View Full Version : Sceptre X37SV-Naga review


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emerald farm
11-30-06, 10:31 AM
I've had my Sceptre X37sv-Naga for almost a year with no complaints until now. Last week, I purchased a Helios H4000 upscaling DVD player and in 1080p mode only the left half of my screen is used when connected through HDMI. If I connect with the component video cables (this set will output 1080P through component cables) about 3/4 of the screen is used but the picture has a lot of ghosting. Any ideas on how this problem can be fixed?

All of the other modes work fine (480p, 720p, 1080i) with either HDMI or component input. I have a XFX G-Force 6200 video card in my computer which outputs 1080p to the TV through the DVI-HDMI cable. This works fine, but the upscaling is not very good. I was tired of turning on my computer just to watch DVDs so I thought I would try this DVD player.

Extra
11-30-06, 04:21 PM
What does mean, set the "clock"?
There's a clock setting under main menu--->geometry---->clock. "Clock" in this case is short for clock frequency, not a clock used to indicate time.

But when playing xbox 360 on my Naga I can easily tell the ghosting. In perfect dark zero just spinning around at a moderate speed the background blurs heavily and the end of the gun blurs very noticably.
Many of the newer games uses blur effects to simulate a more realistic experience. I don't think you're seeing anything that wasn't supposed to be there. GeOW uses the same technique.

Extra
11-30-06, 04:30 PM
What does mean, set the "clock"?
There's a clock setting under main menu--->geometry---->clock. "Clock" in this case is short for clock frequency, not a clock used to indicate time.

But when playing xbox 360 on my Naga I can easily tell the ghosting. In perfect dark zero just spinning around at a moderate speed the background blurs heavily and the end of the gun blurs very noticably.
Many of the newer games uses blur effects to simulate a more realistic experience. I don't think you're seeing anything that wasn't supposed to be there. GeOW uses the same technique.

Tiberium
11-30-06, 09:06 PM
Hello,

I just bought this TV and I've got my xbox 360 hooked up to it via the normal component connectors. I downloaded the update from xbox live and switched it over to 1080p mode in the display options but when I do that the picture only uses about 2/3 of the screen and it's all messed up, like vibrating or something.

Anyone know how to get 1080p working correctly?

I'm currently on 1080i and I notice when I spin around in perfect dark zero I can see the guns blurring a bit and I think it's because of the 1080i, or does this tv normally ghost like that?

ha ha I emailed their tech support this is what I got from them on 11/23/06

Dear Customer,

The 37" NAGA does not support 1080P over component connection. The connections that support 1080P are HDMI/DVI and VGA. We are aware that more and more manufacturers are beginning to use component as a 1080P source. A new firmware is in the works for 42" and 37" NAGA to support component 1080P, however it has not been finished yet. Please check back with us in about 5-6 weeks. The firmware should be finished by then. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Best Regards,
Sceptre Technical Support Group

Tiberium
11-30-06, 09:16 PM
Yep, I get the same thing when I try to do 1080p thruogh component on my PS3 (My 360 is hooked up through VGA and 1080p works, but nothing lines up the same, so ify ou want to size it for movies to fit then games FMVs will be a bit off, etc., like someone else said "overscan")
Anyway I just hooked up my PS3 through HDMI and set it to 1080p, and there are little red and blue dots flickering all over the place, around peoples faces, in black areas, etc., anyone else getting this or have a solution?
I had this a lot when I first got the TV but went to some debug menu foudn on this thread and it fixed it, maybe i need to just go back on there.

Seems like everybody with a has the same problem like I've had. Anyways I asked about that too, 'cuz my friend brought his ps3 over to my house for my 37" sceptre, I emailed Sceptre about that problem but so far they didn't reply to me yet, it's been 4 days.

I did get temp solve this probelm though, it seems DVI for the 37" accepts the same signals and does not have those blue/red pixels. However you do lose sound since it's not HDMI........but I have a HK AVR 135 receiver so I did optical out to my receiver instead. So if you have a surround sound receiver, kudos, but if you don't, maybe try the RCA red/white? I think DVI also accepts audio through the green jack off the back of the sceptre........

hakujin
11-30-06, 09:49 PM
ha ha I emailed their tech support this is what I got from them on 11/23/06

Dear Customer,

The 37" NAGA does not support 1080P over component connection. The connections that support 1080P are HDMI/DVI and VGA. We are aware that more and more manufacturers are beginning to use component as a 1080P source. A new firmware is in the works for 42" and 37" NAGA to support component 1080P, however it has not been finished yet. Please check back with us in about 5-6 weeks. The firmware should be finished by then. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Best Regards,
Sceptre Technical Support Group

should ask them if they'll send you the firmware with usb flash instructions. that would suck if we had to send in our tvs. Ahhh... so many problems with this 1080p accepting 1080p, except of course for PC. I'm pondering taking my tv back because of this one and lots of other issues. FYI to all else, another price drop at the big C.

Tiberium
12-01-06, 02:12 AM
should ask them if they'll send you the firmware with usb flash instructions. that would suck if we had to send in our tvs. Ahhh... so many problems with this 1080p accepting 1080p, except of course for PC. I'm pondering taking my tv back because of this one and lots of other issues. FYI to all else, another price drop at the big C.

I just fired another email to them. I"ll post the reply when I get it, although their tech support is really flakey, sometimes I get a response right away, sometimes I don't get any at all.

hakujin
12-01-06, 11:13 AM
you'd think they'd be a lot more accommodating seeing as how we all (for the most part) have a pretty forgiving return policy. I'd very much like a firmware update, because after doing some research on 3 more tvs (jvc, sharp, and hitachi); they all appear to have their own issues (price, banding, and flicker). There seems to be a lot of confusion (at least to me) what this LCD can and cannot display properly at 1080p. I can't test because I only have pc via DVI but it works beautifully. I WOULD like to know about any problems down the road however.

1. So far I think it's 1080p ok for xbox 360 via VGA for some but overscan for others, but bad all together @ 1080p over component.
Note: I wonder whether there's even a difference leaving it at 1080i and letting the tv upscale. Any quality difference whatsoever?

2. 1080p via HDMI bad for PS3.Causes blue/red pixels. Fix is to run PS3 in DVI mode (thus requiring another cable to purchase).

3. Helios DVD player doesn't work @ 1080p with either component or HDMI.

Sceptre states 1080p isn't supported over component connection.

I don't know if any of you have experienced this but I occasionally get green dots all over the place on QAM tuner. Requires turning off, and back on.

Anything else I'm missing?

I think I remember some mention of newer panels coming from a different OEM (chi mei?) causing some new PQ issues in general. I think these tvs had a different colored off light (other than red) Any update on that?

Gentsuki
12-04-06, 05:59 PM
I have an issue with my sceptre x37sv-naga and PS3. Searched throgh the avs forums, but couldn't find anything similar. Maybe someone could assist me with this problem:

As perhaps most of u already know the TV will display blue/red dots on 1080p when connected with HDMI/HDMI cable and set on HDMI or HDCP mode. Of course the solution is to switch the TV to DVI mode and all problems should be gone. However, for some reason I cannot get it work on DVI mode either. All I am getting is black screen with the message in the corner: M: DVI NO SIGNAL...after waiting few mins it just becomes "no signal".

I am already outa ideas..tried switching back and forth, connecting and disconnecting, also tested the HDMI port by connecting my PC and it works fine in all three modes (HDMI/HDCP/DVI). Also tested all possible resolutions by changing them in PS3 menu.

If anyone have any ideas and suggestions please post 'em. Life without 1080p is not fun :(

hakujin
12-07-06, 03:34 PM
That's a bummer. Wish I could be of some help.
Things I would ponder are:
1. Are there any updates to the PS3 that may resolve this?
2. Is it happening to other TVs? I don't believe Sceptre is exclusive in this issue.
3. Are there any others playing in 1080p via DVI (because I could be wrong; it could be 1080i)
4. Lastly, try contacting both Sony tech support and Sceptre tech support.

Don't forget to report back if you can! I'm definitely interested in this debacle as I may want to purchase a PS3 and/or Xbox 360 in the future and all these HDMI issues are really concerning me. Are any of the new HD-DVD/Blu-Ray players even implementing 'image constraint token' yet? I'm skeptical that this TV will even handle HDCP correctly when the time comes.

Polypro
12-07-06, 11:09 PM
My Sceptre has a had a good run for the past year (v2 Original Firmware), she has now been relegated to kid's room duty. I just picked up an Olevia 542i on Black Friday. I haven't been active in this thread since the 53.307Hz "Judder" days, but it's been fun. Good luck with your sets!

P

HiHoStevo
12-07-06, 11:43 PM
Is this the same set that Costco is now advertising that has an external tuner box?

"Sceptre 42" 1080P LCD HDTV"

Infinitenothing
12-07-06, 11:53 PM
Is this the same set that Costco is now advertising that has an external tuner box?

"Sceptre 42" 1080P LCD HDTV"
No. This one is 37 "

HiHoStevo
12-08-06, 12:06 AM
Well DUH!.......

There have been a number of references to a 42" unit..... I am just trying to figure out if this is the same unit (just slightly larger) than the model being discussed here......

Quatre
12-08-06, 02:42 AM
That's a bummer. Wish I could be of some help.
Things I would ponder are:
1. Are there any updates to the PS3 that may resolve this?
2. Is it happening to other TVs? I don't believe Sceptre is exclusive in this issue.
3. Are there any others playing in 1080p via DVI (because I could be wrong; it could be 1080i)
4. Lastly, try contacting both Sony tech support and Sceptre tech support.

Don't forget to report back if you can! I'm definitely interested in this debacle as I may want to purchase a PS3 and/or Xbox 360 in the future and all these HDMI issues are really concerning me. Are any of the new HD-DVD/Blu-Ray players even implementing 'image constraint token' yet? I'm skeptical that this TV will even handle HDCP correctly when the time comes.


xbox 360 only has component and vga connection. i was a little disappointed that it doesnt have hdmi but i heard the vga connection is great for HD including 1080p for games and for the hddvd addon.

Polypro
12-08-06, 06:43 AM
Well DUH!.......

There have been a number of references to a 42" unit..... I am just trying to figure out if this is the same unit (just slightly larger) than the model being discussed here......

Stevo,

No. While Sceptre *does* make a 42" model...I switched to a different mfg. Olevia.

P

westpalmbeach
12-08-06, 09:27 AM
Hi all,

a question about the xbox 360 VGA cable: where do the audio inputs go on the TV?

Do they go in the componant audio IN? or the S-video audio IN? Or the PC audio IN?

I assume that the video selection should be "VGA-PC" when using this cable, just wandering what audio inout would work with this inout (hopefully it's not only the PC IN.

Thank you in advance.

Kychest
12-08-06, 03:56 PM
Hi everyone,

I just got a PS3 yesterday and brought it home and realized I had to run to radioshack to buy an hdmi to hdmi cable because it isn't included with the PS3 :mad: I bought the generic radioshack brand and brought it home and hooked it up the Sceptre and flipped it on HDMI and nothing. Just the blue HDMI screen. The PS3 works fine on the included composite cable. I updated it and everything and still the blue screen. So the problem is either the PS3, the HDMI cable or the Sceptre. The Sceptre is very new too but works fine with my laptop via HDMI to DVI. Basically what I am wondering is if anyone has had similar problems? Is it possible the Sceptre would work HDMI to DVI but not HDMI to HDMI? Is there something I'm missing here or forgot to do?

Any input would be very appreciated.

Thanks,
Kyle

HiHoStevo
12-08-06, 08:01 PM
Thanks P

netbucks
12-09-06, 12:06 AM
Hi everyone,

I just got a PS3 yesterday and brought it home and realized I had to run to radioshack to buy an hdmi to hdmi cable because it isn't included with the PS3 :mad: I bought the generic radioshack brand and brought it home and hooked it up the Sceptre and flipped it on HDMI and nothing. Just the blue HDMI screen. The PS3 works fine on the included composite cable. I updated it and everything and still the blue screen. So the problem is either the PS3, the HDMI cable or the Sceptre. The Sceptre is very new too but works fine with my laptop via HDMI to DVI. Basically what I am wondering is if anyone has had similar problems? Is it possible the Sceptre would work HDMI to DVI but not HDMI to HDMI? Is there something I'm missing here or forgot to do?

Any input would be very appreciated.

Thanks,
Kyle

My next door neighbor just went through the same issue with his PS3--apparently you have to initially use the composite cables, go into the settings and select HDMI, and then put the HDMI cables on and reboot. Not very intuitive, but it works. Good luck!!

dale5605
12-09-06, 01:07 AM
Kychest I know it's probably too late, but you should get a vga adapter for the ps3, I assume they make one? From what I've been reading it seems that 1080p works the best over vga on this TV. 1080p is not even supported over component and I have been reading there are red and blue pixelations occuring on 1080p over hdmi.

Unfortunate that this TV is so finicky with 1080p support, because that is one of it's main selling points due to it's price. Other than that it is an excellent tv.

I have my 360 hooked up via component on 1080i right now and it looks great. Gears of War is breathtaking obviously. I wonder if I would even notice a difference between 1080i and 1080p? Anybody know? Because I've been considering buying the vga adapter to get 1080p but I won't spend 30 bucks if it's not worth it.

kkrull
12-09-06, 01:17 PM
If anyone is willing to part with their speakers from this unit I would like to try to modify them to hold some different speakers, maybe even a ribbon. Anyone not using their speakers that would be willing to donate them to the project?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7260697&&#post7260697

funtownarcade
12-09-06, 06:58 PM
Like we discussed earlier for PS3 use an HDMI cable and then go to the DVI input on your TV to get rid of red and blue pixelations, even though its plugged in through HDMI it works, you dont get sound, but if you have a ps3 im guessing you have surround sound anyways. Same thign goes with the guy asking about the xbox VGA, if you use VGA, the only way to get audio is through the optical audio cable going to your speaker system, not the tv.

chadlerh
12-10-06, 12:57 AM
Like we discussed earlier for PS3 use an HDMI cable and then go to the DVI input on your TV to get rid of red and blue pixelations, even though its plugged in through HDMI it works, you dont get sound, but if you have a ps3 im guessing you have surround sound anyways. Same thign goes with the guy asking about the xbox VGA, if you use VGA, the only way to get audio is through the optical audio cable going to your speaker system, not the tv.
I didn't think that would work but it did. Thanks so much 1080p is amazing!!

gus738
12-11-06, 11:38 AM
hi guys well im looking to replace my bedroom tv with this Sceptre® X37SV-Naga LCD and i was going no more bigger then 40'' i currently have a JVC AV-27D303 and im just looking for a quality supirior to my non hd tv so i can play xbox 360 using componet cables ( dont have vga cables 4 360) anyhow i also have a pc i dont remember what video card but its a ati radeon ( newer releases) so its not old or new.... and i was wondering what can you guys tell me positive / negtive on this tv and how can you compare this one with my jvc ? i mean oviously crt tube are better but in this case i doublt it due to its bein older am i not right? thanks in advance and look foward to an answer i was also wondering what else is the diffrense between the 37'' vs the Sceptre® X42GV-NAGA 42'' version? cuz of course costco only has it for 100 dollars difrense....

dale5605
12-12-06, 06:27 PM
LCD is better than CRT now. LCD HDTV I think is by far the best choice of all the HDTV options. It offers you the highest resolution, response time so fast there is no ghosting, good energy efficiency, absolutely no burn-in what-so-ever (so you can play all the videogames you want worry-free), good price, works fine at any elevation (plasmas have some problems there), picture looks good even with a lot of sunlight streaming in, viewing angle is perfect, and takes up very small amount of room.

Anyways I have this tv and an xbox 360. You won't be able to use 1080p over the component cables, but 1080i works great.

I think the TV is amazing, the games on 360 look beautiful on it. Only problem is that when you play regular xbox games on it, and a lot of dvd's, they look like crap. But that is expected because they are being expanded out to such a higher resolution.

Gentsuki
12-13-06, 03:31 PM
Hi everyone,

I just got a PS3 yesterday and brought it home and realized I had to run to radioshack to buy an hdmi to hdmi cable because it isn't included with the PS3 :mad: I bought the generic radioshack brand and brought it home and hooked it up the Sceptre and flipped it on HDMI and nothing. Just the blue HDMI screen. The PS3 works fine on the included composite cable. I updated it and everything and still the blue screen. So the problem is either the PS3, the HDMI cable or the Sceptre. The Sceptre is very new too but works fine with my laptop via HDMI to DVI. Basically what I am wondering is if anyone has had similar problems? Is it possible the Sceptre would work HDMI to DVI but not HDMI to HDMI? Is there something I'm missing here or forgot to do?

Any input would be very appreciated.

Thanks,
Kyle


You didnt mention anything about input change so I assume you forgot that default PS3 video setting is composit and in order to get your HDMI working you need to go to PS3 video menu (while hooked with composit) and from there u change to HDMI and desired resolution. Only then change TV's input mode to HDMi and everything should be fine.

gus738
12-13-06, 05:54 PM
LCD is better than CRT now. LCD HDTV I think is by far the best choice of all the HDTV options. It offers you the highest resolution, response time so fast there is no ghosting, good energy efficiency, absolutely no burn-in what-so-ever (so you can play all the videogames you want worry-free), good price, works fine at any elevation (plasmas have some problems there), picture looks good even with a lot of sunlight streaming in, viewing angle is perfect, and takes up very small amount of room.

Anyways I have this tv and an xbox 360. You won't be able to use 1080p over the component cables, but 1080i works great.

I think the TV is amazing, the games on 360 look beautiful on it. Only problem is that when you play regular xbox games on it, and a lot of dvd's, they look like crap. But that is expected because they are being expanded out to such a higher resolution.
what tv are you speaking of? and no crt is still the highest as it goes 1080i so iduuno what can surpass crt tube quailty maybe you saw miscalibrated crt tubes who knows

dale5605
12-14-06, 12:43 PM
what tv are you speaking of? and no crt is still the highest as it goes 1080i so iduuno what can surpass crt tube quailty maybe you saw miscalibrated crt tubes who knows
Huh? You realize 1080p is superior to 1080i right?

gus738
12-15-06, 01:23 AM
Huh? You realize 1080p is superior to 1080i right? no i meant that crt tube is still suprior then other tech on tvs

dale5605
12-15-06, 07:07 PM
no i meant that crt tube is still suprior then other tech on tvs
It definitely is not. I'm pretty sure CRT cannot even do native 1080p. Not to mention you are going to be paying an insane price to get one of those. And then when you play video games the image burns in.

gus738
12-15-06, 08:52 PM
It definitely is not. I'm pretty sure CRT cannot even do native 1080p. Not to mention you are going to be paying an insane price to get one of those. And then when you play video games the image burns in.


ok first of all crt tubes are IN expensive no it cannot do 1080P it can do I INSANE low price is the only insane thing!!! And FIANLY i have my 38'' crt tube for over 4 yrs of daily use!!!!!! and not 1 image burn in ...

you want quality? hit crt tube you want slimness? hit plasma /lcd you want a decent flat panel tv? hit a pioneer elite oh wait those are 7k up !!! only cons for crt tube are

* noting bigger then 38'' widescreen ( sed tv will fix this )
* bulky ( sed tv will fix this altho its not much issue)
*not 1080p(sed tv will fix this alto p vs i? hardly any diffrense )
* not hdmi/ or any newer high tech plug ins such as pc connectable(sed tv fixes it )

so as you see the only true reasons for verring away from a crt tube is to get bigger size tv and 1080 p which then releates to the new high end tv plugs ... so that leads out to bulky but thats not an issue.... you want best of both worlds? an sed tv hits in 08 eta and expect to pay over 8 gs maybe by '12 it will be stable...

but i still laugh that you said that a crt tube is insanly expensive when its the backwards thing lol.

hakujin
12-15-06, 10:15 PM
I wonder if I would even notice a difference between 1080i and 1080p? Anybody know? Because I've been considering buying the vga adapter to get 1080p but I won't spend 30 bucks if it's not worth it.

I'm willing to bet that the PQ difference is little to absolutely impossible to tell when playing video on a 37" screen. Besides, you're still playing in 1080p; it's just that your tv deinterlaces.

galaxy99
12-16-06, 04:03 AM
I don't if it's only me. but when I connect my xbox 360 via component cable under 1080i, the screen showes blue (area of dots) or green lines on dark part of display from time to time. It also happens with DHMI connection to my philips DVP(DVD player) to watch DVD. It is very annoying. :mad: I don't know if my Sceptre is a defected one or all 37' mode has the same problem. :confused: Please advise. Thank you.

samendolaro
12-16-06, 02:20 PM
I have been running a few months now and I am very happy with this set. It is mainly my PC monitor but as a TV it is great.

