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Amazing post ....

By the way... P stands for Progressive: PWD means Progressive Wide Display .. as written on Panasonic's original box ..

What those letters on the model numbers stand for ?
TH-42PWD6UY - TH-42PHD6UY
TH = ???
42 = Screen Size (Diagonal Inches)
P = Plasma
W = Widescreen / H = High Definition
D = In"D"ustrial
6 = Generation
U = US Market
Y = BNC Connectors
Z = RCA Connectors (Previous Consumer Models)

Excellent work: deserves to be a sticky

Thank you :)

This is great to see (and not just because you got Rich H's and my threads on screen calibration :cool: ) -- this saves me the work of creating a Panny Faq HAHA :D

Only thing I would add is pros & cons of Plasma, or a few links to the MANY threads. (I'll be posting a Theater vs Plasma case study soon)
i.e.

Q. Why would I choose a Plasma over other technology?
+ Surreal images
+ Rich, Vibrant colors
+ Good detail
+ WIDE viewing angle (160 degrees, if I'm not mistaken)
+ Lightweight for size, compared to rear projectors & tubes.

Q. And the reasons I wouldn't?
- Price (expontentional for larger sizes, and more resolution. Although one can offset this by shopping online. i.e. http://www.visualapex.com/)
- Not as sharp as film
- Size is limited
- Screen-door effect with some people
- Calibration is almost mandatory to get "full" enjoyment (but SO worth it)
- Perceived threat of burn-in

Peace

BruZZi - thank you for the excelllent overview.

One question: I thought there was a wireless card available for 7UY (maybe not yet). I would score hugely with wife if she were able to display digital photos wirelessly on the 7UY from her laptop. Do you think such arrangement will be possible?

Awesome FAQ. Suggestion: maybe I missed it (employed the Find feature of the web-browser), but I didn't see any mention of the existence of discrete IR codes.

wojtek
Look at Panasonic Business Plasma displays web page (www.panasonic.com) and find brochure for "7" models which shows a "wireless" blade, P/N TY-FB7WPU that is IEEE 802.11b compliant. 4 laptops can display 4 displays on each quarter of the display.

Originally posted by Babula
wojtek
Look at Panasonic Business Plasma displays web page (www.panasonic.com) and find brochure for "7" models which shows a "wireless" blade, P/N TY-FB7WPU that is IEEE 802.11b compliant. 4 laptops can display 4 displays on each quarter of the display.

Thanks Babula. :)

Wojtek,

It should be available by December.

Price is $550 (MSRP) :( :( :(

Originally posted by avntx
Awesome FAQ.
Thanks avntx. :)

Suggestion: maybe I missed it (employed the Find feature of the web-browser), but I didn't see any mention of the existence of discrete IR codes.

Problem is, I don't have much info about it.

I need help from Panny owners for that topic. :)

For the IR codes for 7u .. you may want to check this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4542169) .

I just tried the 5u code and it works like a charm .. atleast for on-of, input select, picture, volume etc ... I guess that's all that you need (except some people are wondering about its compatibility with DVI/HDMI) ...

BruZZi

You may be interested to know there are other blades that include an Ethernet Interface with MP3 player and 20 gb hard drive as well as another that is a PC Blade. It takes up three slots I think.

Interesting stuff.

Here is a revised version of my comparison of the Panny 42" ED consumer (6th generation) and commercial (7th generation) displays. The comparison is a bit unfair, of course, since the 7th generation has a more advanced display with less image retention. I will update this comparison sheet once the 7th generation consumer models become available (by year end, we hope).

BruZZi, feel free to attach the PDF directly to your FAQ.

<< Babula >>

That's great. I have to spend more time (I"m too busy) learning about the new Optional Blades. :D


<< mooneydriver >>

Thanks Again.

I have another suggestion...

IMO You should definitively include your user name on that comparison. ;)

Originally posted by mooneydriver
Here is a revised version of my comparison of the Panny 42" ED consumer (6th generation) and commercial (7th generation) displays.

Thanks for the review, now I'm wondering if I should hold off on purchasing a TH-42PD25U/P until the 7th generation consumer models come out.

Anyway, I was just curious about your line item which says that the 6th generation consumer models don't have 3:2 pulldown detection. The Cnet review of TH-42PD25U/P says it does have this (but they refer to it as 2:3 pulldown detection). They even go into detail about how good it is. So who's right?

Thanks,
Jay

Originally posted by jnelaine
Anyway, I was just curious about your line item which says that the 6th generation consumer models don't have 3:2 pulldown detection. The Cnet review of TH-42PD25U/P says it does have this (but they refer to it as 2:3 pulldown detection). They even go into detail about how good it is. So who's right?


Good question. I may have been wrong on that one. The commercial models have a menu option to turn this feature on/off whereas the consumer models don't have such an option. Panasonic marketing material or operating manuals do not specify whether this feature exists in the consumer models. According to CNET, the HD consumer models do not have 3:2 pulldown detection whereas the ED models do have it.

If anyone has definite information on whether the 42" ED has pulldown detection, please post.

Also review the following thread on pulldown on Panny consumer models (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=448430). Covers the semantics in detail as well.

BruZZi -- I'll add my signature in the next rev :p

Hey BruZZI.

Your chart above says that model "TH-42PX20UP" has no HDMI but I have one and it does have it. In fact, for me to hook up to a DVI connector, I will need to purchase Panasonic's converter cable, P/N TY-SCH03DH

I just received a consumer TH-42PX25UP. I would like to be able to calibrate the unit using Milori's colorfacts. I've used colorfacts to calibrate my Pio 503CMX and the results were outstanding.

On the Pioneer service menu it was easy to adjust color balance/white balance while inputiing test screens from Avia or PC. The service menu consists of drop down choices which could be balanced and tweaked. Changes made could be tweaked and saved in relation to other changes.

I haven't yet tried to calibrate the Panny yet. When I used the instructions for getting into the Panasonic service menu, I was confused by the optins and how to adjust them.

Has anyone calibrated their own consumer model? Is there any instructions I can find which would explain the parameters listed in the service menu? Can changes be made without leaving the service menu?

Thanks

I have the 42pwd7uy and have yet to figure out how to determine what scanning format is being displayed on the plasma at any one time. ( 480i, 480p,720p, 1080i, etc.) For instance if I set my dvd player for output of 480p how do in determine that the display is outputting 480p. I have also read where members say let the dvd or the display do the upconverting. How do you choose on the display for instance to do this and not the dvd player. It seems there should be some button on the remote that you can push that will show on the display what is being shown.. (480i, 480p, etc.)I thought it would be shown on the "Status" button. Am I missing something.

I have a 42" viera (Aust. model) and was wanting some more info on the service menu...parameters and their meaning etc... the link to the service menu listed on your FAQ page didn't work for me...not sure if its me or not?? Any info re: the service menu for a viera would be very much appreciated.>!!!!

Thanks heaps...

Just got the new TH-42PHD7UY. I have HD Directv tivo and DVD connected via component. Normal use. How often should I use the screensaver? Which one? How long should I use it for each time? Any advise appreciated.

Thanks.:)

Originally posted by irishterp79
Just got the new TH-42PHD7UY. I have HD Directv tivo and DVD connected via component. Normal use. How often should I use the screensaver? Which one? How long should I use it for each time? Any advise appreciated.

Thanks.:)

There's a screenaver on the Panny's? All I see is a power saver that, try as I might, I cannot get to engage.

???

I too have not nodticed any difference when turning on the power save...?

It appears to dim the display slightly, and has an immediate impact.

Doesn't make ANY difference on mine?

It's VERY subtle, almost a "why bother"

Yes there are screensavers on the new model. White scroll and negative image.

I followed the instruction to check number of hours used on my 50" 7UY. For some reason I am unable to access the Service Menu.

I can access hidden setup menu by following the other instruction but can not get the "service menu"

Has anyone tried this on 7 series plasma? Please help.

Thanks

I've been considering getting a TH-37PD25UP. I haven't managed to find a store in my area that will hook one up with different quality feeds (I'm assuming they've only had 1080i). From what I understand, this set should do a pretty good job with SD feeds, but can anyone tell me whether it'll handle 720p?

Digging through the user manual, it looks like it only supports 480i, 480p, and 1080i. The omission of 720p makes me suspect it simply won't display 720p. Anyone have any input on this?

I figure most set-top boxes will resample for you to 1080i, but what if you're using the CableCard?

Molloch,

You are correct. This display will not handle 720p. Not a problem for me, as I feed all my HD through an HD TiVo which resamples and outputs at a resolution the Panny can handle, like 1080i or 480p (user chosen).

Can I get some opinions as to whether the TH-50VXS30 is worth the additional cost over the TH-50PX24/UP in terms of picture quality?

Do both sets use the same glass? What are the major differences?

Thanks for your help

Don

Bruzzi -- Thanks. Here's the 7UY manual if you care to add it to your original FAQ:

ftp://ftp.panasonic.com/pub/Panasonic/Drivers/PBTS/manuals/OM_TH-7Series.pdf

OK, I'm about to ask a silly question.

My resolution on my 42PX20 is 1024x768. That is effectively 4:3, but the resolution on the 50PX20 is 1366x768. That is 16:9.

What gives? If my TV is 16:9, then why isn't the resolution the same?

Originally posted by KWP
OK, I'm about to ask a silly question.

My resolution on my 42PX20 is 1024x768. That is effectively 4:3, but the resolution on the 50PX20 is 1366x768. That is 16:9.

What gives? If my TV is 16:9, then why isn't the resolution the same?

Rectangular pixels. The 50" panel has square pixels, but the 42" has rectangular, and thus still is 16:9.

-Kevin

Hi guys,

Fairly new to this forum...and hoping to get a bit of help regarding the service menu on a 42' Panasonic viera (Australian model).

I initially started to play around in the service menu to adjust the overscan on my viera using DVE through my Pioneer DVD player. After much research through forums etc.. I found the information required to do so.

My interests then moved into the greyscale area. I had never really been happy with how the greyscale test patterns on DVE looked on my Viera. The lighter areas looked ok, but down the dark end of the scale it all fell apart I felt. I wrote down all the values in the IIC menu for a 625p input and low (warm) color setting. I then put my laptop in front of the plasma with an image of the greyscale ramp test pattern from DVE on it (I reckon its as grey as it ever going to get displayed on my laptop). Using this as a reference I put up the same test pattern through my DVD player (DVE disk) and compared the two screens. My plasma looked slightly greenish! I was amazed....prior to this I throught it looked a little red, but when a real grey color is right next to it, the plasma looked noticably green.

So I tweaked the RGB drives and cuts slightly to acheive what I felt was as close a grey on my plasma as I could get when compared to my laptop.

What I am unsure about is firstly....well....how far out could this methodology be??? I also don't fully understand the difference between "ALL CUT" and Sub-Brightness....I feel they do exactly the same thing....adjust the level of blacks......and likewise the "ALL DRIVE" and Sub-COntrast which I also reckon do the same thing...adjust the contrast or white levels...

Can anyone think of a better method to a DIY plasma calibration??? If so I'd love to hear it. I can't afford to buy a color analyzer...so that completely out of the question......any other ideas or comments????

What does the pedastool adjust do exactly....it seems to have a similar effect as the brightness control...but different in that you can really clip the blacks by turning it down too far....

Just wondering if anyone knows if it matters how you exit from the Panasonic Service menu....if in IIC mode and you simply turn power off is that ok...or is there a proper way to do it....

Somewhere I read that you have to be in ID mode..(I think it was ID mode) and THEN turn off power.

Does it make any difference how you exit?

I just wanted to know why it is that when you power the screen back on it defaults to dynamic mode...even though I had set it to standard and pressed the STR button on the front panel before I got into service mode. If all the adjustments I make in service mode are for dynamic (if thats the default) then it defeats the purpose...as I prefer to watch the tv in standard mode.....

Any help most appreciated....

Thanks!

just got a 50in HD 7uy. still using an older dvd player connected via component cables. is it worth investing in progressive scan dvd player, or beyond that one of the progressive players that converts the 480p image to 1080i for the panasonic display? unless i'm mistaken, the 7uy display already upconverts the 480 signal so why do it twice?

Guys,
Help me out. IM thinking about buying the 37PD25U, i noticed in the manual specification chart it says 720P is accepted in PCinput. Does that mean 720p is not accepted when watching TV? THANKS

specgeorge,

720p works from the on-board tuner, not from component or HDMI input.

M.-

marcelo3d,
I assume that means the set will accept the 720p and convert it to 852x480?

Yes.

marcelo3d,
Thank you for helping out. Do you have any comments on the 37PD25U?

dmwierz,
I also plan to buy the 37PD25u and am still a little confused about the set not accepting 720p. MY present hook up is with TWC/nyc they will provide me with the explorer3250HD receiver. Will i be able to receive the 720p signal and downconvert it to the sets 852x480 resolution? Your reply would be greatly appreciated.

Well, I'm not an expert (somebody else please chime in), but the 37PD25 EDTV Panny won't be able to display a 720p signal - only 480p and 1080i. Not sure what happens if you hook one up. I'm guessing you wouldn't get anything. I would also assume that the onboard tuner also won't handle 720p (ABC, Fox).

In my case, I have a DirecTV HD TiVo that converts everything to 1080i, so it's not an issue for me.

I don't know anything about the explorer3250HD, but I'm gonna guess if it puts out a 720p signal, the 37PD25 won't handle it.

Anyone else?

Hope this helps.

Dennis

Thanks for trying to help. I'm glad you said your only guessing, I cant believe this set wont be able to receive ABC,Fox. Anyone else care to help out.

The set can handle over the air 720p and cable card signals at 720p. The component/DVI inputs need to have 1080i.

Thanks Mike,
I believe this set has HDMI and component but not DVI. The set will accept 1080i and convert it down to 480. I have the TWC DTV/HDTV box, sounds like ill be okay. What do you think?

