Sony KDL-32EX427 User manual

SERVICE MANUAL
LCD Digital Color TV
AZ2-F Chassis
Segment: P-1
9-888-394-03
Version Date Subject
1.0 2/2/2011 Original Manual Release Date.
2.0 6/22/2011 Updated TOC.
Added VCOM Adjustments to Section 7 - Service Adjustments. Replaced and/or added pages 53-58.
3.0 12/21/2011 Reissue entire manual.
ORIGINAL MANUAL ISSUE DATE: 1/2011
HISTORY INFORMATION FOR THE FOLLOWING MANUAL:

SERVICE MANUAL
LCD Digital Color TV
AZ2-F Chassis
Segment: P-1
9-888-394-03
Self Diagnosis
Supported model
KDL-32EX427

MODEL LIST
MODEL COMMANDER DESTINATION MODEL COMMANDER DESTINATION
KDL-32EX427 RM-YD064 COLUMBIA
KDL-32EX527 RM-YD064 COLUMBIA
KDL-40EX527 RM-YD064 COLUMBIA
KDL-46EX527 RM-YD064 COLUMBIA
9-888-394-03

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 - Safety and Features.................................................1
Warnings and Cautions..............................................................1
Handling the LVDS FFC Connector ...........................................3
Disconnecting the LVDS FFC Connector ................................... 3
Connecting the LVDS FFC Connector........................................ 4
Safety-Related Warnings ...........................................................5
Safety Check-Out.......................................................................6
Self Diagnosis Function .............................................................8
Overview ....................................................................................9
Features.....................................................................................9
Full HD 1080p Resolution........................................................... 9
Internet Streaming & Connectivity .............................................. 9
Faster Start-Up ........................................................................... 9
BRAVIA® Sync™ Compatible .................................................... 9
X-Reality™ Engine ................................................................... 10
Navigation Made Easy.............................................................. 10
LightSensor™ Technology........................................................ 10
Presence Sensor ...................................................................... 10
USB Photos, Videos & Music ................................................... 10
Specications........................................................................... 11
Section 2 - Software Requirements.........................................12
Overview ..................................................................................12
Software Updates for Customers.............................................12
Software Updates for Servicers ...............................................13
Software Update Responsibility................................................ 13
Checking the Software Version................................................. 13
Examples of Software Correctable Symptoms ......................... 14
Section 3 - Chassis Overview..................................................15
Overview ..................................................................................15
Overall Circuit Descriptions ...................................................... 17
Main Board...............................................................................17
Tuner ...................................................................................... 17
X-Reality Processor.................................................................. 17
Audio Amplier.......................................................................... 17
Temperature Sensor ................................................................. 17
Power Supply Board ................................................................18
Motion Sensor Board ...............................................................18
IR Board...................................................................................18
Switch Unit Board ....................................................................18
LCD Panel Assembly ...............................................................18
TCON Board............................................................................. 18
Diagrams..................................................................................19
Block Diagrams......................................................................... 19
Connector Diagrams................................................................. 21
Section 4 - Troubleshooting.....................................................23
Overview ..................................................................................23
Updating the software............................................................... 23
Triage Chart .............................................................................24
Protection Shutdown................................................................25
Standby LED Flash Count ........................................................ 25