I have a few problems I have never been able to figure out.


1) I can store Favorite Channels on analog Channels but not Digital. Is this the way it is or is there a special way to set a digital channel as a favorite ?

2) Is there any way to go directly to a digital channel E.G. 100.3 or 117.33, currently I need to put in the channel then go through to the one I want

3) Is there any way to go to last channel recall in a digital channel ?



Some really basic functions are missing from the digital side...

gus738
12-16-06, 04:41 PM
I don't if it's only me. but when I connect my xbox 360 via component cable under 1080i, the screen showes blue (area of dots) or green lines on dark part of display from time to time. It also happens with DHMI connection to my philips DVP(DVD player) to watch DVD. It is very annoying. :mad: I don't know if my Sceptre is a defected one or all 37' mode has the same problem. :confused: Please advise. Thank you.

componet cables only run on 1080i! not 1080P componet cables are not digital like hdmi but are not analog like rca they are super analog so in between. vga is the only thing apperntly that accepts 1080P while vga is not soposed to be a true hd device ms F*uc$ up on not putting hdmi port since they never would of want to put 1080P but then sony mentiones 1080P then ms gets hyped so they annouce that you can d/l a patch and you get P but its upscaled squeesed pixels , so not true 1080P i wouldnt be suprised if ms sent a later revions ( this coming feb) or later a hdmi port as theirs been a leak of a hdmi port on a 360, as far as the lines or dots it sounds like a defective unit try exchaning it .

beatle
12-17-06, 07:26 PM
I haven't found any way to hook my HTPC with a Geforce FX5200 to the TV via the DVI port. I am able to use the VGA connection, but I never see anything but a blue screen using the included DVI to HDMI cable. I've gotten the latest drivers from nvidia, I've set the output to be 1080p over DVI, and I've tried different resolutions, set the refresh to 60hz, rebooting, turning the TV on and off, trying the different HDMI ports on the TV. I never had a problem using the DVI output to my Sony CRT, so I know the port on my computer works. Any ideas?

beatle
12-17-06, 07:58 PM
Whoops, my last post was supposed to be in the 42" thread.

jhsteven
12-19-06, 01:44 PM
That's a bummer. Wish I could be of some help.
Things I would ponder are:
1. Are there any updates to the PS3 that may resolve this?
2. Is it happening to other TVs? I don't believe Sceptre is exclusive in this issue.
3. Are there any others playing in 1080p via DVI (because I could be wrong; it could be 1080i)
4. Lastly, try contacting both Sony tech support and Sceptre tech support.

Don't forget to report back if you can! I'm definitely interested in this debacle as I may want to purchase a PS3 and/or Xbox 360 in the future and all these HDMI issues are really concerning me. Are any of the new HD-DVD/Blu-Ray players even implementing 'image constraint token' yet? I'm skeptical that this TV will even handle HDCP correctly when the time comes.

I just hooked up a Playstation 3 to the Sceptre 37" using an HDMI connection. For some reason I have none of the red/blue problems discussed in this forum. The main screen comes up as 1080p and movies play at 1080p without any problems. The only game I have played is Resistance which plays at 720p (which is the only resolution for the game according to the packaging). I had no problem with the original PS3 firmware of 1.10 and none with the current update 1.31. I bought the Sceptre in July of this year. It has a blue colored on button as opposed to the earlier green. I don't know if my Sceptre is different than the ones reporting the problems or I am just not creating the conditions for the problems to arise. When do the red/blue pixel problems arise? Is it only in game play or does it occur when the xbar screen appears or does it appear during movies?

Just wanted to know if I was missing something.

Nimo
12-24-06, 11:49 AM
I have been running a few months now and I am very happy with this set. It is mainly my PC monitor but as a TV it is great.

I have a few problems I have never been able to figure out.

1) I can store Favorite Channels on analog Channels but not Digital. Is this the way it is or is there a special way to set a digital channel as a favorite ?

2) Is there any way to go directly to a digital channel E.G. 100.3 or 117.33, currently I need to put in the channel then go through to the one I want

3) Is there any way to go to last channel recall in a digital channel ?

Some really basic functions are missing from the digital side...

1) I can store Favorite Channels on analog Channels but not Digital. Is this the way it is or is there a special way to set a digital channel as a favorite ?

A) The way to store your favs in digi mode you have to go to the menu to DTV from there hit the edit button, a grid will pop up use your L & R keys on the remote to save to favs.

2) Is there any way to go directly to a digital channel E.G. 100.3 or 117.33, currently I need to put in the channel then go through to the one I want

A) Unfortunately you can not do that, that's the price we pay for "B" tiers

3) Is there any way to go to last channel recall in a digital channel ?

A) Only works in analog regular cable better off running your cable box that way you get TV guide faster surfing and last channel. I'm running mine from the DCT 6200 to Beuns transcoder to VGA this way I get a converted 1080i signal to 1080p in PC VGA mode and then record "via" firewire to my PC.

Regards, smurfer/nimo

Happy Holidays!!

ltoozavs
12-24-06, 02:51 PM
Hello,
I'm tempting to get this HDTV, I was reluctant due to the pcmag's reviews. Can anyone confirm this review at all.

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1963607,00.asp

Thanks,

wktaylor
12-24-06, 08:32 PM
Robert delivers a sub-par review of this set. The set is not sub-par, the review is.

Nimo
12-27-06, 10:06 AM
I haven't found any way to hook my HTPC with a Geforce FX5200 to the TV via the DVI port. I am able to use the VGA connection, but I never see anything but a blue screen using the included DVI to HDMI cable. I've gotten the latest drivers from nvidia, I've set the output to be 1080p over DVI, and I've tried different resolutions, set the refresh to 60hz, rebooting, turning the TV on and off, trying the different HDMI ports on the TV. I never had a problem using the DVI output to my Sony CRT, so I know the port on my computer works. Any ideas?

It could be your HDMI port may be dead there have been reports of people getting dead ports with their new TV's. If you have a cable box with a DVI header try pluging it in that and see if it will handshake with the STB. With QC issues with these TV"s It would be of no surprise to me. Don't get me wrong I still have my Sceptre 37" and it's going on one year and I think it is a great Monitor/TV. Check this out I bought a 46" Aquos at BB a little over a month ago even though it was nice having a japanese brand and with full featured menus I could not justify the PQ the banding red push and worst of all the ghosting and lack of adjustments to fine tune these TV's it went back after two weeks. For the price I paid for the Aquos it really made the "B" tier Sceptre look really good, here are a few reasons why it went back.

1) Plays SD & ED way better than Sceptre but made for a lousy monitor for gaming due the horrendous ghosting.

2)Terrible banding probably the worst I've seen in any LCD panel, make's CMO's look like a dimond in the rough.

3) Sharp already diss'ed the D62U line and are still in denial, people are left in limbo the worst feeling, and you know they will not replace those models with the up coming 92 line.
The only time I have ever seen a company change their product completely is Samsung with their LTN series with the LTN 32" it went through three revisions along with panel and design changes all within one year!

gc_chi
12-28-06, 11:09 AM
I know that clock and phase stands for clock frequency and phase frequency as described in the instruction manual, but what exactly do these two settings effect in layman's terms? Can someone explain this to me?

rworne
12-29-06, 04:47 PM
Just wanted to chime in that my unit arrived fresh off the UPS truck yesterday and is this is the current firmware version?

DEBUG 0117 F2
06/06/19 17:35
T370HW01

I get red and blue sparkles when using the HDMI input. For users of the 116 firmware, they stated to up the memory timing to "3" from "2". Unfortunately, my set comes set at "3" already and no settings get rid of the artifacts. DVI works like a charm.

This is a bit of a bummer since the HDMI has a better appearance. I'm using this primarily as a display for a MythTV box.

Infinitenothing
12-29-06, 05:04 PM
Timing does not fix the sparkles. Try the DVI setting. Or make sure the cable has a good connection. Try upgraded the PS3 firmware.

rworne
12-29-06, 05:20 PM
Timing does not fix the sparkles. Try the DVI setting. Or make sure the cable has a good connection. Try upgraded the PS3 firmware.

I did mention that the DVI input works. This is via the PC, I don't have a PS3. Since I use it primarily for TV playback, the HDMI input looked "better" and the overscan, while unsightly, was tolerable.

Since DVI is a subset of HDMI, am I to take it that HDMI is busted on this set?

EDIT: I may have answered my own question a few moments ago using google. The sparking is probably because I'm feeding HDMI an RGB colorspace and the set is clipping the "illegal" values.

lightpants
12-30-06, 12:22 PM
I did mention that the DVI input works. This is via the PC, I don't have a PS3. Since I use it primarily for TV playback, the HDMI input looked "better" and the overscan, while unsightly, was tolerable.

Since DVI is a subset of HDMI, am I to take it that HDMI is busted on this set?

EDIT: I may have answered my own question a few moments ago using google. The sparking is probably because I'm feeding HDMI an RGB colorspace and the set is clipping the "illegal" values.



Output from a pc must be done to the "DVI" input choice.

rworne
12-30-06, 01:11 PM
Output from a pc must be done to the "DVI" input choice.

Any way around this? It will cramp my style if I get any other HD devices (which will likely be HDMI) and resort to a switchbox or reciever.

This is a primary set for now, but I did get it for the MythTV box. So overall I'm happy with it.

Infinitenothing
12-30-06, 02:24 PM
Any way around this? It will cramp my style if I get any other HD devices (which will likely be HDMI) and resort to a switchbox or reciever.

This is a primary set for now, but I did get it for the MythTV box. So overall I'm happy with it.
You'd just have to switch the TV mode to DVI or HDMI along with the switch box (depending on what you're switched to).

dixonbm
12-30-06, 03:30 PM
I'm also having issues with my PS3 in HDMI mode on the Sceptre 37 displaying red dots on the main screen. I don't seem to have them during game play or while watching a Bluray movie.

I tried switching to DVI as recommended here. The red dots disappear and the game play is great, but when I watch a DVD or Bluray movie the picture becomes very red. It's very odd.

Is anyone else having this problem while trying to watch a movie when the TV is set to DVI or is this just a problem with my Sceptre TV.

rworne
12-30-06, 04:09 PM
I tried switching to DVI as recommended here. The red dots disappear and the game play is great, but when I watch a DVD or Bluray movie the picture becomes very red. It's very odd.

Is anyone else having this problem while trying to watch a movie when the TV is set to DVI or is this just a problem with my Sceptre TV.

Every time you have that kind of hassle, just remember: that if it weren't for DRM, we would not be having these rapid changes in interfaces or these compatibility issues.

I'm surprised it plays/shows Bluray movies at all unless you are in HDCP mode.

Infinitenothing
12-31-06, 09:14 PM
I'm also having issues with my PS3 in HDMI mode on the Sceptre 37 displaying red dots on the main screen. I don't seem to have them during game play or while watching a Bluray movie.

I tried switching to DVI as recommended here. The red dots disappear and the game play is great, but when I watch a DVD or Bluray movie the picture becomes very red. It's very odd.

Is anyone else having this problem while trying to watch a movie when the TV is set to DVI or is this just a problem with my Sceptre TV.
It's hit and miss right now. Not everyone is having the HDMI problems but it's not a tiny fraction either.

ral25
01-02-07, 10:23 AM
So, after months of shopping for a 1080p TV, and hrs and hrs of reading through this thread, I finally decided on the X37SV. I needed a new display for watching HD movies from the PS3, as well as a new PC monitor, and this looked like the right choice. It came in the mail a few weeks ago, and I’ve spent a number of hrs working to get everything set up. So far… very mixed feelings. Here’s a summary of my findings thus far:

VGA – The image looks fantastic as a PC monitor running at 1920x1080 through the VGA input. DVD’s on my PC also look great. I found using the PC and PowerDVD to handle the upscaling worked better than my standalone DVD player. There are also enough basic picture adjustment options to keep me happy.

HDMI mode: red and green sparkles on PS3 games, switching to DVI mode fixes that. But when I try to watch movies (i.e. Nacho Libre or Superman Returns on Blu Ray from PS3), the brightness is WAY off (TOO dark). I tried to adjust the contrast and brightness, but for some reason, they’re unavailable in HDMI and HDCP mode! What’s with that? The only picture adjustment available is the ‘lamp’ setting, which only seems to exaggerate the problem.

I thought I would just forget about HDMI mode and leave the TV on DVI mode. (Plus, all the picture adjustment options are available in DVI mode.) But to my dismay, the picture is suddenly masked in a very unwatchable purple/red. This seems to be the same problem mentioned above by dixonbm. Why is this TV unable to display Blu Ray movies from the PS3 in DVI mode?! The crazy thing is that once you hit stop on the movie and go back to the PS3 menu, the picture goes back to normal, and looks great. Very frustrating and confusing…

So, I’m stuck. Which mode should be used to watch PS3 movies? HDMI & HDCP is too dark, and no picture adjustment settings; DVI mode is purple! Should I spend $100 and get a digital to analog converter to go from HDMI on the PS3 to the VGA input on this TV? Or if HDMI/HDCP mode is the only option for PS3 movies, I’ll probably return this TV to Costco.

Any help or confirmation of these issues would be greatly appreciated.

Dposcorp
01-02-07, 10:51 AM
I just checked the Costco website, and can not find the 37" or 42" 1080P Scepters?

Any idea if they will be getting them again?

Infinitenothing
01-02-07, 12:17 PM
So, after months of shopping for a 1080p TV, and hrs and hrs of reading through this thread, I finally decided on the X37SV. I needed a new display for watching HD movies from the PS3, as well as a new PC monitor, and this looked like the right choice. It came in the mail a few weeks ago, and I’ve spent a number of hrs working to get everything set up. So far… very mixed feelings. Here’s a summary of my findings thus far:

VGA – The image looks fantastic as a PC monitor running at 1920x1080 through the VGA input. DVD’s on my PC also look great. I found using the PC and PowerDVD to handle the upscaling worked better than my standalone DVD player. There are also enough basic picture adjustment options to keep me happy.

HDMI mode: red and green sparkles on PS3 games, switching to DVI mode fixes that. But when I try to watch movies (i.e. Nacho Libre or Superman Returns on Blu Ray from PS3), the brightness is WAY off (TOO dark). I tried to adjust the contrast and brightness, but for some reason, they’re unavailable in HDMI and HDCP mode! What’s with that? The only picture adjustment available is the ‘lamp’ setting, which only seems to exaggerate the problem.

I thought I would just forget about HDMI mode and leave the TV on DVI mode. (Plus, all the picture adjustment options are available in DVI mode.) But to my dismay, the picture is suddenly masked in a very unwatchable purple/red. This seems to be the same problem mentioned above by dixonbm. Why is this TV unable to display Blu Ray movies from the PS3 in DVI mode?! The crazy thing is that once you hit stop on the movie and go back to the PS3 menu, the picture goes back to normal, and looks great. Very frustrating and confusing…

So, I’m stuck. Which mode should be used to watch PS3 movies? HDMI & HDCP is too dark, and no picture adjustment settings; DVI mode is purple! Should I spend $100 and get a digital to analog converter to go from HDMI on the PS3 to the VGA input on this TV? Or if HDMI/HDCP mode is the only option for PS3 movies, I’ll probably return this TV to Costco.

Any help or confirmation of these issues would be greatly appreciated.

I think the reason for this is all the DRM (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blu-ray_Disc#Digital_Rights_Management) protection.

Some people are having good luck. For example there was a guy a while back who had a newer model with a blue status light that wasn't experiencing many problems. I think Sceptre is offering an $80 firmware upgrade solution.

Here's some things to try: Make sure the cable has a good connection. Try upgrading the PS3 firmware.

I doubt that movies would show over VGA again due to copyright protection. Also, I'm not sure HDMI caries analog video.

ashutoshsm
01-02-07, 12:38 PM
I just checked the Costco website, and can not find the 37" or 42" 1080P Scepters?

Any idea if they will be getting them again?

And I see them now. Did the 37 drop in price? has it always been under 4 figures?

Dposcorp
01-02-07, 01:50 PM
And I see them now. Did the 37 drop in price? has it always been under 4 figures?


Well, you are partially correct.

The 37" 1080 set is back, and yes, it has been at $999 for a while now.

The 42" model still is a no show, at this time.

franco523
01-02-07, 10:13 PM
Well, you are partially correct.

The 37" 1080 set is back, and yes, it has been at $999 for a while now.

The 42" model still is a no show, at this time.

Heh, that's funny. I just checked and i can see the 42", but not the 37". I noticed the x37sv Naga dropped under 4 figs last week, but now that i have some savings, it's off the site.

I see the x37 komodo, but i'm doin some PC work, so i'd much prefer good ol' 1080p.

Here's hoping it reappears soon.

Franco

P.S. Hi all! Just joined and i am loving the information density on these forums. I'll try and add where i can.

SamIam2
01-02-07, 11:06 PM
So, after months of shopping for a 1080p TV, and hrs and hrs of reading through this thread, I finally decided on the X37SV. I needed a new display for watching HD movies from the PS3, as well as a new PC monitor, and this looked like the right choice. It came in the mail a few weeks ago, and I’ve spent a number of hrs working to get everything set up. So far… very mixed feelings. Here’s a summary of my findings thus far:

VGA – The image looks fantastic as a PC monitor running at 1920x1080 through the VGA input. DVD’s on my PC also look great. I found using the PC and PowerDVD to handle the upscaling worked better than my standalone DVD player. There are also enough basic picture adjustment options to keep me happy.

HDMI mode: red and green sparkles on PS3 games, switching to DVI mode fixes that. But when I try to watch movies (i.e. Nacho Libre or Superman Returns on Blu Ray from PS3), the brightness is WAY off (TOO dark). I tried to adjust the contrast and brightness, but for some reason, they’re unavailable in HDMI and HDCP mode! What’s with that? The only picture adjustment available is the ‘lamp’ setting, which only seems to exaggerate the problem.

I thought I would just forget about HDMI mode and leave the TV on DVI mode. (Plus, all the picture adjustment options are available in DVI mode.) But to my dismay, the picture is suddenly masked in a very unwatchable purple/red. This seems to be the same problem mentioned above by dixonbm. Why is this TV unable to display Blu Ray movies from the PS3 in DVI mode?! The crazy thing is that once you hit stop on the movie and go back to the PS3 menu, the picture goes back to normal, and looks great. Very frustrating and confusing…

So, I’m stuck. Which mode should be used to watch PS3 movies? HDMI & HDCP is too dark, and no picture adjustment settings; DVI mode is purple! Should I spend $100 and get a digital to analog converter to go from HDMI on the PS3 to the VGA input on this TV? Or if HDMI/HDCP mode is the only option for PS3 movies, I’ll probably return this TV to Costco.

Any help or confirmation of these issues would be greatly appreciated.

I have the same basic setup and the same problem (pink screen and the dreaded pink/blue sparklies) ... I have been fiddling with this for some time now and the best compromise I have come up with is to drop the resolution down to 1080I ... when I did this out of curiosity ... the PS3 menu screen (silver wave) cleared up with NO SPARKLIES the image became the twin to the DVI setting ... now I know there is a debate on image quality here ... but to my eyes the comarison is very close if not identical ...

... now in the case of BD movies, the image does darken noticably, but picture controls remain active so that it can be adjusted to compensate for this shift.

... the really nice thing here is that the 1080I setting is set only for the PS3 and HDMI ... DVI remains at 1080P (which I use for computer work with a laptop).

Of course, the image perception is strictly my own, and others will have to judge for themselves if there is a noticable change in picture quality from 1080I/1080P ... but for me, this is good enough in that it simplifies the picture and sound issues across the board while seemingly not interfering or tripping the rights management demon.

Sam

ral25
01-03-07, 02:13 PM
I have the same basic setup and the same problem (pink screen and the dreaded pink/blue sparklies) ... I have been fiddling with this for some time now and the best compromise I have come up with is to drop the resolution down to 1080I ... when I did this out of curiosity ... the PS3 menu screen (silver wave) cleared up with NO SPARKLIES the image became the twin to the DVI setting ... now I know there is a debate on image quality here ... but to my eyes the comarison is very close if not identical ...

... now in the case of BD movies, the image does darken noticably, but picture controls remain active so that it can be adjusted to compensate for this shift.

... the really nice thing here is that the 1080I setting is set only for the PS3 and HDMI ... DVI remains at 1080P (which I use for computer work with a laptop).