I feed mine 1080i all th time without problems

Thanks marcelo3d,
There are a lot of postings on here with conflicting opinions on this subject just trying to get to the bottom this. I think it started with the manual stating doesn't accept 720p, I would be really disappointed if i couldn't stations that were sending 720p. It seems like your enjoying your set, how long have you had it.

As far as I can tell, yes the HDMI only accepts 1080i and 480p/i signals.

Here are some quotes from the manual that describe inputs:

HDMI: "The DIGITAL IN terminal can only be used with 1080i, 480i or 480p picture signals. Set the Digital Set -Top -Box DIGITAL OUT terminal Output setting to 1080i, 480i or 480p. For detailed information, refer to the Digital Set -Top -Box instruction manual. If you cannot display the picture because your Digital Set -Top -Box does not have a DIGITAL OUT terminal Output setting, use the component Video Input (or the S Video Input or Video Input). In thiscase the picture will be displayed as an analog signal."

Component: "This TV is capable of displaying 1080i and 480p DTV signals when connected to a DTV Tuner Set-Top-Box (STB). To view DTV programs, connect the STB to the component video input terminals (Y, PB, PR) of the TV. Component color inputs provide luminance and separate color signal. Select the output of the STB to either 1080i or 480p."

Does this not mean that your STB or HD source needs to be outputting 1080i or 480p/i, even with component inputs? Most STB's can up-convert a 720p signal to 1080i or down-covert to 480p like the HD TiVo, can they not? If this is the case, George should be fine with the explorer recevier providing it outputs 1080i or 480p.

Does the onboard tuner convert incoming 720p signals to 480p?

dmwierz,
Thanks for your input. By the way i got the 37in today 2100. They have it in stock but i told them to deliver it in jan05.

could anyone please explain the difference between
42PA25UP and 42PD25UP and also what does UP stand for

Mupi, I believe the 42PD25UP has HD capable tuner (ATSC) while the42PA25UP doesn't. From my experience, it seems like only Costco and Sam's Club are carrying the PA model, but that could be just coincidence.


Also, I had a question for anyone that might know, regarding the 7UY series. I think I've read before that the S-Video overrides the composite input, or in other words, if something is plugged into the S-Video input, then the composite input doesn't pass any signal. Is this true?

Originally posted by rts
Amazing post ....

By the way... P stands for Progressive: PWD means Progressive Wide Display .. as written on Panasonic's original box ..

What those letters on the model numbers stand for ?
TH-42PWD6UY - TH-42PHD6UY
TH = ???
42 = Screen Size (Diagonal Inches)
P = Plasma
W = Widescreen / H = High Definition
D = In"D"ustrial
6 = Generation
U = US Market
Y = BNC Connectors
Z = RCA Connectors (Previous Consumer Models)

if I look at the list in the first page both industrial and consumer models have 'D'

I have been reading many posts but I can figure out the major differences between the two. Their naming convention is so confusing to me.

Could anyone please elaborate the major difference between the 2 models and why I can only see the "UY" series online and not any of the other models.

Originally posted by rts
Amazing post ....

By the way... P stands for Progressive: PWD means Progressive Wide Display .. as written on Panasonic's original box ..

What those letters on the model numbers stand for ?
TH-42PWD6UY - TH-42PHD6UY
TH = ???
42 = Screen Size (Diagonal Inches)
P = Plasma
W = Widescreen / H = High Definition
D = In"D"ustrial
6 = Generation
U = US Market
Y = BNC Connectors
Z = RCA Connectors (Previous Consumer Models)

one more thing. All models are widescreen (16:9) but then why some have W and some dont. I believe all digital displayes whether DLP/LCD front projection rear projection or plasma are all progressive so then why use PWD (progressive wide screen) only for some models. The numbering scheme on these models is very confusing.

what is viera

Anyone know where you can find a HDMI/DVI cable in a mid range price.
The only one i see advertised in the major electronic stores is the HDMI400/DVI-2m for 120.

After reading about some of the issues with the 42PWD7UY, I am wondering if I would be better of buying the older model 6UY.

please provide me with your advice.

Have the UY series been discontinued by Panasonic?
Can't seem to find them at the local stores, only the 25u.

Also, if UY series is still available, what are the main difference between the UY and the 25u ED?

Contsi,
Could you please read the first page of this thread? UY is commercial and 25u is consumer. Everithing is explained there or in the links provided.
M.-

Just got a call from a supplier who will be shipping my hdmi board for my50 HD 7uy. I'm hoping I can install without pulling off the wall mount. Has anyone installed one of these boards? Any tips, tricks, help will be appreciated.

Originally posted by aporter0509
After reading about some of the issues with the 42PWD7UY, I am wondering if I would be better of buying the older model 6UY.

please provide me with your advice.

I would wait until the issues could be resolved before buying any "7UY" Model. That's actually what I'm doing. Was ready to buy the TH-50PHD7UY (Upgrade from my current Th-37PWD6UY) but decided to wait until Panasonic can provide "a fix". If you're in a hurry try to find a "6UY" Model or buy another Brand like NEC.

Originally posted by Contsi
Have the UY series been discontinued by Panasonic?
Can't seem to find them at the local stores, only the 25u.

The "UY" are Commercial Models found mostly online.
Only few local stores will carry them.

For online Sources, check out the AVS Sponsors:

Visual Apex - TV Authority - Plasma Concepts (Links at the top)

Does the 25u have the same display problem as the UY series.

Nope.

Bruzzi,
Thanks for your help, I'm very interested in purchasing one of these 37''
25u unit. I need to learn more about the stretch mode, spacifically of only stretching the sides of the picture (and not the middle) to fit an SD signal on a wide screen. Do you know if this model have this feature and do you know a thread that addresses this issue in detail.
Thanks

Originally posted by Contsi
Bruzzi,
Thanks for your help, I'm very interested in purchasing one of these 37''
25u unit. I need to learn more about the stretch mode, spacifically of only stretching the sides of the picture (and not the middle) to fit an SD signal on a wide screen. Do you know if this model have this feature and do you know a thread that addresses this issue in detail.
Thanks

You may want to try going to the Panny website, and download to view the manual - it has great examples/diagrams/descriptions of the various picture options available on this unit. I too, was a bit confused, w/ all of the "aspects" (get it?) of this monitor, but the diagrams were the best to clear up the picture in my mind.

After reading the manual, I ordered a 25u myself!

It's called "JUST" Mode. Available on both Commercial and Consumer.
Do a search for more info.

From what Ive been told if you hook up a 37in panny plasmaEd to The TWC SAexplorer 3250HD box the just mode on the TV will become disabled and you will have to use the box remote on settings and set at 16.9 4.3stretch. Which should give you a good picture.

The comparison chart of the 42'' ED PLASMA is great. However, I didn't see any info on the half-life for either models. Are they both at 60,000 hours? Should I even care about it? Also does anyone know when the 8th generation model will come out?

AWESOME THREAD BRUZZI!

No, you should not care about half life. It's not meaningful, and besides this ED set will be obsolete long before you reach the halfway point.

Just purchased the TH-42Px25 and love it. Question, what is the best long term setting for the side bars with 4:3 display? I did read in the manual "high" is not the best but don't know what is.

Hello all,
I am a "newbie", but I have really enjoyed all the knowledge i have gained from this site. Anyway, if someone, or a hundred someones could help me ..id be grateful..i am on a budget of sorts and have decided to purchase either a Panasonic TH-42PD25UD, or a TH-PWD7UY. I'm trying to understand the differences between these two models. The 25UD costs more, but it seems like the majority are going with the 7UY. I know the t.v. stand comes with the 25UD, but what are the other differences, and how would they effect my purchase and the price Im going to pay. I watch 40% DVD, 40% sports and the rest is regualr tv veiwing with an occasional video game thrown in. Im sorry for the long windedness, but any help making a decsion would be appriciated. One more thing, do i have to buy special "boards" or "tuners" if i purchase the 7UY? Have a great day.

Originally posted by skatingwizard9
Hello all,
I am a "newbie", but I have really enjoyed all the knowledge i have gained from this site. Anyway, if someone, or a hundred someones could help me ..id be grateful..i am on a budget of sorts and have decided to purchase either a Panasonic TH-42PD25UD, or a TH-PWD7UY. I'm trying to understand the differences between these two models. The 25UD costs more, but it seems like the majority are going with the 7UY. I know the t.v. stand comes with the 25UD, but what are the other differences, and how would they effect my purchase and the price Im going to pay. I watch 40% DVD, 40% sports and the rest is regualr tv veiwing with an occasional video game thrown in. Im sorry for the long windedness, but any help making a decsion would be appriciated. One more thing, do i have to buy special "boards" or "tuners" if i purchase the 7UY? Have a great day.

Well the main differences is that the 25U is the consumer model with stand, speakers, OTA ATSC and cable card HD Tuners. The 7UY is a commercial model just a display but a newer generation of electronics/glass that has some improvements in picture. If you can wait a few months at CES Panasonic announced their new models that will use the next generation of glass, are consumer models with all the extras mentioned above and have a lower MSRP. They come out in March, April and May (smaller models earlier).

Mikeabc123,
thanks for the help. I am moving in to a new place Feb 1st and would like to make a purchase before march, ect. If i go with the 7UY would I have to buy add ons such as stand, speakers, OTA ATSC and cable card HD Tuners?. The stand and speakers arent a big deal because i want to incorporate surround sound/theatre sound and the stand isnt a big issue. How about the OTA ATSC and cable card HD tuners..? im not even sure what those are..thanks in advance for the advice..

ok..i kinda figured out about the OTA ATSC and cable card HD Tuners. The ota atsc card is for converting analog signals and the hd tuner is for receiving broadcast in hd..im not much of a techie obviously and kinda a moron..could i order these seperate of the 42pwd7uy and add them on myself or what..?how would i go about this..?is it worth it..whats the best way to go about this..im going to hook up theatre sound..(i assume i can hook a receiver into the tv) so i dont really need the speakers or the stand..please advise!!!! :( sorry im so stupid..all this stuff is so confusing..thanks for your help...

There are no tuner options for the 7uy's. If you have cable or satellite service, they have their own tuners in the boxes they give you and you would only need to hook the box up to your plasma. You don't need the speakers if you are going to route all your audio into your receiver and there are speakers hooked up to the receiver.

Here's another wrinkle for you. If you are looking to buy around late Feb./early March you might want to wait and see what the new consumer panny's look like. I thought I read on this forum that they were due out in March.

I can truthfully say I have had zero problems with my Panasonic EDTV using it for around 2 months. I will add I tried to duplicate the problem they are talking about but could not. Then, again, maybe I did not try hard enough. To my eyes the complete display is working 100 percent and I am most happy with the picture quality on the screen. I watch 80 percent HD content by the way. And, at 12 feet plus, it looks great. I would buy the set again tomorrow.

hey mangopony,
did you use a regular cable box or un upgrade hdtv box..? is there even an option if you want to upconvert some shows shown in hdtv on the edtv..?please infor and educate. thanks.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Having a problem trying to turn off and on my new 37PD25panney with my SA explorer3250HD receiver remote. When i press my on button on the remote the red sensor light on the TV front panel doesn't light up to show picture. I have to use the TV remote or press the panel on/off button to get the picture. I'M sure there has to be a way to turn the TV on and off with the receiver.

Is there a way to show what the input format (480p, 1080i, etc) is on component and HDMI on a consumer model? The recall button on the TH-42PD25U/P brings up the banner showing the input format when using tuner and S-Video inputs. But it doesn't show the formats when using component or HDMI.

Wonder if someone can explain what the different picture modes (Cinema, Standard, etc) on these units end up doing to the picture? I've noticed that setting the same parameters for two different pic modes will end up in a completely different picture!?!

I've been trying to find that same info for ages. I've been told that each mode has different gamma values...and different sharpness references. I accept this info....but why is it that the greyscale looks very green in cinema as compared to dynamic....and less so standard. My understanding is that gamma shouldn't affect coloring in the greyscale....

I got my panney a couple of weeks ago the manual says the pic mode is for choosing a setting that describes your viewing situation. I chose standard because my viewing conditions are normal with subdued room lighting. Cinema mode is for watching movies in a darkened room. It all has to do with your lighting situation. The manual describes this to a T. Tip the auto mode doesn't do what it says it does. Hope this helps.

I think the auto mode uses the light sensor on the bottom of the panel near the power button to guage ambient light conditions and adjusts picture and brightness accordingly. This function appears to work correctly on my pwd7uy. Can you elaborate as to how it doesn't do that?

My manual doesn't describe these pic modes at all.....

Panasonic dropeed MSRP on Onyx models

Price Drop - Panasonic Onyx TH-50XVS30

It seems Panasonic has dropped the MSRP by a grand to $7,999.00.

What is the average street price for this unit.

Thanks

I tryd using the auto mode and switched to the standard mode which seem to work better for me. I also read somewhere that the auto mode doesn't do what it says it does. If it works for you good.

Steffche,
The manul for the panney 37PD25 page 26 click pic mode it gives you four choices.

Originally posted by specgeorge
I tryd using the auto mode and switched to the standard mode which seem to work better for me. I also read somewhere that the auto mode doesn't do what it says it does. If it works for you good.

The "AUTO" mode never really worked (to my taste) on all three Panasonic Plasmas I had
(TH42PW5UZ - TH-37PW5UZ - TH-37PWD6UY). Picture was always too dark.

Originally posted by Steffche
My manual doesn't describe these pic modes at all.....

Description from the Commercial Models Manual:

STANDARD
For viewing in standard (evening lighting) environments.
This menu selects the normal levels of BRIGHTNESS
and PICTURE.

DYNAMIC (Consumer = VIVID )
For viewing in brighter environments.
This menu selects higher than normal levels of
BRIGHTNESS and PICTURE.

CINEMA
Ideal for movies. ( Softens the picture to make it appear more film-like - Too soft IMO. ;) )

AUTO
Automatically selects the mode that best suits the brightness of the environment. (not for me :rolleyes: )

Bruzzi,
Thanks for helping out. Now that i recall i first read that comment on your site. I was using auto and as soon i switched to standard i saw a big difference. Bye the way GREAT site.