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Diagnostic Code Descriptions..................................................27
Viewing the Self Check Diagnostic History............................... 28
Section 5 - Flow Charts and Diagrams ...................................29
Overview ..................................................................................29
Diagnosing the Error................................................................. 29
No Power.................................................................................. 30
StandBy LED Blinking............................................................... 31
No Picture................................................................................. 37
No Sound.................................................................................. 38
TV/Remote Commander Buttons Not Working......................... 39
Network Not Connecting........................................................... 41
Skype Accessory Not Working.................................................. 43
Section 6 - Disassembly/Part Number Information ...............45
Table-Top Stand Assembly Removal .......................................45
Rear Cover and AC Cover Removal ........................................46
GE2/GE3 (Power) Board, Switch Unit
and Speaker Removal .............................................................47
BATV (Main) Board, HLR2 Board
and HMS3 Board Removal ......................................................48
Bezel, Panel Brackets and LCD Panel Removal .....................49
Cleaning the LCD Panel ........................................................... 49
Screw Legend ..........................................................................50
Connectors...............................................................................50
Accessories and Packaging.....................................................51
Miscellaneous ..........................................................................51
Optional Accessories ...............................................................51
Remote Commander................................................................51
Wire Dressing ..........................................................................52
Section 7 - Service Adjustments .............................................53
Overview ..................................................................................53
Updating the Software .............................................................53
Accessing Service Adjustment Mode.......................................53
Viewing or Changing Service Data........................................... 54
Updating Service Adjustment Data
When Replacing the Main Board .............................................55
Selecting the Segment Code.................................................... 55
Selecting the Destination.......................................................... 56
Selecting the Model Name........................................................ 58
Selecting the BU Trans............................................................. 59
Adding the Serial Number......................................................... 59
Conrming the Model ID and Product ID.................................. 61
Updating Service Adjustment Data
When Replacing the LCD Panel ..............................................63
Copying the BU Flash Data ...................................................... 63
Conrming the Model ID and Product ID.................................. 64
Resetting the Panel Operation Time......................................... 65
Setting VCOM Adjustments .....................................................67
Displaying the VCOM Test Pattern ........................................... 67
Adjusting the VCOM Data......................................................... 68
Verifying the VCOM Adjustment Settings ................................. 68
Completing the VCOM Adjustments ......................................... 68

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Optional Adjustments ...............................................................69
Setting White Balance Adjustments.......................................... 69
Resetting the TV to Factory Condition .....................................70
Resetting the TV to Factory Condition Using Service Mode..... 70
Appendix A - Removing the Rear Cover............................... A-1
Removing the Power Cord from the Rear Cover ................... A-1
KDL-32EX427/32EX527 Only..................................................A-1
KDL-40EX527 Only .................................................................A-3
KDL-46EX527 Only .................................................................A-5
Appendix B - Attaching the Rear Cover................................ B-1
Reattaching the Rear Cover to the Bezel .............................. B-1
KDL-32EX427/32EX527 Only..................................................B-1
KDL-40EX527 Only .................................................................B-2
KDL-46EX527 Only .................................................................B-2
Appendix C - Replacing the LCD Panel ................................ C-1
Removing the LCD Panel from the Bezel .............................. C-1
Reattaching the LCD Panel onto the Bezel ........................... C-2
Appendix D - 8 Blink Error Code ........................................... D-1
Appendix E - Setup Guide...................................................... E-1

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 1
WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
CAUTION
These servicing instructions are for use by qualied service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing other
than that contained in the operating instructions unless you are qualied to do so.
CARRYING THE TV
•Carry the TV with the adequate number of people; larger size TVs require two or more people.
•Correct hand placement while carrying the TV is very important for safety and to avoid damage.
•Disconnect all cables when carrying the TV.
WARNING!!
An isolation transformer should be used during any service to avoid possible shock hazard, because of live chassis. The chassis of this receiver is
directly connected to the AC power line.
!
SAFETY-RELATED COMPONENT WARNING!!
Components identied by shading and
!
mark on the exploded views are critical for safe operation.
Replace all components with Sony parts whose part numbers appear as shown in this manual or in supplements published by Sony. It is essential
that all critical parts be replaced only with the part number specied in this manual to prevent electric shock, re, or other hazard.
Circuit adjustments that are critical for safe operation are identied in this manual.
Follow these procedures whenever critical components are replaced or improper operation is suspected.
NOTE: Do not modify the original design without obtaining written permission from the manufacturer or you will void the original parts and labor
guarantee.
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 2
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
CAUTION
WDo Not use paper towels, any type of abrasive pad, rags, rubber or vinyl materials to clean the screen. Using these materials could easily
scratch the screen which may result in permanent damage.
WDo Not use any cleaning product containing alkaline/acid cleaner, scouring powder, or volatile solvent, such as alcohol, ammonia,
benzene, thinner or insecticide. Using any of these harsh cleaners may result in permanent damage to the screen.
WDo Not spray water or detergent directly onto the TV screen . If liquid drips into the bottom of the screen it may cause a failure.
CLEANING THE LCD PANEL
CAUTION: When cleaning the TV, be sure to unplug the power cord to avoid any chance of electric shock.
Clean the cabinet of the TV with a dry soft cloth.
Wipe the LCD screen gently with a soft cloth.
RStubborn stains may be removed with a cloth slightly moistened with a solution of mild soap and warm water.
RIf using a chemically pretreated cloth, please follow the instruction provided on the package.
RNever use strong solvents such as a thinner, alcohol or benzine for cleaning.
RPeriodic vacuuming of the ventilation openings is recommended to ensure to proper ventilation.