Of course, the image perception is strictly my own, and others will have to judge for themselves if there is a noticable change in picture quality from 1080I/1080P ... but for me, this is good enough in that it simplifies the picture and sound issues across the board while seemingly not interfering or tripping the rights management demon.

Sam

Thanks for your response. Just to clarify… you’re adjusting the PS3 output to 1080i, correct? I’ll have to try that when I get home tonight.

Follow-up to the problem of not being able to adjust the contrast or brightness in HDMI mode…

I emailed Sceptre tech support, and from their cryptic response about switching to “USER MODE”, I was able to figure it out. The ‘picture’ button on the remote toggles between preset picture settings like “cinema” and others. If you have it set to anything other then ‘user mode’, all of the picture adjustment options will be unavailable. Makes sense, now that I know what’s going on. You’d think the manual would have this kind of info… nope. Anyway, all the adjustments are now available in HDMI and HDCP mode, and the picture is MUCH better now.

As a result of this issue, though, I’ve started to pay more attention to black levels. And IMO, this is one of the TV’s weaknesses. I recently was at Magnolia HiFi inspecting the new Pioneer Elite 1080p plasma as a benchmark. Now that TV has great black levels! But of course, it was $8000. So, for everything else this TV has to offer, and at an incredible price ($999 at Costco)… probably can’t complain that much.

BTW, I noticed the X37SV 1080p 37” was $999 at Costco last week, then it disappeared, and then it was back yesterday, and now I can’t find it again today. Not sure what’s going on there.

SamIam2
01-03-07, 02:20 PM
"Thanks for your response. Just to clarify… you’re adjusting the PS3 output to 1080i, correct? I’ll have to try that when I get home tonight."

Yes, that is correct ... in the PS3 menu screen go to the (I think its stylized toolbox) and scroll down to picture settings and the menu wizard will first prompt for picture connection type then resolution (check boxes) then I think it goes on to sound protocols.

Sam

sammaz
01-04-07, 12:05 AM
Got my NAGA 37in. on Nov. 5th...been working great...VGAXbox360 in 1080p with HD-DVD Player is awesome...but tonight I looked closely at the top most Pixel line and it seemed to be missing the top 3-4 rows of pixels...after a closer look I see that the sides have a small amount of blank area, the bottom row is perfectly flush with the bottom border , but the top blank area is significantly larger than the other 3...

Am I just trippin? :confused:

felixm477
01-04-07, 09:31 AM
So, after months of shopping for a 1080p TV, and hrs and hrs of reading through this thread, I finally decided on the X37SV. I needed a new display for watching HD movies from the PS3, as well as a new PC monitor, and this looked like the right choice. It came in the mail a few weeks ago, and I’ve spent a number of hrs working to get everything set up. So far… very mixed feelings. Here’s a summary of my findings thus far:

VGA – The image looks fantastic as a PC monitor running at 1920x1080 through the VGA input. DVD’s on my PC also look great. I found using the PC and PowerDVD to handle the upscaling worked better than my standalone DVD player. There are also enough basic picture adjustment options to keep me happy.

HDMI mode: red and green sparkles on PS3 games, switching to DVI mode fixes that. But when I try to watch movies (i.e. Nacho Libre or Superman Returns on Blu Ray from PS3), the brightness is WAY off (TOO dark). I tried to adjust the contrast and brightness, but for some reason, they’re unavailable in HDMI and HDCP mode! What’s with that? The only picture adjustment available is the ‘lamp’ setting, which only seems to exaggerate the problem.

I thought I would just forget about HDMI mode and leave the TV on DVI mode. (Plus, all the picture adjustment options are available in DVI mode.) But to my dismay, the picture is suddenly masked in a very unwatchable purple/red. This seems to be the same problem mentioned above by dixonbm. Why is this TV unable to display Blu Ray movies from the PS3 in DVI mode?! The crazy thing is that once you hit stop on the movie and go back to the PS3 menu, the picture goes back to normal, and looks great. Very frustrating and confusing…

So, I’m stuck. Which mode should be used to watch PS3 movies? HDMI & HDCP is too dark, and no picture adjustment settings; DVI mode is purple! Should I spend $100 and get a digital to analog converter to go from HDMI on the PS3 to the VGA input on this TV? Or if HDMI/HDCP mode is the only option for PS3 movies, I’ll probably return this TV to Costco.

Any help or confirmation of these issues would be greatly appreciated.


im no genius but since they mnetioned hdcp in 1 of the hdmi modes and didnt in the dvi mode your having trouble with, considering you only get this red/purple error with bluray its pretty safe to say its an issue with the copyprotection since bluray is the only thing affected with lack of hdcp the rest of the system will work fine. most displays that dont offer hdcp just dont work period on the ps3 so im guessing all these modes somehow causes the ps3 to allow dvi without hdcp and then cripple the bluray. the best way to test this out is putting in a dvd movie and play it, if it runs fine then your issue is with bluray's hdcp protection.

felixm477
01-04-07, 10:26 AM
what tv are you speaking of? and no crt is still the highest as it goes 1080i so iduuno what can surpass crt tube quailty maybe you saw miscalibrated crt tubes who knows
crt may produce the better color and black levels but its nowhere near as sharp in detail as lcd screens, easy example, run your desktop pc thru a crt and an lcd youll notice u cant read text off the crt even if u had 20/20/20/20 vision.

felixm477
01-04-07, 10:35 AM
componet cables only run on 1080i! not 1080P componet cables are not digital like hdmi but are not analog like rca they are super analog so in between. vga is the only thing apperntly that accepts 1080P while vga is not soposed to be a true hd device ms F*uc$ up on not putting hdmi port since they never would of want to put 1080P but then sony mentiones 1080P then ms gets hyped so they annouce that you can d/l a patch and you get P but its upscaled squeesed pixels , so not true 1080P i wouldnt be suprised if ms sent a later revions ( this coming feb) or later a hdmi port as theirs been a leak of a hdmi port on a 360, as far as the lines or dots it sounds like a defective unit try exchaning it .


why would they? i hope your aware vga has more than enough headroom for 1080p signals. the only advantage hdmi has is that its got digital protection, and extra bandwidth for future resolutions. other than that for 1080p u dont need hdmi over vga its just a convinience to have it.

Savdiscuss
01-07-07, 02:05 AM
I bought a new HP Core2Duo PC which has integrated video (G965) and only VGA port. The 1920x1080 VGA output is horizontally squished to the right side(does not fill the entire display area since it does not reach the left side of the Sceptre display). The vertical sizing is correct.

The Intel display driver does not offer adjustments to resize/shift the display. However, changing the aspect ratio results in the Sceptre saying "Over Range" and a blank screen and I have to reboot the PC to restore my Windows display :(
The Sceptre offers some rudimentary adjustments.
1)The 'H-Position' parameter allows me to horizontally shift the display left/right)
2)The 'Clock' parameter allows me to stretch the width of the display.
However I still can't get the VGA output to fill the entire display.
Text is not a big issue, but images (people look thin :D ) are obviously distorted -- the aspect ratio is not correct.

I also have a HP AMD PC which has integrated video (Nvidia 6150) and only VGA port. The 1920x1080 VGA output correctly and automatically fills the entire Sceptre display area.

Thus, I conclude the squished problem is due to the Intel integrated video. There is nothing wrong with the Sceptre.

Any suggestions how to correct this squished display? (hardware, software, hidden Sceptre controls, etc)

One solution would be to buy an add-in graphics card, but my graphics needs are being met with integrated video (especially since the Nvidia integrated video has no problems automatically and correctly filling the entire display area).

sammaz
01-08-07, 02:25 PM
I bought this card for 50.00 new

Its the EVGA Nvidia AGP 6200LE 256 (best AGP card available) {AVS Forum wont let me post link to newegg site that has the 256 Meg version}

and it has DVI output that will do 1:1 pixel mapping on my sceptre...its un-believeable...watching WMV HD Imax movies is WAY better than VGA :cool:

BSteely
01-12-07, 12:12 PM
I know that clock and phase stands for clock frequency and phase frequency as described in the instruction manual, but what exactly do these two settings effect in layman's terms? Can someone explain this to me?

An LCD flat panel display is a digital device at heart. It requires a clock in order to properly display all the video bits it is receiving in the proper position on the screen. When it receives a digital input (DVI/HDMI) that is not a problem because there is a clock included in those interfaces. But when it has to work from an analog connection like VGA, there is no clock, there is only a much lower frequency synchronizing signal.

Since the LCD needs a clock, and since analog interfaces don't provide one, it has inside its controller a clock generating circuit that it uses to generate one for itself which it tries to reconcile with the incoming sync signal. This clock generating circuit, sometimes also called a clock recovery circuit, is based on something called a phase-lock-loop. The frequency and phase controls you refer to act as a coarse and fine adjustment that can be used to assist the clock recovery circuit in cases where its auto-adjust function fail to work adequately.

The best type of pattern to use to test for proper adjustment of the frequency and phase is a black and white checkerboard pattern where each square in the checkerboard is made up of an individual pixel. Using that type of test pattern it will be easy to see noise in the screen, which is indicative of the need for adjustment in the phase-lock-loop. Generally, the auto-tune or auto-adjust function does a good enough job on its own and you don't need to concern yourself with making user adjustments. But if you are really picky about it, or are connecting a computer to the display using VGA and see noise in certain patterned backgrounds as are sometimes used in computer images, then you can make the required manual adjustment to minimize or eliminate the frequency/phase error.

jpconard
01-17-07, 12:46 AM
I think the reason for this is all the DRM protection.

Some people are having good luck. For example there was a guy a while back who had a newer model with a blue status light that wasn't experiencing many problems. I think Sceptre is offering an $80 firmware upgrade solution.

Here's some things to try: Make sure the cable has a good connection. Try upgrading the PS3 firmware.

I doubt that movies would show over VGA again due to copyright protection. Also, I'm not sure HDMI caries analog video.

It sounds like the PS3 is acting basically the same as a PC. For general display/games the DVI mode works best, for Movie playback HDCP is required, but it sounds like the Sceptre HDCP mode is not working correctly?

I for one will not pay a dime to get it to work, and quite frankly I hope ATI loses it shirt in the lawsuit for selling video cards that said HDCP ready on the box. I have one and I'm ready to sign into the lawsuit that is already underway.

These manufacturers need to realize they had better not put the letters "HDCP" on anything if they can't truly deliver.

Has anyone tried the Xbox HD-DVD player through a PC with an HDCP video card to the Sceptre HDCP mode? My understanding is if you use the Xbox HD-DVD player with a PC, the PC needs the HDCP video card to get full resolution. (this is unless you can use the new crack codes and copy the HD-DVD to your hard drive).

I assume since the ICT is not being enforced yet the PS3 blu-ray in 1080p through the VGA connector on the Sceptre works fine?

jpconard
01-17-07, 12:55 AM
why would they? i hope your aware vga has more than enough headroom for 1080p signals. the only advantage hdmi has is that its got digital protection, and extra bandwidth for future resolutions. other than that for 1080p u dont need hdmi over vga its just a convinience to have it.

This is true for HD-DVD playback on the Xbox, only because they are not currently enforcing the ICT (Image Constraint Token).

I assume blu-ray on the PS3 will also playback on analog connection in 1080i or 1080p, for now.

As soon as they turn that on (through the disk), you will not get full resolution on analog connection, hence the HDCP requirement & full digital connection. By the way HDMI and HDCP are not one in the same.

The upcoming cablecard box for Media Center will not allow the Xbox to display full resolution through the VGA connector when used as an extender (yet a different analog image constraint token, but similar to that used on HD-DVD/blu-ray). What will MS do? Xbox with HDMI port capable of HDCP? Only time will tell.

The whole point was that you are supposed to need a digital connection and working HDCP. The digital connection works fine, the problem is HDCP doesn't (not for most).

Dposcorp
01-22-07, 08:59 AM
Does anyone know IF/WHEN this set will be back in stock at Costco?

The 1,366 x 768 Sceptre is in stock at $899, but the one with the better rez was only $100 more when it was in stock, but I havent seen it there in a few weeks, so I am wondering if it is discontiuned or what.

Kychest
01-25-07, 06:22 PM
I recently bought the 37in Naga Sceptre monitor. It has worked great for about a month until last night. I was watching a Blu-ray disc and I started to straighten the HDMI to HDMI cable that goes from my PS3 to the sceptre. The screen kept flickering back and forth from blue to the blu-ray until it finally just went blue completely. It now won't show any picture over the HDMI input as well as AV1 and AV2 when connected. It does still work with the Ypbr component cables as well as the VGA cable. Do you have any idea what this could be and if there is a fix? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Kyle

Infinitenothing
01-25-07, 08:22 PM
I imagine in moving the cable around you broke a connection. Make sure that this is the case (try a different source and a different cable eg a dvi source from a dvi to hdmi connector) and if you still can't get anything or can only get a picture sometimes you likely have a busted set.

hakujin
01-30-07, 11:45 PM
anyone hunting for a new lcd yet? Prices have come down so much. I've been avidly searching the last few months but it seems each LCD always has it own set of deal breaking problems.

BSteely
01-31-07, 12:38 AM
I recently bought the 37in Naga Sceptre monitor. It has worked great for about a month until last night. I was watching a Blu-ray disc and I started to straighten the HDMI to HDMI cable that goes from my PS3 to the sceptre. The screen kept flickering back and forth from blue to the blu-ray until it finally just went blue completely. It now won't show any picture over the HDMI input as well as AV1 and AV2 when connected. It does still work with the Ypbr component cables as well as the VGA cable. Do you have any idea what this could be and if there is a fix? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Kyle

Do you have one of the early sets with the all gray bezel? I had one of those and my HDMI connector also came loose after a very short period of use. I was frequently swapping connections between a DVD player and a Macintosh. It turns out on these earlier sets the HDMI connectors only means of mechanical support is the solder on the pins. The replacement set I got now has a screw attached HDMI header. The screw is plainly visible right next to and centered above the HDMI input. If you don't see the screw there, then you have one of the older sets and the solder has broken off one or more pins.

BSteely
01-31-07, 12:57 AM
I haven't seen anyone else report this issue so I am curious if my issue is unique. Often when watching broadcast TV or a DVD, whether over the component input or HDMI, if the pictures switches to an image that has a lot of white in it, like almost all white, then the Scptre acts like it loses sync and it momentarily flashes a blue screen until the video goes back to more normal picture levels at which time the blue screen stops and the picture goes back to normal. Is that happening to anyone else's set?

The other day I was watching the movie THX 1138. There is a protracted scene in that movie that takes place in a white, featureless setting and the TV was showing a blue screen for several minutes during this scene. Very annoying.

My set's stats are as follows:

DEBUG 0113 F2
06/03/29 11:20
T370HW01
1920 x 1080

From the looks of things I am going to be out of warranty by March 29th. Question: will Sceptre let you return just the innards (controller board) for a firmware update or do you have to return the whole set? I didn't save my original box.

jamex27
02-01-07, 12:30 PM
So in conclusion, does it have HDCP compliant HDMI?, from what I heard most problems are with PS3 but that is happening with other tvs or panels too (for example the westy 37' 1080p), the fix for that is disconnect the HDMI cable when you are seeing the flashes and then plug it again (in the PS 3 unit) and then it should work. But my question goes for any other HDCP devices (for example a HDCP compliant video card and trying to play HD DVDs for example from the computer)

BSteely
02-01-07, 05:52 PM
So in conclusion, does it have HDCP compliant HDMI?, from what I heard most problems are with PS3 but that is happening with other tvs or panels too (for example the westy 37' 1080p), the fix for that is disconnect the HDMI cable when you are seeing the flashes and then plug it again (in the PS 3 unit) and then it should work. But my question goes for any other HDCP devices (for example a HDCP compliant video card and trying to play HD DVDs for example from the computer)

It's working fine with my DVD player over HDMI.

jamex27
02-02-07, 01:30 AM
It's working fine with my DVD player over HDMI.

Cool, but... I'm not sure if DVD's require or have HDCP protection...I though they have only CCS. Maybe somebody with HD DVD player or computer can confirm this??

sledge1234
02-02-07, 01:01 PM
anyone hunting for a new lcd yet? Prices have come down so much. I've been avidly searching the last few months but it seems each LCD always has it own set of deal breaking problems.

Same here. Waiting for something in comparable size that does 1:1 has more than one HDMI/DVI, does 1080p and it does not have uneven back lighting. Is it that hard?

wktaylor
02-03-07, 10:55 AM
BSteely,
I'm having the same problem with my x37. When there's an explosion or a lot of white on the screen it looses sync and goes blue. I just ordered an hdmi cable to go between the vip622 and the x37 toi see if it will resolve the problem. I hope it will at least not let me have to worry about the auto contrast bug. Only the vga and the dvi have the option to turn it off. Very annoying. I'm currently running the htpc into the dvi and the vip622 to the vga-component. I was hoping that the vga-component would let me turn off the auto contrast, but no such luck.

BSteely
02-03-07, 12:22 PM
BSteely,
I'm having the same problem with my x37. When there's an explosion or a lot of white on the screen it looses sync and goes blue. I just ordered an hdmi cable to go between the vip622 and the x37 toi see if it will resolve the problem. I hope it will at least not let me have to worry about the auto contrast bug. Only the vga and the dvi have the option to turn it off. Very annoying. I'm currently running the htpc into the dvi and the vip622 to the vga-component. I was hoping that the vga-component would let me turn off the auto contrast, but no such luck.

Thanks for the reply wktaylor. So that confirms at least one other set is doing what my set does. Let me know how things turn out for you with the HDMI connector. But for mine, I am gettng the same behavior when I watch DVDs, which is via HDMI.

Yes, auto-contrast really sucks. Do the very latest Sceptre Naga's still have this awful "feature"? I was hoping that if I sent it back for a firmware flash that the new firmware would drop this.

I had my Mac hooked up to the HDMI port the other day and was using a full screen video test pattern of all white. Strangely the Sceptre does not switch to a blue screen while doing this. Maybe the difference has to do with de-interlacing because I have both the cable box and my DVD player set to output 1080i. I will experiment with that setting and let you know if switching to 720p makes the blue flashing go away.

hakujin
02-03-07, 10:38 PM
Same here. Waiting for something in comparable size that does 1:1 has more than one HDMI/DVI, does 1080p and it does not have uneven back lighting. Is it that hard?

You're not kidding!


Haha, it is... so far problems I've seen that have warranted waiting a little longer have really ranged the gamut.

Flicker, cloudiness, overscan on HDMI and/or component, pseudo 1080p (i.e. no 1080 input), audio sync issue over optical, limited resolution over VGA, lack of two tuners (which suits my hookup), like you stated: uneven backlight, banding, lack of features (i.e. 46" Vizio has no PIP; what?) and in general-- bad contrast range on a lot of the budget lcds (with the BS dynamic contrast range specs). Then there's the unconfirmed HDCP issues abound. I'm sure the list goes on but that's for right now. It's a real bummer because the price has dropped a lot, but I'd hate to get rid of this one in for something I'm going to later regret.

Now I hear word of some 120hz 1080p LCDs w/ 3 HDMI inputs and 1 DVI making their way by year's end. HDMI isn't really what's promsing as I'm anticipating upgrading my receiver after 4 1.3+ HDMI switching in one is more affordable (and common place) but the higher refresh rate sounds promising. Maybe HDCP will be less troublesome by that time.

Hard for me to get rid of this one, so far so good... relatively speaking :)

hakujin
02-04-07, 12:32 PM
To you folks that purchased this set in or around March of last year, do you remember the final cost after rebate. I know that I paid [EDIT] after shipping and tax, but I'm not sure if the rebate was for $200 or $100.

Thanks in advance.