Thanks specgeorge. :) :) :)

I am about to buy a Panasonic 507UY for home use and have a couple of questions regarding connections if anyone can help. I looked at the manual someone posted and as I read it appears that for my components, slot two of the monitor would allow me to use one RBG connection (using the adapters to the BNC inputs) and one S Video. I plan to run a HD STB and an HD DVD player into the monitor and given the issues I have read about with the S-Video connection I don't want to use S-Video. Right now I have a Samsung DLP set and I am running the receiver and DVD player into two available RBG input ports and I am running the STB directly into the monitor using a DVI connection. My question is could I run the STB and DVD player into the receiver and and run them both into the Panny RBG port from the receiver? If I can will that impact the picture quality? If I cannot and I don't want to use S-Video what additional video card would be best to add into slot 1 so I can have additional RBG inputs and a DVI input? I have heard that DVI cards are hard to come by at the moment.

Thanks for the help.

The VGA input also accepts Component signals. You just need to get a Component/VGA cable :

http://www.ramelectronics.net/assets/images/video/55-873-RCA-6_s.jpg

.

So out-of-the-box, the "7UY" Models have 1 S-Video/Composite input - 2 Components inputs and the free slot that can be used with a DVI or HDMI Board (Or any other).


Here's an illustration of the inputs:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?s=&attachmentid=31237

BruZZi: Thanks very much for the illustration, it is much better than what was in the manual. I also didn't realize there was a VGA/Component cable available. That along with the HDMI/DVI card for the free slot should handle all my needs. Thanks for the help!

BruZZi,

I noticed that Slot 2 has 1 S-Video and 2 Composites.

Does that represent seperate 2 video inputs meaning:

1 Composite input and
1 Composite OR S-Video input

Thanks so much for your help.

Do you work for Panasonic?

Originally posted by ncsercs
BruZZi,
I noticed that Slot 2 has 1 S-Video and 2 Composites.
Does that represent seperate 2 video inputs meaning:
1 Composite input and
1 Composite OR S-Video input
It's actually 1 Composite input and 1 Composite output.

Thanks so much for your help.
You're Very Welcome


Do you work for Panasonic?
Nope.

Just a regular Panasonic Plasma owner. :)

HI BruZZi, I sent you a PM.

PS. Thanks for the info re: pict mode settings. Other than the factory settings for brightness and contrast for these modes there is also underlying diffrences between them. Gamma being on of them.....but what else.

BTW what is your website that has been referred to?

Not so sure about my Panasonic 50HD7U plasma and upconversion via HDMI connection. Ordered the card and installed it. Tried a feed from my new toshiba DVD 592 and everything was wildly magenta. So skewed that I didn't even attempt to calibrate. Thought it might be the player. So I did a feed from HDMI out of my cable box. No picture at all this time. Tried a new cable, same results.

Called supplier where I got the card and they felt it was unlikely the card failing and that there had been some "issues" with source devices and compatibility with HDMI input on Panny plasma display.

Okay. Returned player to Best Buy, got the only other HDMI compatibale DVD player they're carrying, another Toshiba, the 5970 (with assurances it could be returned.) Also called cable company and asked them about HDMI output and their experiences. All very new, they said, but should be working. He "reset" my tuner remotely and suggested I try again.

Hooked up 5970 via HDMI and got a reall picture this time. Connected cable tuner via HDMI and got a picture, although a bit quirky in when it decides to appear or not.

The killer is: now that I have both connections kinda working, the PQ improvement is marginal at best. (Yes, even after calibration).

My impression is an analog 480p signal upconverted by the display is still better than an analog signal upconverted by either of these DVD players and sent as a digital signal to the Panny plasma display. (Not to mention that the zoom and aspect functions of the Panny are far superior as well).

Will probably take the new Toshiba player back (since functionally and the build quality are marginal at best.) Will replace with a quality progressive DVD player and wait for HD DVD.

BruZZi: a f/u question to a post from peg120785. is there a downside to using the receiver as the central unit to run component cables from dvd and cable STB - then running one set of component to the component RGB on the 7uy? I was planning on this approach to avoid more than one connection to the display. the receiver has plenty of component inputs available and a compnent monitor out. thanks.

tony

I second (or third) acastel's question. My preferred approach to wiring would be through the compnent switching capabilities of my Onkyo sr800. I planned on trying that and then a direct connection to the TV from my to be acquired sa8300HD box from cable. It should be easy to see if there is a noticable difference between the two. I would also wire my non DVI and non progressive Panasonic dvd/vcr player through that connection (dvd to be upgraded in a few months).

Since the sa8300hd STB has hdmi and my future dvd player would have dvi or hdmi presumably I figured I'd order a dvi or hdmi blade to populate the empty slot from your diagram. I would be able to use that blade for the STB if I wasn't satisfied with component switched by the receiver or straight component, and also have the or the dvd player I would get later.

Since I don't foresee using the audio on the TV HDMI would only be for potential future use I guess and I am assuming the HDMI adds sound to the DVI blade without sacrificing video. Assuming HDMI and DVI are same price HDMI is a no brainer no sacrifice better blade?


Any advice on whether DVI or hdmi blade would be better for me knowing my plans?

acastel:

I am interested in the answer to this too. I would much prefer running only one set of RBG cables to the monitor from the receiver since it will hang above the fireplace and I have some walls to get through. But if it is going to have a significant effect on picture quality, I'll run more cables to the monitor.

peg120785

Originally posted by peg120785
acastel:

I am interested in the answer to this too. I would much prefer running only one set of RBG cables to the monitor from the receiver since it will hang above the fireplace and I have some walls to get through. But if it is going to have a significant effect on picture quality, I'll run more cables to the monitor.

peg120785

My worry, given your configuration, would be that future STBs, due to hollywood's paranoia, will limit HD output to only copy-protected interfaces (HDCP - DVI or HDMI). If this were to happen, you'd need to take the plasma down and string another cable to get HD resolutions. IMO, it would be cheap insurance to run the DVI/HDMI cable now, even if you don't use it or even buy the blade for the plasma.

jMerryman: I hadn't thought of that, but you may well be right and since I am already in the wall due to a remodel, it is probably best to at least run the cable now. I have a DVI card on back order, but not sure I will get it before we hand the plasma.

Thanks.

Originally posted by acastel
BruZZi: a f/u question to a post from peg120785. is there a downside to using the receiver as the central unit to run component cables from dvd and cable STB - then running one set of component to the component RGB on the 7uy? I was planning on this approach to avoid more than one connection to the display. the receiver has plenty of component inputs available and a compnent monitor out. thanks.

tony

The Receiver must have enough bandwidth to do the switching.
The minimum required for HD is around 35 MHz. Less than this there would be a visible degradation on the picture. I believe most Receivers now have 50 MHZ or more of bandwidth but check the specs just in case.

The only downside switching thru a Receiver is that you won't have different picture settings for each input. This is very useful IMO as you can set different Brightness/Contrast/Pic Mode, etc for each source. That's it. :)

Bruzzi you gotta stop scaring me... 'TX-SR800's video connectivity. The video circuitry includes composite to S-Video conversion, and 50 MHz professional grade component video switching for excellent performance with HDTV systems.
' I am relieved after my frenzied search to ensure my $800 receiver doesn't have to be replaced.

I still have options - nice!

Thanks BruZZi. I'm looking at the Yamaha RX-V750 which has 5Hz to 60MHz, -3dB on Component monitor out. Sounds like this should do it. Appreciate the advice on settings I can always go the other route later if this doesn't do it for me. Thanks again.

Bruzzi,

Sorry to nag you on this issue...but can you tell me how to change picture mode settings (cinema, dynamic, standard etc) while in service menu?

....thats if it is possible at all...

Thanks heaps

Steve....

Oops, Sorry Steffche. I totally forgot about you.

Unfortunately the only thing I cannot help is with a service menu. I spend so much time search the net for info , I never really had a time to play with the service menu. Sorry.

Try the UK Based www.avforums.com

http://www.avforums.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=82



Someone might help you with that info there.

Gotta go to work now. Talk to you later. :D

Just ordered the HD7UY :)

Cant wait. Now I need to get prepared. I have 3 things I want to run to the monitor:

1. HDTV Motorolla STB
2. XBOX
3. HTPC

I want to use VGA for the HTPC.

I will be using component for the other 2. I assume since Im using the VGA for the computer, I will need to do some component switching via my pre-amp.

That being said, I looked at the pic of what comes with the panny stock and it looks like the component in "SLOT 2" are BNC connectors or am I seeing things and its RCA? Is that the case? If so it looks like Ill have to go out and purchase some cables...

I assume they make BNC-RCA component cables if I need them?

Thanks!

EDIT: After looking around for a couple more hours I found the answer to my question. Since I have the commercial model, its BNC connectors. Looks like Ill be making a cable purchase :)

aprather:

I also just ordered the 507UY. I ordered from Visual Apex and in talking with the nice sales lady she told me that while you are right, slot 2 does come with BNC ports, the set will have a package of RCA adapters packed with it. So you may want to check with whoever you bought from and see if you need to buy new cables or not. Good luck and let us know how you like it after you get set up.

Chip

Originally posted by peg120785
aprather:

I also just ordered the 507UY. I ordered from Visual Apex and in talking with the nice sales lady she told me that while you are right, slot 2 does come with BNC ports, the set will have a package of RCA adapters packed with it. So you may want to check with whoever you bought from and see if you need to buy new cables or not. Good luck and let us know how you like it after you get set up.

Chip

Peg -

Thanks very much for that info!

I too ordered from Visual Apex. So maybe Im in luck :D

I was about to order some canare cable and some ends today to get my cables made up before it gets here... maybe I dont need to now :)

Thanks again!

My 7Uy didn't come with adapters (didn't purchase from Visual Apex). I bought custom size component cables from AV-Cables.Net (http://www.av-cables.net/componentvideo/rca-to-bnc-component-video.html) this link should take you directly to the BNC/RCA page. Two day ground shipping - I had no problem with my order. Good luck with the set up.

Radio Shack sells BNC/RCA adapters.


http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=278-303

In case anyone is interested, here's a link to where you can order: Panasonic Parts and Accessories Online (http://www.pasc.panasonic.com/EpartR/PartsListChoice.asp).

You can also order parts, service manuals and service literature by calling: 1-800-528-6747.

FYI, the TH-50PHD7UY service manual is about 25 bucks + shipping.

Bruzzi,
Can you help me out ? Ive had my 37pd25ed panney for 3 weeks now and and very happy with it. While watching tv with the sound on low i could hear a buzzing/humming sound, i thought it was my refrigerator. when i put my ears to the speakers i could hear the buzzing coming from the speakers. Also while changing channels a couple of times i heard some popping crackling noise. any comments would be appreciated.

Originally posted by specgeorge
Bruzzi,
Can you help me out ? Ive had my 37pd25ed panney for 3 weeks now and and very happy with it. While watching tv with the sound on low i could hear a buzzing/humming sound, i thought it was my refrigerator. when i put my ears to the speakers i could hear the buzzing coming from the speakers. Also while changing channels a couple of times i heard some popping crackling noise. any comments would be appreciated.

Most likely "Ground Loop" . Try to disconnect the cable/satellite connection (coax) to see (hear :D) if the problem goes away. If it does, do a search for "Ground Loop" . I have some great links discussing about this topic but unfortunately I don't know where I put them. I've been upgrading the FAQ, my computer is a mess with many links and photos all over. :( If the hum/buzzing persist, try to unplug the other connections one-by-one to see where the problem comes from. It could also be a poor shielded cable.


.

If my calculations are correct:

Cool - 11500K
Normal - 8900K
Warm / Studio (hidden) - 6500K / 3200K

Thanks Bruzzi, i will get on it right away.

I just picked up a TH-50PX25UP 2 days ago and I have no clue where to start to maximize the feature and clarity of this TV. I have the Avia dvd that I can use to calibrate but the sources that I'm using aren't exactly par with this tv...

I mostly use a FTA reciever and the best thing it has is S-Video...
For DVD I have a 400 disc sony DVD changer and I'm gonna hook it up via component cables
I'll be putting together an HTPC and run winxp media and use this for my main OTA source and other things this must be hooked up via the VGA but the problem with this is that the VGA port is in the front.. this TV doesn't have a DVI port but it does have an HDMI port which I absolutely have no clue what to use with it.
And lastly I have a standard VCR and I doubt that I'll get significant better picture if I bought an S-VHS player would I?

For sound I have a Denon AVR-3802 which has that video switching that everyone's talking about I have no clue what that is but the reciever does have component in and component out. Enough inputs to handle all of my sources... should I hook up everything to the VCR then to the tv or is it better to go direct to the tv and us the AVR strictly for sound? This is y first time getting into HD and I'm totally clueless...

One thing I learn in the past few days is that I can pick up local OTA HD channels. I bought the Terk TV5 and the TV55 but not getting very good result... called terk and they recommended the TV38 and they told me I'll be able to get all the HD stations and all the locals in the SF Bay Area. I think something like 19 digital stations and 29 analog.

Also I hear something a boule a doubler or a video scaler?

Bruzzi / anyone,

Please help me with what I am sure is a really dumb question.

I have two of the 42" Panasonic consumer EDs in the kitchen and bedroom. We love 'em and are happy to use the built-in speakers for watching cable, etc.. Now we are getting ready to buy the 42 UY for the living room to run it through the HT receiver for better sound for movies. All we will have is a DVD player and crummy Adelphia digital cable STB (composite out only!). [Basically, after hearing about the poor quality of SD on HD sets (we mostly watch basic cable channels), and based on how happy we are with the picture on the two 42" sets we already have, we decided not to go with the 50" HD and save the $2 grand +.. But that is another topic.]

Anyway, I searched and read the info above about using the A/V receiver for switching. I was thinking about doing the same thing and buying a new receiver since they are getting less expensive. However, to get over the 35MHz you mentioned for HD, you have to spend about $500 or more.

