kdf 42we655 lcd panel free sample

Unplug the TV and remove the rear cover from the back of the TV by removing all of the screws with arrows pointing at them. On the KDF-55WF655, there are nine screws around the perimeter and four screws within the audio/video connection area (chassis assembly). Once all of the screws are removed, the cover should move very easily away from the TV. Set the rear cover aside with its screws so that you do not get them mixed up with others.

In theory, blowing air over the LCD panels and other internal parts could move some dust. In addition, the glass on the projection lens can be cleaned with lens paper and solution. Aerosol (canned) air is not recommended, as it can come out very cold and/or spray moisture, so extreme care should be exercised when using it (do this at your own risk). More thorough cleaning can be accomplished by further disassembling the optical, as described below.

Optical block disassemblyThe method described below requires even more care and patience, particularly the points where the LCD ribbon cables and the light path filters are removed. However, it will allow much more thorough cleaning of the internal parts, as it enables direct access to the filters and LCD panels.Note that Paul Patience has created another web site (Sony LCD Projection TV Cleaning Instructions) that describes this process on a KF-42WE620. It includes instructions and photos on accessing and cleaning the individual LCD panels, prism faces, and filters inside the optical block. Also note that, on the KF-42WE620 (and perhaps all 2003 Grand WEGA or "WE" models), the locations of the blue and red LCD panels are swapped relative to the KDF-55WF655 (and perhaps all 2004 Grand WEGA or "WF" models).Remove the centrifugal lamp cooling fan. It is held by 3 silver-colored screws, as indicated in the photo below.

The following photos show the optical block with the lamp fan, lamp fan mounting plate, LCD panel cover, wedge-shaped piece, and projection lamp removed (note the that the blue and red LCD panel positions are reversed on some models):

Next, remove the portion of the optical block that contains the LCD panels, prism, and projection lens. It is held by four silver-colored and four black screws, as indicated in the photo below. Pull this unit off the rest of the optical block, while carefully monitoring the ribbon cables to make sure they do not get caught. Note that the clear dome on the projection lens appears to be made out of plastic.

The following photo shows the gaps between the LCD panels and the prism through which it is possible to clean the surfaces. DO NOT attempt to unscrew the LCD panels from the prism faces, or you will likely lose your convergence upon re-installation:

**The 2005 3LCD models are unique in that they are the only models between 2003 and 2007 that have not had a Sony warranty extension.***The expiration date of the extended warranty was originally 10/31/2008, but, based in part on the settlement of a class action lawsuit, on 11/12/2007, Sony extended the expiration date to 6/30/2009.

Most likely, all of the green discolorations occurred due to the presence of improperly polarized light in the green channel, arising from defective green polarizers and/or SXRD panels. There is more recent evidence from a subsequent SXRD class action lawsuit that green haze can be caused by skin oil or debris introduced during the manufacturing process (presumably, optical block assemblers touching the parts with their bare fingers). However, Sony claims that they cleaned such optical block parts in a clean room prior to releasing them.

Sony further claims that the yellow stains in the 2005 SXRDs, which tend to start in the upper or lower right corner, were caused by a "microscopic material" in the liquid crystal panels, disrupting their uniformity over time during prolonged exposure to UV light produced by the projection lamp. Sony claims that the extent of the discoloration depended on the amount of microscopic material present in the panel, which varied from TV to TV, and the frequency of usage by the consumer. They also claim that service records indicate that the issue always appeared within the first 3,000 hours of usage, if it was going to happen.

The blue discolorations seem to be the most common, particularly in the earlier (2003-2005) 3LCD models, although they are also observed in the more recent 3LCD models, as well as the SXRD models. These discolorations can take the form of blue blobs, haze, lines, bands, dots, star pattern, etc. In some cases, the discoloration is centered around an oval-shaped anomaly in the middle of the screen. In many cases, the discoloration (e.g., haze) is most visible on a gray background, but in other cases, the discoloration is visible on a black background (e.g., blobs). Once they become evident, the discolorations tend to accumulate and spread across the entire screen over the course of a few weeks to months.

The precise cause(s) of these discolorations have not been revealed by Sony, but the problem is well-known in the industry.Thediscolorations tend to be bluish in color,because the parts in the blue light path (particularly the blue polarizing filters and liquid crystalpanels) aresubject to the highest energy light (including UV) and heat. Photochemical and heat-based degradation of the blue polarizing filters can allow stray, improperly polarized blue light to pass through the blue LCD panel and onto the screen, leading to blue blobs on images that should be black. Photochemical and heat-based degradation of compounds in the blue LCD panel (e.g., the liquid crystal itself and/or alignment layers) can cause irregular distribution and/or alignment of the of the liquid crystal. This can lead to improper polarization of blue light as it passes through the damaged areas of the panel, resulting in the projection of stray blue light onto the screen.

images--typically called burn-in on older CRT and plasma displays. For example, this can occur in areas of black bars (e.g., letterboxes), in news ticker areas, or when pausing a program on a DVR.As the liquid crystal panels degrade over time, the

While the 2003-2004 3LCD models tend to have primarily blue discolorations, as described above, they can also suffer from stains in the yellow range, and this seems even more common in the newer 3LCD models (e.g., 2005-2006), particularly the A10s. These discolorations tend to start on the edges or appear within oval-shaped anomalies, and to spread over time. Similar to the yellow stains in the SXRDTM models, the yellow color arises due to light being completely blocked in the blue light pathdue to photochemical and heat-based damage (e.g., darkened areas on the orange-colored polarizing filter in the blue light path). The improper blockage of blue lightleaves the predominantly yellow light from the combined green and red light paths. TriState Module sells the orange-colored polarizing filter for the blue light path and reports that it can fix yellow discolorations.