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 3
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
HANDLING THE LVDS FFC CONNECTOR
Several 2011 Models use a LVDS FFC Connector from the Main Board to the TCON Board. There are three different types of
connectors that are used.
CAUTION:
Refer to the illustration below when disconnecting or
connecting the LVDS FFC Connector.
Correct Incorrect
DISCONNECTING THE LVDS FFC CONNECTOR
Connector Type 2
1. Gently press down on the
release tab of the Main Board
connector.
DO NOT remove the LVDS
FFC Connector by the
reinforcement tab only.
2. Correctly holding onto the
LVDS FFC Connector, pull out
the connector while continuing
to hold down the release tab of
the Main Board connector.
Connector Type 1
1. Slightly tilt the Main Board
connector release away from the
LVDS FFC Connector.
DO NOT remove the LVDS FFC
Connector by the reinforcement
tab only.
2. Gently wiggle the LVDS FFC
Connector to detach it from the
Main Board.
䐠
Main Board
Reinforcement
Tab
Tilt away from LVDS
䐠
Press down
Main Board
Reinforcement
Tab
Connector Type 3
1. Gently press down on the 2
release tabs of the Main Board
connector.
DO NOT remove the LVDS
FFC Connector by the
reinforcement tab only.
2. Correctly holding onto the
LVDS FFC Connector, pull out
the connector while continuing
to hold down the release tabs
of the Main Board connector.
䐠Reinforcement
Tab
Press down
Main Board

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 4
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
CONNECTING THE LVDS FFC CONNECTOR
CAUTION:
The LVDS FFC Connector can be inserted into the
Main Board upside down. If it is inserted upside down,
the pins on the LVDS FFC Connector will short-circuit and
damage the board.
Inserted Correctly Inserted Incorrectly
Connector Type 2
1. Gently press down on the release
tab of the Main Board connector.
2. Holding onto the entire LVDS FFC
Connector, insert the LVDS FFC
Connector into the Main Board
connector.
Connector Type 1
1. While holding onto the LVDS FFC
Connector, gently tilt the Main
Board connector release towards
the Main Board then slide the
LVDS FFC Connector straight in.
Main Board
Reinforcement
Tab
Tilt away from LVDS
Main Board
Reinforcement
Tab
Press down
䐠
Connector Type 3
1. Gently press down on the 2
release tabs of the Main Board
connector.
2. Holding onto the entire LVDS FFC
Connector, insert the LVDS FFC
Connector into the Main Board
connector.
Reinforcement
Tab Press down
Main Board
䐠