EDIT: Sorry, I figured it was so long ago, it wouldn't matter anymore. Can anyone just tell me the amount of the rebate then. I believe there was only 1 and then it went away the lcd aged.

akpm42
02-06-07, 04:00 AM
It was a $100 rebate.

wktaylor
02-06-07, 08:11 AM
BSteely,
I switched my Dish vip622 to 720p output last night while watching a scene in Battlestar that made the screen blank out. I was able to rewind the program and cause the problem consistently. After switching it and replaying the scene it was fine. I haven't had this problem until around a month ago. Are you running a Dish receiver too? Is it the 622? Perhaps they sent a software update that "fixed" something. It definitely wasn't a guide for OTA.
So if anyone else is having a problem like this, switching the output from 1080i to 720p on a VIP622 should fix the problem. Mine is currently connected through the vga component connector. I'm getting an hdmi cable to see if I will still have the same problem.
If I connect 2 hdmi sources with a switch box, and I have the screen calibrated to the htpc, how will it look with the dish receiver connected when switching to that source? Will I have to recalibrate the tv every time just to get a good picture when I go from one to the other, or will the settings from the htpc look good for the 622?

hakujin
02-06-07, 05:16 PM
I'm thinking of getting a new naga x37 in hopes to resolve some of these discrepancies that folks have been having with HDCP handshake and game systems as I'm looking at buying a ps3. do the newer (blue light) lcds have any problems of their own that I should take into consideration? I remember reading back some time ago about the possibility of different glass being used. But then someone said that they were able to get 1080p for the PS3 on the newer one as well. Anyone care to comment?

hakujin
02-07-07, 11:19 AM
BTW, anyone received a lcd that supports 1080p on component yet? Sceptre said they would fix this awhile back via firmware update.

hakujin
02-07-07, 11:22 AM
So in conclusion, does it have HDCP compliant HDMI?, from what I heard most problems are with PS3 but that is happening with other tvs or panels too (for example the westy 37' 1080p), the fix for that is disconnect the HDMI cable when you are seeing the flashes and then plug it again (in the PS 3 unit) and then it should work. But my question goes for any other HDCP devices (for example a HDCP compliant video card and trying to play HD DVDs for example from the computer)
update on this one?

virus2003
02-07-07, 08:06 PM
Hi guys,

I am having an issue with my new Sapphire x1950pro (AGP version). When I try to output at 1920x1080 resolution to my 1920x1080 37" LCD TV (Sceptre x37sv-Naga), the screen squashes, and does not display at 1:1 pixel mapping. The image does not fill the screen as it should, and is incredibly blurry. It is not useable at this resolution.

I am able to display 1680x1050 at 1:1 pixel mapping (too small, so it doesn't fit the screen), and also all the way up to 2560x1600 at 1:1. (At that high of a resolution, I have to scroll my mouse along the side of the screen to move the view over to see all of the displayed image.) But, the LCD's native resolution will not display at 1:1.

Do you know of any timing settings or the like that I could change to make this work? Any other thoughts? I love the card's performance, and would hate to have to get rid of it. Does it sound like the card might be bad, or the TV?

Note: All of the above resolutions were attempted at 60Hz. A DVI to HDMI cable (that is confirmed functioning properly) is being used. I have tried both DVI ports on the back of the card.

Note 2: Yes, I have tried Omega drivers... no dice...

Kychest
02-08-07, 05:29 PM
Do you have one of the early sets with the all gray bezel? I had one of those and my HDMI connector also came loose after a very short period of use. I was frequently swapping connections between a DVD player and a Macintosh. It turns out on these earlier sets the HDMI connectors only means of mechanical support is the solder on the pins. The replacement set I got now has a screw attached HDMI header. The screw is plainly visible right next to and centered above the HDMI input. If you don't see the screw there, then you have one of the older sets and the solder has broken off one or more pins.

Yes, it looks like I do have one of the older grey sets, which is really annoying considering I bought this in December. Anyway though, how long did it take for you or anyone for that matter to get a new one through Sceptre?

Thanks

ckaneko
02-11-07, 04:56 AM
Has anyone experienced issues running Windows Vista @ 1920 x 1080 on your X37SV? I've had my current computer rig with the X37SV for the past year running XP, and had no problems. I decided to upgrade to Windows Vista, all resolution setting seem to behave as expected, but when I set it at 1920x1080, I get a black border on all 4 sides. I see the full 1080p image, it's shrunken down leaving about an inch and half border all around. I installed the latest drivers and updates, messed with the setting in the ATI Catalyst drivers, debug menu settings on the Sceptre, Powerstrip without success.

Chrispaw
02-11-07, 11:04 AM
Out of curiosity, has anyone been able to run 1920x1080 via hdmi with HDCP with any success? Just a yes or no will suffice right now.

Via PC DVI>>HDMI converter and winxp pro.

Thanks.

sledge1234
02-12-07, 02:52 PM
I had same ussue with another Saphire PCI-e. In Win XP pro it behaves as yours over DVI>HDM it is just fine over VGA. In Vista I have no such problem. It must be a driver issue, I tried a bunch of driver versions, but neither fixed it and I am now running Vista.

Hi guys,

I am having an issue with my new Sapphire x1950pro (AGP version). When I try to output at 1920x1080 resolution to my 1920x1080 37" LCD TV (Sceptre x37sv-Naga), the screen squashes, and does not display at 1:1 pixel mapping. The image does not fill the screen as it should, and is incredibly blurry. It is not useable at this resolution.

I am able to display 1680x1050 at 1:1 pixel mapping (too small, so it doesn't fit the screen), and also all the way up to 2560x1600 at 1:1. (At that high of a resolution, I have to scroll my mouse along the side of the screen to move the view over to see all of the displayed image.) But, the LCD's native resolution will not display at 1:1.

Do you know of any timing settings or the like that I could change to make this work? Any other thoughts? I love the card's performance, and would hate to have to get rid of it. Does it sound like the card might be bad, or the TV?

Note: All of the above resolutions were attempted at 60Hz. A DVI to HDMI cable (that is confirmed functioning properly) is being used. I have tried both DVI ports on the back of the card.

Note 2: Yes, I have tried Omega drivers... no dice...

hakujin
02-12-07, 05:36 PM
New firmware:

DEBUG 0119A D2
06/12/07 15:08
T370HW01
1920x1080

Anyone seen anything newer? I wonder what it addresses, other than black level is no longer on the menu for DVI.

ckaneko
02-12-07, 08:15 PM
Squashed 1920x1080. May have found an answer:

FROM WindowsHelp page on Microsofts website. [sorry cant post URL's until I put up 3 more posts]


+++++++++++++
1. Open Performance Information and Tools by clicking the Start button , clicking Control Panel, clicking System and Maintenance, and then clicking Performance Information and Tools.

2. Click Update my score. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
+++++++++++++



Basically, your computer receives a performance score when you first install Vista, this score is based on your computer before you isntall any drivers. Follow the instructions above, hopefully receive a higher score and Windows will stop squashing our desktops.


UPDATE: didn't work for me. Actually my score didn't go any higher. If anyone has success with this let me know, may mean I need a faster processor (Scored 4.1)

UPDATE2: Vista's Desktop Windows Managers. This seems to be an 'engine' behind the rendering of the final image we view on screen. This gives Windows the capability to scale up/scale down applications, forms, entire desktops. I read a posting that basically bypasses DWM. When I did, the 1776 x 1000 resolution became available. When I set my resolution to this setting, the effects of scaling dissappeared (though I'm still stuck with 1.5" black bar around my desktop. It seems when I set the resolution to 1920 x 1080, it is scaling it down to 1776 x 1000. At least now, when I set it to 1776 x 1000, I have 1 to 1 pixel image on my screen.

Koui
02-14-07, 03:57 AM
Has anyone experienced issues running Windows Vista @ 1920 x 1080 on your X37SV? I've had my current computer rig with the X37SV for the past year running XP, and had no problems. I decided to upgrade to Windows Vista, all resolution setting seem to behave as expected, but when I set it at 1920x1080, I get a black border on all 4 sides. I see the full 1080p image, it's shrunken down leaving about an inch and half border all around. I installed the latest drivers and updates, messed with the setting in the ATI Catalyst drivers, debug menu settings on the Sceptre, Powerstrip without success.Set the refresh rate to 75Hz in Catalyst and see if that takes care of your black border at 1920x1080.

ckaneko
02-15-07, 12:24 AM
Set the refresh rate to 75Hz in Catalyst and see if that takes care of your black border at 1920x1080.

After experimenting with several settings, i'm suspecting it is the Catalyst drivers.

First off my Catalyst driver wont allow 1920 x 1080 at 75 hz. Quite honestly, I don't think the Catalyst driver is ready for prime time, there are issues where a setting is available earlier but it isn't now. I think some QT is required with the Catalyst driver to figure this one out.

Koui
02-15-07, 01:20 PM
First off my Catalyst driver wont allow 1920 x 1080 at 75 hz. To be able to select that rate you have to set 'Display Management Options' in Catalyst Control Center to 'List all possible modes' and select 75Hz as your refresh rate.

dixonbm
02-18-07, 03:40 AM
I recently bought the 37in Naga Sceptre monitor. It has worked great for about a month until last night. I was watching a Blu-ray disc and I started to straighten the HDMI to HDMI cable that goes from my PS3 to the sceptre. The screen kept flickering back and forth from blue to the blu-ray until it finally just went blue completely. It now won't show any picture over the HDMI input as well as AV1 and AV2 when connected. It does still work with the Ypbr component cables as well as the VGA cable. Do you have any idea what this could be and if there is a fix? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Kyle

I had the exact same problem with my first set that I got in September/October of 2006. I returned it and ordered a new set online. The new set had a different bezel and the HDMI slot was not loose like the first model. The new model also had the model number in the top left of the bezel whereas the older model did not.

dixonbm
02-18-07, 03:46 AM
I haven't seen anyone else report this issue so I am curious if my issue is unique. Often when watching broadcast TV or a DVD, whether over the component input or HDMI, if the pictures switches to an image that has a lot of white in it, like almost all white, then the Scptre acts like it loses sync and it momentarily flashes a blue screen until the video goes back to more normal picture levels at which time the blue screen stops and the picture goes back to normal. Is that happening to anyone else's set?

This same thing is happening to me. I consistently get the same results from my DVR by rewinding to the same scenes. This only happens when connected via component video cables through a Psyclone box video/audio selector. If the DVR is connected directly to the TV via component or HDMI the resolution/blue screen flashing does not happen.

I blame the Psyclone box, but perhaps the TV has problems as well. This is my second Sceptre set. The first one had issues with the HDMI connector.

sledge1234
02-21-07, 03:46 PM
It is now...
Does anyone know IF/WHEN this set will be back in stock at Costco?

The 1,366 x 768 Sceptre is in stock at $899, but the one with the better rez was only $100 more when it was in stock, but I havent seen it there in a few weeks, so I am wondering if it is discontiuned or what.

hakujin
02-21-07, 10:31 PM
It is now...

It is? I'm on the site right now, and no x37 naga, just the komodo crap.

BSteely
02-21-07, 11:55 PM
Yes, it looks like I do have one of the older grey sets, which is really annoying considering I bought this in December. Anyway though, how long did it take for you or anyone for that matter to get a new one through Sceptre?

Thanks

I just returned mine to the original merchant where it was purchased and got my money back and then bought a new one. So I can't answer your question about how long it will take Sceptre to repair your set. I don't think they will replace it. I think they will repair it. Good luck.

BSteely
02-21-07, 11:57 PM
This same thing is happening to me. I consistently get the same results from my DVR by rewinding to the same scenes. This only happens when connected via component video cables through a Psyclone box video/audio selector. If the DVR is connected directly to the TV via component or HDMI the resolution/blue screen flashing does not happen.

I blame the Psyclone box, but perhaps the TV has problems as well. This is my second Sceptre set. The first one had issues with the HDMI connector.

There is some indication that this may have to do with deinterlacing, though I haven't yet confirmed that in the case of my set. It could be that your Psyclone is outputting 1080i. If you switch to 720p, it may correct the issue.

sledge1234
02-22-07, 08:45 AM
It was yesterday. I guess many are waiting. It disappeared quickly. Price was $500 less that what I paid for mine back in May.
It is? I'm on the site right now, and no x37 naga, just the komodo crap.

jamex27
02-23-07, 03:49 PM
So in conclusion, does it have HDCP compliant HDMI?, from what I heard most problems are with PS3 but that is happening with other tvs or panels too (for example the westy 37' 1080p), the fix for that is disconnect the HDMI cable when you are seeing the flashes and then plug it again (in the PS 3 unit) and then it should work. But my question goes for any other HDCP devices (for example a HDCP compliant video card and trying to play HD DVDs for example from the computer)

I don't think its an issue anymore...at least not for me, if you want HD DVD or Blu ray playback via computer - non hdcp card with digital connection (DVI or hdmi) just use ANYDVD HD, it removes AACCS, ICT, HDCP whatever... Only for HD DVD for the moment...not bluray, haven't seen a popular bluray drive for the pc.....

Darkhawk76
02-25-07, 11:15 PM
I got my TV Wed. and it looks great when hooked up to anything other than the HDMI slot and component. I hooked my PS3 up to the hdmi slot and had the pixel flickers everyone else had so I changed to DVI channel and I still get random rainbow colored ones. Then I hooked my Nintendo Wii up to the component and it gets random blue pixel flickering as well and haven't found a way to fix it at all. Havent tried any blu ray movies. I wish I would have found this forum before I bought this set from Newegg because thier bulk return policy has left me stuck with a TV that has left me in a bad mood. Oh and I went out and bought a dvi to hdmi cable for my pc and it has the random rainbow pixel flickering as well. Not sure what to do. Going to contact Sceptre in the morning but seeing as how most of you havent gotten anywhere I doubt I will either. Might end up selling it. Who knows at this point.

hakujin
02-26-07, 10:25 AM
It was yesterday. I guess many are waiting. It disappeared quickly. Price was $500 less that what I paid for mine back in May.

Oh, I see. I just purchased one from NewEgg to hopefully overcome all the issues with my older firmware model (wakeOnDVI, dots, 1080p handshake problems, and hopefully 1080p over component [haven't tested]). I got what I can only assume as the latest firmware so I'm hopeful. It was a whopping 680 cheaper than April of last year! Double C even comped the rebate; they must have really empathized with my distress of SO many problems.

I wish I could have found a different TV but after thoroughly checking the Phillips (pseudo 1080p, one tuner etc.), Vizio (horrible contrast, etc.), Sharp (banding), Hitachi (plasma still low rez bout touted HIGH REZ; flicker) and many more that don't come to mind, I realize they all have more problems and don't fit what I need out of a panel.

hakujin
02-26-07, 10:28 AM
I got my TV Wed. and it looks great when hooked up to anything other than the HDMI slot and component. I hooked my PS3 up to the hdmi slot and had the pixel flickers everyone else had so I changed to DVI channel and I still get random rainbow colored ones. Then I hooked my Nintendo Wii up to the component and it gets random blue pixel flickering as well and haven't found a way to fix it at all. Havent tried any blu ray movies. I wish I would have found this forum before I bought this set from Newegg because thier bulk return policy has left me stuck with a TV that has left me in a bad mood. Oh and I went out and bought a dvi to hdmi cable for my pc and it has the random rainbow pixel flickering as well. Not sure what to do. Going to contact Sceptre in the morning but seeing as how most of you havent gotten anywhere I doubt I will either. Might end up selling it. Who knows at this point.

I bought one from NewEgg and couldn't be happier. Though, I haven't plugged in my Wii or anything else except PC but I don't anticipate any problems. Only glaring difference with this 12-7-06 fw is no more black level on the menu screen. I still have a green light (not blue as others have reported). PQ is same as last set so I don't think I got cheaper glass.

Did you know it comes with a free DVD 2 HDMI cord?

Would you mind letting us know what firmware you have by pressing the 3rd and 4th button from the left on the bottom of the set?

Lordy
02-26-07, 08:19 PM
My remote just stopped working on my tv. Swapped out the batteries with some new ones and still no remote functionality.

I thought I read a thread on how to reset the remote and get it to work again.

Please help it's driving me absolutely nuts not having a remote.


Thanks,

AP

did you ever get an answer to this?

Darkhawk76
02-26-07, 08:58 PM
Not sure is this is the info you were asking for hakujin but pressed the buttons and it came up with this;

DEBUG 0119 F2
6/12/07 14:35
T370HW01
1920x1080

It locked the tv up so I had to unplug it and plug it back in.

Mine also has the green light and came with the dvi to hdmi cord. (i'm sure that's what you meant by dvd, lol) so it seems we have the same set.

hakujin
02-26-07, 10:44 PM
yep, same tv. I think you're good too go as my inputs are fine. Recommend you go back into the config/debug/diagnostic menu (whatever people call it). When you see that same information pop up that you just posted, press 2 (i believe). This should be memory timing. Adjust up one and the anomaly you've experienced should go away. You should be able to get out of it by pressing exit or menu (I could be definitive on last two points but I'm in the bed and don't feel like getting up, heheh).


Yeah, I meant DVI :) Why did you buy one? just curious.

Darkhawk76
02-26-07, 11:40 PM
Did the memory timing and sure as day it's perfect. Put the tv on hdmi setting and the ps3 looks crisp and perfect with not a flicker in sight. Same for Wii. Can't thank you enough.

Oh and as for the cable....well I went to the store to get one for my pc before I realized that's what that cable was still wrapped up in the box. Didn't want to open to many things just in case something went wrong. Your a life saver. Awsome tv for the money.

lightpants
02-27-07, 12:09 PM
I bought my set in July and the other day when I switched to the QAM tuner, I noticed the color was off - changing between a red and green tint. There were also vertical red and green lines, about an inch wide, that were moving across the screen horizontally. I changed the cable outlet and the problem is still there. Anyone have any ideas?

I don't use the QAM tuner as I have a comcast dvr and use that to change the channels over the component input, I also use it as a computer monitor and that seems to be fine as well. I called sceptre and they told me to pack it up, and pay to have it shipped back to them. I am debating if it is worth it. Has anyone shipped their TV back and can report on the shipping cost and the turn around time?

Darkhawk76
02-27-07, 01:54 PM
Sounds as if the tuner is going out. The shipping cost for a 70 poundish item not including insurance is around $120 or so. As for the turnaround, expect to wait at least a month or so as some have reported on here.

honemastert
02-27-07, 07:02 PM
MSNBC staff and news service reports
Updated: 4:36 p.m. MT Feb 26, 2007

Costco Wholesale Corp. is tightening its policy on how long people can take to return electronics items, following concerns that the retailer's traditional lenience was hurting its bottom line.

Costco has until now allowed customers to return items at any time for a full refund, except for personal computers, where returns were limited to six months. But there have been concerns that the policy was proving problematic for some high-end electronics such as high-definition televisions.

Some people took televisions home and then returned them when they were disappointed because the picture didn’t look as good as it did in the store. A bigger problem for the company, however, was that some people appeared to be taking advantage of big price drops by returning an older item and then snapping up a newer, less expensive — and, in some cases, fancier — model.

"It's created an issue for returns," said Chief Financial Officer Richard Galanti.

Financial analysts, who have raised concerns about the financial repercussions of Costco's permissive policy, appeared relieved by the change.

“Provided the margin and earnings per share drag caused by the lenient policy, the change is a positive development for the stock and will begin to cap margin dilution going forward,” said JP Morgan Securities Inc. analyst Charles Grom in a research note.

The new policy, which the company quietly noted on its Web site, will give customers only 90 days to return televisions, computers, cameras, camcorders, portable music players and cell phones.

Those products represented about 5 percent — or roughly $3 billion — of Costco's $59 billion in sales from its fiscal year ended Sept. 3.

The Issaquah, Wash.-based retailer introduced the revamped policy Monday in its 109 California warehouse stores and plans to debut the changes in the rest of its 371 U.S. locations within the next five weeks, Galanti said.

To help soften the blow, Costco plans to extend the warranties on televisions and PCs for a total of two years. The company also plans to roll out a technical support line to help customers who may be returning items such as iPods because they are frustrated that they can't get them to work correctly, Galanti said.

"We think it's still the best policy out there, by a long shot," Galanti said.

Costco customers pay between $50 and $100 per year in membership fees to shop for discounted items ranging from suit jackets to dishwasher detergent.

gt1434a
02-28-07, 07:22 AM
How did you guys install the driver for this LCD on Windows Vista? The old driver doesn't work and the standard PnP monitor gets me up to 1600X1200. Any suggestions?
Thanks!

jpconard
02-28-07, 01:49 PM
Quote:
Originally Posted by jamex27
So in conclusion, does it have HDCP compliant HDMI?, from what I heard most problems are with PS3 but that is happening with other tvs or panels too (for example the westy 37' 1080p), the fix for that is disconnect the HDMI cable when you are seeing the flashes and then plug it again (in the PS 3 unit) and then it should work. But my question goes for any other HDCP devices (for example a HDCP compliant video card and trying to play HD DVDs for example from the computer)



I don't think its an issue anymore...at least not for me, if you want HD DVD or Blu ray playback via computer - non hdcp card with digital connection (DVI or hdmi) just use ANYDVD HD, it removes AACCS, ICT, HDCP whatever... Only for HD DVD for the moment...not bluray, haven't seen a popular bluray drive for the pc.....