On top of the high risk for blue discolorations described above, some2003-2004 3LCD modelsare also susceptible to developing an opaque, non-moving pattern on the screen, which is particularly evident on white or light backgrounds. This is referred to variously as stationary scribble, squiggly, random line, or road-mapping, and tends to be a solid color such as yellow, purple, or blue-green on a white background, but it varies somewhat depending on the specific color of the image on the screen.The problem tends to grow worse over time.

For the most part, this problem seems to have been caused by defective materials in a specific lot of LCD panels that were installed in the optical blocks, whichare particularly sensitive to damage arising from hot-cold (on-off) cycling. The color of the scribbles likely correlates with the light path with the damaged LCD panel. For example, damage to the blue panel may selectively block blue light in the damaged areas, leading to a yellow scribble (green plus red), damage to the green panel may lead to a purple scribble (blue plus red), or damage to the red panel may lead to a blue-green scribble. In some cases, different colored scribbles appear in different areas on the same TV, suggesting damage to multiple panels.

There is some evidence that leaving the TV on for an extended period (e.g., several days) can, at least temporarily, resolve or reduce this issue, perhaps by causing the defective panel to heat up, but this is not a complete or permanent fix.

For reference,in addition to liquid crystal projection technology (3LCD andLCoS/SXRDTM), othernewer technologies at the time included digital light processing (DLP) projection,plasma flat-panel,and LCD flat-panel. In the large screen market, DLP and plasma were in direct competition with liquid crystal projection in its heyday, and LCD flat-panels have overtaken the market as prices have come down on larger panels.

An industry group of LCD projection manufacturers called the "3LCD Group" was formed in 2004 to help market the 3LCD microdisplay technology. Sony is a member of this marketing group, and, along with Epson, accounted for most of the production of the LCD microdisplay panels used in the projection models. Although the current 3LCD Group web site refers only to front projectors, it included rear-projection TVs when they were in production. For example, see this version of the 3LCD Group web site archived in January of 2005. Here is an excerpt from a 1/7/2005 3LCD Group press release:

“As the U.S. market leader in microdisplay televisions, Sony has always been committed to providing consumers with video products that exceed their expectations,” said Mike Fidler, senior vice president in Sony Electronics’ Home Products Division. “3LCD technology fulfills this role by offering an ideal balance between superior performance, overall reliability and manufacturing efficiency.”

Liquid crystal projection TV sales and marketing efforts attempted to steer customers away from competing plasma TVs by citing a short 10,000-20,000-hour lifespanof the plasma tubes (less than 10 years at 3-6 hours per day).In addition, the longevity of competing DLP projection TVs was questioned based on the use of moving parts (DLP technology uses a spinning color wheel with millions of hinged micromirrors). Consistent with this, Sony and its 3LCD Group have released marketing statements such as the following:

It is generally accepted that liquid crystal flat-panel displays have an expected life span of about 60,000 hours(about 27 years at 6 hours per day)(e.g., site 1, site 2, site 3). The liquid crystal microdisplay panels in Sony"s 3LCD and SXRDTM TVs are a bit different than flat-panels. However, Sony and the 3LCD Group do not differentiate LCD flat panels and microdisplays when speaking about reliability. For example, the following statement can be found on the 3LCD Group web site:

Reliable, Road-Tested Tecnology: LCD technology surrounds us – HDTVs, PDAs, mobile phones, monitors and more...this powerful and road-tested technology is an optimal way to achieve sharp, beautiful images. 3LCD systems are reliable and use a simple optical design: 3 chips and 1 prism.

Furthermore, the estimated 60,000-hour lifespan of an LCD flat panel is actually based more on the longevity of the fluorescent back-lighting than the liquid crystal components themselves. So, if the lighting systems were replaceable on these units, the lifespan could, theoretically, be much longer.In liquid crystal projection systems, the lamps are, in fact, user-replaceable, and Sony has exploited this to further promote the longevity of the technology. They strongly promoted that their TVs only needed a lamp change every several years to restore the TV to a like-new condition. Here are some quotes from some of Sony"s marketing:

The Fountain of Youth - User-Replaceable UHP Lamp. In the past, the gradual loss of picture quality was just part of owning a TV. Once the picture got to a point where it was unwatchable, the TV was replaced and the process started over. Sony recognizes the investment in time and money that a TV represents. That is the reason that Grand WEGA comes with an ingenious user-replaceable UHP lamp. After countless hours of enjoyment, simply replace the lamp and your Grand WEGA is as good as the day you bought it. In fact, with Sony"s renowned quality, Grand WEGA may be the last TV you ever own.The implication from these quotes is that liquid crystal rear-projection TVs could have an even longer life than a liquid crystal flat-panel display, and even CRT-based TVs, due to the user-replaceable lamps. In fact, a "white paper" from Sony on their projection systems directly suggests that liquid crystal microdisplay (fixed-pixel) projection panels offer "far longer life" than CRT-based TVs (e.g., see page 23):

CRTs have phosphors that are subject to burn-in when an image stays on the screen too long...Fixed-pixel projector display panels are immune to burn-in, offering far longer life. And the SXRD panel is particularly robust.However, unlike flat-panel liquid crystal displays with non-damaging fluorescent back-lighting, the UHP lamps in Sony"s rear-projection TVs create substantial direct heat, direct light (e.g., ultraviolet), and indirect heat (produced by conversion of reflected light). This damaging energy is focused on the small filters and liquid crystal panels within the optical block, significantly reducing lifespan.

