I think the picture is starting to get dark.

So anyone here playing Rock Band on their A10? If so what did you set your calibrations to? I have been noticing some lag and cant seem to find the sweet spot. Would it be better to be hooked up via Component instead of VGA? Just looking for some inputs. Thanks!

My E50A10 bulb has 4500 hours on it. Do you think I'd see an improvement by getting a new one? I just increased the brightness the other day as I think the picture is starting to get dark.
So I ran out and got a new bulb yesterday and put it in last night. All I can say is WOW!!! I can't believe how much brighter the picture is now - it's like having a brand new TV! I had to adjust the settings since it was actually hurting our eyes a little bit last night. And my wife even admitted it was a good use of $190.

Anyone use the A10 with a PC? I have my PC hooked up via the vga and seems to me the clearest text and images are at 800x600 res. But I want widesceen and changing the wide 'full 1,2 zoom etc' just makes it too big.

The other resolutions seems washed out especially the text. Anything I'm missing?

I really need to find a copy of the kdfe42 service manual pdf. The link at sony is dead now, and I cant find it anywhere on the interenet. Would someone like to help me out?

Thanks a million.

The dreaded "won't turn off" problem has recently cropped up on my TV.
I had the update done last year.
The only difference that I could point a finger at is the use of my HDMI input for extended periods and/or the use of the monoprice HDMI switcher in the HDMI path.
Just curious anyone else who has had the "won't turn off" problem NOT using HDMI?


Mitch

congrats on the new bulb. I wanted to ask, does the new bulb help with Silk Screen Effect? I'm wondering if this is a function of settings or just the amt of light coming through etc.

Actually, with the new bulb, the screen door effect as I've heard it called (not sure if same as the silk screen effect) is actually more pronounced. I never really remember ever seeing it before, even when I first got the TV. I spent about 10 minutes last night trying to minimize it but to no avail. I'm sure after awhile I'll not see it anymore.

Screen door effect - when you see the pixel structure by sitting close to the TV, etc.

Silk screen effect - During bright or white scenes, or if the contrast is very high, you see a 'shimmering' or 'sparkly' effect, especially during motion scenes.... from what I understand, you are basically seeing the structure of the inside of the high-contrast (high-gain) screen, which is something you don't see as much of in the older CRT-Rear Projection TV Screens)

Frankly, I'd much rather have a lower gain screen with a smaller 'sweet spot' as the Silk Screen Effect is driving me nuts... espcially during hockey, Gold, and basketball , etc.

I guess I've never seen the silk screen effect then. Or if I have, I didn't know that I did. :)

So to update my situation I have installed a new bulb and all the flickering problems are gone!:) I also noticed that to look at my old bulb I could see the whitish foggyness too the shiny inside back reflective area inside my old bulb. Not even the whole inside, just about a quarter or so. This would be a good thing for people with the same problem to look for.:D

I would like to thank all who tried this and posted with their results as well!:)

The dreaded "won't turn off" problem has recently cropped up on my TV.
I had the update done last year.
The only difference that I could point a finger at is the use of my HDMI input for extended periods and/or the use of the monoprice HDMI switcher in the HDMI path.
Just curious anyone else who has had the "won't turn off" problem NOT using HDMI?


Mitch

Wow, I just got hit by the "won't turn off issue" last night and dreamed about a solution.... nothing came to me.

It's been a while since I looked @ this forum and didnt know there was an issue like this ....

I am using a monoprice hdmi switcher with sa hddvr, ps3, hdr sr7.

I actually cam e here to post on an issue with the ps3 "scrambling". I tried to play a game last night (pes2008) and the ps3 menu/startup screen was fine, when I launched the game the screen went wiggly.

I tried to download the newest ps3 system update and midway through the download the screen went wiggly...

After all this I couldnt turn the tv off with cable remote/sony remote/power button on tv. I pulled the plug.

hello just wondering if the sony kdf e50a10 is worth buying for $830 it is in ok condition and think the bulb has high hours

I'd be interested in knowing how many hours estimated you people have on your sets, because I'm hearing people say they've been using their TV for two years. For me, it's over 4500 hours, just under 5,000 I believe. Bulbs have a lifespan of anywhere between 4,000-8,000 so, that's the average.
Just checked mine last night. 9789 on bulb & display. I think it's the original. I bought the set from a girl who gave me the purchase receipt from Target & 3 yr. extended warranty. Got a feeling it was a demo model to have that many hrs on it. On the bright side, probably very few on/off cycles on it. I'll bet it was on 24/7 the whole time it was on the floor. No flickering and plenty of brightness, although I'm sure a new one would make a difference. Warranty covers 1 bulb replacement, but only if it's dead. Anyone got a dead one they don't need?

I currently have the Sony's Digital Audio Out connected to my A/V receiver. I have basic Comcast & am thinking about upgrading to their HD service which uses their STB & HDMI connections. If I feed the TV an HDMI signal, will I get DD5.1 digital out from the TV?

The Sony manual does state digital audio is available when the TV receives a digital TV channel. I take this literally that I need an ATSC or QAM signal coming thru the tuner. Or does Sony loosely mean any digital input signal, either thru tuner or HDMI?

Thanks in advance

I currently have the Sony's Digital Audio Out connected to my A/V receiver. I have basic Comcast & am thinking about upgrading to their HD service which uses their STB & HDMI connections. If I feed the TV an HDMI signal, will I get DD5.1 digital out from the TV?

The Sony manual does state digital audio is available when the TV receives a digital TV channel. I take this literally that I need an ATSC or QAM signal coming thru the tuner. Or does Sony loosely mean any digital input signal, either thru tuner or HDMI?