This is still very much an issue for everybody who wants to playback HD-DVD legally. With this TV as well as ALL others as far as I know. If anybody knows any LCD that supports HDCP with 1:1 pixel map for desktop as well as HDCP video content playback WITHOUT changing modes on the display, I would like to know about it.

Why is it still an issue for everybody -
1) AnyDVD can't be counted on to be available in the future (kind of like DVD Shrink).
2) HD-DVD / Blu-ray will probably turn on the ICT flags in the future.
3) Cablecard support for PC available to order NOW, required HDCP to work NOW (no way around it).

Now with no CostCo return, what if it don't work when you purchase that HDCP video card? No return out of luck. I predict lawsuits a plenty over HDCP.

ashutoshsm
02-28-07, 02:35 PM
How did you guys install the driver for this LCD on Windows Vista? The old driver doesn't work and the standard PnP monitor gets me up to 1600X1200. Any suggestions?
Thanks!

XP and Linux didn't need any monitor 'drivers'. The negotiation/synch initiated over DVI tells the PC/video card what the monitor is capable of. Mine showed up, named the Sceptre 42 Naga, and capable of a plethora of resolutions maxing out at 1920x1080

Perhaps you need to UPgrade your Vista machine to XP. Or Linux :p

ashutoshsm
02-28-07, 02:35 PM
I predict lawsuits a plenty over HDCP.

I certainly hope so :)

gt1434a
02-28-07, 03:38 PM
What about if you connect through VGA though? There was a driver to be used with XP on the Sceptre website. Also, a few posts ago someone mentioned he was using the x37 with vista at 1920x1080 resolution. I just can't believe that VISTA doesn't let me do that. Perhaps is it a problem with VGA? would component or DVI allow me to have the full 1920x1080 w/o special drivers?

Thanks!

XP and Linux didn't need any monitor 'drivers'. The negotiation/synch initiated over DVI tells the PC/video card what the monitor is capable of. Mine showed up, named the Sceptre 42 Naga, and capable of a plethora of resolutions maxing out at 1920x1080

Perhaps you need to UPgrade your Vista machine to XP. Or Linux :p

ckaneko
03-01-07, 12:10 PM
To everyone who mentioned purchasing the x37sv, it's a GREAT monitor! I prefer it over my 2 24" Dells I use at work.

The 1920x1080p issue, I gave up and took the easy way out. I ended up buying a gForce 8800 GTS, and all is well. I think the issue I had was fluke, I found very little information when did my research. I had an ATI x1800, and I don't think it has to do with the difference of capabilities in the two cards.

OH ONE WORD OF WARNING!!! I added a new wallpaper yesterday morning and left my Sceptre on all day while I was at work, and what yah know, slight burn in. It's not so bad, noticeable only under certain image conditions (IE, solid blue background). I made sure to enable my screen saver.

Nimo
03-01-07, 02:37 PM
This is still very much an issue for everybody who wants to playback HD-DVD legally. With this TV as well as ALL others as far as I know. If anybody knows any LCD that supports HDCP with 1:1 pixel map for desktop as well as HDCP video content playback WITHOUT changing modes on the display, I would like to know about it.

Why is it still an issue for everybody -
1) AnyDVD can't be counted on to be available in the future (kind of like DVD Shrink).
2) HD-DVD / Blu-ray will probably turn on the ICT flags in the future.
3) Cablecard support for PC available to order NOW, required HDCP to work NOW (no way around it).

Now with no CostCo return, what if it don't work when you purchase that HDCP video card? No return out of luck. I predict lawsuits a plenty over HDCP.


I don't quite follow what your talking about, my 37" is hooked up via HDMI to HDMI to 2 x 7600GT Diamonds . My XBox add on plays any store bought HD DVD using PDVD 7.1 in DVI mode. When running the advisor it's all green lights, so I don't know if later models are having problems with hand shakes, I bought mine last year with the March fw.

As Hakujin, mentioned this TV really does rock as a monitor I'm surprised he bought another one, I to was waiting on Sharps "flagship" 92u's I havn't seen banding look that bad ever on an any LCD just plain terrible! Still on the fence looking for a 42/46" lcd. Maybe by April Sharp will have at least cleaned up their act for the 42" and maybe the 8 series is the better TV.

My only complaint with my Sceptre is the channel surfing and missing features in the menu / DCI bug. Cycling through the source button is a pain but learned to live with it. Buens RTC made this back into a TV in PC VGA mode I never use the built in tuner unless I'm recording something on the PC. The performance and digital playback content is still awesome, and now with the add on your playing content made to be played on this monitor, and it looks fantastic using the 93.71's. And only adjusting the desktop gamma and setting the sharpness to 4% to compensate for the HD DVD soft look, it cleans it up and the PQ is well... let me put it to you this way, I actually said WoW! when I popped in my free KK DVD for testing.

Still a happy Sceptre camper.

Regards, nimo/smurfer

gt1434a
03-01-07, 10:23 PM
I have the 8800 GTS with Vista Ultimate X64 and I can't get 1080p resolution. Vista is set to PnP monitor with a maximum resolution of 1600x1200. I am connected using the vga port. Can you give me some details on how you got it to work?

To everyone who mentioned purchasing the x37sv, it's a GREAT monitor! I prefer it over my 2 24" Dells I use at work.

The 1920x1080p issue, I gave up and took the easy way out. I ended up buying a gForce 8800 GTS, and all is well. I think the issue I had was fluke, I found very little information when did my research. I had an ATI x1800, and I don't think it has to do with the difference of capabilities in the two cards.

OH ONE WORD OF WARNING!!! I added a new wallpaper yesterday morning and left my Sceptre on all day while I was at work, and what yah know, slight burn in. It's not so bad, noticeable only under certain image conditions (IE, solid blue background). I made sure to enable my screen saver.

hakujin
03-02-07, 10:40 AM
This is still very much an issue for everybody who wants to playback HD-DVD legally. With this TV as well as ALL others as far as I know. If anybody knows any LCD that supports HDCP with 1:1 pixel map for desktop as well as HDCP video content playback WITHOUT changing modes on the display, I would like to know about it.

Why is it still an issue for everybody -
1) AnyDVD can't be counted on to be available in the future (kind of like DVD Shrink).
2) HD-DVD / Blu-ray will probably turn on the ICT flags in the future.
3) Cablecard support for PC available to order NOW, required HDCP to work NOW (no way around it).

Now with no CostCo return, what if it don't work when you purchase that HDCP video card? No return out of luck. I predict lawsuits a plenty over HDCP.

I'm hoping the newer firmware resolves this but I can't be sure until the time comes. I don't have anything but a DVI PC hooked up that handles all my multimedia needs. But I can shed my opinion and a little advice on your issues.

1)AnyDVD is a commercial product and DVD Shrink was not. The owner of DVDShrink went on to work with Nero. My guess is AnyDVD or another will be here for some time to come, PARTICULARLY when there is some DRM to be broke.
2)I can't wait! See #1. I hope that ultimately DRM will meet it's fate and perhaps the industry will listen to everyone that told them so.

The new CostCo return policy is not applicable to you so long as you already purchased your set before the policy took place. At that time, you agreed to a contract and so did CostCo. Your return policy of will be grandfathered, as it should and as relayed to me by CostCo. Rule of thumb is 1 year though. I took mine back after 11 months. If I were really worried about it though, you should be able to get something in writing if you present a big enough concern. Go to your store and be honest. Tell them your worries that this LCD doesn't work as performed.

Personally, I was comfy with just printing out the timestamped return policy when I purchased my LCD. If they challenged it, would have gotten angry. They were very understanding and patient though. Part of that is because there are so many valid reasons to bring this set back for!

I understand your issues. Nimo hit the nail on the head. This is a great set. Part of what makes it good isn't necessarily that it couldn't be much better, but that other LCDs are far worse, IMO. I spent a great deal of time researching budget LCDs (with a Sharp here and there) over the last 5 months and one thing is for sure: Most have far worse problems than this Sceptre. I finally threw in the flag and just got another Naga, lol.


Unrelated, any but OP mod their LCD for TOSLINK (optical) output. I still have the picture, but I'm a relative n00b w/ the soldering iron and wanted to know feelings on the difficulty.

jsondag
03-14-07, 04:47 PM
I need a remote for this tv, I bought mine on ebay and it did not come with a remote and the default codes on my harmony remote do not work for it, and since I don't have the original I cannot learn the functions. If anyone is willing to sell me their remote or let me borrow it Let me know at sondag*cox*net

bluemax50
03-14-07, 05:08 PM
I need a remote for this tv, I bought mine on ebay and it did not come with a remote and the default codes on my harmony remote do not work for it, and since I don't have the original I cannot learn the functions. If anyone is willing to sell me their remote or let me borrow it Let me know at sondag*cox*net

I've owned the same TV for over a year and love it!! I'm surpised your Harmony remote doesn't control it. I have two Logitech/Harmony remotes that work perfectly with the TV. What functions can't you control with the default progamming provided with the remotes default programming?

ashutoshsm
03-14-07, 05:37 PM
Harmony remotes DO control Sceptre TVs flawlessly (I have the X42 Naga, but 'm quite sure it uses the same IR codes).

Also, if you DO want to borrow a remote, you should mention (in your post or your profile) your location!

sledge1234
03-15-07, 10:09 AM
I second that. I have the X37SV-Naga and my Harmony 659 works without a need for reading the original remote. I believe there is a Sceptre profile when you use the Harmony program site. All functions/buttons are mapped.

Harmony remotes DO control Sceptre TVs flawlessly (I have the X42 Naga, but 'm quite sure it uses the same IR codes).

Also, if you DO want to borrow a remote, you should mention (in your post or your profile) your location!

jsondag
03-20-07, 06:16 PM
I live in omaha NE

I have read that there are several different versions of this tv and that there are 2 different sets of remote codes that work on different versions and apparently my tv uses the code that is not the default for my harmony 520.

remotes com has replacements and a money back guarantee, I could take advantage of but I don't have $80 for the "deposit"
They mention on their website that they need the serial number for this model to get you the right remote.

ashutoshsm
03-20-07, 09:32 PM
Umm, not to be harsh but I can't help but mention that an 80 'deposit' should not be a concern for someone that has a TV worth between 1-1.5 K (depending on when you bought it).

sledge1234
03-21-07, 09:31 AM
I live in omaha NE

I have read that there are several different versions of this tv and that there are 2 different sets of remote codes that work on different versions and apparently my tv uses the code that is not the default for my harmony 520.

remotes com has replacements and a money back guarantee, I could take advantage of but I don't have $80 for the "deposit"
They mention on their website that they need the serial number for this model to get you the right remote.

I have had 3 different versions of this TV. They all worked with my Harmony 659.
No modifications needed. They all came with the same physical remote and I have used the original Sceptre remote on all 3 versions.

honemastert
03-26-07, 04:37 AM
Just posted a review/update on my experiences with
the new Apple TV device and my Sceptre 37" LCD
here: (http://www.timschneider.org/2007/03/i-got-around-to-dumping-some-video.html)

hakujin
03-27-07, 10:49 PM
regarding that apple tv doohickey.... design A; functionality D- What a waste of this TV's only HDMI port. Definitely need a switch box from monoprice. Overall, I dig the look; I only wish my xbox and it's superior xbmc software could run on that thing. I'd probably pick one up if it did :)

maglito
04-02-07, 09:09 PM
Trying to get 1:1 digital 1920x1080 via PC (Asus AMD 690G motherboard with onboard ATI 1250 graphics thats supports HDCP)

HDCP and HDMI modes never give 1:1 but have great colors (@60Hz there is a small 6-7 pixel black border and at >60Hz it overscans very badly)

DVI input gives 2 inch border on the sizes and 1 inch on top and bottom with horrible colors Black = pink / purple @60 Hz at >60Hz I still get the same horrible colors (unwatchable) but do get 1:1 pixel mapping. Seems like a CYK->RGB conversion problem. My firmware is:

DEBUG 0104
05/08/18 23:00
T370HW01
1920 x 1080

I am assuming there is no way to update the firmware. Am I screwed when it comes to digital 1:1 input? I'm going to try analog VGA next, but so far this is pretty disappaointing (esp after going out of my way for a system with HDCP support).

Any suggestions welcome either here or via PM.

Thanks!

Jgigs
04-04-07, 10:34 AM
Well, I just got an email back from sceptre, they told me I have to send in the monitor for my pixel problem. It seems like i'm the only one on here that has this problem. Once my screen heats up for 15+ mins I get some pixel tearing where the pixels will flash different colors. Changing the timing does nothing to fix this and the longer the tv is on, the worse it gets. After an hour my wallpaper is totally covered with this problem. However, this only happenes on the PC in both DVI and VGA.

That only thing that stinks is I sold my other TV and I don't have the orginal box. + Shipping from NJ will take forever. I wish I bought it from costco. :(


Well, I finally manned up and sent the TV back to sceptre. They've had it for 3 weeks now and I'm guessing they can't pin point the problem. They won't tell me that, but over a week ago they said they replaced parts and are still testing it. I called up yesterday and they told me it's still in testing and he will call me back with status, which he never did btw. I'm just hoping they give me a brand new set, it sucks going back to my 19 inch monitor to play games...

So, what's the latest firmware these days? Mine was:
06/03/29 11:20
T370HW01
1920 X 1080

Kychest
04-05-07, 03:25 AM
Wow, I have done many searches for the optimal settings and can't seem to find anything. I am sure someone posted them some 100 pages ago. Can someone tell me what page they are on or who posted them. Preferably over HDMI.

Thanks,
Kyle

hakujin
04-05-07, 12:32 PM
So, what's the latest firmware these days? Mine was:
06/03/29 11:20
T370HW01
1920 X 1080


Mine is:

DEBUG 0119A D2
06/12/07 15:08
T370HW01
1920x1080

litster
04-12-07, 04:52 PM
I called costco.com and they don't know if they will have it in stock again. Does anyone know when this was last available on costco.com? Thanks!

hakujin
04-13-07, 01:43 PM
No, but not much incentive to buy it at CostCo anymore what with the 90 day policy. Go to newegg; cheaper, no tax; no shipping.

litster
04-14-07, 03:47 AM
Yeah, but newegg has the bulk return policy for the 37" Naga. It means you can't really return it if it is DOA or flawed. There is no tax for me from newegg, though. If it wasn't for the bulk return policy, I would have bought it from newegg. I am still thinking.

jsondag
04-16-07, 05:29 PM
I bought mine on ebay, it was $780 with shipping.

I bought the remote from remotes com, but it doesn't work, so maybe my ir reciever is shot. Other than that it works perfect, $780 well spent.

jsondag
04-18-07, 05:01 PM
This is the response I got from sceptre when I asked them about it.

Dear Customer,

Thank you for contacting us. This model has more than one versions. Some
of the older versions don't support universal remote. However, if you want
to purchase a remote, we can help you. Please fill out the form and fax it
back to us.

We apologize for your inconvenience. Thank you for your understanding.

Best Regards,
Sceptre Technical Support Group

They want $45.00 for the remote. I am thinking though since the remotes com replacement didn't work the IR receiver on the TV is broken. Which I am sure I can replace, it seems to be a standard 3-pin IR receiver/decoder.

Darkhawk76
04-22-07, 09:41 PM
Ok aside from the problems I had when I first got the tv which the memory timing fixed so now my PS3 worked perfect through hdmi after that, my tv has been super. Until friday.....

My wife was walking near the tv rather heavily (aka stomping) and as I'm playing on the PS3 the screen flickers blue and back to the game screen a few times. I figured the hdmi cable was loose so I didnt think anything else. It does it a few more times so I gently resit the cable on the back of the PS3 and Tv and alls well...for a day or 2. Well the flickers get worse and worse and finally it stayed blue friday. Well I had a buisness meeting over the weekend and just now had time to do some investigation. First thing I did was go buy a new hdmi cable and it didnt work either. So I took my PS3 and new and old cable to a friends house and they both work fine. So it wasnt the PS3. Back home, I check the tv and lo and behold I can see the hdmi slot on the tv is loose....not good. And I remember back when I was buying the tv I read a few people had this issue as well. That's why I was very gentle when I plugged mine in. So to get to my point, what do I do now that I know the HDMI is broke on the tv for sure? I bought the tv from Newegg so no way it can be returned. Its only 2 months old, got it in Feb. So I'm a bit peeved. Any help would be great or a heads up for what I'm about to get into.

Darkhawk76
04-23-07, 09:43 AM
C'mon, I can't be the only person this has happened too?

Darkhawk76
04-23-07, 06:56 PM
Well I contacted customer support and they gave me an RMA form and its going to cost me $100 bucks to ship it to them. So far I'm not very happy. How long does it take for them to get the tv back to you?

Kychest
04-24-07, 02:52 PM
C'mon, I can't be the only person this has happened too?

Same thing happened to me. I was furious. Luckily I bought my TV at Costco before they changed their return policy and was able to return it for a full refund. I then bought another unit from newegg because of the free shipping. I am crossing my fingers that it doesn't happen to this set as well. It is really annoying that you have to pay $100 for a defect in the product to have it fixed and wait a couple weeks in the process. I know this information doesn't help much but just wanted to let you know you weren't the only one this has happend to.

NotNormal23224
04-29-07, 04:01 PM
Yep, I get the same thing when I try to do 1080p thruogh component on my PS3 (My 360 is hooked up through VGA and 1080p works, but nothing lines up the same, so ify ou want to size it for movies to fit then games FMVs will be a bit off, etc., like someone else said "overscan")
Anyway I just hooked up my PS3 through HDMI and set it to 1080p, and there are little red and blue dots flickering all over the place, around peoples faces, in black areas, etc., anyone else getting this or have a solution?
I had this a lot when I first got the TV but went to some debug menu foudn on this thread and it fixed it, maybe i need to just go back on there.
Simple solution, lie to the monitor and tell it your PS3 is DVI, wierd dots go away color banding goes away too, the one caveat is that PS2 games get shifted over, so for PS2 emulation switch back to HDMI or HDCP (doesn't matter which) the dots banding and crawl isn;t there in emulation. By the way the same solution works for the Xbox360 Elite, so it's not a PS3 problem.

NotNormal23224
04-29-07, 04:05 PM
...
2. 1080p via HDMI bad for PS3.Causes blue/red pixels. Fix is to run PS3 in DVI mode (thus requiring another cable to purchase).
...

You don't nead to buy any cable at all the x37 does DVI and HDMI over the HDMI port, you just have to lie to the set.

Neomoon
04-30-07, 06:01 PM
Well I'm having the same issues as the other users when feeding a 1080p signal over HDMI or HDCP.

The DVI input works fine for simply running the 360 dashboard, however when I start up Guitar Hero II within DVI the game gets shrunk down and I have a ~300px border around the entire screen, so far this is the only game I own so I am unsure if this happens with all my games or just GHII. What's weird is that if I push the "X" button on the remote to have the blade slide out, the blade fills up the left side like it should.

Another note when trying to launch HD-DVD in DVI mode the movie gets played with a greenish tint and I have to switch back over to HDMI or HDCP mode to get the movie to play fine. I'm a little disappointed with the way the set is performing with my Elite but seeing as this is a cheap set, I get what I paid for :p

tmbcn3
05-29-07, 11:55 PM
Simple solution, lie to the monitor and tell it your PS3 is DVI, wierd dots go away color banding goes away too, the one caveat is that PS2 games get shifted over, so for PS2 emulation switch back to HDMI or HDCP (doesn't matter which) the dots banding and crawl isn;t there in emulation. By the way the same solution works for the Xbox360 Elite, so it's not a PS3 problem.


On my X37, when I play my playstation 3 on 1080P via HDMI there are little blue, green, and red dots that dance around, but when I change the input to DVI to trick it, it just says No Input.

tmbcn3
05-29-07, 11:58 PM
Ok aside from the problems I had when I first got the tv which the memory timing fixed so now my PS3 worked perfect through hdmi after that, my tv has been super. Until friday.....