We purchased a Sony Grand WEGA (LCD Projection HDTV, KDF-42WE655) at Circuit City on 1/29/05 for approximately $2,000.00. The warranty was good for only 1 year (normal life span for TV is approximately 15-20 years depending on usage). The degenerative problem with this Sony TV is with the optical block/light engine which Sony has known about before and after our 2005 model was being distributed in local stores. Sony was well aware of this problem for several years and continued to sell this defective technology, committing massive consumer fraud. Repair for this problem costs between $1,100 -$1,500. Repairing would only be using the same refurbished parts, which once again means that between two and four years, the same problem will occur.

I purchased a KDFE50A10 Sony television on 12-8-05. I emailed them on 11-25-09 about an issue with blue streaks on my screen. They tried to troubleshoot the issue to no avail. I was then directed to call Customer Relations. Customer Relations was unwilling to compensate me in any way for the optical block issue this TV is known to have, as per the many complaints already made. The cost to repair this TV is over $1,200 and the replacement optical block may not last any longer than the original one.

In 2006, I purchased an expensive ($2,000) high definition, large, flat screen TV (Sony KDF-E50A10 LCD rear projection). In 2008, a blue blob began to appear on the TV screen. I called Sony customer service asking for assistance with the picture quality on my TV. The TV has a large and growing blue blob on the screen. Sony initially suggested they knew nothing about the problem and referred me to one of their service vendors for diagnosis. The screen problem at the time was rather small and I elected to do nothing. As the problem grew, I called them again and this time, was told that the warranty had been extended because of the screen issue (a problem with the "optical block" component), but the warranty extension was now expired.

I purchased a Sony KDF60XS955 60" LCD rear projection TV in 2005, including the ridiculously-priced Sony stand. My total investment was well over $4,000. In the past several months, the TV picture is being overrun by blue dots and a blue haze that is quickly making the set unwatchable. I contacted Sony and that indicated that I have a problem with the optical block, but since the warranty was expired, there was nothing they could do. The repair cost is +/-$1,000 and the same problem will probably resurface even when fixed. Their only offer was for discounts on replacement TVs, all of which were substantially smaller. The discounted prices were also not that great, with cheaper prices available from some retailers.

My husband and I purchased a Sony Bravia 42" LCD television in June of 2008. About a week ago, the sound completely went out. Now we received sound on a very limited basis. I called Sony Service and talked with a really nice person who walked me through a few minor steps to see if this would help. Three seconds after I hung up the phone, the sound completely went out again. I immediately called back and this time, got a young man who more or less said, "Sorry, you"re SOL. There is nothing more we can do. Your warranty ran out less than six months ago and you will just have to pay to get it fixed." I told him that since the TV was only a year and a half old, it should not be having this kind of trouble. His response was, "Too Bad, So Sad."

In January 2007, I purchased a Sony KDF-60XS955 for $4,400.00. January of 2009, blue haze, yellow screen and the green blob. I contacted Sony several times about the issue. They stated it was out of the two year warranty period and I would have to replace the optical block for $1,200.00. 7 days out of warranty and they would do nothing over a $4,400.00 TV. December 4, 2009, still nothing from Sony. I"m just waiting for the next class action lawsuit with my model number since there are several thousands of people with this problem. Others have gone to small claims and have won $700.00 for half the repair of the TV. I think it should be a recall since Sony installed defective parts, which they were aware of, and still sold the TV sets to the public. Never buy Sony.

In November of 2004, we purchased a 60" rear projection Sony Grand Wega LCD Projection HDTV (Model KDF-60XS955) at Best Buy in Framingham for $4187 (which included sales tax, delivery and a 4-year service contract). In the spring of 2007 (2 years after purchase), a blue haze with blue dots began to appear on the screen, causing significant deterioration of the picture quality. I called Best Buy about the problem, and they sent an authorized Sony repair serviceman who arrived with a new optical block (which is the equivalent of the picture tube of CRT, the guts of the television).

I decided to search the internet to see if others might be having this same problem and was amazed to discover numerous websites with hundreds of consumers complaining of blue blobs, red squiggles, yellow and green haze and other defects on the screens of their expensive Sony Wega Rear Projection LCD TVs. All of these sets were less than 5 years old. I learned that every Sony rear-projection model has been the subject of a warranty extension, a class-action lawsuit, or both. The first Sony customer service representative I contacted told me there was nothing they could do as my television was now out of warranty.

I purchased a KDF-42WE655 Grand Wega television in January of 2005 for $2,400 that now has the well-documented failure of the optical block. A blue haze and horizontal streaks radiate from the lower left-hand portion of the screen, which impairs viewing. The internet is filled with postings from fellow consumers reporting the same condition and sadly, their stories end with the same customer service treatment I received. It took several minutes of my time and persistence until I reached a fourth customer service employee, who, after much prodding, offered to sell me another television for ~$1,000 or receive a $400 credit towards a $1,200 repair (I called an authorized Sony repair outlet for that estimate).

I purchased a KDF-70XBR950 back in 2005. On 11/24/2009, I began experiencing an optical block issue with my TV. I called Sony and they stated that they will not assist me in any way because all warranties are expired. I paid $6,000.00 for this TV and it only lasted for 4 years. The image on the TV has become distorted and the colors are not correct.