Based on the above, here are my questions:

1 - does the 35MHz even matter for me since I will be using an ED set not HD?

2- I currently have a 6-year old Harman Kardon 5.1 channel A/V receiver. It does not have component or even S, but it sounds great. Couldn't I just run the video portions of the cables (component for DVD and composite for STB) into the TV and the audio portion into the receiver and turn on both to watch a program? If so, that would help since I would not have to buy a new receiver at all!

Mike, I was looking for any info on a new ED model to replace the 42PD25U but can not find it on the Panny site...even in their CES link, they just show HD.

Do you know about a new ED set? My area is out of the 42" current units and are not getting more. CC has them, but at $2850 they can keep them!

Originally posted by mike123abc
Well the main differences is that the 25U is the consumer model with stand, speakers, OTA ATSC and cable card HD Tuners. The 7UY is a commercial model just a display but a newer generation of electronics/glass that has some improvements in picture. If you can wait a few months at CES Panasonic announced their new models that will use the next generation of glass, are consumer models with all the extras mentioned above and have a lower MSRP. They come out in March, April and May (smaller models earlier).

Originally posted by ebm
Bruzzi / anyone,

Please help me with what I am sure is a really dumb question.

I have two of the 42" Panasonic consumer EDs in the kitchen and bedroom. We love 'em and are happy to use the built-in speakers for watching cable, etc.. Now we are getting ready to buy the 42 UY for the living room to run it through the HT receiver for better sound for movies. All we will have is a DVD player and crummy Adelphia digital cable STB (composite out only!). [Basically, after hearing about the poor quality of SD on HD sets (we mostly watch basic cable channels), and based on how happy we are with the picture on the two 42" sets we already have, we decided not to go with the 50" HD and save the $2 grand +.. But that is another topic.]

Anyway, I searched and read the info above about using the A/V receiver for switching. I was thinking about doing the same thing and buying a new receiver since they are getting less expensive. However, to get over the 35MHz you mentioned for HD, you have to spend about $500 or more.

Based on the above, here are my questions:

1 - does the 35MHz even matter for me since I will be using an ED set not HD?

2- I currently have a 6-year old Harman Kardon 5.1 channel A/V receiver. It does not have component or even S, but it sounds great. Couldn't I just run the video portions of the cables (component for DVD and composite for STB) into the TV and the audio portion into the receiver and turn on both to watch a program? If so, that would help since I would not have to buy a new receiver at all!

You can definitely do this. I actually like this method better since you don't always want to have the entire system on. I had an HK AVR500 a few days ago before switching to a Denon 3803. Even though the denon now have a component output etc... I still use it only for audio purpose. You can also choose to buy a Y-RCA adapter and split your audio signal, this is if your source only have 1 set of RCA that way you can watch TV using the built in speakers and just turn on your reciever when you feel like it. Is that what you're referring to?

Originally posted by mpsan
Mike, I was looking for any info on a new ED model to replace the 42PD25U but can not find it on the Panny site...even in their CES link, they just show HD.

Do you know about a new ED set? My area is out of the 42" current units and are not getting more. CC has them, but at $2850 they can keep them!

Panasonic briefly had a picture of their new ED (42PD50U, as I recall) on their web site, but then pulled it. The one they showed was the same shape as their current HD model (i.e. somewhat narrower, without the conspicuous speakers of the 42PD25U) but all silver rather than black and silver like the HD.

They did not include any specs, so it's hard to say what changes they have made other than the cosmetics. They are supposed to be available in March. Rumor has it they have stopped production on the 42PD25.

Originally posted by dannieboiz
You can definitely do this. I actually like this method better since you don't always want to have the entire system on. I had an HK AVR500 a few days ago before switching to a Denon 3803. Even though the denon now have a component output etc... I still use it only for audio purpose. You can also choose to buy a Y-RCA adapter and split your audio signal, this is if your source only have 1 set of RCA that way you can watch TV using the built in speakers and just turn on your receiver when you feel like it. Is that what you're referring to?

Yes and no - I will have to use the audio through the AV receiver, since the 7UY has no speakers.

The important thing is that I really don't need video switching, etc. - I can use my existing receiver! The video can go straight from the source to the TV and the audio through the receiver

thanks

Yes, one of our best sources here (read best prices) said the 42" pd25U is no longer available.

Still, why the confusion if the 42PD50U is only a few weeks away. Also, why would they eliminate the CableCard, or do we know for sure that this is a "maybe"?

Originally posted by Macfan424
Panasonic briefly had a picture of their new ED (42PD30U, as I recall) on their web site, but then pulled it. The one they showed was the same shape as their current HD model (i.e. somewhat narrower, without the conspicuous speakers of the 42PD25U) but all silver rather than black and silver like the HD.

They did not include any specs, so it's hard to say what changes they have made other than the cosmetics. They are supposed to be available in March. Rumor has it they have stopped production on the 42PD25.

Originally posted by Macfan424
Panasonic briefly had a picture of their new ED (42PD50U, as I recall) on their web site, but then pulled it. The one they showed was the same shape as their current HD model (i.e. somewhat narrower, without the conspicuous speakers of the 42PD25U) but all silver rather than black and silver like the HD.

They did not include any specs, so it's hard to say what changes they have made other than the cosmetics. They are supposed to be available in March. Rumor has it they have stopped production on the 42PD25.

:confused: I tried to post the photo, but I guess there is no simple way to do this, at least for those of us without our own website. Or maybe I'm just dense.:(

EDIT****

I just got off the phone with Panasonic Plasma support. The TH 42PD50U WILL have the tuner and CableCard! He also did not have the MSRP but confirmed that it was less than the previous model!

I still hope they do not take the cablecard out of the 42PD50U! I need this!
If it will be available in 3-6 weeks, I am surprised Panasonic has not released what they are going to do yet!

Hello,

I recently purchased the 42-pwd7uy and hooked up my sony dream dav-fr9 HTIB to the RGB component in slot 2...a certain cable company is delivering and hooking up my cable next week and i ordered standard digital cable and an hdtv box with dvi, i think this can work.....i hope this will help convert some of my programs in high-def..whats the best way to hook up both the home theatre in a box and the cable/hdtv box to the monitor..we are not hooking up anything else, althougha PS2 might be added later.. i had though using a s video cable for the HTIB and component RGB for the cable/hdtv box...will this give me the best possible picture and will it even work..?..any advice would be much appriciated..thank you all for your time..be well :)

Just thought I would supply an update...

I just got off the phone with Panny Plasma support. They did confirm the following about the TH 42PD50U...

There will be an HD Tuner.
There will be a CableCard slot.
The MSRP will be less than the previous model
Expect to see them in about 2 more Months...less in some selected citys.

Now I wonder how much the PD25U's will close out for? However, it may be worth the few $$$ to get the new one. He did not have a full spec sheet yet that he could send out.

Originally posted by skatingwizard9
Hello,

I recently purchased the 42-pwd7uy and hooked up my sony dream dav-fr9 HTIB to the RGB component in slot 2...a certain cable company is delivering and hooking up my cable next week and i ordered standard digital cable and an hdtv box with dvi, i think this can work.....i hope this will help convert some of my programs in high-def..whats the best way to hook up both the home theatre in a box and the cable/hdtv box to the monitor..we are not hooking up anything else, althougha PS2 might be added later.. i had though using a s video cable for the HTIB and component RGB for the cable/hdtv box...will this give me the best possible picture and will it even work..?..any advice would be much appriciated..thank you all for your time..be well :)

Hook up your HTIB to component and your cable box to the pc 15-pin input. The 15-pin pc input will accept component signals as well. You will need to get a special type of cable that has the 3 rca, red, green, blue connectors on one end and the 15-pin d-sub connector on the other. You should be able to find these by searching google or ebay. Then you will have to go into the setup menu for the pc input on the pwd7uy and change the type to "component" from "rgb". Both the pc input and the component input will accept either an rgb or component signal. The default is component on the component input and rgb on the pc input.

Originally posted by mjlee
Hook up your HTIB to component and your cable box to the pc 15-pin input. The 15-pin pc input will accept component signals as well. You will need to get a special type of cable that has the 3 rca, red, green, blue connectors on one end and the 15-pin d-sub connector on the other. You should be able to find these by searching google or ebay. Then you will have to go into the setup menu for the pc input on the pwd7uy and change the type to "component" from "rgb". Both the pc input and the component input will accept either an rgb or component signal. The default is component on the component input and rgb on the pc input.

This one: :)

http://www.ramelectronics.net/assets/images/video/55-873-RCA-6_s.jpg

http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/hdtv-cables.html#hd15rgb

Thanks so much everyone..especially Bruzzi..you rock!!!! Ill let you know how things turm out..great site...thanks again..:cool:

I just ordered that cable - Thanks Bruzzi! was going to order the RCA to BNC cable too but it was a bit pricey for me. I'm going to see how my component to bnc connector to TV works (want to make sure I can 'turn' the cable so it doesn't stick out under the TV at all before sending it into the wall).

Update - just ordered the 3 RCA to 3 BNC cable from cablesnmor. Had gotten long cables from them in the past and had no problems. I figure the more ways I have to hook up the tv the less worry I will have in wondering if I have a bad cable as I can just swap them out. Plus I'd like to run as many cables as possible through the wall while I have the pdp down.

BrUZZI

Did you end up using the TY-ST42PX20 stand for your 50 inch penny if so how did it work out and do you have a photo?

Thanks

Originally posted by zmonte
BrUZZI

Did you end up using the TY-ST42PX20 stand for your 50 inch penny if so how did it work out and do you have a photo?

Thanks

zmonte,

I still didn't get the 50" Display yet. :( :( :(


As for the TY-ST42PX20 stand... yes, it does fit the display perfectly after using a Bench Grinder to remove the reinforced back of the poles.

Sorry, I don't have a digital camera at the momment :( but I will borrow one from a friend and will take some pictures (maybe this weekend) to show you what I did to make the poles fit the Commercial Models.

:)

Thank you BruZZi


I too will be upgrading soon hopefully from my 42 in panny, so far that's the nicest looking stand for my needs.

Is there any actual difference betweenTY-ST42PX20 and,PANASONIC TY-ST50PX20 PEDESTAL STAND ?

Originally posted by mpsan
Just thought I would supply an update...

I just got off the phone with Panny Plasma support. They did confirm the following about the TH 42PD50U...

There will be an HD Tuner.
There will be a CableCard slot.
The MSRP will be less than the previous model
Expect to see them in about 2 more Months...less in some selected citys.

Now I wonder how much the PD25U's will close out for? However, it may be worth the few $$$ to get the new one. He did not have a full spec sheet yet that he could send out.

How did you even get that info?? I called and no one supposedly knew about the model. Did they give you any idea when the specs would be available?

Thanks.

Hello, I left you a PM as well.

Anyway, did you call the Plasma Number and press the number to speak to a Tech? The Plasma Number is 1-888-843-9788. Do NOT select the option for sales or literature or it will take you to the main, nonplasma, Panny phone site again.


Originally posted by msboc
How did you even get that info?? I called and no one supposedly knew about the model. Did they give you any idea when the specs would be available?

Thanks.

I am considering a 7uy for my living room, but I will not pay that much for the speakers. My main theater has surround sound, so I dont want a receiver in this room also. What have other owners done for aftermarket speaker solutions using the sets outputs?
Thanks!!

I'm using powered computer speakers with a sub woofer. They're hooked up to the output of my Time Warner cable box so the volume is controlled by it's remote. Convenient for channel changing The whole set up cost about $60. They're compact and sound great for casual watching. I'm setting up a second similar system in my bedroom. Get them from Best Buy or CompUSA, try them out and if you don't like try another set until you get one you like. I think you'll be pretty satisfied.

Hi BruZZi: Below item is from your 1/23/05 post. When I click on the url on your original post, I received a vBulletin Message: "Sorry, invalid attachment specified." Would you please "refresh" the url so that I could see the illustration.

Many thanks.
Yoost

Part of your 1/23/05 post follows:

QUOTE "The VGA input also accepts Component signals. You just need to get a Component/VGA cable :



.

So out-of-the-box, the "7UY" Models have 1 S-Video/Composite input - 2 Components inputs and the free slot that can be used with a DVI or HDMI Board (Or any other).


Here's an illustration of the inputs:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/atta...achmentid=31237 "UNQUOTE

Originally posted by yoost
Hi BruZZi: Below item is from your 1/23/05 post. When I click on the url on your original post, I received a vBulletin Message: "Sorry, invalid attachment specified." Would you please "refresh" the url so that I could see the illustration.

Many thanks.
Yoost

Part of your 1/23/05 post follows:

QUOTE "The VGA input also accepts Component signals. You just need to get a Component/VGA cable :

So out-of-the-box, the "7UY" Models have 1 S-Video/Composite input - 2 Components inputs and the free slot that can be used with a DVI or HDMI Board (Or any other).


Here's an illustration of the inputs:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/atta...achmentid=31237 "UNQUOTE

I'm planning on getting the 37" 7uy soon. I will have an amplifier, dvd, and hdtv cable box hidden around six feet from the set, and of course five speakers and a subwoofer. I'm totally ignorant about all of this. What cables, surge protectors etc. do I need to purchase for the installation. I know that the 37" doesn't have an empty slot.

I couldn't see the illustration either.
Thanks.

Page 13 of this has a pretty good pic of the inputs for the 5 panny professional models

http://www.plasmaconcepts.com/docs/prod_spec_199.pdf

The problem I have with using powered PC speakers is that my tuner (Directv) doesnt have a volume control built in, so there would be no way to adjust it. Anyone else using the TV's speaker outputs with non factory speakers?

Here's the new link: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?s=&attachmentid=34306



I'm planning on getting the 37" 7uy soon. I will have an amplifier, dvd, and hdtv cable box hidden around six feet from the set, and of course five speakers and a subwoofer. I'm totally ignorant about all of this. What cables, surge protectors etc. do I need to purchase for the installation. I know that the 37" doesn't have an empty slot.