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 5
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
SAFETY-RELATED WARNINGS
USE CAUTION WHEN HANDLING THE LCD PANEL
When repairing the LCD panel, be sure you are grounded by using a wrist band.
When installing the LCD panel on a wall, the LCD panel must be secured using the 4 mounting holes on the rear cover.
1. Do not press on the panel or frame edge to avoid the risk of electric shock.
2. Do not scratch or press on the panel with any sharp objects.
3. Do not leave the module in high temperatures or in areas of high humidity for an extended period of time.
4. Do not expose the LCD panel to direct sunlight.
5. Avoid contact with water. It may cause a short circuit within the module.
6. Disconnect the AC power when replacing the backlight or inverter circuit.
(High voltage occurs at the inverter circuit at 650Vrms.)
7. Always clean the LCD panel with a soft cloth material.
8. Use care when handling the wires or connectors of the inverter circuit. Damaging the wires may cause a short.
9. Protect the panel from ESD to avoid damaging the electronic circuit (C-MOS).
10. During the repair, DO NOT leave the Power On for more than 1 hour while the TV is face down on a cloth.

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 6
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
SAFETY CHECK-OUT
After correcting the original service problem, perform the following safety checks before releasing the set to the customer:
1. Check the area of your repair for unsoldered or poorly soldered connections. Check the entire board surface for solder
splashes and bridges.
2. Check the interboard wiring to ensure that no wires are “pinched” or touching high-wattage resistors.
3. Check that all control knobs, shields, covers, ground straps, and mounting hardware have been replaced. Be absolutely
certain that you have replaced all the insulators.
4. Look for unauthorized replacement parts, particularly transistors, that were installed during a previous repair. Point them out
to the customer and recommend their replacement.
5. Look for parts which, though functioning, show obvious signs of deterioration. Point them out to the customer and
recommend their replacement.
6. Check the line cords for cracks and abrasion. Recommend the replacement of any such line cord to the customer.
7. Check the antenna terminals, metal trim, “metallized” knobs, screws, and all other exposed metal parts for AC leakage.
Check leakage as described below.

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 7
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
LEAKAGE TEST
The AC leakage from any exposed metal part to earth ground and from all exposed
metal parts to any exposed metal part having a return to chassis, must not exceed
0.5 mA(500 microamperes). Leakage current can be measured by any one of three
methods.
1. A commercial leakage tester, such as the Simpson 229 or RCA
WT-540A. Follow the manufacturers’ instructions to use these
instructions.
2. A battery-operated AC milliampmeter. The Data Precision 245 digital
multimeter is suitable for this job.
3. Measuring the voltage drop across a resistor by means of a VOM
or battery-operated AC voltmeter. The “limit” indication is 0.75V,
so analog meters must have an accurate low voltage scale.
The Simpson’s 250 and Sanwa SH-63TRD are examples of
passive VOMs that are suitable. Nearly all battery-operated digital
multimeters that have a 2 VAC range are suitable (see Figure A).
HOW TO FIND A GOOD EARTH GROUND
The cover-plate retaining screw on most AC outlet boxes is at earth ground. Verify
the AC outlet box retaining screw ground by connecting a 60-to 100-watt trouble-
light (not a neon lamp) between the hot side of the receptacle and the retaining
screw. Try both slots, if necessary, to locate the hot side on the line; the lamp should
light at normal brilliance if the screw is at ground potential (see Figure B).
Figure B. Checking for earth ground.
To Exposed Metal
Parts on Set
0.15 µF
Earth Ground
AC
Voltmete
r
(0.75V)
Figure A. Using an AC voltmeter to check AC leakage.
Trouble Light
AC Outlet Box

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 8
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
SELF DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION
The TVs in this manual contain a self-diagnostic function. If an error occurs, the STANDBY LED will automatically begin to ash. The number of
times the LED ashes translates to a probable source of the problem. A denition of the STANDBY LED ash indicator is listed in the Operating
Instruction manual for the user’s reference.
If an error symptom cannot be reproduced, the remote commander can be used to review the failure occurrence data stored in memory to reveal
past problems and how often these problems occur.
For complete information, refer to“Section 4 - Troubleshooting” on page 23.
Self Diagnosis
Supported model

