Having a problem with a PL-61DHD PlasmaWall that is suddenly not receiving IR commands. All the DHD controllers commands are still functioning yet only through Front Panel access. The serial control from the Controller to the Panel is communicating as it still turns the Panel ON and OFF.

System has been up and running smoothly for over a year until a couple weeks ago. However, a partial clue to this predicament is that the client informed me of some electrical problems they experienced a couple months ago. Very old circuit breakers required the re-working of the Main Panel.

Naturally, all flags are up especially when within weeks of the PL-61DHD malfunction, a similar issue occurred elsewhere in the house. Strange enough, the IR receiver on the Runco 42" Plasma WideVision located in another room is not functioning. All features can still be operated by manually accessing the Panel. Double Runco IR mystery.

Re-booted DHD Controller, Panel and yes, checked remote (MX-850) batteries. There is no RF base station, no emitters, just direct line of sight control. Even re-loaded Runco remote commands, verified remote was being output in IR not RF. I'm guessing that a firmware update might be the next step in addressing this issue.

PL610 Firmware: 0002.002B
Date: March 24, 2006

Appreciate any input.

An IR failure is most likely either the remote or the IR pickup. THe chance of firmware being bad is VERY slim. Why not send the remote to Runco for evaluation, if not, then it sounds like the set has to go in.

I would take another look at the remote: you can verify it is actually outputting IR by using a cell phone camera

Thanks markrubin, Curt.

I've checked the IR pickup with an additional URC MX-850...on both panels. Will bring an RTI T3 on Monday to verify once again. Even so, I already did check for IR activity with the Focal Sub's LCD Window which, the backlight comes on with IR signal.

I should have elaborated on the firmware mention. Contemplated a possible resolve with a re-write of new or current firmware. Thought re-writing the firmware might overwrite a corrupted sector.

Maybe just too much of that driving force of wishful thinking going on.