I couldn't see the illustration either.
Thanks.

Now that you can see the pic ... :D

The 37" ED displays come with 3 Video inputs:


1 S-Video or Composite (BNC Connectors) -

S-Video and Composite inputs on Panasonic Plasmas are shared.
Must use either one. And the S-Video is always the priority.
If the S-Video is plugged to the plasma input (No matter if the other end of the cable is connected or not)
the composite input will be automatically disabled.
So to use The Composite Input, S-Video cannot be plugged to the Plasma Display


1 Component/RGB (BNC Connectors) - For the DVD or HD Cable Box

Get either a RCA/RCA Component cable and use 3 BNC/RCA Adapters (http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=278-303) or a BNC/RCA Component Cable (http://store1.yimg.com/I/bettercablesdotcom_1830_1296245)


1 Component/VGA - For the DVD or HD Cable Box

Get a Component/VGA Cable (http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/hdtv-cables.html#hd15rgb)


Sound:

Connect a Coax/Optical digital cable from the DVD/HD Cable box to the appropriate inputs on the Receiver.




.

Originally posted by BruZZi
Here's the new link: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?s=&attachmentid=34306




Now that you can see the pic ... :D

The 37" ED displays come with 3 Video inputs:


1 S-Video or Composite (BNC Connectors) -

S-Video and Composite inputs on Panasonic Plasmas are shared.
Must use either one. And the S-Video is always the priority.
If the S-Video is plugged to the plasma input (No matter if the other end of the cable is connected or not)
the composite input will be automatically disabled.
So to use The Composite Input, S-Video cannot be plugged to the Plasma Display


1 Component/RGB (BNC Connectors) - For the DVD or HD Cable Box

Get either a RCA/RCA Component cable and use 3 BNC/RCA Adapters (http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=278-303) or a BNC/RCA Component Cable (http://store1.yimg.com/I/bettercablesdotcom_1830_1296245)


1 Component/VGA - For the DVD or HD Cable Box

Get a Component/VGA Cable (http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/hdtv-cables.html#hd15rgb)


Sound:

Connect a Coax/Optical digital cable from the DVD/HD Cable box to the appropriate inputs on the Receiver.

Thank you. That's terrific! What about a DVI blade? What's that all about. Sorry to be so uninformed.


. :p :p

I'm not clear on the screensaver on the Panasonic TH-42PHD7UY.

Does it work like a PC screensaver, in that it goes on after a set period on inactivity? Or is it something that can only be enabled by a set start time?

Thanks!

Am I correct in assuming that the new Panny consumer plasmas have 8th generation glass? Or will it be the same as the 7th generation(commercial) glass?

Matt

What about a DVI blade? What's that all about. Sorry to be so uninformed.


DVI is a digital connection and supposedly will give a better PQ. However there are mixed reviews. Some people say it's really better than Component while others feel (depending on the setup) there's a little or no improvement. Do a search to get more info. :)



Originally posted by ElVee
I'm not clear on the screensaver on the Panasonic TH-42PHD7UY.

Does it work like a PC screensaver, in that it goes on after a set period on inactivity? Or is it something that can only be enabled by a set start time?

Thanks!


The screensavers can be set only manually


Originally posted by matwags
Am I correct in assuming that the new Panny consumer plasmas have 8th generation glass? Or will it be the same as the 7th generation(commercial) glass?

Matt



Panasonic states that they are 8th Generation Models.

Well, I'm still curious to know what is really new on those models (compared to the 7G Onyx) to be considered a Newer Generation.

And what happened to the Non-High End 7th Generation Consumer Models ?!?!?!?

I just got a TH-42PX20 a couple of months ago and have recently hooked up a DVDO iscan HD video processor. I have a couple of questions.

1.What should I have the settings on the Plasma set to when using an external scaler?

2. The only way I can send the Native resolution (1024x768) is via the PC input on the FRONT of the display! (Poor engineering in my opinion). Do you think as far a picture quality goes I am better off sending an analog native resolution to the RGB (PC input), or send 1080i totally digitally through to the HDMI input? hope that makes sense.

3. Some movies and tv Channel have LOTS of little flashy pixals, especially durring scenes with flat color something I am sure everyone see sometimes. How do you reduce this? I notice by turning the contrast down it goes away, but then the picture gets a little dark. Should I calibrate?

Any feedback would help me sleep at night. thanks

Question about blackness on 42phd7uy. At night while I am watching a dvd with no lights on, the "brightness" of black scenes in movies bothers me. I thought the phosphors in the plasma don't light up when black is supposed to be showing up on the screen.

Originally posted by BruZZi
I would wait until the issues could be resolved before buying any "7UY" Model. That's actually what I'm doing. Was ready to buy the TH-50PHD7UY (Upgrade from my current Th-37PWD6UY) but decided to wait until Panasonic can provide "a fix". If you're in a hurry try to find a "6UY" Model or buy another Brand like NEC.

What are the issues on the 50PHD7UY??

Originally posted by BruZZi


Panasonic states that they are 8th Generation Models.

Well, I'm still curious to know what is really new on those models (compared to the 7G Onyx) to be considered a Newer Generation.

And what happened to the Non-High End 7th Generation Consumer Models ?!?!?!?

Wild, uninformed speculation here, but...

Maybe Panasonic quietly switched to 7G panels in the middle of the 25 series production run. Such things are not unheard of. I never saw many claims about 7G improvements in PQ, only in longevity and burn-in resistance. The 7Gs had been alleged to offer a 60,000 hour half life vs the 6Gs' 30,000.

In November 2004, while 25's were still in full production, Panasonic issued a bulletin that rated their plasmas at 60,000 hours. No qualifiers such as "up to" or "most," just an unequivocal statement. It never seemed to make much sense for them to be building two different kinds of panels at once - in each of about five different configurations - especially at a time when they were selling the sets as fast as they could make them.

As for the 8th generation, we may be seeing the inevitable evolution in technology where the most significant quality issues have been largely addressed and emphasis switches from major improvements to maintaining existing quality while finding ways to reduce manufacturing costs.

Most plasmas are already very good and future improvements are more likely to be in small increments rather than dramatic, much as they have been in CRT's in recent years. On the high end, I'm sure the goal is to provide 1080 x 1920 pixel panels, but the mass market would be content with current quality at half the cost. Sooner or later that's where manufacturers will turn their attention. The Koreans seem to be trying to move in that direction. Maybe Panasonic is too, starting with 8G.

As I said, just unfounded conjecture, but from someone who has lived inside corporate executive suites.

Can someone tell me something about 3-2pll down or 3 3 Pulldown and our Plasma's? For some reason I just cant get my head around this. I have a TH-42PX20 and an external scaler. Should I have my DVD player, scaller or my Panny plasma set to something specific in order to make sure I am getthing the best pulldown?

sorry might be a very dumb questio.

how do we know which models have which glass though? i preordered the pd50u and if the pd50u and the pd25u have the same glass 7th gen then i might as well get the pd25u with the features i want, does anyone know for sure what glass panasonic is using for these models.

So I finally received my Panasonic 50PHD7UY last night and just set it up this morning. The picture looks awesome out of the box. I still need to pick up a calibration disc. Thanks to everyone for their input.

My question is what should my picture settings be for the first 100 hours.
Currently they are:

Picture 25
Brightness 0
Color 0
Tint 0
Sharpness 0
Color Temp Normal

I havent changed any of the original advanced settings.

After 100 hours what are peoples settings?

Cheers,

Matt

BruZZi,
I sent you a PM

Originally posted by matwags
So I finally received my Panasonic 50PHD7UY last night and just set it up this morning. The picture looks awesome out of the box. I still need to pick up a calibration disc. Thanks to everyone for their input.

My question is what should my picture settings be for the first 100 hours.
Currently they are:

Picture 25
Brightness 0
Color 0
Tint 0
Sharpness 0
Color Temp Normal

I havent changed any of the original advanced settings.

After 100 hours what are peoples settings?

Cheers,

Matt

Looks like that's the default "standard" setting with the sharpness turned down a little. I would lower the picture to something below 10 and change the color temp to warm. The color temp setting change is going to make the colors look a little off at first but the warm temp is closest to the reference 6500k and after a while you will adjust.

Thanks for the reply. The settings make it a little washed out, but Spider Man DVD looked great. Thanks.

Any advice on settings in another 98 hours of use?

Cheers,

Matt

matwags

try this posting and the one that follows it:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2233889#post2233889

Thanks,

I had to copy and paste those to word and print them, so I can use them in front of the panel.

Matt

Does anyone know what the additional items in the 50PHD7UY's hidden menu are? Specifically the "Slot Power" and the "V. Installation" controls? I went into this menu to turn off the OSD, and noticed that there are two pages in this menu. It differs from the menu shown in Bruzzi's Plasma FAQ Page, that only shows one page.

Thanks,
Andy

These are guesses but...

Slot power seems like it controls the power to the input slots. Maybe you can turn them off and on.

V. Installation is probably some setting you have to modify if you have the plasma set up vertically. I'm more sure about this one.

Originally posted by matwags
Thanks for the reply. The settings make it a little washed out, but Spider Man DVD looked great. Thanks.

Any advice on settings in another 98 hours of use?

Cheers,

Matt

I've used my 7uy for about 700 hours and I haven't felt the need to really change the settings much from the beginning.

Using DVE, I haven't had to change any of the settings too far from the mid range (i.e. 0). I have the following for DVD's which I use in relatively dim settings (about a 75 watt light bulb):

Picture 10
Brightness -5
Color 0
Tint 0
Sharpness 3
Color temp warm
gamma 2.2


Using color temp at normal with gamma at 2.2 - I had to adjust the color setting to get the colors correct with DVE. Using warm and 2.2 they are spot on at 0.

Help Please!
I have a TH-42PD25 and have been struggling for the past few days to program picture settings for watching HD, analog cable and DVD.
As far as I know the TV is supposed to store settings individually for each input.
However whenever I make changes to the picture settings with the antenna input these changes are getting stored for the DVD component input and visa versa.
The result is that every time I watch TV or DVD I need to play with the controls to get acceptable results.
Please let me know if any of you had the same problem and how you overcameit.
Thanks

Details of my connections are as follows.
I have regular basic cable with 3 OTA HD channels provided which is plugged directly into the antenna A connection. No cable card or STB.
I am running the connection to TV from my DVD player through component 1 input.

You have to assign a different setting to the input. You have cinema, standard, vivid, and auto. I use standard on the component and HD OTA, and use vivid on the OTA analog. I have changed the values for them. If you make changes to the "standard" one for example, it changes "standard" globally and every input set to "standard" will be the same.

I think I can get the best picture on "standard" so I use it for DVD and OTA HD. Cinema is just too soft a picture. I suppose I could get "auto" be ok, but I tend to just watch the TV in a dark environment so I like the settings to be constant.

hello everyone. I'm in the market for a plasma and was interest in 42pa25u model that can be found at Costco for 2199. is that a good buy??

I went to sear and saw the 42pd25u but for 2799. Is it worth getting the 42pd over the 42pa? I know this is probably a common question. If you guys can recommend any other model, I would appreciate it. I am looking to spend around 2k up to 3k for a quality plasma screen. I heard and read that panasonic use one of the best engine in the plasma market. I saw it today and was very impressive by it. If you guys can suggest or give me some ideas on what to get around that price range, I would appreciate it. Thanks.

also, currently I have the basic cable package from comcast which is basically just the local channel through the coxial input from the wall. I might upgrade to get more channel but at this time, I only watch a few channel. Also I play GT4 on playstation 2, do I have to be concern with burn in? i read as much as possible but there are way too much information and don't know where to start. I was initially looking at getting a LCD tv but for the same price of a 32 inch LCD, i can get a 42 inch plasma, hence the reason why i am going with plasma instead of LCD. This unit will eventually be moved into my bedroom once I buy a house. Thanks.

Originally posted by crazyplasma
...42pa25u model... is that a good buy??

...Is it worth getting the 42pd over the 42pa?

...do I have to be concern with burn in?

Allow me to be among the many that will tell you that Panasonic is releasing a newer model, the 42PD50U, which should start showing up in stores this week. Some people who pre-ordered have already received it. It has a MSRP of $2500, but if you are patient, you should be able to get it for $200-300 less than that.

The PD25U differs from the PA25U primarily in that it has a built-in ATSC/QAM tuner for OTA HD reception and a cable card feature allowing you to avoid using a cable box. The PA is a good buy if you don't care about the HD tuner and cable card.

In many ways, the new PD50U could be described as a stripped down PD25U, with fewer features but newer electronics than its predecessor at a much lower list price. Among the missing features is the cable card, so it you want that you might want to track down a PD25U, though they are getting hard to find. Some people have reported seeing them on closeout for $600 less than Sears quoted you.

If you don't care about the cable card or PIP (also missing now), the new PD50U would seem like the best buy, if for no other reason than it has Panasonic's latest picture circuitry. It does retain the ATSC tuner.

The replacement for the PA25U isn't scheduled for release before fall. Supposedly, it will list for under $2000.

As for burn-in (and lots of other info), go here:

http://216.180.241.242/~glaucob/forum/index.php?

Under FAQs, check the White Paper, Plasma Facts and Myths.

I posted a thread with this question but didn't get any replies, so I thought I would try it in the main Panasonic thread, in hopes that this is where the real Panasonic experts hang out.

My question: I decided to take the plunge and adjust the overscan settings on my new Panasonic TH-37PA20. I understand what the H POS, H WID, V POS, and V WID settings are for, but I'm curious about the _OF settings (HP_OF, HW_OF, VP_OF, VW_OF). What are they for?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Brad

wus up everyone, well I just pulled the trigger and got the 42pa25u at costco and I'm happy with it. It was a tough decision with the pioneer and the panny at costco but couldn't justify the 1000 increase from the pioneer.