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 9
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
OVERVIEW
The AZ2-F chassis is one of several designs for the 2011 model line
of Sony Bravia® LCD televisions. This manual covers the following
models:
KDL32EX427
KDL32EX527
KDL40EX527
KDL46EX527
FEATURES
Several new features are introduced in this chassis model lineup
along with some carryovers from the previous year.
FULL HD 1080P RESOLUTION
Experience amazing Full HD 1080p picture quality, the highest at-
home resolution. Take full advantage of HD sources like a Blu-ray
Disc™ Player or PlayStation®3 gaming console via the 16:9 wide
screen panel (1920 x 1080).
INTERNET STREAMING & CONNECTIVITY
Internet Streaming:Internet favorites now streaming on your television.
In addition to Qriocity™, watch hit movies with Netix®, popular TV
shows on Hulu Plus™ or user-generated video on YouTube™. You
can even listen to personalized music on Pandora®. Enjoy the widest
selection of internet content at your ngertips.1
Skype™ Ready:Connect to friends and family all over the globe with
Internet voice and video calls using your TV. Make free video Skype-
to-Skype calls and low-cost Skype-to-phone calls with a Sony®
compact microphone/camera (required, sold separately).2
Integrated Wi-Fi®:Conveniently stream entertainment straight from
the Internet and from your home network using the built-in Wi-Fi®.1
DLNA® Streaming:Access and share photos, videos and music on
your TV by streaming them from compatible DLNA® device like your
PC or Playstation®3 system.3
FASTER START-UP
Quick Start & Viewing feature enables this Sony television to go from
‘OFF’ to ‘ON’ 2-3 times faster than previous Sony televisions.
BRAVIA® SYNC™ COMPATIBLE
Conveniently operate and control other BRAVIA® Sync™ compatible
devices - including BRAVIA® HDTVs, Blu-ray Disc™ Players,
surround sound systems, Handycam® camcorders and Cyber-shot®
digital still cameras, all with one remote control.
1. Broadband speed of at least 2.5 Mbps recommended (10 Mbps for HD content). Video quality
varies. Content provided is subject to change. Premium content may require additional
fees or a subscription. Wireless connectivity requires an 802.11 home network (802.11n
recommended).
2. Broadband speed of at least 2.5 Mbps recommended (10 Mbps for HD content). Video quality
varies. Content provided is subject to change. Premium content may require additional
fees or a subscription. Wireless connectivity requires an 802.11 home network (802.11n
recommended). Skype requires rmware update and is subject to Skype’s terms and
conditions, which Skype has the ability to change at any time.
3. Requires all devices to be connected to the same home network.

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 10
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
X-REALITY™ ENGINE
Enjoy a vivid, lifelike picture experience. Sony’s X-Reality engine
brings out the best by analyzing each scene so you see sharpened
images, and amazing contrast detail.
NAVIGATION MADE EASY
Enjoy an easy-to-use menu that allows you to navigate additional
content or adjust the picture settings while watching your favorite
program.
LIGHTSENSOR™ TECHNOLOGY
Enjoy customized picture brightness and save energy without lifting
a nger. The built-in Light Sensor automatically adjusts the picture
brightness based on the amount of light in the room.
PRESENCE SENSOR
Save energy when you’re not around. The television’s built-in motion
sensor has the ability to scan the room and detect movement. If the
sensor detects no movement it automatically turns off the picture
leaving only sound. After more time and no movement, the TV turns
itself off minimizing any unnecessary power draw.
USB PHOTOS, VIDEOS & MUSIC
Share your photos on the big screen or listen to your favorite music.
Simply connect your digital camera, USB-enabled MP3 player, or
USB storage device directly to your HDTV’s USB input.

