Tech types - LCD TV problem

[NewJeffCT]

We bought a low-end 42" LCD TV just about 2 years ago (60mhz refresh rate, crappy sound, etc)

The other day, the AT&T U-Verse remote stopped working for it. Since our U-Verse system is still pretty new, I thought maybe it was a problem with U-Verse and/or the U-Verse remote. However, after doing a few steps on my own, and then speaking with AT&T tech support, it seems like the problem is not with U-Verse or the U-Verse remote. The actual TV remote does not respond at all (and, yes, I did change the batteries on the remote, just in case), and the actual buttons on the TV don't work either - on/off, channel or volume. The only way to actually turn the TV on and off is to unplug it.

And, if I turn the TV on, it takes like 15 minutes just to get a picture, but then you can't do anything with the picture. If you touch a button on the AT&T remote, the screen turns black for 10-15 more minutes and then you get the picture back.

Any ideas, or is it time to get a new TV?

(seems like it's been a bad 6 months or so for electronics at my home - my daughter's laptop died, our desktop PC is on its last legs, and our old DLP TV died as well...)

[BootinUp]

1. sounds like its pretty much toast.

2 years. Didi it have a 1 year warranty? I guess you didn't get the extended warranty?

[NewJeffCT]

2. yes, it had a one year warranty

the company that makes it won't even talk to you unless you have an extended warranty.

[BootinUp]

3. Not saying you would want to, but

they don't offer repair service? That would be unusual. What company is it anyway?

[NewJeffCT]

4. I'm guessing they offer repair service

however, it was a $400 or $500 TV when we bought it (special deal at Target - the brand is Magnavox, which is rated pretty low for TV quality). I'm guessing just to have somebody come out & look at it will be $100 or so. Maybe they have to replace the control panel or something else, and that will be another $100 to $200. Is it worth it to fix a 2 year old TV for $200 to $300 when we could buy a brand new one of better quality and the same size for $400? (I saw a Samsung 43" plasma for $398 today)

[BootinUp]

5. I wouldn't probably call someone out

but you might want to consider shipping it somewhere for diagnosis.

[BiggJawn]

6. Wouldn't waste money on a Maggotbox.

Where I work, the rule is when cost of repair equals or exceeds 50% of replacement price, buy a new one.

Get a parts quote of $1500 for a machine that costs $2500, hello recycling bin...

Samsung's a good make. DON'T get another MaggotBox.

[HopeHoops]

7. Well, for sound, try pumping the output through the stereo.

As for channel changing, you're fucked. We only use the TV remote to change between the DVD and LaserDisc players. Fortunately that still works (and it's a CRT).

[Swede]

8. A no name tv will not have parts.

So unless it has a capcitor problem in the power supply (a rather common problem),you have a paperweight on your hands.

[Lionel Mandrake]

9. If it were mine,

I would take it somewhere, preferably an authorized Magnavox repair shop (if there is such a thing), otherwise any place that says they repair TVs. If they can't fix it or want too much money, let them keep it. Try to avoid putting down a deposit.

Since it's an LCD, it shouldn't be too heavy.

[NewJeffCT]

10. Thanks

I'll see if I can find a local place to service it and see what they have to say.