My question is, if I wanted the option that the 42pd25u has, could I get it as a seperate unit or something? what does the extra feature do anyways? if anyone care to explain it to me, I would appreciate it.

Also one last question, do native resolution play a huge part in picture quality?? thanks for any info.

Originally posted by crazyplasma
wus up everyone, well I just pulled the trigger and got the 42pa25u at costco and I'm happy with it. It was a tough decision with the pioneer and the panny at costco but couldn't justify the 1000 increase from the pioneer.

My question is, if I wanted the option that the 42pd25u has, could I get it as a seperate unit or something? what does the extra feature do anyways? if anyone care to explain it to me, I would appreciate it.

Also one last question, do native resolution play a huge part in picture quality?? thanks for any info.

The ATSC tuner lets you receive HDTV and other digital programs over the air from your local stations using a good antenna. (A regular NTSC analog tuner can't receive HDTV.) You can add an external ASTC tuner later if you choose. They are usually about $300, but can be found from time to time for less than $200. They'll probably get cheaper in the future. You don't need one if you only watch cable.

The cable card eliminates the need for an external cable box. It's of value only if you want to avoid the box. You seem to have a box already, although you may need an upgrade to get HD and enjoy the full potential of your new set.

Your last question arouses more passion than anything else on this forum! :)

In my opinion, it does if you think it does. It certainly makes a huge difference on paper, but in the real world the difference is in the eyes of the beholder. Some people see important differences, some see almost none, while others see a difference, but not enough to justify a 40-60% cost differential.

Seems to me you have already answered it for yourself. You couldn't justify spending $1000 more for the Pioneer, which has higher resolution than the Panasonic you bought, so it didn't seem to make a "huge" difference to you. A lot of people agree, which is one reason more 42" ED plasmas were sold last year than all other sizes and resolutions combined.

Originally posted by crazyplasma
Also one last question, do native resolution play a huge part in picture quality?? thanks for any info.

I agree with the previous poster -- this is a question that is debated ad naseum elsewhere within these forums. One thing I will say about the Panny, though, is that you cannot feed it it's native resolution, which is really quite irritating because it forces you to use the internal scaler. For that reason alone I tell anyone that might ever desire to use an external video processor to steer clear of Panasonic.

Originally posted by stlblufan
.....One thing I will say about the Panny, though, is that you cannot feed it it's native resolution, which is really quite irritating because it forces you to use the internal scaler. For that reason alone I tell anyone that might ever desire to use an external video processor to steer clear of Panasonic.

This seems to run counter to my experience and those of others. Which specific panny's are you referring to and with which external source?

You can send native to panny plasma's. I am not sure about the commercial models, but I know with the consumer models you have to send it via the pc input on the front of the display...which really sucks.

Originally posted by mjlee
This seems to run counter to my experience and those of others. Which specific panny's are you referring to and with which external source?

I'm puzzled too. I get fine results from an iScan Ultra though a 42PD25U's rear component input.

Originally posted by BradTinBC
My question: I decided to take the plunge and adjust the overscan settings on my new Panasonic TH-37PA20. I understand what the H POS, H WID, V POS, and V WID settings are for, but I'm curious about the _OF settings (HP_OF, HW_OF, VP_OF, VW_OF). What are they for?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Brad

If I remember correctly those are the H/V size and position of the picture under "ZOOM". I adjusted mine and it is one of the best features now to be able to take the 4:3 letterbox shows and zoom them to fit precisly into 16:9. A huge number of shows on SciFi are this way, especially all the new series like SG-1, SG-Atlantis and Battle Star Galatica.

Originally posted by Macfan424
I'm puzzled too. I get fine results from an iScan Ultra though a 42PD25U's rear component input.

he is talking native resolution i.e. 1024x768P. your iscan ultra does not send a native signal. Only the iscan HD or HD+ can send it.

On the HDTV consumer models (all of them I think) the component and hdmi on the back of the plasma can only accept 480i/480p/1080i. You can however use the VGA input on the front of the plasma to send any number of resolutions including the native resulotion of a 42 HD model (1024x786P). You have to live with a cable pluged into the front however.

can someone please help me with setting up the tv so that when I watch tv, i don't get the bars? also what is the best setting? when I watch a dvd, i get the black bar on top and bottom, is that normal? is there a way to change it? how do i change the zoom setting so that I can adjust it? well any help is much appreciate as the manual doesn't explain much.

Thanks for all the answer you guys have provide, I am that much more knowledgable with plasma :)

Originally posted by mjlee
This seems to run counter to my experience and those of others. Which specific panny's are you referring to and with which external source?

I'm referring to all of the consumer HD models. You can't send the panel its native resolution, e.g., 1024x768, except via the (analog) VGA input on the front panel, which has its own limitations. To what specific panny's have you had success sending native resolution?

Originally posted by vancouver
he is talking native resolution i.e. 1024x768P. your iscan ultra does not send a native signal. Only the iscan HD or HD+ can send it.


The iScan Ultra is native for my ED set (480p), but I get your point. I didn't think until later that he might be referring only to HD Panasonics, not ALL of them.

Originally posted by crazyplasma
can someone please help me with setting up the tv so that when I watch tv, i don't get the bars? also what is the best setting? when I watch a dvd, i get the black bar on top and bottom, is that normal? is there a way to change it? how do i change the zoom setting so that I can adjust it? well any help is much appreciate as the manual doesn't explain much.


You are probably watching a movie released at 2.35:1 or greater. Your set is 1.78:1, so any movie over about 1.85:1 will show black bars. You can fill the screen with the Zoom setting, but you won't like the results unless you are fond of very tall, skinny actors.;)

You can verify the format by checking the aspect ratio which usually is listed on the back of the DVD box.

All this assumes you have your DVD player set to 16:9 and your TV to "Full."

Originally posted by stlblufan
I'm referring to all of the consumer HD models. You can't send the panel its native resolution, e.g., 1024x768, except via the (analog) VGA input on the front panel, which has its own limitations. To what specific panny's have you had success sending native resolution?

which limitations are you refering to? I send native to my plasma via the VGA with no limitations. By the way, a little off topic but I am having a hard time finding a good VGA cable. The reason I think mine may be picking up interference is sometimes I see the odd flickering of black levels. WOuld sticking one of those ferrets on the end of the cable or what ever they are called help? I am wondering becuase they are meant to reduce interference and I have seen some cable with them build on the end.

Originally posted by vancouver
...WOuld sticking one of those ferrets on the end of the cable or what ever they are called help? I am wondering becuase they are meant to reduce interference and I have seen some cable with them build on the end.

"Ferrite cores." Yes, they are intended to reduce interference, though I don't know about the type you are experiencing. Worth a try, though, because they are a lot cheaper than new cables.

In fact, you may already have some lying around. They were packed with my PD25U and I assume other Panasonics as well (but are one of the things omitted from the 50U). If not, I'm sure they are readily available from Radio Shack or other electronic parts store.

Can anybody spell out the differences between the PX25U models and the upcoming PX50U models? Has anybody seen these for sale yet?

Originally posted by mlabrinos
Can anybody spell out the differences between the PX25U models and the upcoming PX50U models? Has anybody seen these for sale yet?

Not out yet. You can keep up with what is known here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=505878&perpage=20&pagenumber=1

Originally posted by Macfan424
"Ferrite cores." Yes, they are intended to reduce interference, though I don't know about the type you are experiencing. Worth a try, though, because they are a lot cheaper than new cables.

In fact, you may already have some lying around. They were packed with my PD25U and I assume other Panasonics as well (but are one of the things omitted from the 50U). If not, I'm sure they are readily available from Radio Shack or other electronic parts store.

Yeah I have like 10 of them laying around that came with my plasma. What type of interferences are there? and what would the Ferrite cores help with? Would it be worth sticking more then one on the same cord if I have it?

Originally posted by Macfan424
Not out yet. You can keep up with what is known here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=505878&perpage=20&pagenumber=1

Thanks I saw that. Don't see the difference with PX25U. What's new on the PX50U.

Originally posted by vancouver
WOuld sticking one of those ferrets on the end of the cable or what ever they are called help? I am wondering becuase they are meant to reduce interference and I have seen some cable with them build on the end.

It might and it is something that is required per the manual that came with my commercial 7uy - for specifically any cord coming from a pc (i.e. the vga cord and any audio cords from the pc). I forget which end the ferrite cores were supposed to be installed but putting one on both ends - as some vga cables already have - couldn't hurt (I think).

Originally posted by vancouver
which limitations are you refering to? I send native to my plasma via the VGA with no limitations. By the way, a little off topic but I am having a hard time finding a good VGA cable. The reason I think mine may be picking up interference is sometimes I see the odd flickering of black levels. WOuld sticking one of those ferrets on the end of the cable or what ever they are called help? I am wondering becuase they are meant to reduce interference and I have seen some cable with them build on the end.

Well there are at least two "limitations" that are immediately apparent, and there may be others of which I am not aware. The first and most obvious, of course, is that it is a front panel connection. The second is that it is an analog connection. I have also heard that the Panasonic panels have some issues with HD sources input via VGA, but because I am using the HDMI input, I have not researched this at all.

FWIW, it finally dawned on me that the reason Panny panels don't accept the native rez is that Panny does not use ALIS technology. Instead, each pixel is a discrete physical unit, which I believe means that they are rectangle. I think that, in turn, means that a standard scaler wouldn't be able to map the pixels properly.

Originally posted by stlblufan
FWIW, it finally dawned on me that the reason Panny panels don't accept the native rez is that Panny does not use ALIS technology. Instead, each pixel is a discrete physical unit, which I believe means that they are rectangle. I think that, in turn, means that a standard scaler wouldn't be able to map the pixels properly.

This is only true of the 42" HD models which have 1024x768 pixels.

Originally posted by mjlee
This is only true of the 42" HD models which have 1024x768 pixels.

True, thanks for the clarification.

Originally posted by vancouver
Yeah I have like 10 of them laying around that came with my plasma. What type of interferences are there? and what would the Ferrite cores help with? Would it be worth sticking more then one on the same cord if I have it?

I'm no engineer, but RFI and EFI come to mind (radio frequency interference and electromagnetic [electrical?] frequency interference). They create various kinds of noise that can be seen in the picture, wavy lines, bright flashing dots, etc. I'm sure you've seen them somewhere at sometime or another. The ferrite cores attenuate those, acting much like a filter, I guess.

Usually one per connection is considered enough, generally mounted near the "in" end. I saw two suggested someplace, so that's what I used on my main component connection since Panasonic generously gave me more than I needed otherwise. Probably overkill, but I used one at each end because I used to have quite a bit of EFI with my old TV. I could sometimes "see" my refrigerator or wall furnace running. I have a number of other small motors nearby as well.

I might have left the ferrite cores in the box like most people, but my EE daughter was in town when I set up my plasma and she thought I should install them, so I did. I've had no RFI or EFI problems since, but I don't know whether the ferrite cores had anything to do with that or not.

I'm not sure they will solve your problem, which doesn't sound like noise, but it won't cost you anything other than a few minutes time to give them a try. They are easy to put on, and they won't do any harm. They must have some value or you wouldn't see them on so many computer connections.

Originally posted by vancouver
which limitations are you refering to? I send native to my plasma via the VGA with no limitations. By the way, a little off topic but I am having a hard time finding a good VGA cable. The reason I think mine may be picking up interference is sometimes I see the odd flickering of black levels. WOuld sticking one of those ferrets on the end of the cable or what ever they are called help? I am wondering becuase they are meant to reduce interference and I have seen some cable with them build on the end.

I have a 50phd7UY, which does not exhibit the changing black levels described in this and other threads. I know this has been repeated a number of times, but to reinforce the issue. Make sure you don't have the Picture Menu set to "Auto". This engaged the C.A.T.S. sensor which automatically senses the ambient light in your room, and changes the brightness of your monitor.

Also, make sure that if you have the "Advanced Settings" turned on you do not have the AGC turned on. This will also automatically adjust the brightness of the dark areas of your picture as different scene's change brightness.

I played with all these settings, and the above two, seemed to be the culprits on the 50uy. Black level change was extremely evident with either turned on. Black level changes disappeared when both were disabled.

Originally posted by xandypx
I have a 50phd7UY, which does not exhibit the changing black levels described in this and other threads. I know this has been repeated a number of times, but to reinforce the issue. Make sure you don't have the Picture Menu set to "Auto". This engaged the C.A.T.S. sensor which automatically senses the ambient light in your room, and changes the brightness of your monitor.

Also, make sure that if you have the "Advanced Settings" turned on you do not have the AGC turned on. This will also automatically adjust the brightness of the dark areas of your picture as different scene's change brightness.

I played with all these settings, and the above two, seemed to be the culprits on the 50uy. Black level change was extremely evident with either turned on. Black level changes disappeared when both were disabled.
interesting..where do you find the advanced settings when using VGA input?

Originally posted by vancouver
interesting..where do you find the advanced settings when using VGA input?

On the 50phd7UY, the "Advanced Settings" are located on Page 2 of the "Picture" menu. When you scroll down past the "Sharpness" control, it will take you to the second page of the Picture Controls

hello everyone again, I have yet another question. I hooked up my ps2 with component connection and connected to the tv. Man the quality and graphics are insane. Its so chrisp and sharp. Well I changed the view and set it on 1040i and man is it sharp. I was just wondering if playing PS2 for like 2-3 hours could cause burn in and what not. I know there are a few thread about burn in and I will read them but would like a quick answer. Thanks.

Hi all,

I just installed my TH-42PWD7UY i'm loving it! This forum was instrumental in my purchase decision. I'll send some pics once I have a few more things worked out.

Right now I have the a Sony DVD player hooked up to the plasma. It's not progressive scan/upscaling, but it does have comonent video out. I will be buying the Panny DVD-S97 shortly.

Here are my questions:

Where can I find info on the aspect ratio's? I'm seeing my DVD of LOTR, The Two Towers show the following modes:
Normal(with bars)
Zoom
Full
Just

What do these modes mean, and what are the benefits/drawbacks of each?