My four-year old $2,600 Sony LCD/HD TV has started turning to a blue haze on the screen. I have made contact with the service department via email and telephone and have been told that even though this is a known factory defect, I will still have to pay for repair and parts, estimated around $1,200. There are several pending class action lawsuits around the country, unfortunately not in my state, and Sony still is not making good on their defective part. A refurbished part cost nearly $800 and is only warranted for 6 months. I find this kind of support for an expensive TV totally unacceptable. This TV, a KDF-42WE655, has been run only about 10,000 hours of its estimated 60,000 hours of projected life span, so I am very disappointed in the durability of this TV. I have even offered to do the repair work myself, just send me a replacement part and they have refused. My advice is to not purchase Sony equipment any more. I sure won"t!

We lost home and contents in the May 2008 Parkersburg/New Hartford, Iowa tornado. While the home was being rebuilt, we lived with relatives, at motels and rental properties. I purchased a Sony Bravia 32" LCD TV from Best Buy on August 27, 2008. I did not use the TV immediately but probably registered it shortly after the purchase date. We were replacing our items in anticipation of the completion of the rebuilt home. On November 30 of this year, my Bravia started jumping and twice the screen went completely green with no picture for a few seconds. Then the bottom 3/4 of the picture was foggy with vertical lines running and jumping. I called Sony customer service on December 1 and they had me do several checks which did nothing to help the problem. Then, they asked me to have a technician check it which I did. He informed me that it was the display and would cost $500-$600 to repair. I called Sony back with the information and they told me sorry but since my warranty was out 12 months from the date of purchase, they could not help me with the repair. I would assume I ran this TV (which was in my bedroom) 13-1/2 months. With products like this, I will not purchase another Sony product.

I purchased Sony TV, Model KDFE50A10 in December of 2005. I received a letter from Sony that this model would turn off on its own, due to software issue. Sony requested that I send them the serial number to verify that the TV was affected by the software problem. I received a reply from Sony that my TV does not have an issue with the software problem. Within two months of the correspondence with Sony, I started having the cut-off problem. I contacted Sony Tech Support and they told me to power down the TV and not to use a power strip.

I purchased Sony Wega KDF-55XS955 in November "04. I have replaced three bulbs in the time I have had the TV, but the TV is only used about 4 to 5 hours per day. I now have a blue haze across the lower 3 inches of the set as well as a grapefruit sized blue haze in the center of the set. I see from researching the internet that this isn"t an unusual problem to have with these Wega televisions. I contacted Sony and they say it sounds like the optical block and it may cost up to $1000 to repair. That is unacceptable for a TV only 5 years old that cost over $3000. Are there any lawsuits covering this product that I can participate in? There must be some way, with all the people affected by this to recover some of the money for this faulty product.

I purchased a Sony Grand Wega model KDF55WF655 in 05/2005 for $2,770 + $500 for the extended service plan, which expired in 05/2009. Too bad, these are not cheap TV units! One month ago, I started having the same optical block failure. I contacted Sony and this is what they have to say:

I purchased a Sony Wega LCD 42" TV in June of 2005. It has a "blue blob or haze" on the screen caused by a defective light engine, also called an optical block. According to my research, Sony knew of this problem and still sold the Wega series in retail outlets. The consumer was never notified of this recall through USPS or email.There is also an issue with pink spots on the screen, which are caused by a dust problem.

My model is KDF 42WE655. I contacted John (Sony) on 5/16/09. Case number was issued. I got referred to case resolution specialist, Hank ** on 7/9/09. On 7/21/09, I refused his offer of a KDL40V5100 for $1075 plus tax. Buydig.com had the same TV for $949 with no tax and free S/H.

I purchased a Sony Grand Wega model KDF-50WE655 on 09/02/05 for around $2,600 at Costco. It started having trouble with the picture and I called for service. On 03/23/09, I paid $95.00 for the tech to tell me that the blue LCD panel has gone out and the optical block needs to be replaced for an estimated $1,100.00. I was told by a Sony customer service that there was a recall and I missed it. Apparently, it was notified via the web. I am a senior and I do not have access to the web. The daughter is filing this complaint for me. I am now widowed and out of a TV. Sony graciously offered to sell me a new TV at a great discount. Obviously, there is a defect in this model"s parts. Do I have no recourse?

I purchased a Sony KDL46XBR5, 18 months and 21 days ago. The right side of the screen is slow, ghostly and the entire picture is dim. The slow and ghostly problem is as if the right 1/3 of the screen is slow to update. A picture will appear to be in slow motion as it fades away and is updated with the new display. The dim is across the entire display. It seems as if something warms up after awhile and the picture becomes normal. A service technician told me that I needed a new LCD panel at over $2,000. At first Sony said that the warranty expired (21 days over) and they would not be able to help me. I continued to call and spoke to another service representative. Sony is working with me and will assist with the repairs, but if the cost exceeds the value of the TV, my only option is to purchase another set through SONY at what they considered as a discounted price.

I purchased Sony for what I thought was a quality brand, not something I would be forced to replace after only less than 19 months. Let"s see. I spent over $2,000 for the LCD TV, enjoyed it for 18 months, and be forced to purchase another one by the same company that provided you with the defected one in the first place. Something is wrong here. I think any customer who experienced similar issues with their XBR5 LCD TV should come together with a class action suit against Sony.Read full review

Television model KDF-60xs955 has an optical block failure rendering the TV useless unless a costly repair is made. Numerous Sony LCD rear projections have the blue blob/dot problem and a recall/class action suit was filed. However, I have missed the narrow time frame for repairs due to my problem just having appeared. Sony will not compensate in anyway to help with repairs on a four-year-old defective TV. I have also had numerous other problems with this TV unrelated to the current issue and Sony has not assisted at those times either.

