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How to Fix Pixelation or No Signal on Your Samsung TV (UK Guide)
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Pixelation, freezing, or a “no signal” message on your Samsung TV can be frustrating—especially when you're trying to relax with your favourite show. Whether you're using Sky Q, Virgin Media, Now TV, or Freeview, this guide walks you through clear, step-by-step solutions to get your picture back.
What Causes Pixelation or “No Signal”?
Before diving into fixes, it helps to understand the common culprits:
- Loose or damaged cables (HDMI, aerial, satellite)
- Signal interference from weather or nearby electronics
- Outdated software or firmware
- Service outages from your provider
- Incorrect input source or TV settings
- Faulty set-top box or TV tunerGeneral Fixes for All Samsung TVs
These steps apply to most Samsung models, including QLED, Crystal UHD, and The Frame.
1. Check Your Connections: Ensure all cables are securely plugged in and undamaged. Try a different HDMI port or cable if needed.
2. Restart Your Devices: Power off your TV and set-top box at the wall, wait 30 seconds, then turn them back on.
3. Select the Correct Source/Input: Use the Source button to cycle through inputs until your picture returns.
4. Run a Picture Test: Go to Settings > Support > Device Care > Self Diagnosis > Picture Test.
5. Update Your TV Software: Navigate to Settings > Support > Software Update > Update Now.
Fixes for Sky Q Users
Sky Q boxes rely on satellite signals, which can be disrupted by weather or loose cables.
Steps to Fix:
- Check for obstructions around your satellite dish.
- Tighten satellite and HDMI cables.
- Reboot the box by turning it off at the mains for 30 seconds.
- Follow any on-screen prompts.
- Check service status at Sky’s Service Status page.Fixes for Virgin Media Users
Virgin Media uses cable rather than satellite, but pixelation can still occur due to loose connections or local outages.
Steps to Fix:
- Check for area issues using Virgin’s Service Status tool.
- Tighten coaxial and HDMI cables.
- Test another source device.
- Retune channels via Settings > Channels > Auto Tune.Fixes for Now TV Users
Now TV is a streaming service, so pixelation is usually linked to internet speed or HDMI issues.
Steps to Fix:
- Check internet speed using Broadband Speed Checker.
- Switch to Ethernet if possible.
- Restart the Now TV device.
- Update the app via Settings > System > Software Update.Fixes for Freeview Users
Freeview relies on a rooftop aerial, so signal strength is key.
Steps to Fix:
- Check aerial connection and remove splitters or boosters.
- Retune via Settings > Broadcasting > Auto Tuning.
- Check transmitter status at Freeview’s Service Checker.
- Test with another TV if available.Advanced Troubleshooting
1. Factory Reset Your Samsung TV: Go to Settings > General > Reset. Use only as a last resort.
2. Check for Interference: Keep routers and electronics away from your TV and cables.
3. Use a Signal Booster (Freeview Only): Consider a powered booster from Argos or Currys.
When to Contact Support
If none of the above works, contact your provider:
Service Support Link Samsung Samsung UK Support Sky Q Sky Help Virgin Media Virgin Media Help Now TV Now TV Help Freeview Freeview Help Summary Checklist
Sources
- Sky Help – No Satellite Signal Fix
- Freeview Troubleshooting Guide
- Samsung Picture Troubleshooting
- Virgin Media Service Status
- Now TV Help Centre - View More: Samsung How to Fix Pixelation or No Signal on Your Samsung TV (UK Guide)
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What If My LG TV Remote Stops Working After a Few Months?
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If your LG TV remote suddenly stops working after a few months of use, don’t panic. It’s a common issue, and in most cases, it can be fixed with a few simple steps. Whether you’re using a standard infrared (IR) remote or LG’s Magic Remote with Bluetooth, this guide will walk you through what to check, how to troubleshoot, and when to seek help.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Check the Batteries First
Dead or weak batteries are the most common cause of remote failure. Replace them with fresh ones, ensure correct polarity, and check for corrosion.Tip: Press and hold the Power button. If the remote doesn’t light up, the batteries are likely dead.2. Test the Infrared (IR) Signal
Use your smartphone camera to check if the remote emits a signal. Point the remote at the camera and press a button—if you see a flashing light, it’s working.3. Check for Obstructions
Ensure there’s a clear line of sight between the remote and the TV. Remove any objects or reposition soundbars that may block the signal.4. Clean the Remote
Wipe the remote with a damp cloth and rubbing alcohol. Press each button a few times to clear debris.5. Soft Reset the Remote and TV
Remove the batteries and press all buttons for 15 seconds. Reinsert batteries and test. For the TV, unplug it and hold the power and volume buttons for 10 seconds.6. Fix Bluetooth Issues (Magic Remote Only)
Re-register the remote by holding Home and Back for 5 seconds. If Bluetooth isn’t detected, the remote may need replacing.Magic Remotes can go into standby mode. Shake the remote or roll the scroll wheel to wake it up.What If None of These Fixes Work?
If you’ve tried all the steps above and your remote still doesn’t work:
– Try a universal remote compatible with LG TVs.
– Use the LG ThinQ app on your smartphone to control your TV via Wi-Fi.
– Contact LG Support via their official help page.Warranty and Replacement Rights (UK Users)
If your LG remote stops working within the first 12 months, you may be covered under LG’s standard warranty. But even outside that, UK consumer law gives you rights.
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015:
Products must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. If your remote fails within six months, the retailer must offer a repair, replacement, or refund.Learn more from Money Helper.
Related Help Articles
How to Fix an LG TV Remote – wikiHow
LG TV Remote Not Working – Tech Gorilla
7 Ways to Fix LG Remote – Tech News TodayFinal Tips
Always keep spare batteries handy. Avoid dropping or spilling liquids on the remote. Consider using a silicone cover to protect it from wear and tear.
If your remote fails again after replacement, it may be worth exploring LG’s newer models or app-based controls for better reliability.
- View More: LG What If My LG TV Remote Stops Working After a Few Months?
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Can I Return a TV with Dead Pixels Under the Consumer Rights Act?
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Buying a new TV should be exciting—but what if you spot dead pixels on the screen? These tiny black or coloured dots can ruin your viewing experience. If you’re in the UK, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 gives you strong protection when things go wrong.
