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General discussion

Digital Signal Problem with 8 Series LCD

Mar 8, 2009 2:40PM PDT

I have a digital signal problem with Samsung LN52A860. Analog signal and other sources work fine but the OTA digital signal frequently causes the TV to pixelate, sometimes display weak signal, etc.. Have had this problem since I purchase in October 2008 but its much worse now.

Samsung came out and replaced the main board (which includes the tuner) but still same problem. The technician suggested that I check the cable line to the antenna. So I installed new quad shield cable, used high-end connectors and routed the wire away from any electric or anything that could interfere. I use no splitters or couplers. I shut the breakers to all electric outlets in the house except the TV outlet. I tried other electric outlets. I also tried installing a signal booster and installed a high end surge protector. I still have the same problem.

I have a clear view of the stations' transmitters 19 miles away and tried various low and high end HDTV antennas. Same cable/setup works fine with external tuners, my Samsung LNS4695D and Vizio TV. Just will not work correctly with this 52" Samsung.

Any suggestions? Is there any other parts in that TV that would cause the digital tuner to work poorly? Does the 8 series have a known problem with its digital tuners? If so, how do I get a refund from Samsung since the retailer will no longer accept a return?

Discussion is locked

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Digital Signal Problem with 8 Series LCD
Mar 16, 2009 3:26PM PDT

ghellmold,

I'm not trying to be a wise guy, but instead, ask a question: are you using an HD antenna?

I'm not sure that we can control the power and frequencies being broadcast in your area. That said, let me know and I'll see what I can do to assist you further.

--HDTech

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Samsung 8 Series Digital Tuner Problem
Mar 16, 2009 4:32PM PDT

Yes. As stated above I have used various high and low end HD antennas including Channelmaster's CM-4221HD (4 bay) and CM-4228HD (8 bay). I only live 19 miles from the stations' transmitters so I don't think signal strength is the problem. I have also tried connecting to cable television source and same problem. Most severe on channels 7-1, 9-1 and 11-1.

As mentioned above, other HDTVs and digital tuners in my home pick up the digital signal from the OTA and cable with no problems.

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Digital Signal Problem with 8 Series LCD - Update
Jun 5, 2009 1:47AM PDT

After a Samsung technician and engineer came out to my house on three separate occasions, they determined that my signal was fine. They replaced my LN52A860 with a LN52B750. TV itself does not look as good on the outside but the picture quality is great and my tuner problems are resolved. Overall I am satisfied with how they resolved this problem.