I have a KDF-60XBR950, which has been left out of any class actions, and probably will never be a part of one because of its date of mfg. It can not be easily argued that Sony had knowledge before selling that there was a defect as can be done with later models. Lawyers tend to go with the easiest bang for their buck and they should be making some change on these cases.

Also since I was last on I picked up a Vizio 42" LCD to replace my old Sony 27" tube TV. The Vizio has been great and I would recommend them if anyone is considering the brand. The 42" works well in the smaller room where we had the old 27" TV but I still need something better for the family room where the blue blob monster is. I"ll see if anything pans out with this lawsuit thing otherwise I"ll probably pick up a 55" Vizio LCD next year.

Below are notes from the Opinion And Order Approving Settlement, filed May 1, 2008, regarding the Class Action litigation against Sony for televisions it manufactured as SXRD models, specifically KDS-R50XBR1 and KDS-R60XBR1. These are televisions which happened to be owned by the initial plaintiffs. It is not an indication that they were the only televisions which qualified for such a lawsuit. The issues now being faced by consumers of all Sony manufactured Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Rear Projection television sets, made from 2003-2007, the year Sony stopped manufacturing Rear Projection LCD televisions, are pretty much the same, if not worse.

In fact, two more similar class action lawsuits regarding this defective Optical Block have recently been filed by owners of these Sony LCD Rear Projection televisions. On December 5, 2008, in the Southern District of New York, case 08 Civ 8987, an action was filed by owners of the following models - KDS-R60XBR2, KDS-R70XBR2, KDS-50A2000, KDS-55A2000 and KDS60-A2000. And, on February 18, 2009, in the Southern District of California, case 08-CV-2276-WQH-LSP, an action was filed by owners of the following models - Sony Grand WEGA KDF-E A10 and A20 Series LCD.

"A variety of visual anomalies have been reported on Sony liquid crystal display (LCD) rear-projection TVs, including blue blobs, blue haze, blue star pattern, scribble/random line pattern (road-mapping), green blobs, green haze, yellow stains, purple or pink "fingerprints," and others. Unfortunately, these issues tend to occur after the warranty has expired. Sony has provided extended coverage for some of the issues on some models. However, the extended coverage has already expired in some cases, and it will expire at various times throughout 2009-2010 for other issues, so timing is important. As time has passed and complaints have accumulated, it has become clear that virtually all of Sony"s rear-projection models (2003-2007) are subject to severe optical block issues. In December, 2007 Sony announced that they would stop production of rear-projection TVs in favor of flat-panel LCD and organic light-emitting diode (OLED) TVs ..."

"On May 18, 2006, Sony issued an Additional Service Coverage for the optical block of its 2003-2004 Grand WEGA models (KF and KDF), regardless of the original purchase date of the TV. The coverage included the KF-42WE610, KF-50WE610, KF-60WE610, KDF-70XBR950, KDF-60XBR950, KDF-42WE655, KDF-50WE655, KDF-55WF655, KDF-60WF655, KDF-55XS955, KDF-60XS955, KF-42WE620, and KF-50WE620. The coverage was based on what Sony describes as a "stationary scribble," "squiggly," or "random line" pattern (also called "road-mapping" and other names by some owners). Some have reported that the size of the anomaly tends to increase over time, and others have reported that leaving the TV on continuously for several days can, at least temporarily, shrink or eliminate it ... Unfortunately, Sony"s additional coverage was good only through September 30, 2007."

"On June 23, 2007, Sony issued a 2004 Grand WEGA Additional Service Coverage on the optical blocks of the following models: KDF-42WE655, KDF-50WE655, KDF-55WF655, KDF-60WF655, KDF-55XS955, KDF-60XS955, KF-42WE620, and KF-50WE620. This coverage was based on what Sony describes as a "blue dot" or "blue star" pattern (also called "blue haze," "blue blob," and other names by some owners). Sony posted sample pictures of the blue spot problem, one of which was from my TV (see pictures below). The location and intensity of the blue anomalies can change, tending to get progressively worse. Some users have reported that, over time, increasing numbers of bright blue or white spots appear within the anomalies, which presumably represent pixels stuck in an "activated" state. Colors other than blue have also been reported. The additional service coverage was good only through December 31, 2008"

"Although owners of the 2003 Grand WEGA models were reporting these same blue anomalies, Sony originally chose not to cover these older models. On December 11, 2007, though, Sony issued a "2003 Grand WEGA Additional Service Coverage" on the optical blocks of the following models: KF-42WE610, KF-50WE610, KF-60WE610, KDF-60XBR950, and KDF-70XBR950. The language was identical to that for the 2004 models (see above). However, this additional service coverage was good only through June 30, 2008. This was six months before the expiration on the 2004 models, even though the coverage was issued about six months later. This provided a relatively short six-month window for claims, which has now expired."

On the website, ecoustics.com, within the thread entitled, Sony LCD Projection TV Problems thread, there are over 1,000 posts dating back to October, 2005. Here are just a couple of the posts from one day, February 9 -

"Posted by Michelle Clyburn on Monday, February 09, 2009 - 01:10 am: I have the same problem with model KDFE50A10... Sony gave me the same garbage. They claimed to not have any issues of the "blue blob" reported for my model number, but judging by the forums online - it is a well known issue. If anyone hears of a way to get Sony to cover the costs - please let me know."