My wife was walking near the tv rather heavily (aka stomping) and as I'm playing on the PS3 the screen flickers blue and back to the game screen a few times. I figured the hdmi cable was loose so I didnt think anything else. It does it a few more times so I gently resit the cable on the back of the PS3 and Tv and alls well...for a day or 2. Well the flickers get worse and worse and finally it stayed blue friday. Well I had a buisness meeting over the weekend and just now had time to do some investigation. First thing I did was go buy a new hdmi cable and it didnt work either. So I took my PS3 and new and old cable to a friends house and they both work fine. So it wasnt the PS3. Back home, I check the tv and lo and behold I can see the hdmi slot on the tv is loose....not good. And I remember back when I was buying the tv I read a few people had this issue as well. That's why I was very gentle when I plugged mine in. So to get to my point, what do I do now that I know the HDMI is broke on the tv for sure? I bought the tv from Newegg so no way it can be returned. Its only 2 months old, got it in Feb. So I'm a bit peeved. Any help would be great or a heads up for what I'm about to get into.



How do you fix the memory timing for PS3?

kkrull
06-05-07, 10:04 AM
I am still optimistic that the Dish remote volume can control volume on the sceptre and am willing to try again after a year of switching to 'tv' and using the left and right function buttons (not the volume buttons on the remote) every time I want to change the volume. The Dish remotes can use a separate device code for just the volume. So Using the Sony codes below I can control everyting else.

The last remaining problem is to find one of the thousand devices that can be emulated by the dish remote which happens to use the sceptre codes for volume. (i.e. the new device uses the sony left and right function codes for the new device's volume.) None of the other codes need to match.

I am hoping that some of the harmony users can be of help here. Can you figure out which code numbers control the volume? Is there any database for your remote to see what other devices use those same codes for volume?

If you are wondering why I don't switch to a Harmony remote, it is becuase we use Dish specific features all the time like 'DVR', 'guide', 'menu', 'page up', etc. I know we can put those codes into the harmony, but I think they would be less useful without the same labels.

Hold the TV button on the remote until it flashes and then type 758#. Push 'Sat' to go back to normal. Unfortunately you have to switch to 'tv' and use < and > for volume, then switch back to 'sat'. I am working on a fix. Mute and TV power work fine.

sammaz
06-07-07, 04:28 AM
Went to Sceptre today and got my LCD updated to the latest firmware and I can say that ALL ISSUES are fixed concerning HDMI and HDCP inputs. :) :) :) :)

funtownarcade
06-09-07, 03:06 PM
Simple solution, lie to the monitor and tell it your PS3 is DVI, wierd dots go away color banding goes away too, the one caveat is that PS2 games get shifted over, so for PS2 emulation switch back to HDMI or HDCP (doesn't matter which) the dots banding and crawl isn;t there in emulation. By the way the same solution works for the Xbox360 Elite, so it's not a PS3 problem.
Thanks. The only problem is the new firmware upscales PS2 games so the sparklies are back!

Jgigs
06-14-07, 01:25 PM
Well I contacted customer support and they gave me an RMA form and its going to cost me $100 bucks to ship it to them. So far I'm not very happy. How long does it take for them to get the tv back to you?

Well, my RMA was a nightmare. They had the TV for over 2 months. They actually lost it and were blowing smoke up my a$$ the whole time. Here is an email I sent about the whole situation:

Ugh! I don't know how the tech can't replicate the problem. If the monitor is running for ample amount of time, the issue is _*unbearable*_. The screen becomes covered with pixels changing colors. I almost don't want the TV back unless something is found. It was tested on 3 different computers and 3 different video cards (Nvidia Geforce 7800 GS, Nvidia Geforce 8800 GTS & an ATI X1600). All tests experienced the same issue, thus telling me the TV is at fault.

If the TV comes back and I have the same problem, I just wasted $100 dollars on shipping, out of my TV / Monitor for over 2 months and on top of that, my warranty expired. I just want to make sure you guys are *completely positive* there are no issues. You guys haven't instilled me with much trust, because you guys have been blowing smoke in me since you received the set. I was told the set was in test on multiple occasions, then a part was replaced and back in test, then a part is on back order and will be fixed ASAP, then only to find out my TV was never tested, no parts have been replaced and it was lost while the Cust. Service Rep. insists he sent me an email on the 12th of April which I never received. Now, there is no problem and my main-board was reworked (what ever that means). The only thing I'm certain of, there was a problem with my TV and after reading over 120 pages of comments about the TV here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=573173&page=122&pp=30 nobody has experienced the same problem as me while many users having the same exact firmware revision as me. If you guys are completely sure there is no issue and I hope you are, then all I can say is send it back.

Josh

Jgigs
06-14-07, 01:31 PM
So, I get the TV back and they never fixed the problem. The only thing they did was update the firmware.

So after speaking him "Son T" their customer service rep, I actually made a video to show him what the problem is and how to expose it. They gave me a new RMA and I just sent the TV back again last Friday on the 8th of June. This time they actually paid for the shipping back, which was nice.

The only thing that really blows is he said they aren't sure they can even fix the problem and no matter what I get the same TV back. They won't replace it if they can't fix it. Hopefully I won't be out of a TV for over 2 months again.

tanru
06-26-07, 10:59 PM
Just registered, all of you have provided great info on Sceptre X37SV-Naga and related LCDs. Got my X37SV-Naga on eBay a couple of weeks ago think its version 2 the eBay Seller sent the wrong remote (it looks like the one you get with a X30) and unit does not respond to it. So from reading this thread and being cheap I bought two Universal Remotes -a Sony RM-V310 and a GE 84918 tried all the Sony codes on both. Some codes don't work at all, most get some response like the Menu button does work likewise the number buttons and the up,down, left and right arrow buttons. So I'm in the Menu screen(strange sometimes cannot get to some of the main menus across the top??) but the real problem and finally my question to all of you - WHERE THE HECK IS THE ENTER KEY ???(no its not the key labeled Enter or OK or any of the other keys I've pressed) Did any of you get a cheap Universal Remote to work? Besides missing the correct remote control also missing is the HDMI cable, the user manual (Sceptre support says they are mailing me one), and the connector on the NTSC/TV Tuner (just an open hole there). I'm starting to realize that by the time I spend the money to replace the missing parts I could have bought a new one from Newegg or Costco. Thanks for any advice and listening to my complaining.

mpathare
07-05-07, 11:16 AM
Hi,
I recently bought my sceptre and am very happy with it. $989 from Newegg :)
I have tried searching this forum for the answer to my question but have not found any and 125 pages is a lot of reading.

The manual tells you how to set favorites for SD channels. How do you do the same for DTV channels? Also is there any way to remap channels? I dont understand how the channel numbers work for DTV channels. When I look at the EPG I see numbers like 87-1. What numbers do I have to press on the remote to get to that channel? 87? 1?

Thanks.

highdefgamer
07-06-07, 12:57 PM
hey ive been researching hi defs for a few weeks now on my limited budget. I plan to use it for a good chunk of the time with pc gaming/surfing which is why i opted for a 1080p... as well as movies and limited hdtv depending if i can rip signals from my comcast. Ive come down to this naga and the slightly more expensive and better Sharp LC 32D62U - 32". I was wondering if anyone has had any durabilty problems with the sceptres, as ive read of breakdowns and/or reductions in pic quality over time. Ive considered dishing out the extra few bucks for the sharp but if the naga does preform as well with similar durabilty as most other lcds i see no reason why not to get the bigger naga for less. Also, ive read of sceptres customer service being "less than par" but if your tv does stop working under their year waranty they do usually replace it, correct? What do you guys think?

Koui
07-06-07, 01:48 PM
Ive considered dishing out the extra few bucks for the sharp but if the naga does preform as well with similar durabilty as most other lcds i see no reason why not to get the bigger naga for less. Also, ive read of sceptres customer service being "less than par" but if your tv does stop working under their year waranty they do usually replace it, correct? What do you guys think?I've had my X37SV since March of last year and have had NO problems with it so far. There's no picture quality degradation noticeable. Since I bought it from C*stco under their old policy I can return it to them for a full refund if needed.

My suggestion is to wait for the new 46" Sceptre FullHD that's being sold online by C*stco in August. It should be around the same price as the Sharp after discount.

regedit
07-09-07, 11:04 AM
I purchased my X37 in December of 2005 and it worked great for my needs, (XBOX 360 w/add on, S-DVD, Dish Satellite HD etc..). Unfortunately, due to an accident, the screen was shattered and now there is no picture.

Contacting Sceptre resulted in a price quote of $1000.00 PLUS SHIPPING! ($200)!!

Well thats not an option, so I replaced the set with a new Samsung 42" and am quite happy with it. But what to do with my Sceptre? I put it in the Sammy box and totally wrapped it up in plastic to keep dust and dirt out. I would like to find a source for just the panel and replace it myself. A good service manual would be helpful too. I'm an electronics tech and used to doing stuff like this so I think I could do it, but if anyone thinks special equipment would be needed, that would be helpful information.

So any information about Sceptre service companies and parts would be greatly appreciated. BTW, only the picture is gone, everything else on the TV still works great.

Thanks in advance!

wktaylor
07-09-07, 04:57 PM
hey ive been researching hi defs for a few weeks now on my limited budget. I plan to use it for a good chunk of the time with pc gaming/surfing which is why i opted for a 1080p... as well as movies and limited hdtv depending if i can rip signals from my comcast. Ive come down to this naga and the slightly more expensive and better Sharp LC 32D62U - 32". I was wondering if anyone has had any durabilty problems with the sceptres, as ive read of breakdowns and/or reductions in pic quality over time. Ive considered dishing out the extra few bucks for the sharp but if the naga does preform as well with similar durabilty as most other lcds i see no reason why not to get the bigger naga for less. Also, ive read of sceptres customer service being "less than par" but if your tv does stop working under their year waranty they do usually replace it, correct? What do you guys think?

I'm actually looking at taking mine back either this month or next month. The hdmi port is one that does not have the screw above it, and so over time it has gotten loose and the connection sometimes jumps or it won't connect at all. It will work for the pc if I use a coffee can to hold th hdmi cable just right, but it won't work at all with the dish network vip 622 receiver. I have to use component again and the picture is much more washed out and it has the dynamic contrast that I can't turn off. I find that "feature" really annoying. you can disable that option over hdmi, but not for anything else. Unfortunatly I swapped the hdmi connection too many times before I broke down and got a switch, and it's now breaking down.

Any suggestions from naga 37 owners on a replacement set? I've been really happy with the performance of this set until recently, especially over hdmi. I'm kind of looking for something in the 46-52 range and below 2.5k.

EWUJoe
07-10-07, 12:01 AM
I jsut got this screen and when i set the resolution to 1920x1080 while connected to my pc via hdmi/dvi the desktop is outside the viewable area. The start bar, the gadgets and the desktop icons on the right side are all outside the view of the screen. How do I fix this? if i scale the resolution back to 1768x992 I can see everything. This viewable area problem also exists with xbox 360. HELP!

EWUJoe
07-10-07, 12:02 AM
I just got this screen and when i set the resolution to 1920x1080 while connected to my pc via hdmi/div the desktop is outside the viewable area. The start bar, the gadgets and the desktop icons on the right side are all outside the view of the screen. How do I fix this? if i scale the resolution back to 1768x992 I can see everything. This viewable area problem also exists with xbox 360. HELP!

wktaylor
07-11-07, 11:32 AM
I just got this screen and when i set the resolution to 1920x1080 while connected to my pc via hdmi/div the desktop is outside the viewable area. The start bar, the gadgets and the desktop icons on the right side are all outside the view of the screen. How do I fix this? if i scale the resolution back to 1768x992 I can see everything. This viewable area problem also exists with xbox 360. HELP!
Make sure you have the input set to DVI for your pc connection.

mannadiars
07-15-07, 08:43 PM
I have the below set up:
I have connected the monitor to a computer (Mac Mini) per the instructions in the manual (DVI->HDMI cable connected between HDMI port on tv and DVI port on computer, and 1/8" stereo cable connected between PC Audio In port of tv and headphone jack on computer). When I select the PC Source DVI, it says there is no signal. Did any one experience the same problem? My Wii works fine with the AV1. Please help me identify the issue....

aerogt3
07-18-07, 03:37 PM
Does anyone know if component supports 1080p with the newest firmware? Are there still PS3 blue ray issues?

dshade69
07-23-07, 03:33 PM
Does anyone know if component supports 1080p with the newest firmware? Are there still PS3 blue ray issues?

I can tell you that I have one of the new "blue light" versions and I can not get 1080p working correctly over component on the xbox 360.

Dan JM
07-25-07, 11:46 PM
OH ONE WORD OF WARNING!!! I added a new wallpaper yesterday morning and left my Sceptre on all day while I was at work, and what yah know, slight burn in. It's not so bad, noticeable only under certain image conditions (IE, solid blue background). I made sure to enable my screen saver.

Can someone explain this? I thought LCDs didn't burn in?

dogman-x
08-04-07, 11:23 AM
I have the below set up:
I have connected the monitor to a computer (Mac Mini) per the instructions in the manual (DVI->HDMI cable connected between HDMI port on tv and DVI port on computer, and 1/8" stereo cable connected between PC Audio In port of tv and headphone jack on computer). When I select the PC Source DVI, it says there is no signal. Did any one experience the same problem? My Wii works fine with the AV1. Please help me identify the issue....

Note that most DVI output ports supports both analog (DVI-A) & digital (DVI-D) outputs on different pins of the same connector. I would guess Mac Mini drives out the graphics signal on either DVI-A or DVI-D (not both). The HDMI connector only uses DVI-D, so if the Mac is driving the signal on DVI analog, there will be no signal at the HDMI input. I don't know a lot about the Mac, but with a PC there is sometimes an issue where you have to fiddle with the graphics configuration to be sure that digital graphics is default in order to get the PC to drive out DVI-D.

Hope this helps...

Stunner2xx
08-04-07, 05:44 PM
haha I do! I don't think there will be too many on this forum though. But anyway, I'm thinking about upgrading from my 24" dell to this and am a bit worried about something this big being on my desk. Ths seems like it would be way too big for the distance that I would be sitting at.


HAha i play too. i would love to play on my tv but going to use the monitor. I dont want to buy the cable and the tv is way too far away. I would have to disconnect and reconnect. Whos your fav hero?

helvetio
08-14-07, 04:36 PM
Hi all, I've had this tv/monitor for about a year now and all has been great. I have it hooked up to a HTPC with perfect pixel mapping so the image has been great. However, yesterday when I tried to turn it on it simply wouldn't! No matter what I do, i.e. reconnecting the cable multiple times, using the remote or the power button on the underside, it just appears to be dead. This is on a known good outlet. Has anybody experienced that?

Thankfully I purchased this set from costko before they changed their return policy, but it would still be a giant hassle.
Thank you.
Chris

vivarey
08-15-07, 01:58 PM
Does anybody still have the original box for this TV? I'm willing to pay for shipping and throw in some extra cash if you can send it to me. Just PM me.

dmodemd
08-27-07, 02:52 PM
Mine has DIED. I bought it in Dec. of 2005 and last week I went to power it on and nothing. Tried directly plugged in the wall, power switch on the set. nothing. So I returned it to Costco... no questions asked! Got my $1799 back including the $100 mfr rebate and went and bought a Phillips 42" 1080p

Punisher007
08-29-07, 01:43 PM
I bought my unit in April 2006 from Costco. Can someone explain what options I have to return it and what the return process entails?

The monitor has had a large noticeable defect/discoloration for close to 6 months now, but I have not been able to return it because I don't own a car.

Thanks.

Dave Kristol
09-01-07, 04:05 PM
I bought my unit in April 2006 from Costco. Can someone explain what options I have to return it and what the return process entails?

You should be eligible for the original Costco return policy, which was anytime, for any reason, no questions asked. You need to get the unit to a Costco, if possible in its original box, with a receipt. Unless you paid with Costco AMEX, be prepared to get cash in the amount you paid., even if you paid by (other) credit card.

Dave Kristol

jbrf742002
09-05-07, 07:57 PM
I purchased my X37 in December of 2005 and it worked great for my needs, (XBOX 360 w/add on, S-DVD, Dish Satellite HD etc..). Unfortunately, due to an accident, the screen was shattered and now there is no picture.

Contacting Sceptre resulted in a price quote of $1000.00 PLUS SHIPPING! ($200)!!!

Hey man, my Sceptre x37sv Naga is dead, had mine for two years and originally paid $1800 from costo.
I need to return my set for refund, but I don't have my stand! And they want the stand... Would you sell you stand to me? I willing to pay reasonable $$. Call me anytime. 760-473-3719 -Juan
Anyone, selling the original stand for this TV? I'll arrange delivery.

Sceptre service center says its a blown power supply and it costs $450 to fix.

Thanks in advance.

jbrf742002
09-11-07, 12:12 AM
Hey man, my Sceptre x37sv Naga is dead, had mine for two years and originally paid $1800 from costo.
I need to return my set for refund, but I don't have my stand! And they want the stand... Would you sell you stand to me? I willing to pay reasonable $$.
Anyone, selling the original stand for this TV? I'll arrange delivery.

Sceptre service center says its a blown power supply and it costs $450 to fix.

Thanks in advance.

I found my stand and was able to return my Sceptre37 to costco. I even got my full refund!.. After owning it for 2 years. That was awesome.
So dove into a Philips 42plf7422D/37. Its looking very nice as my center piece in my living room. Use it most definately for ESPN content. Sceptre 37 = $2000. Refund post 2years = granted. 2K credit = priceless.
check forum. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=842732&page=129

bshor
09-12-07, 01:46 AM
I just hooked up my new PS3 to my Sceptre 37 using HDMI. I have the same pink crawling dots that other people have noticed. I switched the input to DVI which solves the pink dot problem -- but introduces a new one -- no audio!

I saw some references to fixing the memory timing problem via the diagnostic menu. How do I get there?

To fix the audio problem, I hooked up the AV cables to my TV, a temporary fix.

And there's another problem -- when I use the fake DVI input, BD playback is horrible -- a pink tint everywhere. But when I switch to HDMI (which has the pink dots in the XMB) ... it's perfectly fine. ARGH!

EscapingJail
09-18-07, 06:19 PM
Without the speakers how wide is the set? I need to know if it will fit in my entertainment center.

I'm looking for the width, without the speakers. And you might as well tell me with them too, Thanks.

hakujin
09-24-07, 09:03 AM
Went to Sceptre today and got my LCD updated to the latest firmware and I can say that ALL ISSUES are fixed concerning HDMI and HDCP inputs. :) :) :) :)
can you please tell me which firmware version it is by pressing the channel + and - keys simultaneously pleae?

I have what I hope is the newer firmware but wwould like to check what your firmware is.

DEBUG 0119A 02
06/12/07 15:08
T370HW01
1920 X 1080

hakujin
10-04-07, 02:20 PM
anyone? newer, older or the same?

LandOfApricotsxx
11-24-07, 08:48 PM
I just picked up a Toshiba HD-D3 HD-DVD player at C and all I get is a blank blue screen using the HDMI cable included with the D3. If I connect the D3 to the Naga with a component cable it works fine -- except regular DVD upconverting is disabled (gak!!), and I hear there is the potential some HD-DVD discs will not play in full resolution.

I've never used the HDMI port on my Sceptre x37sv Naga, but all the other ports have worked fine. I purchased the Naga at C back in Feb 2006. The firmware is:

Debug 0111
06/01/16 14:58
T370HW01

Any suggestions on a fix? I'd rather not take it back to C for a refund, but if the HDMI won't work I may just do that.

MrGST
11-26-07, 02:46 PM
I have an early Sceptre 37" Naga that I purchased from Costco about 2.5 years ago. Up until about two weeks ago, it has worked great and overall, I've been very happy with it.

Now, after it's been on for about 30 minutes, it suddenly turns off. When this happens, it cannot be turned on with the remote or power button under the bezel. The only option is to unplug it from the wall, wait 5 to 10 seconds and then plug it back in.

Sometimes, it only happens once and then it will stay on fine for the evening. Other times, it shuts down several times within in hour. I have emailed Sceptre tech support but have not heard back yet.

Any ideas???

If it helps, the firmware is:
Debug 0104
05/08/28 23:00
T370HW01

As far as I know, this is what the TV shipped with.

Thanks!

hakujin
11-27-07, 11:56 AM
Anyone know of a way to get audio out when the VGA is being used as component? I don't have a receiver in the room my 37" is now, and this is a major bummer. I'll have to move the Wii into a different room or get a component video switcher :-(

Valence01
11-29-07, 01:00 AM
If I understand your question correctly, you want to connect the audio output from the WII, to the Sceptre and have the audio play through the built-in speakers, whilst WII video is connected up through VGA-YPbPr2 connection? If so, there is a PC audio input on the back of the Sceptre that is active for all "Source PC" inputs except DTV and HDMI. So DVI, HDCP, VGA-PC, VGA-YPbPr2 selections all pass the PC audio input to the speakers and "earphone" jack.

