Panasonic Digital TV lost BBC Channels - Please help!

fifeken

I don't know if this is what's happened to you, but there was a particular problem in the Granada region on the 4th November. Look here for details of how to fix it:
http://www.satelliteforcaravans.co.uk/freeview.htm

moonrakerz

redmandarin wrote: »

Hi,

moonrakerz,

There are no 800 channels on my on-screen list. The list starts at 1 and goes up to 199. I can move the channels around.

I know, they don't appear on my list, but they are there (mine goes up to 844) - all I am saying is just try selecting ch 800, 801 etc and see what you get.

Some of the older TVs and STBs are doing really strange things !

redmandarin

Hi,

The TV is a Panasonic Quintrix, model number: TX-28DT2/E. The remote control has "Panasonic IDTV" written on it. Unfortunately, Micro Direct didn't have an instruction manual when the TV was purchased, so all we have is the on-screen set up menu.

Thanks everyone for your advice, I'll let you know how I get on, on Monday.

penrhyn

The manual is available on the Panasonic website.

http://tda.panasonic-europe-service.com/docs/2z4af7da05z3z1f51fz656ez706466z2fz6d9a6a15cf804101f4abf5660e791659d06781c7/ttips/Visual/Televisions_TEXT/TX/28DT2/728287/B28DT2.pdf

Stompa

redmandarin wrote: »

The TV is a Panasonic Quintrix, model number: TX-28DT2/E.

Unfortunately that model appears on the list I linked to earlier. So it looks as though it will fail at (or maybe before) switchover. I'd suggest contacting Panasonic for their advice. If it's anything like my Toshiba, they'll probably tell you that you'll need to use a set top box.

There's also a thread here:

http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=1136271

which mentions: "The only models that cannot cope with switchover are TX-28DT2 and TX-32DT2 (regardless of software version installed)".

redmandarin

Sorry for the delay in replying guys - I've been dead busy! Thanks all for your input.

moonrakerz - There are only 199 channels (or blank channel spaces) listed. When I press the 800s it goes to VCR channel (0).

Stompa, thanks for the link, unfortunately I can't find the bit where it says "The only models that cannot cope with switchover are TX-28DT2 and TX-32DT2 (regardless of software version installed)." It would be useful to find out more about this.

penryhn - It's good to have a manual at last! Unfortunately, it says that manual re-tuning is only available for analogue tuning!

Interestingly, the manual also says " While allowing you to receive traditional analogue transmissions in the usual way, this television can also receive terrestrial digital services using an integrated DB (Digital Video Broadcasting) decoder. This allows you to enjoy the new era of digital terrestrial television, including future interactive services, without the need for a ‘set top box’ or satellite dish – your current roof or loft mounted antenna is all you need". (My emphasis).

This seems to imply that this model of TV may not be fit for purpose, as per the Sale of Goods Act 1979 (etc) which as you mighty MSEers will know says "bought goods must "conform to contract" and they must be as described, fit for purpose and of satisfactory quality."

I've lost so many BBC TV and radio channels that I'm really annoyed about this. The TV was bought for the very reason that it had built in Freeview and that it would be digital-proof! So I don't see why I should have to pay for a set top box. I know there's not much hope, but I'd like to see if anything can be done to fix the problem (that doesn't involve me in any further expense), but if not, I will definitely consider making a complaint or to the retailer, to the manufacturer, or to the BBC, with a copy/copies forwarded to my MP!

Thanks again guys, I really appreciate you taking the time to help.

penrhyn

Unfortunately technology moves on.
Nothing is completely future proof.
You can either buy a new TV with integrated freeview/freesat or spend £20 of your English pounds on a set top box (which wont be compatible with the forthcoming HD free view service, but neither is your TV) which will restore your digital channels.

Stompa

redmandarin wrote: »

Stompa, thanks for the link, unfortunately I can't find the bit where it says "The only models that cannot cope with switchover are TX-28DT2 and TX-32DT2 (regardless of software version installed)." It would be useful to find out more about this.

Take a look at post #10 here:

http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=1136271

redmandarin

Thanks guys, sorry for the delay in replying.

Stompa - Cheers, I found the relevant bit, and the rest of the thread was interesting. I don't usually give up trying to fix a problem without exploring all the options, so I'll give Panasonic a try!

penrhyn - If I splash out (lol) £20 on a set top box, then at least the missing channels will be restored, and it'll save having to buy a new telly! I really miss Radio 4 and Newsnight (saddo!). I suppose HD Freeview will eventually replace ordinary digital broadcasts anyway - by which time, my TV will have probably have "expired"!

Thanks again, I'll let you know how I get on.

macman

Not quite that long, Freeview HD is coming to two UK regions next month, and to much of the rest of the UK by June 2010.