"Posted by Cynthia Chavez on Monday, February 09, 2009 - 02:10 pm: I would be interested to know if anyone has gotten Sony to pay for their out-of-extended-warranty repair RECENTLY. I"ve tried and tried, sweetly and respectfully via telephone and letter to the executive board, but the answer is "No" to covering the cost of repair of the optic block on our KDF-70XBR950. I even asked if they would just supply the part since the original optic block was made with plastic rather than glass, but the answer was still "No." We paid over $7000 for our televsion at the end of 2005. Sony customer relations is unmoved by our story.

Posted by 84jeepjohn on September 9, 2008, 1:29 pm -- "I went through 4 OB before the 4th one fixed my problem. It killed me because it costed them MORE to replace the OB than to give me a new TV ... but Mine is still kicking, it"s on all the time (hate the bulbs though) I just hope Sony gets a 60" LCD soon cause I do NOT want to go down in size (but I"m NOT willing to pay the cost of a used car for the new 70 ...)"

In fact, when I purchased my television in 2004, televisions were still lasting 20 years. I purposely bought an LCD rear projection, and a Sony because I thought it stood for quality, instead of a comparable plasma television because it was generally thought that the plasmas would "only last 10 years." At the time, I thought it ridiculous to spend so much on a television that had such a known short life expectancy. I expected, especially for the price, that the television would last 20 years.

With all this, I am writing to request a Sony Lifetime Extended Warranty for my Sony television, model KDF-60XBR950, to cover any and all future Optical Block service and replacements, Lamp Door Access service and replacements and, if my Sony model KDF-60XBR[950] has one, any B Block service and replacements. I believe this covers all of the parts that have been overwhelmingly recognized as defective by consumers and by Sony"s own statements and extended warranties. And, if replacement parts are not available, or my television cannot be fixed for any reason related to the above mentioned defective parts, I would like a monetary reimbursement for the replacement cost of my television, keeping in mind for replacement both picture size and quality.

Registered: Feb-09Posted on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 15:38 GMTI registered my $7,000.00 KDF-70XBR950 Sony TV on Sony.com supplying my name, email address, and phone number and the details of my purchase. It would be foolish not to register such an expensive item, particularly an electronic. I purchased an extended warranty through Circuit City, as well. I never received any notification via email, mail, or telephone that the original warranty had been extended on the optical block due to known problems.

Registered: Mar-09Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 21:52 GMTI sent an email to the lawyer and they never got back to me. Does anybody know if my model KDF-42WE655 is part of the lawsuit? I have the blue haze/fog problem.

Registered: Apr-05Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 21:57 GMTRob Lax told me that he doesn"t currently have a suit working for the KDF/WE sets. Maybe he needs a few more e-mails from frustrated owners.

Registered: Jan-09Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 22:41 GMTLinette, I recieved the same info from Mr. Lax. I did inform him it didn"t appear to be one particular model but their whole line of rear projection LCD televisions.

Registered: Feb-09Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 22:41 GMTWhy would he not include the KDF/WE in his "class", what does model number have to do with anything if they all use the same defective optical block? I would think the bigger the class the better.

Registered: Dec-08Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 23:51 GMTI have a kdf/we model as well and I emailed him too and I didn"t recieve a reply either.

On December 5, 2008, in the Southern District of New York, case 08 Civ 8987, an action was filed by owners of the following models - KDS-R60XBR2, KDS-R70XBR2, KDS-50A2000, KDS-55A2000 and KDS60-A2000. And, on February 18, 2009, in the Southern District of California, case 08-CV-2276-WQH-LSP, an action was filed by owners of the following models - Sony Grand WEGA KDF-E A10 and A20 Series LCD.

For those, like me, that have an earlier model, a KDF-___XBR950, the question may still be there - Did Sony knowingly manufacture and sell this tv with defective parts? While it may not seem as easy to prove as it would with later models, it actually is.

Even if it is argued that Sony, an international, multi-billion dollar company, which has been in the consumer product industry company a long time, did not do any quality design research before manufacturing its line of Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Rear Projection High Definition tvs, and so they could not have knowingly manufactured and sold defective tvs, it must be asked, why, when Sony did figure out the tvs were defective, did they not stop? Clearly, if it was not, and never would have been, Sony"s purpose and intention to sell tvs with defective parts, they would have immediately stopped manufacturing and selling them. And, they would have recalled, in some way, those already sold. By Sony"s clear disregard for its consumers and actions after the fact, it is clear what their purposes and intentions were before the fact.

Registered: Mar-09Posted on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 21:27 GMTFor the record my KDF42WE655, bought in 2004 has the optic block problem which just started the other day. Here is a composite of 2 images; channel N and then channel N+1 showing a sort of temporary burn-in. I"m still examining my available courses of action. Talked to a sony rep yesterday who sent me the information and the website link describing the problem ( http://www.kb.sony.com/selfservice/documentLink.do?externalId=C531114&sliceId=1 which, by the way, I couldn"t find by searching on their website ) but a different rep today said that Sony would not pay for the repair.

Registered: Mar-09Posted on Saturday, March 28, 2009 - 20:56 GMTHi folks. I just found this board. I have a Sony KDF-55XS955 and it seems to have just caught the Optical Block bug a few months after the "Extended Warranty" ran out. Great that you pay $2500 bucks for a TV and Sony doesn"t even let you know to watch for this issue. I haven"t started the Sony run-around yet but it looks like I have some "fun" ahead of me. I"ll keep you posted....

