Post # 94 - Thanks for the Memorex - 1/31/2010

A while back, our backup DVD player crapped out.  It cost $30, so I figured I was being penalized for buying a cheap appliance.  I almost threw it out on several occasions.
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Dear Memorex,

On Sunday afternoons, back in the early 80's, I would turn on Channel 20, only to see a scrambled picture. It seemed the elitists would pay a nominal fee to enjoy premium movies and entertainment on "ON TV". I had no problem with people paying a little extra to watch top tier movies and sports. My issue was, this scrambled signal was on my TV, on my channel, during a time previously occupied by my shows.

Last Sunday, I had the gang over for my annual Mickey Rourke film marathon. When I plugged in your DVD player, I relived that scrambled-picture experience. This DVD player (Model MVD2016BLK), purchased back in July, had been used, literally twice. Now, on the third occasion, we have a problem--the picture is not only black and white, it is also scrambled. If I wanted, I could rent Caddyshack and Risky Business and relive the ON TV experiences of my youth.

I must confess, as I shop for electronics in the future, this experience is going to stick in my mind. I'm extremely unhappy with this DVD player. Yes, it was the $30 model, but by my math, it should work after two uses. Can you explain this?

Sincerely,

Jerry
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From: techsupport@memorex.com

Subject: Memorex Technical Support - Reference 600538
Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 19:15:54 -0600

Dear Jerry,

Thank you for contacting our product support team.

Try to find a PS(Progressive scan) switch on the back of the unit and turn it off. If it doesn't have a switch on the back, please try to find a PS button or Video button on the remote control and press it to change the settings of the DVD player.

Also, you can try to reset the unit with the following steps:

1. Turn the unit On

2. Press and hold the On/Off button for 5 seconds and disconnect the unit from the Power Outlet without releasing the On/Off button.

3. Keep pressing the On/Off button for 1 more minute.

4. When the minute is over, release the On/Off button and connect the unit to the Power Outlet again.

5. Turn on the unit

Regards,

Stuart

Product Support Specialist


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My response, 2/1/2010


Dear Stuart,

I searched the remote and down at the bottom, along the right side, there was a little tiny Video button. I pressed that button, and Voila! Picture.

I honestly don’t remember ever pushing that tiny button, but in fairness, it’s a tiny remote and I have biggish fingers.

Thanks for all of your help. I really appreciate it.

I’ll remember this positive experience next time I’m shopping for appliances.

Jerry
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I'm not sure why Memorex puts a button on their remote to make the picture go all scrambley.  It's a little like putting a button on your steering wheel to make the windshield fog up.  Regardless, I was impressed with Stuart's prompt, accurate response.

Go Memorex!

From http://thehermanletters.blogspot.com