What Are Dead Pixels?
Dead pixels are tiny spots on a screen that don’t display correctly. They might appear as black dots, stuck colours, or flickering areas. While one or two dead pixels might be considered acceptable by some manufacturers, multiple or noticeable ones can affect the quality of the product.
Are Dead Pixels a Fault Under UK Law?
Yes—if the dead pixels affect the TV’s performance or viewing experience, they may be considered a fault under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. This law says all products must be:
• Of satisfactory quality
• Fit for purpose
• As describedIf your TV doesn’t meet these standards, you have the right to a refund, repair, or replacement.
Time Matters: Your Rights by Stage
Within 30 Days: You can reject the TV and get a full refund if it’s faulty.
After 30 Days but Within 6 Months: You must give the retailer a chance to repair or replace the TV. If they fail, you can request a refund or replacement.
After 6 Months: You can still make a claim for up to 6 years (5 in Scotland), but you’ll need to prove the fault was present when you bought the TV.
Who’s Responsible?
Always contact the retailer, not the manufacturer. Your legal contract is with the seller, whether you bought the TV online, in-store, or through a marketplace.
Steps to Take
1. Inspect the TV: Check how many pixels are affected and whether they impact your viewing. Take photos or videos as evidence.
2. Contact the Retailer: Write to their customer service team. Be polite but firm. Explain the issue and request a refund, repair, or replacement. Use this free Which? complaint tool.
3. Quote the Law: Mention the Consumer Rights Act 2015. Say the TV is not of satisfactory quality and you are exercising your legal rights.
“Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, I am entitled to a refund/replacement/repair for goods that are not of satisfactory quality. The dead pixels on this TV affect its performance and viewing experience.”4. Keep Records: Save all emails, receipts, and photos. If you speak to someone on the phone, note the date and what was said.
5. Escalate If Needed: If the retailer refuses to help, escalate your complaint. You can:
• Contact the retailer’s head office
• Use an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) scheme
• Raise a Section 75 claim if you paid by credit cardReal Example
A user on the MoneySavingExpert Forum shared their experience of a faulty TV that kept crashing. Despite multiple repairs, the issue persisted. They quoted the Consumer Rights Act and argued that repeated repairs caused “significant inconvenience”—a valid reason to request a refund.
What If the Retailer Says It’s “Within Tolerance”?
Some manufacturers claim a few dead pixels are “within tolerance” and not a fault. But under UK law, it’s not the manufacturer’s policy that matters—it’s whether the product is of satisfactory quality.
Tips for Success
• Be clear and calm in your communication
• Use legal terms like “satisfactory quality” and “fit for purpose”
• Don’t be fobbed off—your rights are with the retailer
• If needed, seek help from Citizens Advice or a legal adviserUseful Resources
• Which? Guide to Faulty Goods
• GOV.UK Refunds and Returns Law
• Consumer Rights Act 2015 – Full TextFinal Word
Dead pixels aren’t just annoying—they can be a breach of your consumer rights. If your TV isn’t up to scratch, don’t settle. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 is there to protect you. Know your rights, act quickly, and don’t be afraid to push back.
- View More: TV Can I Return a TV with Dead Pixels Under the Consumer Rights Act?
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What to Do If the Sound Cuts Out Intermittently on Your TV
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Intermittent sound issues on your TV can be incredibly frustrating—especially when they strike during your favourite show or a key moment in a film. Whether the sound drops for a few seconds or keeps cutting in and out, this guide will walk you through the most common causes and fixes. We’ll cover general troubleshooting and specific steps for popular models like Samsung, LG, Sony, and Panasonic.
🔍 Common Causes of Intermittent Sound
Loose or damaged cables (HDMI or audio) causing signal loss.Audio settings conflicts interfering with playback.Bluetooth devices overriding TV audio.External devices such as set-top boxes or soundbars introducing the fault.Outdated firmware or software bugs.Wireless interference or power fluctuations.🛠️ General Troubleshooting Steps
These steps apply to most modern TVs and should be your first port of call:
1. Check All Cable Connections
Unplug/replug HDMI, optical, and power cables. Inspect for damage. Swap cables or ports.2. Restart Your TV and Devices
Power off, unplug for 60 seconds, then restart.3. Update Your TV’s Software
Navigate to settings for software updates, install, and restart.4. Reset Audio Settings
Reset to defaults or manually ensure correct output, disabling surround modes temporarily.5. Unpair Bluetooth Devices
Remove all paired audio devices from Bluetooth settings.6. Test with Different Content
Try live TV, streaming apps, and discs to isolate the source.📱 Samsung TVs: Specific Fixes
1. Unplug headphones fully.
2. Unpair Bluetooth devices via External Device Manager.
3. Bypass the One Connect Box by connecting directly to TV/soundbar.
4. Factory reset from General settings.📺 LG TVs: Specific Fixes
1. Disable Simplink (HDMI-CEC) in General settings.
2. Change Audio Output Format to PCM.
3. Update webOS via Software Update menu.🎮 Sony TVs: Specific Fixes
1. Clear cache of problem apps in Settings > Apps.
2. Change Digital Audio Out to PCM or Dolby Digital.
3. Disable Bravia Sync in External Inputs settings.📼 Panasonic TVs: Specific Fixes
1. Turn off Viera Link in HDMI Control settings.
2. Change Digital Audio Output to PCM.
3. Update firmware via Setup > System.🧪 Advanced Checks
Test with external speakers to isolate the fault.Try a different power outlet, avoiding extension leads.Move wireless devices away to prevent interference.🧾 When to Contact Support
Check your warranty and contact the retailer or manufacturer.Consider repair or replacement for faulty hardware.📚 Sources
🧠 Final Tips
Keep your TV software updated.Disconnect unused Bluetooth devices.Use quality HDMI cables and correct ARC/eARC setup. - View More: TV What to Do If the Sound Cuts Out Intermittently on Your TV
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I am experiencing a colour problem on my TV. What should I do?
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STEP 1. Connection If the colour is wrong or missing when using a connected device, make sure that the cables are connected correctly. Incorrect or loose connections may cause colour problems or a blank screen.
The correct video connection is set up as shown in the diagram below.