Registered: Apr-05Posted on Monday, March 30, 2009 - 23:24 GMTHere"s an update on the deterioration of my KDF-50WE655 set. The first picture (March 16) showed a "Big Dipper" pattern of 7 dots and a corona effect on the lower right.

Registered: Sep-08Posted on Wednesday, April 01, 2009 - 12:56 GMTSo, I called today about my KDF-55xs955 optical block. Started with Jose, hard to understand, but ok. He tried a little bit to say he can"t help me and I told him I had figured that and please send me to the next level. Of course, they weren"t open yet, but I got my Reference number.

Registered: Apr-09Posted on Thursday, April 02, 2009 - 02:25 GMTAfter much runaround with Sony over my defective KDF-50WE655, today I was offered a KDL-52S5100 for $1395 or KDL-46S5100 for $895. What do you guys think of this offer?

Registered: Apr-09Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 00:47 GMTHave a problem with my Sony KDS-55A3000 (bought Dec.31,2007) which is the last of the LCD rear projections that sony made. When I turn it on the power LED blinks green 14 times and then red once and then re-powers on. It will do this continuously until I turn it off. Is this the start of the optical block problem already? Should I be worried?

so let me also start off with my issue. I have a sony KDF-60XS955($4100) television that i purchased in December of 2004. I cannot say enough good things about the picture quality of this television. Where this TV is lacking is in the longevity and quality of construction department. Sony"s Quality Control has no excuses for this pure lack of assurance which is screwing all of their loyal customers. I first encountered the blue blob several months ago, and to my delight Sony replaced the Optical Block, free of charge, saying it was a known issue and defect and were very apologetic. So i was happy and told everyone how well they treated me. The other week i noticed this dreaded blue blob was back. At first i thought it was an optical illusion, a light perhaps shining on my screen, it was during a bright day that i had noticed this faint blue blob. But the other night i was watching a movie, and during it i noticed, and this time was very sure,that the Blue Blob has come back to haunt my television. So this morning(happy Easter, right!?) I get on the chat system with a sony tech(Derreck) and he informs me that they was never a known issue for my models" Optical Block. When i inform him that he must be mistaken, and raise to his attention the replacement Sony had given me a few months prior he simply disregarded it and to me to call Customer relations for this issue. How unprofessional, i sometimes feel large companies feel that by giving customers the run around, they will simply get tired and stop actively pursuing justice. So i call customer relations to get this friendly chap names Luigi, who is quite nice and looks up my file only to show that there had never been a file created about my first replacement. So now im wondering who Sony sent to my house to get this thing fixed the first time, but i was also informed to call again tomorrow to get this issue escalated. I"m already getting this sense of a run around. I have taken names, dates and record down for my own protections and will call tomorrow to gain further clarification into this matter.

First, Frank and Eric, it would seem that the KDF series we have has just recently increased in the number of complaints on here. Mine was about 4 years and 3 months old. Maybe someone will start a class including our set. Don"t all these similar sets use the same block design? They should all be on the same complaint.

agn, was yours a KDF also? Could you please briefly describe what materials you took to court? I"m very nervous to do it because while I understand all the info I am overwhelmed and wouldn"t know what to bring or state when I got there.

In early 2005, I purchased a new KDF-55XS955 rear-projection television as a graduation gift to myself. I spent a little extra money to buy a Sony product because of your reputation for quality. However, barely 4 years later I am seeing a constellation of blue "stars" in the middle of my screen as well as a blue haze at the bottom of my screen which is slowly growing.

In their gracious benevolence they have given me to April 29th to make a decision. Of course I let him have it as I hoped for a better offer. I asked if he was willing to lose all of these people as customers over this issue, and he pretty much said he was. So I will consider it but Samsung has the number 1 rated 52"" LCD -TV rated by Consumer Reports. Even if it costs a couple more hundred dollars, after this I am hard pressed to give Sony a dime more of my money. We"ll see.

The best deal we could coax out of Sony for our 4-yr-old KDF-50WE655 was a $500 credit toward another set - and we pushed extremely hard to get them to give us that on a 46-incher - another $2500 outlay just isn"t in the budget at this time.

Registered: Apr-09Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 02:31 GMTI have run into this "blue haze" problem with my 3 year old 42" Sony Grand WEGA 3-LCD projection TV, KFE42A10. Started almost 3 years to date of purchase, no extended warranty of course! I have written to Sony and we"ll see what happens.

I am very interested in what others have had in way of a response from Sony, or better yet, a resolution from Sony. I have done a lot of research and found mostly examples from USA where Sony settled several class action lawsuits re this problem in several models of projection LCD TV"s. Basically they are replacing the optical block for free for affected TV"s until June 2010 (even if out of warranty). The only problem I see with this is they are replacing using the same type of optical block so in another 2-3 years these Sony owners will likely have the same "blue haze" problem surface again. Better to get 6 years out of the TV than 3 years I suppose!

Registered: Apr-09Posted on Monday, April 20, 2009 - 17:10 GMTHi-I"ve been experiencing the "blue haze" for about a month now. It is incredibly frustrating, especially after spending $135 for a new bulb. I purchased a KDF-60XS955 in August 2005, not even 4 years ago

Registered: Apr-05Posted on Wednesday, April 22, 2009 - 19:50 GMTUpdate on the blue blob and dots on our KDF-50WE655 set - this photo is as of April 20.