On a side note, in a different input setting(nothing connected yet), I see the Panasonic Auto under the aspect ratio. Yet, I don't see this mode under the DVD input. Am I midding something here?

Also, I remember seeing a submit your Plasma settings string a little while ago. I can't seem to find it now. Does anyone have it?

Thanks in advance,

Sky

Originally posted by skyjuice
Hi all,

I just installed my TH-42PWD7UY i'm loving it! This forum was instrumental in my purchase decision. I'll send some pics once I have a few more things worked out.

Right now I have the a Sony DVD player hooked up to the plasma. It's not progressive scan/upscaling, but it does have comonent video out. I will be buying the Panny DVD-S97 shortly.



honestly the de-interlacer in your plasma will probably be the same as the one in the Panny DVD-S97. Make sure you dont waste your money on something you already have i.e. a DVD with a de-interlacer (progress scan DVD player) unless you know for a fact the one in the plasma is not as good as the one in the dvd player.

Vancouver,

I'm not sure I follow you.

My current DVD player is 4+ years old. It's definitely not progressive scan. However, it does have component video out.

Are you saying the the S97 will not provide a much better signal than my current setup?

Also, I will be connecting the S97 to the plasma via an HDMI connection.

Thanks,

Sky

Originally posted by skyjuice
Vancouver,

I'm not sure I follow you.

My current DVD player is 4+ years old. It's definitely not progressive scan. However, it does have component video out.

Are you saying the the S97 will not provide a much better signal than my current setup?

Also, I will be connecting the S97 to the plasma via an HDMI connection.

Thanks,

Sky

what I meant to say is this. ALL dvds are 480i (interlaced). Either your DVD player or your plasma will de-interlace it (make it progressive). Many people have wasted money on buying progressive dvd players not realizing that many TVs have a de-interlacer already built in. So my recomendation is dont buy the DVD player simply becuase its progressive, because what you are seeing on your plasma right now with your current DVD player is a progressive picture. That is a fact.

Your only benefit that I can see is using the HDMI connection. Bare in mind that HDMI was not made primarily for picture quality, but rather a way to encript HD signals (HDCP). I have yet to hear that HDMI consistantly makes a for a better picture quality then component, but to some it may.

If you want my opinion. Do some research and find a DVD player or external processor that you know is better then the one you already have in your plasma.

follow me?

what I meant to say is this. ALL dvds are 480i (interlaced). Either your DVD player or your plasma will de-interlace it (make it progressive). Many people have wasted money on buying progressive dvd players not realizing that many TVs have a de-interlacer already built in. So my recomendation is dont buy the DVD player simply becuase its progressive, because what you are seeing on your plasma right now with your current DVD player is a progressive picture. That is a fact.

Your only benefit that I can see is using the HDMI connection. Bare in mind that HDMI was not made primarily for picture quality, but rather a way to encript HD signals (HDCP). I have yet to hear that HDMI consistantly makes a for a better picture quality then component, but to some it may.

If you want my opinion. Do some research and find a DVD player or external processor that you know is better then the one you already have in your plasma.

follow me?
___________________________________________________________

Very Very interesting. So how do I find out if the Panny S-97 has a better de-interlacer than my 7UY?

-Sky

i have the 97s connected to a 50in 7UY and can see an improvement in picture quality with the hdmi connection. not sure if it can be attributed to deinterlacing as much as staying in the digital realm throughout, but to my eye, it is there.

there is a tradeoff however. when going 1080i via hdmi to the 7UY you lose the ability to adjust aspect with the plasma display. you're now stuck with the 97s controls for zooming and stretching, which are the weakest features on the 97s and lag considerably behind the 7UY in this regard. it's not a problem if you have a 1.85x1 picture, but if you have 2.35x1, you have to watch with bars (a burn-in concern with repeated viewing) or zoom up and blur the picture.

what i have done is either go with the bars for epic-type films, or switch over to a component connection (remember the 7UYs give you four inputs including the RGB which I use) and adjust aspect there if necessary for comedies, etc.

overall, it's a good problem to have because your step-down in PQ to a component connection is not that great since both of these panasonic products are top-drawer in my opinion.

my suggestion: get the 97s to go with your 7UY and sit back and enjoy a helluva picture whatever buttons you push.

The Panasonic DVD-S97 uses the Faroudja FLI-2310 deinterlacer which should be better that the one built-in the "7UY" Models. Haven't seen the S97 so I cannot comment. I have a Panasonic RP-82 (Uses the Faroudja FLI-2200) and PQ is definitively superior compared to the TH-37PWD6UY Display doing the deinterlacing.

The only problem with the FLI-2310 chip is still Macroblocking. The latest firmware from Panasonic did improved the problem though. Check out the DVD Forum for more info.

Originally posted by skyjuice


It's not progressive scan/upscaling, but it does have comonent video out. I will be buying the Panny DVD-S97 shortly.

Sky

I would wager that your Sony DVD player is actually progressive scan (480P). The indication being that it has component out video jacks. Up-scaling (720P, 1080i), on the other hand is a completely separate thing.

re the deinterlacing... All tabloid reviews for the Panny 7UY series are in agreement... input a progressive scan signal. The deinterlacer in these monitors are not as good as those in most progressive scan players.

I'm buying the PWD 7UY-37. And I asked on the dvd board whether it would be worth it for me to get the 97 rather than the f87 or the pioneer 578; and I was told no because the plasma was not hd. So... ???? I haven't purchased my dvd player yet; was what I was told accurate??

Originally posted by msboc
I'm buying the PWD 7UY-37. And I asked on the dvd board whether it would be worth it for me to get the 97 rather than the f87 or the pioneer 578; and I was told no because the plasma was not hd. So... ???? I haven't purchased my dvd player yet; was what I was told accurate??

Theorically Yes.
If you use the Player to upconvert to 1080i or 720p, The Panny Display will downconvert those signals back to Its native resolution 480p.

However, the same way if you use the DVD to output 1080i with the HD Displays , the signal will be downconverted to 768p (42"HD & 50").
Well, some people say that 1080i looks great even with the downconversion. So It could be the same on the 37" or 42" ED Displays right ??? ;)

Don't have any experience with such Players so I cannot comment. :(


msboc, the Panny 97 upconverts only via the HDMI input.
So I guess you should save some money and get a regular progressive player.

Originally posted by xandypx
I would wager that your Sony DVD player is actually progressive scan (480P). The indication being that it has component out video jacks.

Don't bet too much. ;) My old Sony DVP-S550D has component outputs, but no progressive scan. I gave a Pioneer DVD player as a gift a couple of years ago, and it was the same.

I run my Sony through an iScan Ultra. and the combination works very well with my 42PD25U.

The last piece of advice I will give is to not worry about seeing black bars durring movies. What ever you do to get rid of them will compremise the PQ. I have a 6th gen plasma and have been watching tons of movies with black bars for the last 6 months and have seen no signs of burn in.

Originally posted by Macfan424
Don't bet too much. ;) My old Sony DVP-S550D has component outputs, but no progressive scan.

What are the odds of that?

You win! ;)

Andy

Originally posted by BruZZi
Theorically Yes.
If you use the Player to upconvert to 1080i or 720p, The Panny Display will downconvert those signals back to Its native resolution 480p.

However, the same way if you use the DVD to output 1080i with the HD Displays , the signal will be downconverted to 768p (42"HD & 50").
Well, some people say that 1080i looks great even with the downconversion. So It could be the same on the 37" or 42" ED Displays right ??? ;)

Don't have any experience with such Players so I cannot comment. :(


msboc, the Panny 97 upconverts only via the HDMI input.
So I guess you should save some money and get a regular progressive player.


Bruzzi,

I'm a bit confused here. I have the TH-42PWD7UY. As this is an ED set and will only display a 480p picture, do I even need an upscaling DVD player at all? I definitely want to use HDMI to maximize the 480p, but it sounds like I can find a cheaper DVD player with HDMI out. Am I missing something?

Also,

Where can I find info on the aspect ratio's of my PWD7UY?

I'm seeing my DVD of LOTR, The Two Towers show the following aspect ratios:
Normal(with bars)
Zoom
Full
Just

Is there a prefered mode that distorts the picture the least?

Also, on a different input setting(nothing connected yet), I see the Panasonic Auto under the aspect ratio. Yet, I don't see this aspect ratio available under the DVD input. Again, am I missing something here?

Also, I remember seeing a submit your Plasma settings string a little while ago. I can't seem to find it now. Does anyone have it?

Sorry for all the questions. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Originally posted by skyjuice
Bruzzi,

I'm a bit confused here. I have the TH-42PWD7UY. As this is an ED set and will only display a 480p picture, do I even need an upscaling DVD player at all? I definitely want to use HDMI to maximize the 480p, but it sounds like I can find a cheaper DVD player with HDMI out. Am I missing something?

Also,

Where can I find info on the aspect ratio's of my PWD7UY?

I'm seeing my DVD of LOTR, The Two Towers show the following aspect ratios:
Normal(with bars)
Zoom
Full
Just

Is there a prefered mode that distorts the picture the least?

Also, on a different input setting(nothing connected yet), I see the Panasonic Auto under the aspect ratio. Yet, I don't see this aspect ratio available under the DVD input. Again, am I missing something here?

Also, I remember seeing a submit your Plasma settings string a little while ago. I can't seem to find it now. Does anyone have it?

Sorry for all the questions. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Maybe I can help on this.

1. Dont wast money on a DVD player that upconverts to 1080i or 720p as your plasma will end up downconverting it to 480p. Find one with a good de-interlacer which can output 480p via HDMI. You may end up buying one that has the ability to upconver becuase the player has a good de-interlacer, but I wouldnt use that function. E.g. Denon 2910 has a good de-interlacer and can output 480p/720p/1080i via HDMI. If you bought this one you should set the ouput signal to 480p.

2. Dont worry about seeing bars when watching movies. Keep in my that anything you do to reduce ro eliminate black bars will result in a loss of picture quality. Some movies will fit perfectly on their own and some will have bars. It has to do with how they were filmed

3. Dont worry about burn in from watching movies with black bars. Perhaps compare yourself and learn vicariously through me. I watch an above average amount of DVD's 4-5/week and most have black bars. I have had my 6th generation panny plasma for about 8 months and see NO signs of burn in with that amount of usage.

here is a link to the Denon 2910 I used as an example if you are interested.

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9162

Originally posted by skyjuice


Where can I find info on the aspect ratio's of my PWD7UY?

Page 19 of your Owner's manual.


I'm seeing my DVD of LOTR, The Two Towers show the following aspect ratios:
Normal(with bars)
Zoom
Full
Just

Is there a prefered mode that distorts the picture the least?

The least distortion (theoretically none) would be the "Normal" setting. The wide-screen versions, and the extended edition of LOTR (all three movies), are 2.35:1 aspect ratio DVD's. Black Bars top and bottom are required to fit the full width of the picture. Zoom will cut off the right and left sides, and a small amount of the top and bottom, but will also enlarge the actual picture, and make it look "fuzzy" (for lack of a better term). Full & Just will distort the picture to the right and left, causing most video to look "Fat". In the case of LOTR, the actors actually get tall and skinny... Go figure! This may be my Panny RP-91, and it's own aspect controls.


Also, on a different input setting(nothing connected yet), I see the Panasonic Auto under the aspect ratio. Yet, I don't see this aspect ratio available under the DVD input. Again, am I missing something here?


Unfortunately, the available settings in these menus change dependent on the input signal, and the actual blade installed. The "Auto" setting only selects one of the other aspect formats that are available for the input source anyway, so you have the ability to manually select the aspect you want. Auto is typically only available on a standard video signal (analog, or S-video) Which input are you using for your DVD?

Denon 2910 has a good de-interlacer and can output 480p/720p/1080i via HDMI. If you bought this one you should set the ouput signal to 480p.


The Panasonic DVD-S97 has this, too, if your budget can't handle the Denon 2910.

In fact I think all players with HDMI out can be set to 480p. What may be more difficult is finding an HDMI player without up-conversion (720p/1080i) capability. Maybe there are some I haven't discovered, but it seems that if you want HDMI, you have to pay for an up-converter, whether you intend to use it or not.

Originally posted by xandypx
Page 19 of your Owner's manual.



The least distortion (theoretically none) would be the "Normal" setting. The wide-screen versions, and the extended edition of LOTR (all three movies), are 2.35:1 aspect ratio DVD's. Black Bars top and bottom are required to fit the full width of the picture. Zoom will cut off the right and left sides, and a small amount of the top and bottom, but will also enlarge the actual picture, and make it look "fuzzy" (for lack of a better term). Full & Just will distort the picture to the right and left, causing most video to look "Fat". In the case of LOTR, the actors actually get tall and skinny... Go figure! This may be my Panny RP-91, and it's own aspect controls.



Unfortunately, the available settings in these menus change dependent on the input signal, and the actual blade installed. The "Auto" setting only selects one of the other aspect formats that are available for the input source anyway, so you have the ability to manually select the aspect you want. Auto is typically only available on a standard video signal (analog, or S-video) Which input are you using for your DVD?

Vancouver & Xandypx, many thanks for your input here. This is great stuff!

Vancouver: The black bars don't bug me. I understand this is due to the way the movie is filmed. Either way, my 427UY is a huge step-up from my crappy 27" CRT!! It's a beautiful thing.

Xandypx: Just to clarify, in the normal setting, the bars are vertical, not horizontal. It looks like an SD signal with the bars on the side. I'm wondering why the plasma is doing this.

I need to check which input i'm using. I'm connected via component right now. Once my cable box arrives, I will use component for that, and HDMI for the DVD.

Again, many many thanks for your replies!!

Originally posted by skyjuice
Xandypx: Just to clarify, in the normal setting, the bars are vertical, not horizontal. It looks like an SD signal with the bars on the side. I'm wondering why the plasma is doing this.

I find that a lot of widescreen sources are seen by the plasma as 4:3 on the "Normal" setting. For these, you have to use "Full".