- When using an HDMI / DVI cable connection, you must use the HDMI IN 1 (DVI) jack. For the DVI cable connection, use a DVI to HDMI cable or DVI-HDMI (DVI to HDMI) adaptor for video connection and the PC / DVI AUDIO IN jacks for audio.
- If an external device such as a DVD / Blu-ray player / cable box / STB satellite receiver supporting HDMI older than version 1.3, the TV may show abnormal colours. If you suspect the version is older than 1.3, contact the provider of the device to confirm the HDMI version and request an upgrade.
NOTE: It is recommended you purchase an HDMI-certified cable. Otherwise, the screen may appear blank or a connection error may occur.
NOTE: If the picture is black and white when using an AV composite input, connect the video cable (yellow) to the green input jack (input 1) on the TV.
STEP 2. TV settings If you are experiencing poor colour or brightness, please follow the instructions below.
IMPORTANT: Before adjusting the TV settings, please perform a Picture Test. To confirm that your TV is displaying the test image properly, proceed as follows. Go to Menu > Support >Self Diagnosis > Picture Test > Yes. If the test image is displayed properly, the poor quality may relate to the source or signal.
- To adjust the Picture options on the TV menu, go to the Picture mode and selectColour or Brightness.
- To adjust the Energy Saving options on the TV menu, go to Picture > ECO Solution > Energy Saving.
- Try resetting the picture to view the default picture settings. Go to Picture > Picture Reset.
NOTE: You can also reset your TV to factory settings by pressing the EXIT button on the remote control.
As the colour problem may relate to the TV signal, try the following to solve it.
- Press the MENU button to display the menu.
- Use the
or
buttons to get to the Setup > Plug & Play. Then press the ENTERbutton. - Tune the channels until 100%.
If the previous advice does not help, please upgrade your TV to the latest firmware.
STEP 3. Firmware download The firmware upgrade can be downloaded from the Downloads section on the Samsung UK website. You can easily get there by following the guidelines below.
Click on Support on the global navigation bar at the top of the page.