I was assured that the optical block that was put in my 70 inch KDF-70BR950 was the new one with glass mirrors. I have not filed a small claims suit, but I plan to do so. The repair cost me nearly $1200. The picture is beautiful. It is truly a wonderful television, when it works. I sincerely hope this 1200 optical block gives us at least ten more years from our $7000.00 tv. (Now, $8200 tv)It certainly should have lasted more than four.

I have a kdf 950 that started with the blue haze . the nerve of Sony, when you call to complain they behave like it"s the first time the"ve ever heard of this problem.They should have recalled all these sets. Well I"ve made my call ,someones come over to officially say its the optical block and now I am waiting for a response has anyone thought of using the media . This seems to be an ongoing problem . Maybe ABC or CNN or maybe NBC .Well I will keep everyone posted with my progress.

Registered: Apr-09Posted on Friday, April 24, 2009 - 05:36 GMTHere is a photo of the Blue Haze on my Sony KFE42A10 42" Grand WEGA Projectuion LCD TV. I used Sony"s online reporting form and after 2 weeks of no response (it says they will respond within 2 days) I wrote them a complaint letter 3 weeks ago ... no response to either complaint. Come on Sony Australia, do something!!!

Registered: Apr-09Posted on Monday, April 27, 2009 - 23:15 GMTI have the exact same problem, bought my 42"LCD TV in 2005 now have blue haze at bottom of screen. everyday it is getting worse!! I have no extended warranty. please continue with updates on this problem. At one time I had all sony products(TV, DVD player, Speakers, and Camcorders), now due to continued flaws in there products, I am no longer a Sony supporter!!! What are the steps to be part of this class action lawsuit??

I bought my 42" HD LCD TV from Best Buy in 2005. last week I noticed a blue haze on the bottom of my screen. since then it has gotten bigger and more noticeable, as it is now at the point where it reaches all the way across my screen. I have found through my research that hundreds of people are having the same issues, and they say that it is a manufactural defect in the optical block. So, I went on your website and noticed recalls on Optical blocks for certain model TVs. I am writing to see if my model TV also has been recalled for this issue?

Registered: Mar-09Posted on Tuesday, April 28, 2009 - 16:46 GMTFor anyone with the Sony KDF-E55A20 model, the attorney for Class Action Suit is Jon M. Herskowitz, Esq., Baron & Herkowitz, 9100 S. Dadeland Blvd., Miami, FL 33156, (305) 670-0101. He is working in association with Robert I. Lax & Associates in New York. This suit is only for LCD Rear Projection TVs.

Registered: Apr-09Posted on Thursday, April 30, 2009 - 01:06 GMTI have a Sony LCD projection TV (KDF-E42A10) that recently developed a display problem, but it doesn"t seem to be the blue blur or the roadmap problem and I can"t get a handle on what the source of the issue is. I was hoping somebody had an idea, so I"m posting a picture below. Anybody know what this is or what causes it? TIA for any assistance.

Registered: May-09Posted on Tuesday, May 05, 2009 - 18:39 GMTSame story here. KDF-E50A10 purchased in Jul 05, started getting red band all across the bottom of screen, then later a blue band across the top.

Registered: May-09Posted on Thursday, May 07, 2009 - 01:00 GMTPurchased this Television October 2005 new from Circuit City ,also bought the stand made specifically for this TV. Television stopped working April 2009.Called a repair service and the technician opened the front panel and found that access door and everything around door was melted,casing frame etc... The technician informed me that I was very lucky that unit did not catch fire and unplugged unit. With Television $2400.00 stand $500.00 delivery and set up $200.00 and $80.00 dollars for technician to tell me set is a fire hazard and could have burnt my house down and killed my family I am out $3200.00 I have read on many sites that this is happening frequently and Sony is offering very little to replace defective sets. I have pictures and documentation for everything I am writing, is there anyone who can tell me what can be done before one of these sets kill somebody.

Registered: Jun-09Posted on Monday, June 01, 2009 - 14:45 GMTPurchased my KDF50WE655 from PC Richard & Sons in Oct 2004. I spent the extra $300 for the 5 year extended warranty. Best move ever, I"ve had the optical block replaced twice so far and like clockwork (every year and half to two years) the purple blotches are back in the center of the screen. PC Richard coming to my house in two weeks, going to get my 3rd optical block. I still feel I should contact Sony.

Registered: Sep-08Posted on Wednesday, June 03, 2009 - 21:07 GMTI finally decided to email Sony re"KDF-55XS955 optical block. My TV is so bad now that it is a matter of weeks or days before I buy a Samsung. I would have contacted Sony sooner if I"d known it would get so much worse so fast. In the beginning it was slow to progress, but now each day there are more stars and the people look more dead (blue cast to skin tones) Photos are from today and one is from April

Quick question/problem. My wife and I bought a KDF-46E2000 in June of 2007 and have loved every minute of it until tonight when during our sons favorite cartoon it went black, no sound no picture. The green Power light blinked for about 1.5 mins then the red Lamp light began to blink. I called Sony and they recommended I replace the lamp. I would probably accept this however I have only had the TV about two years. From everything I have read on here you guys sound as knowledgeable as the tech I talked to and wanted to know if you had any other ideas before I drop $150-$200 on a lamp. TV was manufactured July 2006

Get your new lamp, you can probably replace it yourself, and your picture will look fine. Last time ours blew we bought two so we"d be prepared next time. The replacement directions on our tv are easy. ( ours is a KDF-70XBR950).