Determining TV Model/Versions for Correct Parts
I have seen many posts over time from people wondering if they can use a board from "X" model TV in their "Y" model TV. I also see posts from people who bought a board on ebay or other sources from the same model TV, and it does not work. I am sure that a lot of these are due to the versioning systems that manufacturers use. Proper checking of versions can greatly reduce your chances of getting the incorrect part.
Manufacturers often make changes to TVs during production runs. Sometimes to address problems found in earlier versions, sometimes due to changes in part availability or pricing. The bottom line is, You can often open up 2 TVs that are the same model, only to find that they are completely different inside, different boards, panels etc. Most manufacturers will indicate these changes in some fashion, if you know what to look for. Here are some that I am aware of, and I would love to see others chime in with versioning information that they may have on other manufacturers.
Sony: BEWARE!!! Sony changes versions on TVs often, and the ONLY indication will be in the serial number range. You must consult a cross reference on Sonys to be sure you get the correct parts. On Sony version changes, the parts are almost never interchangeable
Samsung: There will be a version number, sometimes on the Model/Serial number sticker on the rear, more often on a sticker on the side. The version number in a Samsung is usually four characters, 2 letters and 2 numbers, such as AY01, CN04, etc.
LG: The version is the full service code for example on Model 47LE5400, one possible service code is 47LE5400-UC.AUSWLHR. All of the Characters after the dash (UC.AUSWLHR) are the version information.
Panasonic: Can be tricky. May be on a side sticker, may be an extra character on the Model/Serial tag, a few were even indicated by the COLOR of the side sticker.
General: Often manufacturers of minor brands will have a Rev. (or revision) number listed on the serial number sticker. I have seen some where the version is indicated in the serial number.
Manufacturers often make changes to TVs during production runs. Sometimes to address problems found in earlier versions, sometimes due to changes in part availability or pricing. The bottom line is, You can often open up 2 TVs that are the same model, only to find that they are completely different inside, different boards, panels etc. Most manufacturers will indicate these changes in some fashion, if you know what to look for. Here are some that I am aware of, and I would love to see others chime in with versioning information that they may have on other manufacturers.
Sony: BEWARE!!! Sony changes versions on TVs often, and the ONLY indication will be in the serial number range. You must consult a cross reference on Sonys to be sure you get the correct parts. On Sony version changes, the parts are almost never interchangeable
Samsung: There will be a version number, sometimes on the Model/Serial number sticker on the rear, more often on a sticker on the side. The version number in a Samsung is usually four characters, 2 letters and 2 numbers, such as AY01, CN04, etc.
LG: The version is the full service code for example on Model 47LE5400, one possible service code is 47LE5400-UC.AUSWLHR. All of the Characters after the dash (UC.AUSWLHR) are the version information.
Panasonic: Can be tricky. May be on a side sticker, may be an extra character on the Model/Serial tag, a few were even indicated by the COLOR of the side sticker.
General: Often manufacturers of minor brands will have a Rev. (or revision) number listed on the serial number sticker. I have seen some where the version is indicated in the serial number.
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