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 11
SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND FEATURES
SPECIFICATIONS
Sistema
Sistema de TV Análogo:NTSC 3.58
Digital: DVB-T
Cobertura de canales VHF: 2-13, UHF: 14-69
CATV (Análogo): 1-135
Sistema del panelPanel LCD (pantalla de cristal líquido)
Salida de bocinas10 W + 10 W
Tomas de entrada/salida
CABLE/ANTENNA
(Cable/Antena)
Terminal externo de 75 ohms para entrada de señal de radiofrecuencia
VIDEO IN 1/2
(Entrada de video 1/2)
VIDEO / AUDIO
COMPONENT IN YPBPR(video componente)
Formato de señal: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p
AUDIO
HDMI IN 1/2/3/4
(Entrada HDMI 1/2/3/4)
HDMI: Video: 480i, 480p, 720p, 720/24p/30p, 1080i, 1080p, 1080/24p/30p (para los
HDMI:
Audio: PCM lineal de dos canales 32, 44,1 y 48 kHz, 16, 20 y 24 bits, Dolby Digital
Entrada de audio analógico (minitoma) (solo HDMI IN 4)
ARC (solo HDMI IN 1)
AUDIO OUT (Salida de audio)/
Auriculares
500 mV rms (típico)
Minitoma estéreo
DIGITAL AUDIO OUT
(OPTICAL)
Señal de audio óptica digital PCM/Dolby Digital
PC IN (Entrada de PC)Subminiatura D de 15 contactos, RGB analógico
PC/HDMI 4 AUDIO IN
(Entrada de audio de PC/HDMI)
Minitoma estéreo
dadicolevaL(XT-ESAB001/T-ESAB01rotcenoCNAL de la conexión podría variar en función
del entorno de red. No se garantizan la tasa de comunicación ni la calidad de comunicación
10BASE-T/100BASE-TX para este TV.)
launaM-ileetlusnoCANLD/BSU para el formato compatible.
116,8 101,6
•La disponibilidad de los accesorios opcionales dependerá de las existencias.
•El diseño y las especificaciones están sujetos a cambios sin previo aviso.
Nombre del modelo KDL-
32EX527 32EX427
Alimentación y otras especificaciones
Requisitos de alimentación 110-240 V ca, 50/60 Hz
Consumo energético103 W 102 W77 W
en uso
en espera Menos de 0,25 WMenos de 0,3 W
Tamaño de pantalla (cm)
(medido diagonalmente)(pulgadas) 46
80,1
31,5
(32 clase)
80,0
31,5
(32 clase)
Resolución del monitor
1.920 puntos (horizontal) × 1.080 líneas (vertical)
1.366 puntos
(horizontal) ×
768 líneas
(vertical)
Bocina
Gama completa (mm) )2(001×0330 × 150 (2)
Dimensiones con soporte(mm) 1.078 × 690 ×260 943 × 604 × 254 755 × 498 × 225
sin soporte (mm) 1.078 × 660 ×42 943 × 588 × 45 755 × 482 × 42
patrón de orificios de
montaje mural (mm) 002×002003×003
tamaño de tornillos de
montaje mural (mm) M6 (longitud: consulte el diagrama de la Guía de configuración.)
Peso con soporte (kg) 17,8 13,8 9,9
7,711,22,41)gk(etroposnis
Accesorios suministrados Consulte “Verificación de los accesorios”
Accesorios opcionalesCables de conexión
Kit de correa de soporte
Soporte de montaje mural: SU-WL500
Adaptador USB para LAN inalámbrica
Temperatura de funcionamiento 0 °C - 40 °C
46EX527 40EX527
40
Verificación de los accesorios
Control remoto (1)*1
Pilas de tamaño AAA (2)
Soporte de sobremesa (1)*2
Tornillos de fijación para el soporte
de sobremesa (M5 × 16) (3)
Tornillos de montaje para el soporte
de sobremesa (M6 × 14) (4)
(para KDL-46EX527)
Tornillos de montaje para el soporte
de sobremesa (M5 × 16) (2)
(para KDL-40/32EX527/KDL-32EX427)
Llave hexagonal (1)
(excepto KDL-40/32EX527/KDL-32EX427)
Manual de instrucciones (este manual)
y otros documentos
*1 Consulte el número del modelo
impreso en el control remoto.
*2 Se requiere ensamblar la base de
soporte de sobremesa. Para ensambla r
la base de soporte de sobremesa consulte
el folleto suministrado de la base de soporte
de sobremesa.