Select TV & AV.

Choose your product type, subtype and model number, and click Select.

Under Downloads, click on the Firmware link.

- View More: Samsung I am experiencing a colour problem on my TV. What should I do?
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What should I do when the sound and the picture on my TV are not clear when watching TV broadcast signal?
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STEP 1. The Fine Tune function If the sound and the picture are not clear when watching a broadcasting channel (signal), use the Fine Tune function. To fine tune your TV, please follow the steps below.
- Press the Menu button to display the menu.
- Press the
or
buttons on the remote control to select the Channel, then press Enter.

- Press the
or
buttons to select Fine Tune, then press Enter.

- To get a clearer picture and a better sound quality, press the
or
buttons until you get the optimal settings.

- Press Enter to save your choice and then press Exit to go back.
STEP 2. Digital Noise Filter (Digital NR) To fine tune your TV, you can also use the Digital Noise Filter. To do so, please follow the steps below.
- Press the Menu button to display the menu.
- Press the
or
buttons on the remote control to select Picture.

- Press the
or
buttons to select Picture Options, then press Enter.

- In the Picture Options menu, select Digital Noise Filter.

- To get a better picture quality, press the
or
buttons until you get the optimal settings. You can choose from Off / Low / Medium / High / Auto / Auto Visualisation.
You are able to adjust the MPEG Noise Filter for Samsung Plasma TVs (series 7+, 7, 6+, 6, 5+, 5, 4+).when the input signal is in the MPEG format. Go to OSD Menu > Picture >Picture Options > MPEG Noise Filter.

STEP 3. Firmware update Keep your Samsung TV up-to-date with the latest firmware available. The firmware upgrade can be downloaded from the Downloads section on the Samsung UK website. You can easily get there by following the guidelines below.
Click on Support on the global navigation bar at the top of the page.

Select TV Audio Video.

Choose your product type, subtype and model number, and click Select.

Under Downloads, click on the Firmware link.

