No remote signal on Zenith Advanced System 3

[jg6364]

Well, I am now having some problems with the 85 advanced system 3 model SA2577P. The remote quit working. It has to be the TV because I had 3 remotes that would work the tv and none work now. Does anyone know which module is the remote control on or is it integrated into other circuit boards? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Jon A.]

Perhaps the infrared receiver diode opened? I believe you can check it by looking at it through a digital camera or camera phone. I know that you can check remotes that way, but I'm pretty sure that someone else said that the receiver could be checked by this method as well.

[Dreamsbeard]

On my 1984 system 3 , I have a switch that's labeled remote/manual. When I first got my set, my original remote would not work on it, after playing with the switch a few time and positionning it on "remote" it worked. Maybe your switch is twichy too...?

[radiotvnut]

I'd try cleaning the switch and then make sure your remote is working by either pointing it towards a digital camera or placing it very close to an AM radio. If the remote is kicking out a signal, the problem is likely a defective remote receiver module inside the TV. If it comes to that, first check and make sure voltage is getting to the module (probably 5V).

[Jon A.]

Originally Posted by Dreamsbeard

On my 1984 system 3 , I have a switch that's labeled remote/manual. When I first got my set, my original remote would not work on it, after playing with the switch a few time and positionning it on "remote" it worked. Maybe your switch is twichy too...?

That's the most pointless feature I have ever heard of on a TV. It might be useful on an ultra-sonic controlled set that might get triggered by remotes meant for nearby TVs, but infrared?

[jg6364]

Originally Posted by Dreamsbeard

On my 1984 system 3 , I have a switch that's labeled remote/manual. When I first got my set, my original remote would not work on it, after playing with the switch a few time and positionning it on "remote" it worked. Maybe your switch is twichy too...?

That was the problem, Thanks so much. I overlooked that. Everything is working again.

[jg6364]

There is something else I noticed on this set. If I use a newer VCR from 99 or newer. the top of the screen tends to bend if that makes any sense. It seems like the tracking is off but it does this on several of the newer VCR's. I'm thinking it has something to do with the new features that come with those VCR's. It is even more pronounced on the 1968 Zenith TV. I am using an older RCA VCR from the very early 90's and it works with no problem. Has anyone else had that problem?

[Jon A.]

Lack of shielding in the newer VCR maybe? I assume that this TV is a console and that the VCR is sitting on top. If so, move it off the set and see what happens.

[jg6364]

Originally Posted by KV-1926R

Lack of shielding in the newer VCR maybe? I assume that this TV is a console and that the VCR is sitting on top. If so, move it off the set and see what happens.

It is actually sitting on a shelf about 2 feet above the TV.

[Zenith26kc20]

on the vertical module there is a yellow plug in one one end jumper around the middle of the board. The jumper controls horizontal afc speed. If it's plugged in, remove it or vice-versa. When these sets came out there was a service note about that jumper.
I just dug out one of the modules. The jumper is colser to 2/3rds down near the vertical output transistors.

[zeno]

Originally Posted by KV-1926R

That's the most pointless feature I have ever heard of on a TV. It might be useful on an ultra-sonic controlled set that might get triggered by remotes meant for nearby TVs, but infrared?

Actually IR remotes can be swamped out with light. Also a Zenith
house typically has multiple sets running the same codes & room
to room operation happens at times.
As far as the problem goes we did have a few remote recievers
go on that vintage. IIRC it was a small assy with 3 wires.
+5 GND & Data. The data goes direct to the micro on one
pin so a scope helps. Can also watch DC on pin for change,
will tend either higher or lower with activity. Last thing is possible
lock up, just unplug for a day.

73 Zeno

[Jon A.]

Those are some pretty powerful remotes then. My mom and I have identical DVD players, but room-to-room operation has never happened. Actually, one has to have an aim on the level of Dirty Harry to get the darn things to respond sometimes.

[zeno]

Originally Posted by Zenith26kc20

on the vertical module there is a yellow plug in one one end jumper around the middle of the board. The jumper controls horizontal afc speed. If it's plugged in, remove it or vice-versa. When these sets came out there was a service note about that jumper.
I just dug out one of the modules. The jumper is colser to 2/3rds down near the vertical output transistors.

IIRC thats on the 9-152. I think he has a 9-181 & 9-186 based set.
Dont remember a jumper on them, but I could be wrong
on all counts.......

73 Zeno

[jg6364]

Originally Posted by zeno

IIRC thats on the 9-152. I think he has a 9-181 & 9-186 based set.
Dont remember a jumper on them, but I could be wrong
on all counts.......

73 Zeno

Thanks. Finding out what each of these modules are helps a lot. I guess I need to get the service manual for this set. I know the modules in the old chromacolor II sets.