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 12
SECTION 2 - SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
OVERVIEW
There are 2 reasons for updating the software on the TVs.
●Software updates for customers
These updates are for enhancements or improvements that
have been made to the software after the TV was released.
●Software update for servicers
These updates are specically for servicers to use during a
service call.
SOFTWARE UPDATES FOR CUSTOMERS
The subject of software updates is very important. The televisions
of today have advanced to the point where they are not simply a
television anymore. They are evolving into devices that are designed
to integrate with numerous other devices found in the home. Some
examples are: Portable audio and video devices, still cameras, home
computer networks and accessing the internet to name a few.
Communications with these varying devices requires that the
television be compatible with varying communications protocols.
Although standards are detailed for each of these protocols, the real
world dictates that occasional errors may occur that could prevent
devices from operating or communicating properly.
Keeping the software in the television up-to-date is a procedure that
is normally handled by the owner of the television. Most customers
who own computers and other digital devices are familiar with and are
accustomed to updating the software in their products. If a customer
contacts the Sony Customer Support Center and it is deemed to
be correctable with a software update, the issue is handled at the
customer level.

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 13
SECTION 2 - SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
SOFTWARE UPDATES FOR SERVICERS
The models in this manual utilize a “generic” type main board. In
the past, many different main boards needed to be stocked due to
differences in software requirements. The software loaded on the
board was specic to the model and its features along with the type
of LCD panel installed during production.
Replacement main boards are now stocked with basic software.
Once the replacement board is installed in the unit, the most current
software needs to be installed using a USB thumb drive containing
the necessary software downloaded.
This new method of supplying main boards signicantly reduces the
complexity of replacing LCD panels and main boards. Information
about the LCD panel is stored on the TCON circuits. This information
is automatically loaded onto the main board when the TV is powered
up. With the correct software version the main board and/or the
TCON or LCD panel can be replaced more efciently.
In addition to software installation, service adjustment information
may need to be modied or veried to complete the service of the
TV. Service adjustment information is covered in “Section 7 - Service
Adjustments” on page 53.
SOFTWARE UPDATE RESPONSIBILITY
Software updates are designed to be performed by the customer.
Warranty repairs in which the issue can be resolved by a software
update are not reimbursable. Most issues involving software
updates are handled by the customer service center and should not
be directed to an authorized service center. It is the responsibility
of the servicer to prevent service calls for issues that involve
software updates. Exceptions to this are certain cases whereby the
customer is unable or unwilling to perform the task. In this situation,
the servicer will be notied and receive the proper authorization for
reimbursement.
It is the servicer’s responsibility, however, to make certain that any
TV requiring a legitimate service is running the latest software
version and to install it if necessary.
CHECKING THE SOFTWARE VERSION
The easiest way to check the version of software that is currently on
the TV is to access the Contact Sony screen by using the customer
menu.
Figure 2-1. Example of Software Version
located on the Contact Sony screen

KDL-32EX427/32EX527/40EX527/46EX527 14
SECTION 2 - SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
EXAMPLES OF SOFTWARE CORRECTABLE
SYMPTOMS
Most symptoms that are correctable by software updates involve
communications issues with other devices or minor glitches in
the operation of a specic function. Below is a list of some of the
symptoms that may be corrected with a software update:
●Fluctuations in picture brightness
●Intermittent picture freezing or noise
●Problems with certain inputs (especially HDMI)
●Intermittent or distorted audio
●Erratic remote control operation
●Unit turns on and off by itself
●Loss of color
●Internet connectivity
●Certain features not working correctly
(photo or video le viewing)Loss of color
●Internet connectivity
●Certain features not working correctly
(photo or video le viewing)