Thanks in advanceNo, you will only get stereo out from the tv digital out. 5.1 is not passed thru. If your set has QAM tuner, then HD channels will send 5.1 over the digital out. You will need to do optical or hdmi from the stb/dvr to the receiver to get 5.1 from the stb/dvr.

No, you will only get stereo out from the tv digital out. 5.1 is not passed thru. If your set has QAM tuner, then HD channels will send 5.1 over the digital out. You will need to do optical or hdmi from the stb/dvr to the receiver to get 5.1 from the stb/dvr.


Thanks for the confirmation. If it's the Comcast STB I'm thinking will be supplied, it does have both optical & coax digital audio outs. I already have the 42A10 digital out feeding my A/V receiver and I was just hoping to to keep my cable count down. Thank goodness the receiver has 4 digital audio inputs. I never thought I'd need all of them, but looks like I will.

Just checked mine last night. 9789 on bulb & display. I think it's the original. I bought the set from a girl who gave me the purchase receipt from Target & 3 yr. extended warranty. Got a feeling it was a demo model to have that many hrs on it. On the bright side, probably very few on/off cycles on it. I'll bet it was on 24/7 the whole time it was on the floor. No flickering and plenty of brightness, although I'm sure a new one would make a difference. Warranty covers 1 bulb replacement, but only if it's dead. Anyone got a dead one they don't need?
Wow, I can't believe you're still getting a good picture with that many hours on the bulb. I just replaced mine after 4500 hours and the difference is night and day. It's possible Target put a new bulb in it but just didn't reset the bulb hours to 0 (which I did when I replaced mine).

Interesting that you are using the monoprice hdmi switcher.
I was using the switcher as well. I removed it from the picture and had the problem once soon after taking it out of the path - but not since then.
Although, this has only been about a week. So, I'm not sure its the switcher's fault or not - yet.


Mitch


Wow, I just got hit by the "won't turn off issue" last night and dreamed about a solution.... nothing came to me.

It's been a while since I looked @ this forum and didnt know there was an issue like this ....

I am using a monoprice hdmi switcher with sa hddvr, ps3, hdr sr7.

I actually cam e here to post on an issue with the ps3 "scrambling". I tried to play a game last night (pes2008) and the ps3 menu/startup screen was fine, when I launched the game the screen went wiggly.

I tried to download the newest ps3 system update and midway through the download the screen went wiggly...

After all this I couldnt turn the tv off with cable remote/sony remote/power button on tv. I pulled the plug.

how do you check the lamp hours on model kdf sony kdfe50a10

how do you check the lamp hours on model kdf sony kdfe50a10
See http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7085573#post7085573

BE CAREFUL in the service menu, one wrong button push could be disastrous.

Can anyone tell mw how the heck can you get to the optics / mirror in this thing? Mine has allot of dirt in it and the pix has really detereated. HELP PLEASE!!

Can anyone tell mw how the heck can you get to the optics / mirror in this thing? Mine has allot of dirt in it and the pix has really detereated. HELP PLEASE!!

I wouldn't mind knowing this also. I posted in this thread:

avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13625865#post13625865

(I can't post a url yet becauise I'm new)

about a variety of symptoms that have cropped up with my KF-E42A10 and I suspect some are related to needing a cleaning. Any assistance appreciated.

Also, in reading the discussion regarding getting into the service Menu to check lamp hours, 2 questions would need to be answered before I'd even attempt it (and reading all the dire warnings about it, I'm not even sure of that!):

1. How do you go into Standby mode?

2. What is the "Jump" button?

Thanks.

Mods: if the post linked to above would better be here in your views, feel free to move it.

For the first time today, my 2.5 year old TV had the won't turn off issue. I didn't know about the recall so I have scheduled a tech to come out on Tues to do the update. Does this normally fix the issue? It looked like the picture size was getting smaller before I pulled the plug. I haven't plugged it back in yet.

Also, in reading the discussion regarding getting into the service Menu to check lamp hours, 2 questions would need to be answered before I'd even attempt it (and reading all the dire warnings about it, I'm not even sure of that!):

1. How do you go into Standby mode?

2. What is the "Jump" button?

Thanks.
Standby simple means off. If your TV is on, turn it off and wait for the cooling fan to turn off, then start pressing the buttons on the remote in the stated sequence.

The Jump button is one of the buttons on the remote. Note sure where exactly it is since I don't have the remote in front of me, but it's on there.

2. What is the "Jump" button?

Thanks.

The jump button is the one you use to view the previous channel.

I use my 50A10 alot for PC and just noticed recently there is a lite yellow blob right in the center of the screen. To me looks like a slight burn effect.

Anyone know what it may be? Just checked my bulb hours 7392hrs. What's the average bulb life on the A10's? Could a new bulb eliminate it?

-Thanks

The jump button is the one you use to view the previous channel.

D'oh! I was looking at mine when I posted the question and didn't see it. :eek:

Thanks.

My screen has that yellow round blob right in the center. Anyone know how to get rid of it?

My screen has that yellow round blob right in the center. Anyone know how to get rid of it?

Do you see it when the TV is on or off?

If you see it when the TV's off, it's probably the reflection of ambient light in the TV's mirror.

I know about the reflection when it's off. But I see the yellow blob when it's on. Could it be dust build up on the bulb?

ok I checked the lamp and no discoloration or dust build up.

The yellow blob~
http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/6928/a10007fl2.jpg
http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/3228/a10008mn2.jpg

Do you smoke? You might need to clean the LCD projectors (not sure if that's what they're called). I smoke, and I had to clean mine to remove similar discolorations.