IMPORTANT: When the firmware is upgraded, the video and the audio settings will return to default settings.
- View More: Samsung What should I do when the sound and the picture on my TV are not clear when watching TV broadcast signal?
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What should I do when one channel receives good picture but has no sound?
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STEP 1. Overview This problem could be caused by several things. Please try the following to solve it.
- Ensure that the antenna cable and other connectors are connected properly.
- Confirm by pressing the info button if you are viewing an Analogue or Digital TV channel.
- Change the primary Audio Language of your channel.
- Change the Audio Format.
- Change the Sound Mode.
- Retune your TV.
STEP 2. Changing the primary Audio Language of your channel Some TV channels allow you to manually change the primary audio language. On Analogue, this can only be done when receiving a NICAM stereo signal. However, very few programmes come with two or more audio signals with different languages.
To change the Audio Language, please follow the steps below.
- Navigate to the sound menu.
- On the Remote control, press Menu.
- Select Sound and change the Audio Language.
STEP 3. Changing the Audio Format and the Sound Mode If you accidentally select an audio format which is not available on your TV, the sound will be missing (e.g. you select the 5.1 audio format).
To change the Audio Format, press the Tools button on the remote control and change the audio format to MPEG.
Some TV channels may use only MONO sound. If you have the default sound mode set toSTEREO, the sound may be significantly reduced or almost inaudible.
To change the Sound Mode, press the DUAL I-II button on your remote control.
STEP 4. Retuning the TV To automatically search and store all of the available channels, please follow the steps below.
- Navigate to the auto store option.
- On the remote control, press Menu > Channel > Auto Store.
- Ensure you select the correct signal source (Antenna) and choose Analogue, Digital or Analogue & Digital.
IMPORTANT: Always keep your TVs firmware updated to achieve optimal performance. The latest firmware upgrade can be downloaded from the Downloads section on the Samsung UK website. You can easily get there by following the guidelines below.
STEP 5. Firmware download and upgrade Click on Support on the global navigation bar at the top of the page.

Select Enter the model number in the search product field or select TV Audio Video.

Choose your product type, subtype and model number, and click Select.

Under Downloads click on the Firmware link.