I suppose that you want to do this because you've got something else occupying the other component video input (YPbPr1)? Of course, you'll need the appropriate adapter to go from 3 RCA plug component video to VGA connector. You'll also need an RCA to mini-headphone adapter, to be able to connect the WII's audio output to the Sceptre's PC audio input.

Just so nobody gets the wrong idea here, you cannot connect component video this way to an ordinary computer monitor, since few computer monitors can deal with anything but RGB via VGA connector. The Secptre and maybe some other HDTVs, accept YPbPr component video via VGA connector, in addition to standard RGB.

hakujin
11-30-07, 10:47 AM
ou'll also need an RCA to mini-headphone adapter, to be able to connect the WII's audio output to the Sceptre's PC audio input.

I did not think of that... thanks a lot. I moved the wii back into the game room because of this problem. Yes, I have a component to VGA adapter. I originally used it with the 360 since I was running optical but wanted to put that RGB port to good use so this will work. I'll see if they have one at radio shack. I do see lets of mini stereo headphone to headphone (2 to 1) online but don't see this one yet.

Valence01
12-02-07, 12:23 AM
I did not think of that... thanks a lot. I moved the wii back into the game room because of this problem. Yes, I have a component to VGA adapter. I originally used it with the 360 since I was running optical but wanted to put that RGB port to good use so this will work. I'll see if they have one at radio shack. I do see lets of mini stereo headphone to headphone (2 to 1) online but don't see this one yet.

Try this one:

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2103225&cp=&pg=3&sr=1&origkw=adapter&kw=adapter&parentPage=search

It's a bit of a ripoff, but what can you do? There are also full cables with 2 female RCAs on one end and 1/8 inch stereo headphone plug on the other end, but usually the ones at radio shack have male RCAs and then you'd need male to male RCA couplers. The cost can get out of hand quickly, unless you buy online at monoprice or similar. Something like this:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10218&cs_id=1021804&p_id=666&seq=1&format=2

MrGST
12-03-07, 05:36 PM
Ok, no help from Sceptre because the TV is out of warranty. Any ideas???


I have an early Sceptre 37" Naga that I purchased from Costco about 2.5 years ago. Up until about two weeks ago, it has worked great and overall, I've been very happy with it.

Now, after it's been on for about 30 minutes, it suddenly turns off. When this happens, it cannot be turned on with the remote or power button under the bezel. The only option is to unplug it from the wall, wait 5 to 10 seconds and then plug it back in.

Sometimes, it only happens once and then it will stay on fine for the evening. Other times, it shuts down several times within in hour. I have emailed Sceptre tech support but have not heard back yet.

Any ideas???

If it helps, the firmware is:
Debug 0104
05/08/28 23:00
T370HW01

As far as I know, this is what the TV shipped with.

Thanks!

Valence01
12-04-07, 12:53 AM
Ok, no help from Sceptre because the TV is out of warranty. Any ideas???

Power supply.

MrGST
12-04-07, 12:44 PM
Power supply.

Hmm, ok. Sounds plausible.
What's odd is that it doesn't seem like an overheating issue because it happens when the TV has only been on for as little as 15 to 20 minutes then when I unplug/replug it, it may not happen again for an hour or two...or sometimes it does happen again within 20 to 30 minutes. It's not consistent and then there are times when it doesn't happen at all.

Thanks.

hakujin
12-12-07, 09:31 PM
Try this one:

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2103225&cp=&pg=3&sr=1&origkw=adapter&kw=adapter&parentPage=search

It's a bit of a ripoff, but what can you do? There are also full cables with 2 female RCAs on one end and 1/8 inch stereo headphone plug on the other end, but usually the ones at radio shack have male RCAs and then you'd need male to male RCA couplers. The cost can get out of hand quickly, unless you buy online at monoprice or similar. Something like this:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10218&cs_id=1021804&p_id=666&seq=1&format=2

Thanks! I didn't see this post at the time, but I did stop by Radio Shack and they had the 1st one in stock. I have it plugged into my Sceptre now... just waiting to put the wii back in there, once I replace it with a 360 or ps3. Thanks again!

Teran
12-24-07, 03:02 PM
I picked up one from NewEgg and got it installed today.

It went above the fireplace in the kitchen. I tore out to the studs on that wall and ran 10 RG6QS, 3 CAT-5, 1 HDMI, and power. Two of the RG-6 are terminated with F connectors, 7 are terminated with RCA connectors for component and audio, and 1 is a spare. The CAT-5 are for when I add IR, USB, etc. These went into 6 junction boxes that are recessed into the wall. For a mount, I made a pair of french cleats out of 3/4" baltic birch ply so that the monitor is only 3/4" out from the wall. That is just enough room for the cables to come out of the recess and down to the monitor.

My wife is happy.

hakujin
01-09-08, 09:13 AM
I picked up one from NewEgg and got it installed today.

It went above the fireplace in the kitchen. I tore out to the studs on that wall and ran 10 RG6QS, 3 CAT-5, 1 HDMI, and power. Two of the RG-6 are terminated with F connectors, 7 are terminated with RCA connectors for component and audio, and 1 is a spare. The CAT-5 are for when I add IR, USB, etc. These went into 6 junction boxes that are recessed into the wall. For a mount, I made a pair of french cleats out of 3/4" baltic birch ply so that the monitor is only 3/4" out from the wall. That is just enough room for the cables to come out of the recess and down to the monitor.

My wife is happy.

10 Coax and 3 CAT 5? Geez louise, that's a a great deal of cables. Why on earth so much for one tv with two tuners and what does the CAT5 have to do with IR and USB. IR is line of site wireless, and USB... will you be running a USB signal on CAT5?? I've never heard of such a thing but is the only use I can surmise at this point.

oops, you said the coax is for component, composite, etc. So you're able to run component video signal within coax line. I imagine that'd have to terminate twice so whatever receiving end would also have compeonent available to the corresponding devices output. Seems more work than worth rather than just running straight component video, etc. Can that support 1080p? Inquiring minds want to know. :)

Teran
01-09-08, 09:41 AM
One CAT-5 is used for an IR repeater. All electronic components are in the equipment closet on another floor of the house.

IR Receiver (http://www.smarthome.com/8130W.html)

The second CAT-5 is used for a USB repeater/hub. I have a wireless keyboard/mouse plugged into this. The USB hub and keyboard/mouse receiver is mounted behind the monitor.

USB Repeater (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812101157)
Wireless keyboard w/mousepad (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16823166047)

The coax lines that are used for component video and audio are terminated with RCA jacks.

This install is over a fireplace. Once I closed up the wall there was no going back. It turned out to be a clean install. The only things you see are the monitor over the fireplace and a small keyboard w/trackpad and a remote on the table. Capabilities include FM radio, access to the networked movie library and MP3 collection, full PC desktop, OTA HD, Dish HD-PVR (622), and access to all other audio/video components in the home theater equipment stack (DVD, VCR, etc).

Currently, I only use 1080P over a DVI-to-HDMI connection from a Kubuntu based PC, which is also in the equipment closet. I did test 1080P on the component runs, though, and it is fine.

Teran
01-09-08, 10:33 AM
Here is a picture. Pardon the unfinished wall. I'll texture coat and paint when I am done with the rest of the kitchen.

xsnrg
01-09-08, 10:41 AM
MrGST -- I had nearly the same problem with our Sceptre 37-Naga. It worked great for about 10 months, then one day it just went dark. Turning it on, the LED would light, the screen would show quickly with dark in the center, and then it would go dead again, but the LED would stay on. Ours was under warranty, so we sent it back to Sceptre. The box was absolutely destroyed in the process, and when the tv came back, it was in pieces.. the bezel was scuffed, the cover for the stand was broken, etc. Sceptre, to their credit did replace the stand, and we were able to live with the scuffs, but not real happy. We used the TV until December when the exact same thing happened again (probably another 6 months or so). There was no way I was going to send it in again, and Sceptre would not send me parts to replace it myself, siting "liability reasons", so I took the set back to Costco and got my money back, having purchased it at a time they had unlimited returns.

We were quite happy with the set, and had we not had the shipping problem/power supply snaffu, it would still be our set today. It had a good picture and was easy to operate. The ability to drive full 1920x1080 from the vga was a feature that few sets today have even.

hakujin
01-11-08, 11:21 AM
Here is a picture. Pardon the unfinished wall. I'll texture coat and paint when I am done with the rest of the kitchen.
Interesting. This cable arrangement wouldn't be my 1st choice but if it works.... makes sense now that I re-read all your A/V equipment is in a different room. That's pretty novel. I go a much simpler route whereby I serve my bedroom with a media extender and the game room gets the htpc, but this would be really neat for serving the home all with the same PC, even cooler if the PC could serve multiple concurrent x264 720p streams. Thanks for sharing. Would it be possible to see your termination box?

Teran
01-11-08, 12:20 PM
I'll post a pic of the box when I take the screen down to texture coat and paint.

It is basically a box made out of 1/2" mdf that has 3 upfacing and 3 downfacing junction boxes. The front opening is 15" wide X 4" high and recesses 3 1/2" deep from the front of the wall. When you look into it you have...

4 RCA Audio | Power | HDMI
that face down

2 RJ-45 | 3 RCA Component Video | 2 F-Connectors
that face up

The main goal was to have no external cables and treat it simply as a monitor with controller inputs (IR and USB) while providing for the ability to be able to replace it with any other monitor in the future.

What cabling alternatives do you have in mind?

hakujin
01-11-08, 02:55 PM
[quote=Teran;12778717

What cabling alternatives do you have in mind?[/quote]

None, considering you've stated all your A/V equipment is in another room. I misread it the 1st time and wondered why someone would go through all that... now it's crystal, as running the lengths that you'd probably require would likely create other problems. Plus, I'm not a skilled craftsman such as yourself. For me, I'd just plug in an extender or HTPC in small form factor and stream media.

Are you connecting remote room PC via HDMI?

grubavs
03-12-08, 01:11 PM
Hi. Bought the 37" from COSTCO in Dec 2005 for my Father-in-Law. In the last couple of weeks, it's developed a brown stain (really looks like the TV was set up on it's left edge and some coffee or pee was allowed to dry on the screen behind the glass - it almost appears to be a facial profile). It's very obvious in tan/brown/yellow background views.
Anybody else seen this?
BTW: I searched the thread for "BROWN STAIN", "COLOR STAIN". I don't know what to call it.
Thanks.

MegaZone23
03-21-08, 05:39 AM
I am a new member of the Former Sceptre X37SV-Naga Owners Group. Hopefully this is a problem limited to the early models of the X37, as it seems to be somewhat common.

I bought mine in late March 2006, and I had absolutely no problems with it. The channel changing was a bit slow for my tastes for OTA HDTV, but it wasn't anything I couldn't get over. About 2 months ago, I started noticing a dark patch on the screen whenever my DVD player would power on and display the green switching screen. Monday morning I was watching some video files from my PC when I took a short break to take care of my 4 month old. When I came back, the TV was off. I didn't remember turning it off but thought nothing of it. I thought something of it when I tried to turn it on, and nothing happened. Ironically, I noted the dark patch's presence to my wife that very morning.

I verified that it wasn't a problem with the power -- it's plugged into a UPS, the outlets are good, the AC cable is good, and the UPS is good. No matter what I did, the Standby LED would not come on. I finally called Sceptre, and they said it sounded like the power supply was dead. I asked if it was user-replaceable, and they said it was not. To their credit, they told me that since I bought it from Costco, I should take it back to them for a refund, because it was purchased before they changed their return policy.

Today, I took the TV back to Costco and got a full refund -- no questions asked.

For you people who are experiencing odd color patches on your screens (most evident when the screen is a solid color like blue or green) that were not there previously, you may want to prepare yourself mentally for the worst case scenario.

Unfortunately, this experience has turned me off of Sceptre as a brand for HDTVs. I did a search on the 46" Sceptre that Costco now offers, and I found reports of spontaneously dead TVs within months of purchase. It sounds like Sceptre's quality is spiraling downward. Since Costco's return policy is now only 90 days for TVs, I will not be buying another Sceptre. Instead I will be looking for a major name brand unit to replace it.

On the bright side, I'll be able to upgrade significantly since I paid ~$1,800 shipped two years ago, and prices have come down significantly during that time. I'm thinking I'll check out the Sharp Aquos line.

hakujin
03-22-08, 09:21 AM
I am a new member of the Former Sceptre X37SV-Naga Owners Group. Hopefully this is a problem limited to the early models of the X37, as it seems to be somewhat common.

I bought mine in late March 2006, and I had absolutely no problems with it. The channel changing was a bit slow for my tastes for OTA HDTV, but it wasn't anything I couldn't get over. About 2 months ago, I started noticing a dark patch on the screen whenever my DVD player would power on and display the green switching screen. Monday morning I was watching some video files from my PC when I took a short break to take care of my 4 month old. When I came back, the TV was off. I didn't remember turning it off but thought nothing of it. I thought something of it when I tried to turn it on, and nothing happened. Ironically, I noted the dark patch's presence to my wife that very morning.

I verified that it wasn't a problem with the power -- it's plugged into a UPS, the outlets are good, the AC cable is good, and the UPS is good. No matter what I did, the Standby LED would not come on. I finally called Sceptre, and they said it sounded like the power supply was dead. I asked if it was user-replaceable, and they said it was not. To their credit, they told me that since I bought it from Costco, I should take it back to them for a refund, because it was purchased before they changed their return policy.

Today, I took the TV back to Costco and got a full refund -- no questions asked.

For you people who are experiencing odd color patches on your screens (most evident when the screen is a solid color like blue or green) that were not there previously, you may want to prepare yourself mentally for the worst case scenario.

Unfortunately, this experience has turned me off of Sceptre as a brand for HDTVs. I did a search on the 46" Sceptre that Costco now offers, and I found reports of spontaneously dead TVs within months of purchase. It sounds like Sceptre's quality is spiraling downward. Since Costco's return policy is now only 90 days for TVs, I will not be buying another Sceptre. Instead I will be looking for a major name brand unit to replace it.

On the bright side, I'll be able to upgrade significantly since I paid ~$1,800 shipped two years ago, and prices have come down significantly during that time. I'm thinking I'll check out the Sharp Aquos line.

I'm sorry to hear of your negative experience with Sceptre. I still have an x37 alive and kicking in my bedroom... and had one prior to that; nothing but positive experiences over here.

I word to the wise though... you'll find problems (sometime major) just as much with the higher tiers as you will a brand like Sceptre.

-A Sharp Aquos Owner

MegaZone23
03-25-08, 01:17 PM
I'm sorry to hear of your negative experience with Sceptre. I still have an x37 alive and kicking in my bedroom... and had one prior to that; nothing but positive experiences over here.

I word to the wise though... you'll find problems (sometime major) just as much with the higher tiers as you will a brand like Sceptre.

-A Sharp Aquos Owner

Yes, I do realize that everyone may have issues, but it's probably easier to get a major brand serviced. I had a 27" Sony TV that died less than a year after I bought it, but fortunately, it was still under warranty at the time. It ultimately only lasted about 4 years total, but it didn't hurt as much since I got it for under $400 on sale. Kinda turned me off of Sony, too.

Don't get me wrong, I loved the X37 up until the point it died. If it weren't for the fact that my initial research on the 42" and 46" Sceptres currently available from Costco indicated that they had similar issues, I'd probably get another. Unfortunately, it seems that the old adage of you get what you pay for plays out here. As much as flat panel TVs cost, my expectations go up accordingly, especially since LCD technology is rather mature at this point, and something as basic as the power supply really shouldn't be an issue in my book. Then again, that may be the quality difference between a brand that has 42" and 46" units available for $999 versus a brand whose 42" and 46" units are $2000 and up.

I'm willing to give any manufacturer a chance, and this time it just didn't really pan out for the long term. No harm, no fowl. To Sceptre's credit, their tech support guy didn't try to sell me some **** and bull story. He simply said that the power supply probably needs to be replaced, which any TV repair shop "should be able to do". In my line of work, "should" rarely ever lives up to its name. He also added that since I bought it at Costco before the refund policy changed, I should be able to get a full refund, and he encouraged me to do so. THAT is customer service. I just wish the TV was just as forgiving. I suppose it wouldn't be such a big deal if it weren't for the fact that the "simple" act of getting a large screen TV to/from a repair shop is such a pain in the rear, requiring two people since my arms aren't long enough to lift the fully boxed TV by myself.

I'm glad your Sceptre is still working great -- if anything, I'm jealous. But I'm taking this opportunity to upgrade and found a great deal on a Philips 47" with Ambilight and 120Hz refresh from Sam's Club. It's MSRP is something like $2,300, and they have it for $1,494 including shipping, which puts it at around $1600 after tax. It's the model 47PFL9732D/37 if you're curious. I hope this works out for a much longer period.

Valence01
03-30-08, 01:56 AM
I've had this Sceptre X37SV for 2 years now and just now experienced a failure. Though I'd heard of reports that early sets (pre-QAM) models had trouble with the HDMI connector flaking out, I didn't expect it to happen to my later version, since it has the screw that supposedly stabilizes the HDMI connector. The TV is mounted to an articulating arm that allows the set to be pulled out of it's mounting niche for access to wiring behind the whole equipment shelf unit. Now, it took several months to complete the shelf unit with cabinets and I probably extended and retracted the the TV on it's articulating arm 50-100 times during the construction and setup process. Little did I realize the stress this was placing on the HDMI connector via the HDMI cable. It really didn't seem like much stress and I never gave a second thought to the HDMI connector. Until today, that is. I pulled the TV out to re-route some wires to the Wii and when I put it all back, I got a big surprise. No more HDMI! Wiggling the HDMI connector, I could get brief flashes, but no way could I get it to work as it had before. Since I've long since voided any semblance of warranty on this set, by adding spdif audio out, I decided to disassemble the set, to see what I could see.

Once the cover was removed from the input circuit board, it was clear that the HDMI connector was attached by the securing screw, to the bracket but the contacts of the connector were completely disconnected from the circuit board itself. I've seen this kind of failure before with surface mount connectors before. The spacing of the leads where they're supposed to be soldered to the circuit board is really close, but I managed to solder the connector back to the circuit board, reassembled everything and incredibly enough, it works perfectly now. In the process, I did manage to scan a picture of the circuit board, in case anyone is interested:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3228/2372417015_cb79924841_b.jpg

The circuit board is remarkably uninteresting. One thing that it does show, is the mystery connector that sits next to where the HDMI connector would've been. The mystery connector is jumpered by wires to another location on the circuit board. The wiring is nothing like USB or any other standard interface that I could think of. So, speculations that this connector was a USB interface for firmware upgrades, becomes less likely. I'm not saying that it isn't used for that, just that 7 wires all twisted together, would provide severely compromised signal integrity to any USB connection, which would only need 4 wires at best anyway.

P.J.

acamelot
04-09-08, 01:10 AM
I've had my 37SV for a couple years and it's been working well. But, a couple days ago, I tried to turn it on and the status light changed from red (standby) to green (on) but the display didn't turn on at all.

I tried to turn it off (no response to any controls) and unplugging it for a while, but no help. Whenever I plug it in, the status light immediately goes to green but no picture is shown and there is no response to any controls.

Eventually, I took the whole thing apart (there are three boards -- HD tuner, main board, and power board) hoping to find a burned out fuse (one fuse on power board and it's fine) or a boards showing signs of a burned out component (everything is clean) or a loose cable (everything good) or a hidden hard-reset switch (there are two on the main board and one of them seems to reboot it but they didn't help).

I put it back together and I am still seeing the same behavior.

Called Sceptre -- they didn't know what the problem is but offered to check it out for $250 + $80 for shipping + $100 for me to ship there + $80 for a new shipping box from Sceptre = ~$510 with no guarantees. Or send me individual boards (if in stock, $285 for power board or $295 for main + $20 shipping) and definitely no guarantees that it would fix anything (and no returns). Sending it in doesn't make any sense and spending $315 on a board without being sure is a no-go.

Has anyone seem this problem?? Does anyone have any tips on troubleshooting this? Am I just SOL here?

Teran
04-09-08, 07:28 AM
Could it be a problem with the backlight? Have you tried shining a flashlight on the screen to see if anything is visible?

Valence01
04-09-08, 10:58 AM
I've had my 37SV for a couple years and it's been working well. But, a couple days ago, I tried to turn it on and the status light changed from red (standby) to green (on) but the display didn't turn on at all.

