vertical black bars in middle of Panasonic 42" plasma

A couple of days ago i started getting two wierd 3" vertical black bars on my tv. They went away after I turned the tv off overnight. Now they're back. Done some research online and in here. Do not see any help. Of course tried to contact Panny and not much help there.

I have had the tv almost 3 years so no warranty. It is a TC-P42S1. I live on kauai and there is not even a tv repair man on island. It seems outrageous to me that after spending $700 I have no recourse. Not the money just the idea that if it breaks ur done. Fixing it myself might as well ask for the second coming for xmas. Really can't even find what the problem is. Anyone know about this? should I start shopping? I did see the guy with the baseball bat fixing the problem. Might be fun after a few more days of this.

Help

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Thanks for your timely reply,tomwil.

today I have no vertical bars or problem whatever. Would that indicate a loose connection? Looked through other threads and I am just not comfortable with even opening the back of the tv. so , I'll keep my fingers crossed. At least Pany cs gave me the number for a tv repair person on island.

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Is this something peculiar to Panny and/or plasmas or what. Looking for new tv and if it is a plasma then ok and if it is Panny then i don't want to buy a Panny. I am limited to Sears, Costco and Kmart.