NOTE: Your TV has to support firmware upgrade via USB (if your TV does not support this feature, then nothing will be available).
To perform the firmware upgrade, please follow these steps.
- Upload the upgrade file to a USB flash drive.
- Plug the USB flash drive into the USB port on the back or the side panel of your TV.
- Press MENU and go to Support > Software Upgrade > By USB.
- View More: Samsung What should I do when one channel receives good picture but has no sound?
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Why can’t I increase the sound past a certain point on the TV when using Skype?
- The sound is limited when using Skype to prevent feedback on the camera's microphone.
- View More: Panasonic Why can’t I increase the sound past a certain point on the TV when using Skype?
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My Onkyo A/V receiver does not work with my 2009 Panasonic TV via HDMI but other products do, why is this?
- This problem is caused by a software conflict between Onkyo A/V receivers and Panasonic televisions and the way in which the products deal with HDMI signals. Panasonic can log a request for a firmware update to be sent out via SD card for you to resolve this.
- View More: Panasonic My Onkyo A/V receiver does not work with my 2009 Panasonic TV via HDMI but other products do, why is this?
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Why can't I Select the AV input on my TV?
- This can be checked in the Input Labels setting in Display settings. You may see that the input you are trying to select has Skip next to it. You can then use the right or left hand arrow to change this so that the AV input will be displayed when the button is pressed.
- View More: Panasonic Why can't I Select the AV input on my TV?
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My new TV keeps turning itself off after two hours of it being on. Is this a fault?
- This is not a fault. The AUTO STANDBY function may have been activated. In order to switch off the setting you will need to do the following
Press the MENU button of the TV remote
Scroll down to SETUP and press OK
Scroll down to OTHER SETTINGS and press OK
Scroll down to AUTO STANDBY and press the left or right arrows to set the option to OFF - View More: Panasonic My new TV keeps turning itself off after two hours of it being on. Is this a fault?
- This is not a fault. The AUTO STANDBY function may have been activated. In order to switch off the setting you will need to do the following
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The picture quality is good but the TV does not produce any sound when connected to an accessory device with an HDMI to HDMI cable.
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Follow these steps to check if your device is configured correctly;
- Some accessory devices require you to turn on the HDMI audio output when using an HDMI to HDMI connection.
- Check the on-screen menu of the accessory device to ensure that the HDMI audio output is set to ON.
- In some cases, you may need to set the digital audio format of the accessory device to Pulse-code modulation (PCM) mode. For detailed information, please refer to the user manual of the accessory device.
- If the TV is connected to a PC, make sure that you have installed the latest drivers for the graphics card of your PC.
- View More: Philips The picture quality is good but the TV does not produce any sound when connected to an accessory device with an HDMI to HDMI cable.
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My TV does not respond to the remote control and the letters CF are displayed in the upper right hand corner of the screen.
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The letters CF appear in the right hand corner of the screen to indicate that the TV is in factory mode.
To exit the factory mode, press the ‘VOLUME -' and 'PROGRAM -' buttons on the TV at the same time for 3 seconds.
- View More: Philips My TV does not respond to the remote control and the letters CF are displayed in the upper right hand corner of the screen.
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My computer stops working or reboots/restarts when I connect it to the TV with an HDMI to HDMI cable.
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Check your HDMI cable and cable-connection to make sure that all plugs are fitted well into their sockets and test with a different or new HDMI cable.
If the problems persist:
- Check the operating system and the graphics card of your computer system.
- Some combinations of operating systems and graphic cards have been reported to cause conflicts.
- For detailed information, please refer to the website of your PC or graphics card maker.
- View More: Philips My computer stops working or reboots/restarts when I connect it to the TV with an HDMI to HDMI cable.
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What can I do when my TV does not respond to the remote control?
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If the remote receiver (LED) on the TV does not blink when you press the buttons on the remote control;
Ensure that you remove all possible sources of interference.
- Switch off all bright light such as florescent light, overhead light or lighting device, which can interfere with the remote control signal.
- Some electronic devices are known to cause interference, it is recommended to switch off any external devices operating near the TV.
If the TV is still not responding, follow these steps to check if the remote control is working:
- Randomly test some functions of the remote control. If the TV does not respond, the remote control may be low in battery power and you need to replace the battery.
- Ensure that the battery of the remote control is inserted according to the illustration inside the battery compartment.
- After replacing the battery, randomly test some functions of the remote control.
If the TV is still not responding, use a mobile phone with camera function or a digital camera to confirm if the remote control is working.
- Observe the emitter on the front of the remote control through a digital camera (or the camera of a mobile phone).
- Now press any button on the remote control.
- If you see a red light flashing indicate that the remote control is working. The TV may be defective.
- If not, the remote control may be defective and need replacement.
Please contact the Philips Consumer Care centre for further assistance or to find more information related to this issue. You can find the contact details on the Consumer Support page.
Make sure you have the model number and the product number at hand when you call us. You find these numbers on the sticker at the side/back of your device.
- View More: Philips What can I do when my TV does not respond to the remote control?
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No picture appears on the screen when I connect my PS3 game console to the TV.
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You may have set the PS3 game console to the incorrect video type.
- 1. Ensure that the PS3 game console is set to output a signal that corresponds to the type of connection that you made (e.g. HDMI or CVBS video).
- 2. If a certain type of connection is presenting difficulties, first reset the PS3 game console to the default CVBS video mode and then connect it to the CVBS video connection to get a picture on the TV. Once the menu of the PS3 appears on screen, you can access the video settings in order to change the type of output signal.
Note: Please refer to the user manual of your PS3 game console to determine how to reset the video mode. - 3. If you select HDMI as the video type, ensure that the PS3 game console is set to a video resolution that is supported by the TV.
If you have selected the correct video resolution and a [Video not supported] message appears on the TV screen;
- 1. Unplug the PS3 game console and the TV from the mains in order to reset both devices.
- 2. Reset the PS3 game console to the default video mode and reselect the correct video type.
- View More: Philips No picture appears on the screen when I connect my PS3 game console to the TV.
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