Actually, now that I think about it, I think the manual might mention something about Normal being for 4:3 display and Full for widescreen.

Originally posted by mjlee
I find that a lot of widescreen sources are seen by the plasma as 4:3 on the "Normal" setting. For these, you have to use "Full".

Actually, now that I think about it, I think the manual might mention something about Normal being for 4:3 display and Full for widescreen.

I think you hit the nail on the head. I took the time to re-read the cryptic info in the owners manual on page 19, and the additional references on page 35.

"Full" would be correct for 2.35:1 DVD material.

Originally posted by xandypx


"Full" would be correct for 2.35:1 DVD material.

You should use:

FULL = for Anamorphic 2.35:1 and 1.85:1 Movies
ZOOM = for Non-Anamorphic 2.35:1 and 1.85:1 Movies
NORMAL = for 4:3 Movies
JUST = for 4:3 Movies If you want to fill the whole screen.


Anamorphic = Enhanced for 16x9 Widescreen TVs
.

Can anyone say at this point if the TH-42PD50U and the TH-42PWD7U are the same panel, or have the same features? I have read in the New Panny thread that comparisons have been made between the TH-42PD25U and the PD50, with the 50 showing some improvements, but has anyone compared it with the PWD7U ?

Originally posted by vancouver
Maybe I can help on this.

1. Dont wast money on a DVD player that upconverts to 1080i or 720p as your plasma will end up downconverting it to 480p. Find one with a good de-interlacer which can output 480p via HDMI. You may end up buying one that has the ability to upconver becuase the player has a good de-interlacer, but I wouldnt use that function. E.g. Denon 2910 has a good de-interlacer and can output 480p/720p/1080i via HDMI. If you bought this one you should set the ouput signal to 480p.



I could be wrong but I don't think that this is true. My understanding is that a plasma will convert whatever you input to its native resolution, which is unlikely to (but could) be 480p. Personally, I want a player that can output 480i because I use an external scaler, but otherwise whether you'd want the player or the plasma to do the scaling would, I think, depend principally upon which one does the better job.

Just to be clear I was only talking about the de-interlacing, not scaling. I don't know which plasma he has so I am not sure about his native.

Originally posted by vancouver
Just to be clear I was only talking about the de-interlacing, not scaling. I don't know which plasma he has so I am not sure about his native.

He has an ED set, so you were right the first time. It's 480p vertical. Of course, the set will still have to scale the horizontal.

My understanding is that a plasma will convert whatever you input to its native resolution, which is unlikely to (but could) be 480p

True, but 480p is actually the most common resolution for a plasma. More ED's are sold than HD's.

Just to confuse things, some plasmas convert every signal to 1080 for internal processing, then down convert to native 1024, 768, or 480, which makes the input resolution moot.

...whether you'd want the player or the plasma to do the scaling would, I think, depend principally upon which one does the better job.

If you mean de-interlacing, that's correct.

Only a handful of expensive external processors can scale to match a PDP both horizontally and vertically, and not all plasmas will accept their signal, so the panel is likely to be involved with scaling anyway.

Hi All,

I'm having a curious issue with my PWD7UY. I just installed my Cable STB(I had previously only connected my DVD player via component) to my display via component. For some strange reason, I can't change the aspect ratio. When I hit the apect button on the remote, it simply stays on Full, although all I see is a letterboxed 4:3 image.

When my DVD is connected, I have no problem with cycling through aspect ratios.

Any ideas??

Thanks in advance.

-Sky

Originally posted by skyjuice
Hi All,

I'm having a curious issue with my PWD7UY. I just installed my Cable STB(I had previously only connected my DVD player via component) to my display via component. For some strange reason, I can't change the aspect ratio. When I hit the apect button on the remote, it simply stays on Full, although all I see is a letterboxed 4:3 image.

When my DVD is connected, I have no problem with cycling through aspect ratios.

Any ideas??

Thanks in advance.

-Sky

Sky....

What make of cable box do you have?

If it is a Motorola, you need to set up the output on the box.
With the box turned off, press and hold the menu button on the cable box until the on screen menu comes up. The cable box display will also show the settings, but you get to see the entire menu system on your monitor if you have it on, and the input set to your cable input.

From there, use the cable box remote to change the settings to what looks best on your monitor (1080i, 720p)( it might now be on 4:3 letterbox, which is one option), but at least the monitor setting type of 16:9, and the override selection for 4:3 content. (i would suspect the override setting is your problem)

Originally posted by xandypx
Sky....

What make of cable box do you have?

If it is a Motorola, you need to set up the output on the box.
With the box turned off, press and hold the menu button on the cable box until the on screen menu comes up. The cable box display will also show the settings, but you get to see the entire menu system on your monitor if you have it on, and the input set to your cable input.

From there, use the cable box remote to change the settings to what looks best on your monitor (1080i, 720p)( it might now be on 4:3 letterbox, which is one option), but at least the monitor setting type of 16:9, and the override selection for 4:3 content. (i would suspect the override setting is your problem)

I'm using a Scientific Atlantic 8000. For the cable box remote, I don't have an option to switch between 1080i and 720p.

-Sky

Originally posted by skyjuice
Hi All,

I'm having a curious issue with my PWD7UY. I just installed my Cable STB(I had previously only connected my DVD player via component) to my display via component. For some strange reason, I can't change the aspect ratio. When I hit the apect button on the remote, it simply stays on Full, although all I see is a letterboxed 4:3 image.

You're probably feeding a high definition output to the pwd7uy. The plasma is locked to "full" for all 1080i and 720p inputs.

Originally posted by skyjuice
I'm using a Scientific Atlantic 8000. For the cable box remote, I don't have an option to switch between 1080i and 720p.

-Sky

Sky,

From what I found, the 8000 also has a set-up menu similar to the Moto, but you must register at the website to get the technical info on the changes you need to make in the box.

From what I was able to read, about general information for your box, the box is set to a standard 4:3 HD TV.

Here's a link to the web sign up to download the manual for your box.

http://www.scientificatlanta.com/explorerclub/

Originally posted by mjlee
You're probably feeding a high definition output to the pwd7uy. The plasma is locked to "full" for all 1080i and 720p inputs.

But the "Full" is actually letterboxed 4:3, not widescreen 16:9.

How do I unlock the plasma(or the cable stb?)?

-Sky

Sky,
Here's the set up guide.

You are sending a 1080i or 720p signal.

Originally posted by xandypx
Sky,
Here's the set up guide.

You are sending a 1080i or 720p signal.

Wow. Many thanks. This should set me straight.

Thanks again.

-Sky

Originally posted by skyjuice
But the "Full" is actually letterboxed 4:3, not widescreen 16:9.

How do I unlock the plasma(or the cable stb?)?

-Sky

The letterboxing is done by the cable stb not the plasma. Other than HD shows on an HD channel, everything else will be letterboxed or actually pillar boxed by the stb but it is outputting either 1080i or 720p. Others have posted some info about cable stb's and those should help you to change the stb's behaviour to what you want.

Originally posted by xandypx
Sky,
Here's the set up guide.

You are sending a 1080i or 720p signal.

Quick question here. So as my 7UY is an ED display, should I set the STB to display 480p? Will now enable me to control the aspect and stretch the picture to fit my screen?

I guess I'm confused because I thought that 1080i or 720p would show up as widescreen in my display.

Thanks,

Sky

As I stated before, only shows recorded in HD and broadcast in HD widescreen will show up as widescreen on your plasma. If you have a passthrough option for your cable box you can set that and it will pass through whatever the show is being shown as (480i, 1080i or 720p). For 480i, you will be able to use the aspect control of the plasma but not for 1080i or 720p. You should note that most of the shows on even HD channels will actually be SD shows. For these the broadcast itself will actually add the pillar boxes to the stream and there is no way to get rid of these through the plasma without some extreme stretching. For these types of shows, the stb may have a stretch option.

Originally posted by mjlee
As I stated before, only shows recorded in HD and broadcast in HD widescreen will show up as widescreen on your plasma. If you have a passthrough option for your cable box you can set that and it will pass through whatever the show is being shown as (480i, 1080i or 720p). For 480i, you will be able to use the aspect control of the plasma but not for 1080i or 720p. You should note that most of the shows on even HD channels will actually be SD shows. For these the broadcast itself will actually add the pillar boxes to the stream and there is no way to get rid of these through the plasma without some extreme stretching. For these types of shows, the stb may have a stretch option.

Perfect. Appologies for the redundancy here....i'm new at this ;-) Can't wait to get home to tinker with the STB.

-Sky

Originally posted by skyjuice
Quick question here. So as my 7UY is an ED display, should I set the STB to display 480p? Will now enable me to control the aspect and stretch the picture to fit my screen?

I guess I'm confused because I thought that 1080i or 720p would show up as widescreen in my display.

Thanks,

Sky

Sky,

One of the reasons I suggested that you play with the settings in the STB, is for you to see what looks best, is because you have a EDTV. Often, 1080i or 720p input to your display, (with the monitor's scaler, down-converting the signal to it's native resolution), will look better than 480p output from your cable box. But this will limit your aspect control in your monitor. Then again the opposite may be true, a 480p signal to the monitor may look better. I believe that this will be dependent on which (the monitor, or the STB), has the better scaler.

Then again, the STB may not have the ability to get exactly correct, the native resolution of your 7UY (without bars). This should be dependent on the format of the video signal from your cable company, and what exactly is being broadcast.

Reading through the set up guide for your STB, it appears that during the display set up, you will be able to toggle the different output options (quite a few available), and make comparisons to what looks best to you.

Originally posted by xandypx
Sky,

One of the reasons I suggested that you play with the settings in the STB, is for you to see what looks best, is because you have a EDTV. Often, 1080i or 720p input to your display, (with the monitor's scaler, down-converting the signal to it's native resolution), will look better than 480p output from your cable box. But this will limit your aspect control in your monitor. Then again the opposite may be true, a 480p signal to the monitor may look better. I believe that this will be dependent on which (the monitor, or the STB), has the better scaler.

Then again, the STB may not have the ability to get exactly correct, the native resolution of your 7UY (without bars). This should be dependent on the format of the video signal from your cable company, and what exactly is being broadcast.

Reading through the set up guide for your STB, it appears that during the display set up, you will be able to toggle the different output options (quite a few available), and make comparisons to what looks best to you.

You are right-ultimately I need to play with the setting and determine what looks best. I want to at least have the option to stretch the image primarily to avoid burn-in.

Thanks,

Sky

I wouldn't worry about burn-in for the pwd7uy. I've pretty much done everything contrary to the accepted wisdom on avoiding burn-in from the first moment I got the plasma - (played xbox games, watched sd with pillar boxes, watched letterboxed 2.35:1 movies, etc.) and I've had no issues whatsoever, not even temporary image retention. You don't have to be like me if it makes you uncomfortable, but it should give you some comfort in the pwd7uy's resistance to burn-in.

Originally posted by mjlee
I wouldn't worry about burn-in for the pwd7uy. I've pretty much done everything contrary to the accepted wisdom on avoiding burn-in from the first moment I got the plasma - (played xbox games, watched sd with pillar boxes, watched letterboxed 2.35:1 movies, etc.) and I've had no issues whatsoever, not even temporary image retention. You don't have to be like me if it makes you uncomfortable, but it should give you some comfort in the pwd7uy's resistance to burn-in.

Great. That sets me at ease at least. I'll report back on my adventures on Monday.

Thanks for all your help!!

I have a Panasonic th-42px20 and have notice lately that there is a black line about 1 pixal wide going from the very top of the screen to the very bottom. Does anyone know what this is? Is it normal for a whole line to go out like that? The Plasma is still uner warrently so I am wondering if I should get it fixed or not.

Originally posted by mjlee
You're probably feeding a high definition output to the pwd7uy. The plasma is locked to "full" for all 1080i and 720p inputs.
I noticed the same on my new TH-37PD25U and finally (very fast) opted to set the STB (SA 8300HD DVR) to only 1080i and use only the STB's "Stretch", "Zoom1" and "Zoom2" ratios (oh, I forgot "4:3").

For DVD's there's only three options. "Full", of course is the recommended alternative for 16:9 and 2.35:1 movies. For TV DVDs (Seinfeld?) you can choose 4:3 or ZOOM on the Plasma. ("Stretch" looks weird.)

For a PWD7UY
Where can I find the hours used
Thanks

Originally posted by Taisin
For a PWD7UY
Where can I find the hours used
Thanks

In the service menu. For instructions on how to get into the service menu, click on the link in the first post of this thread.

Thanks mj
Also, the top of my stand (STO7K) does not flush with the bottom of the display.
There is a about 1/4" gap. The screw holes on the two poles do align with the screw holes of the display. I wonder if that is normal.

This is the same with my pwd7uy and the same stand so I would guess that it is normal. The plasma must be resting on the top of the metal poles.

What digit is it in the serial # of the TH-42pwd7uy represents the year of manufacture. I saw it posted a few days ago but can't find it now. TIA

Originally posted by vancouver
I have a Panasonic th-42px20 and have notice lately that there is a black line about 1 pixal wide going from the very top of the screen to the very bottom. Does anyone know what this is? Is it normal for a whole line to go out like that? The Plasma is still uner warrently so I am wondering if I should get it fixed or not.

I had the same problem with one of my pana displays in my store, though it was a green line. It was a defect and panasonic covered it under warranty.

Originally posted by nwoods
What digit is it in the serial # of the TH-42pwd7uy represents the year of manufacture. I saw it posted a few days ago but can't find it now. TIA

Manufacturing date is below the Model number description on the sticker e.g. :

SEP 2004

Has anyone received a new S-Video blade yet for Panasonic 7UY??

Originally posted by listen2tomwaits
Has anyone received a new S-Video blade yet for Panasonic 7UY??

Check your PM. :)

Originally posted by listen2tomwaits
Has anyone received a new S-Video blade yet for Panasonic 7UY??




Received mine today. Took about 2 months but it's here, excited to see how it turns out.