Non-Standard Audio Signal Creates Nationwide Problems for Name Brand Televisions

Consumers have not been informed about a nation wide problem with some RCA, Sony, Hitachi and Phillips brand televisions. The problem, which has existed since 2001, is alleged to be caused by a non-standard broadcast signal. Usually the first indication or symptom that your television is being affected by a non-standard signal is the television will experience a problem with the audio reception. It is common to suspect the problem is originating with the cable reception or the television set itself. The audio (sound) on a television either begins hissing, or just stops working. At first, the problem was thought to just be affecting RCA brand televisions, but Sony's Hitachi's, and Philips are also being affected. According to an Electronics Industry Specific Newsletter, written by Joe Spoko of Ohio, RCA brand televisions are experiencing a hissing sound, or total loss of audio on some or all channels. Sony televisions are experiencing a dropout of video. Phillips brand televisions are experiencing a tint shift all the way to green. The problems are affecting televisions built with chassis identified with the following identification numbers: CTC203, CTC197, and CTC195. These chassis all use the same micro processor (not the same part number, but the same capabilities). So far, the best temporary solution, or work around, to the audio problem is to unplug the television for about twenty minutes or so, according to Gerald Doiron, owner of Doiron's TV and VCR Service in Houma, Louisiana. It may be necessary to repeatedly unplug the television, and as often as is necessary to reset and restore the televisions audio capability. Unplugging the television is proving to be only a temporary fix. When contacted, an RCA employee, who identified herself only as Debra, acknowledged the audio problems, and stated the problems appear to be caused by non-standard signal transmission. Debra stated the problem began to occur around the beginning of 2006. "RCA is working very hard to find a solution" Debra said, but she failed to mention that the audio problems have actually existed since 2001. Still today, the various problems alleged to be caused by the non-standard signal cannot be corrected. If you have experienced any unexplained audio/sound problems with an RCA brand television, the contact number for the Thomson/RCA is 580-634-0151. Before you call Thomson/RCA about any audio problems, be sure to have the model, serial, and chassis number of the television set.