I tried to turn it off (no response to any controls) and unplugging it for a while, but no help. Whenever I plug it in, the status light immediately goes to green but no picture is shown and there is no response to any controls.

Eventually, I took the whole thing apart (there are three boards -- HD tuner, main board, and power board) hoping to find a burned out fuse (one fuse on power board and it's fine) or a boards showing signs of a burned out component (everything is clean) or a loose cable (everything good) or a hidden hard-reset switch (there are two on the main board and one of them seems to reboot it but they didn't help).

I put it back together and I am still seeing the same behavior.

Called Sceptre -- they didn't know what the problem is but offered to check it out for $250 + $80 for shipping + $100 for me to ship there + $80 for a new shipping box from Sceptre = ~$510 with no guarantees. Or send me individual boards (if in stock, $285 for power board or $295 for main + $20 shipping) and definitely no guarantees that it would fix anything (and no returns). Sending it in doesn't make any sense and spending $315 on a board without being sure is a no-go.

Has anyone seem this problem?? Does anyone have any tips on troubleshooting this? Am I just SOL here?

If you've got a scope or at least a voltmeter, you can do some basic troubleshooting. With a voltmeter, you can check the pwr supply where it comes into the main board. After that, there are at least a couple of regulators on the main board. One is near the corner of the big chip with the "M" logo on it. The other, is near the middle mounting screw nearest the pwr supply board. I don't have my set taken apart right now, so I can't tell you exactly what voltage you should be seeing there, but measure all 3 terminals of both regulators and report back. There are also a number of smaller regulators strewn around the pcb. Do the same for those. You can recognize them as the devices with a little metal tab soldered to the board, in addition to 3 regular leads. If all that looks ok, then I'd start in poking around with a scope, to see what there is to see. The wide connector on the main board on the pwr supply side, goes to the lcd panel and carries the digital data for the panel. Pins on that connector should be chattering away continuously, if the main board is actually working. If you don't see anything on the pins of that connector, then the problem is on the main board. The chip with the big "M" on it, is the video processor chip and the big chip with the heatsink on it, is the main CPU. I'd poke around and see if there is any activity on the circuitry surrounding the main CPU. If yes, then move on to the video processor.

I don't have any plans to take my set apart any time soon, but if you really need to know what voltage or what signals should be present at a given point, I could probably help out by measuring my set. I might not be able to do it until the weekend though.

P.J.

acamelot
04-10-08, 01:40 AM
If you've got a scope or at least a voltmeter, you can do some basic troubleshooting. With a voltmeter, you can check the pwr supply where it comes into the main board. After that, there are at least a couple of regulators on the main board. One is near the corner of the big chip with the "M" logo on it. The other, is near the middle mounting screw nearest the pwr supply board. I don't have my set taken apart right now, so I can't tell you exactly what voltage you should be seeing there, but measure all 3 terminals of both regulators and report back. There are also a number of smaller regulators strewn around the pcb. Do the same for those. You can recognize them as the devices with a little metal tab soldered to the board, in addition to 3 regular leads. If all that looks ok, then I'd start in poking around with a scope, to see what there is to see. The wide connector on the main board on the pwr supply side, goes to the lcd panel and carries the digital data for the panel. Pins on that connector should be chattering away continuously, if the main board is actually working. If you don't see anything on the pins of that connector, then the problem is on the main board. The chip with the big "M" on it, is the video processor chip and the big chip with the heatsink on it, is the main CPU. I'd poke around and see if there is any activity on the circuitry surrounding the main CPU. If yes, then move on to the video processor.

I don't have any plans to take my set apart any time soon, but if you really need to know what voltage or what signals should be present at a given point, I could probably help out by measuring my set. I might not be able to do it until the weekend though.

P.J.

I tried measuring the two larger regulators and I am getting somewhere between .5-1V there. Mostly ~.5V. I don't know what it should be (~5V?), but that seems low. As best as I can tell, the power supply is putting out ~5V to the board. I couldn't quite find the right places to check, but doing a sampling of different pairs coming in showed about 5V on some of them. Does any of this make any sense or help to narrow it down at all?

Also, I tried shining a light onto the display and there is nothing going on there (compared to a laptop with a turned off backlight).

Valence01
04-10-08, 09:58 PM
I tried measuring the two larger regulators and I am getting somewhere between .5-1V there. Mostly ~.5V. I don't know what it should be (~5V?), but that seems low. As best as I can tell, the power supply is putting out ~5V to the board. I couldn't quite find the right places to check, but doing a sampling of different pairs coming in showed about 5V on some of them. Does any of this make any sense or help to narrow it down at all?

Also, I tried shining a light onto the display and there is nothing going on there (compared to a laptop with a turned off backlight).

The voltages on the big regulators seem a bit low, but give me a day or so to get some time to make measurements on my set and I'll let you know for sure, what should be there. BTW, pulling the power cord and reinstalling it, the status led goes green and nothing happens for perhaps 5 seconds and then the screen comes on. I doubt the problem with your set, is the just the backlight since you'd still get audio in that case. Also, there is an AV output that is a standard def version of whatever is showing on the main screen. The AV output is on the back panel along with all the other outputs. I suppose it might shed some light on what's wrong, if you could hook up the AV out line to another monitor and see if that much works.

P.J.

acamelot
04-12-08, 11:40 PM
The voltages on the big regulators seem a bit low, but give me a day or so to get some time to make measurements on my set and I'll let you know for sure, what should be there. BTW, pulling the power cord and reinstalling it, the status led goes green and nothing happens for perhaps 5 seconds and then the screen comes on. I doubt the problem with your set, is the just the backlight since you'd still get audio in that case. Also, there is an AV output that is a standard def version of whatever is showing on the main screen. The AV output is on the back panel along with all the other outputs. I suppose it might shed some light on what's wrong, if you could hook up the AV out line to another monitor and see if that much works.

P.J.

Thanks a lot for your help!!

Valence01
04-14-08, 12:04 AM
Thanks a lot for your help!!

Ok, here's some detailed voltages. Lets start with J18, the power connector on edge of the board next to the electrolytic capacitor farm:

J18 starting at the end closest to the HD tuner board.

Brn 0V Blk +5V
nc-------nc
Gry 0V Wht +15V
nc-------nc
Blu 0V Prpl +12V
Yel +12v Grn +12V
Red 0V Orn 0V
Brn +5V nc
nc-------Blk 0V
Gry +5V Wht +5V
Blu +5V Blk +5V
Yel 0V Grn 0V
Red 0V Orn 0V
Blk +3.3V Brn 0V

Now, on to the regulators. There are a lot of them. The order of pins is looking at the regulator with the tab at the top and the 2 or 3 leads at the bottom, left pin, tab, right pin. If there are 3 pins, the middle pin is same as tab and so, the callout is the same left, tab, right.

U27
0V, 3.3V, 5V


U26
0V, 3.3V, 5V


U25
2V, 3.3V, 5V

U5
0.5V, 2V, 3.3V

U4
1.8V, 2.2V, 3V

U18
0.4V, 2V, 3.3V

U35
12V, 0V, 5V

U7
1.8V, 2.5V, 5V

U31
2V, 3.3V, 5V

If you've already ruled out, the backlight by checking the AV out and sound, then I really think it has to be either the power supply board, or the main board. The HD tuner board isn't even needed. First thing obviously, is the J18 power supply stuff. If the +5V, +12V, +15V aren't right, then I'd suspect the power supply board. If those are ok, then start checking the regulators, one by one until you find one that isn't showing the same voltage as what I measured.

I hope this helps.

P.J.

morphinapg
05-28-08, 07:06 PM
Hey guys, never posted in this thread before. I've had my X37SV since Sept 06, and it's been working fine, only a minor annoyance of 1 dead pixel (although a little different than a normal dead pixel, as it seems to take the average red value of the entire column and keep the correct green an blue values) Anyway, everything's been working fine for the entire time I've had it until just few days ago. For the most part it still works fine, but what seems to happen is shortly after I first turn it on (after it's been off for a while) the screen freezes and shows vertical streaks of colors across the screen. When I then power cycle it is fine again until I turn it back off.

Only thing I could think of is maybe something is warming up when the TV is first turned on, and doesn't like that for some reason, but once it's warmed up the TV will turn on just fine or something like that.

Is my TV dying? Is this a sign of something worse to come? Is there an easy fix? Any info would help thanks.

I'll try to upload pix the next time it happens.

Valence01
06-06-08, 09:58 AM
Hey guys, never posted in this thread before. I've had my X37SV since Sept 06, and it's been working fine, only a minor annoyance of 1 dead pixel (although a little different than a normal dead pixel, as it seems to take the average red value of the entire column and keep the correct green an blue values) Anyway, everything's been working fine for the entire time I've had it until just few days ago. For the most part it still works fine, but what seems to happen is shortly after I first turn it on (after it's been off for a while) the screen freezes and shows vertical streaks of colors across the screen. When I then power cycle it is fine again until I turn it back off.

Only thing I could think of is maybe something is warming up when the TV is first turned on, and doesn't like that for some reason, but once it's warmed up the TV will turn on just fine or something like that.

Is my TV dying? Is this a sign of something worse to come? Is there an easy fix? Any info would help thanks.

I'll try to upload pix the next time it happens.

Sounds like an issue on the main board. The video processing chip, the one with the big "M" on it, is responsible for reading data from the dram frame buffer and formatting and sending it to the LCD panel itself. There is a long white connector above the video processor that connects to the LCD panel. I suppose if the connector was loose, that might make it susceptible to temperature changes. The main board isn't all that thermally challenged, unlike the ATSC tuner board. So, I wouldn't expect a thermal chip issue. When the picture freezes, does sound continue? Does this happen on all sources, or just one or the other of the tuners?

P.J.

akpm42
06-06-08, 12:50 PM
Did Costco require a purchase invoice when you returned the Sceptre Naga 37" for refund?I purchased mine online in April,2006 at Costco.I have moved recently and can't find my invoice.Wonder if this will be a problem because I having issues with mine.
Thanks

morphinapg
06-06-08, 05:36 PM
Sounds like an issue on the main board. The video processing chip, the one with the big "M" on it, is responsible for reading data from the dram frame buffer and formatting and sending it to the LCD panel itself. There is a long white connector above the video processor that connects to the LCD panel. I suppose if the connector was loose, that might make it susceptible to temperature changes. The main board isn't all that thermally challenged, unlike the ATSC tuner board. So, I wouldn't expect a thermal chip issue. When the picture freezes, does sound continue? Does this happen on all sources, or just one or the other of the tuners?

P.J.

Hmm, not sure about the sound (I use a 7.1 hdmi audio reciever) I do hear a click though when it happens. Also not sure about the sources, I'll see if any of the source buttons do anything.

Also my remote has stopped working. It's not the batteries, as I changed them a few times with no effect. I doubt this is related, but it does limit what I can do quite a bit (especially PiP which I use a lot)

Valence01
06-09-08, 10:05 AM
Hmm, not sure about the sound (I use a 7.1 hdmi audio reciever) I do hear a click though when it happens. Also not sure about the sources, I'll see if any of the source buttons do anything.

Also my remote has stopped working. It's not the batteries, as I changed them a few times with no effect. I doubt this is related, but it does limit what I can do quite a bit (especially PiP which I use a lot)

I don't know about the remote, but if you're using HDMI for video exclusively, you may be seeing the beginnings of a problem with the HDMI connector. I and others have had issues with leads on the HDMI connector coming loose from the circuit board to which it is mounted. If you have a keen eye and can solder, you can repair it yourself, otherwise you'd need to replace the main circuit board for a few hundred dollars. In either case, you'd have to disassemble the set to some extent. If the problem is with the HDMI connector, other inputs should still work normally.

P.J.

morphinapg
06-10-08, 03:59 AM
I don't know about the remote, but if you're using HDMI for video exclusively, you may be seeing the beginnings of a problem with the HDMI connector. I and others have had issues with leads on the HDMI connector coming loose from the circuit board to which it is mounted. If you have a keen eye and can solder, you can repair it yourself, otherwise you'd need to replace the main circuit board for a few hundred dollars. In either case, you'd have to disassemble the set to some extent. If the problem is with the HDMI connector, other inputs should still work normally.

P.J.

I somehow doubt it, as I'm pretty sure I'd be able to notice something like that. Wouldn't it simply hiccup and get all blocky similar to bad reception of OTA HD?

I never seem to have my camera near by when it happens so this is sortof what it looks like:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/129/375186547_f9fee42c4b.jpg?v=0

And it doesn't suddenly cut straight to those streaks, it sort of freezes the frame, makes a popping sound, then slowly fades maybe 2-3 seconds to the streaks. Then it does nothing else until I power cycle. I still haven't tested using the source buttons yet after one of these.

Also remember this only happens the first time I turn it on for the day (its usually on almost all day as I use it as a PC monitor) and then not again until at least the next day.

Valence01
06-10-08, 10:59 AM
I somehow doubt it, as I'm pretty sure I'd be able to notice something like that. Wouldn't it simply hiccup and get all blocky similar to bad reception of OTA HD?

I never seem to have my camera near by when it happens so this is sortof what it looks like:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/129/375186547_f9fee42c4b.jpg?v=0

And it doesn't suddenly cut straight to those streaks, it sort of freezes the frame, makes a popping sound, then slowly fades maybe 2-3 seconds to the streaks. Then it does nothing else until I power cycle. I still haven't tested using the source buttons yet after one of these.

Also remember this only happens the first time I turn it on for the day (its usually on almost all day as I use it as a PC monitor) and then not again until at least the next day.

The vertical lines like that indicate a problem in the LCD panel itself or an issue with the video processor chip or the connection from the main pcb to the lcd panel. When you see those streaks like that, it means that nothing is updating pixel data as it's being fed to the panel. It just keeps repeating the same line over and over. The pop sound you hear, can't be good. Perhaps something is arcing in the power supply and that scrambles the video processor's brain. Power cycling brings it back and once the temp rises enough, the power supply is better behaved. It will probably get worse over time, until it fails completely. It wouldn't be the first power supply that failed on this model set. At that point, it may or may not be worth it to replace the power supply board. If you're handy with a screwdriver, you can do it yourself. Otherwise, with the $100+ dollar shipping each way + $250 price of the supply board, it may not be worth it.

P.J.

morphinapg
06-11-08, 04:53 PM
Here is a pic I just took:

http://i30.tinypic.com/5vsmsn.jpg

I tried using the other source buttons and they didn't do anything, either did using the volume buttons. After I used those buttons I noticed the LED was blinking instead of just staying one color. I also wasn't able to power off using the normal power button, and I had to use the switch in back. This really isn't looking good. When I turned it back on, it was on a different source.

Also I don't have a job right now so I don't have any money to fix it either. I would probably be able to fix it myself, but I'd definitely want to be sure that was the problem first.

Also, could this be any way related to the heat wave? My room is always hotter than any other room in the house and now it's been getting even worse with the heat outside.

Valence01
06-12-08, 10:07 AM
Here is a pic I just took:

http://i30.tinypic.com/5vsmsn.jpg

I tried using the other source buttons and they didn't do anything, either did using the volume buttons. After I used those buttons I noticed the LED was blinking instead of just staying one color. I also wasn't able to power off using the normal power button, and I had to use the switch in back. This really isn't looking good. When I turned it back on, it was on a different source.

Also I don't have a job right now so I don't have any money to fix it either. I would probably be able to fix it myself, but I'd definitely want to be sure that was the problem first.

Also, could this be any way related to the heat wave? My room is always hotter than any other room in the house and now it's been getting even worse with the heat outside.

From your description, I'd be really surprised if the problem didn't have something to do with heat. To narrow it down, the only thing I can suggest, is to call up the Sceptre service dept and describe the symptoms and see what they think, as they undoubtedly have the most experience with troubleshooting these sets. They can give you pricing on the power supply and main circuit boards.

P.J.

morphinapg
11-22-08, 04:34 AM
From your description, I'd be really surprised if the problem didn't have something to do with heat. To narrow it down, the only thing I can suggest, is to call up the Sceptre service dept and describe the symptoms and see what they think, as they undoubtedly have the most experience with troubleshooting these sets. They can give you pricing on the power supply and main circuit boards.

P.J.

I still don't have the money to fix my problems. The problem went away for a while, then came back for a while, and now seemed to be gone again for the last several days.

But today I powered off, then powered back on a few minutes later, only to hear the sound of some kind of sizzling, which really freaked me out. If I don't have enough money to fix it, I sure as hell don't have the money to replace it. The screen didn't turn on. The standby light, which is usually on even when the screen is off, was out. I was fearing for the worst by now.

I flipped the switch on the back and let it sit for a little over 30 seconds. I flipped it back on, still no standby light. I sat there for a few seconds, and the standby light magically came back on. I then tried powering on again and it worked this time. Screen's been working fine all day since, not even the old problem I was having happened.

I think I figured out what happened earlier though. When I went to go watch TV, no 480i sources would display at all. 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p all worked fine. I think the 480i scaler got fried or something.

At least my cable box has an internal scaler for those channels, so that's not a big deal.

So, for the experts out there, could today's problem be related to the other problems I had been having? Or is my TV simply having a slow and painful death?

morphinapg
11-22-08, 04:05 PM
Okay, strange...

The 480i scaler is working again after I had the TV off all night.

This is too weird..

morphinapg
12-07-08, 04:30 AM
So it finally died. I'm almost certain it's the power supply, because the standby light doesn't even come on. Does that sound about right? We tried replacing the fuse and that didn't do any good.

Anyway, if I wanted to install a new power supply, how much would it cost and how would I get it? I can't do it right now as I don't have a job, but for future reference.

BTW, I also managed to kill my PC's power supply on the same day. Talk about bad luck. I tripped over the PC's power cord and accidentally pulled it out of the wall while carrying the TV out of my room, and it wouldn't turn on after that. Fortunately, my mom bought me a new PSU and that fixed that.

Valence01
12-07-08, 10:16 AM
So it finally died. I'm almost certain it's the power supply, because the standby light doesn't even come on. Does that sound about right? We tried replacing the fuse and that didn't do any good.

Anyway, if I wanted to install a new power supply, how much would it cost and how would I get it? I can't do it right now as I don't have a job, but for future reference.

BTW, I also managed to kill my PC's power supply on the same day. Talk about bad luck. I tripped over the PC's power cord and accidentally pulled it out of the wall while carrying the TV out of my room, and it wouldn't turn on after that. Fortunately, my mom bought me a new PSU and that fixed that.

Unless you can manage to find someone parting out a Sceptre X37SV and is willing to sell the power supply to you, then your only alternative is to call up Sceptre. They will sell parts and they can tell you how much it will cost. If I had to guess, I'd say $150 for the power supply, but don't take my word on that. Call them up. It costs nothing to ask.

On the other hand, I wouldn't rule out a loose connection inside, as that could explain the symptoms that you're currently seeing.

P.J.

morphinapg
12-07-08, 04:28 PM
Unless you can manage to find someone parting out a Sceptre X37SV and is willing to sell the power supply to you, then your only alternative is to call up Sceptre. They will sell parts and they can tell you how much it will cost. If I had to guess, I'd say $150 for the power supply, but don't take my word on that. Call them up. It costs nothing to ask.

On the other hand, I wouldn't rule out a loose connection inside, as that could explain the symptoms that you're currently seeing.

P.J.

Hmm... have any idea where I would look for a loose connection? My knowledge on the insides of a LCD are limited.

Valence01
12-08-08, 12:49 AM
Hmm... have any idea where I would look for a loose connection? My knowledge on the insides of a LCD are limited.

Well, the power supply connector is on the left side of the main pcb near the group of 6 big capacitors, as you face the back of the set, after you remove the back. There is also connector on the main pcb, that connects through a cable to the front panel led and button board. If that connector has come loose, you will not be able to turn the set on. I think it's more likely a problem with the power supply, but it doesn't hurt to check for other possibilities.

P.J.

maximum08
12-08-08, 04:36 AM
Thanks for sharing to us. Very helpful..

morphinapg
09-27-09, 10:18 PM
UPDATE!

I fixed it with absolutely no cost whatsoever using the technique mentioned on this page:

http://www.fixya.com/support/t2344092-sceptre_lcd_tv_power_come_but_no

(solution #1)

Who would have ever thought a simple piece of plastic could fix this problem :D

I'm sooo happy right now.

morphinapg
10-28-09, 04:27 PM
Hey, me again :D

I attached a 12 foot toslink cable to the hidden optical port on the ATSC tuner inside the set, however I'm only getting 2.0 PCM, no 5.1 DD. Is there a service menu, or even jumper setting or something that would change this?