Hi, I have a Sony Wega 28", I've had it about 3 years and has been great. But recently I was sitting watching when the picture suddenly fizzed up then died. No sound from the speakers, but a squelling noise from the back of the TV. I think maybe a transformer has gone, but I don't know. I would like to fix the TV myself (as Sony are not my best friends at the moment, been pretty unlucky with their products so far) but I don't know what I need to replace. I opened up the back of the TV and switched it on again; it squeled as usual and I discovered there is a burning smell and heat rising from it. I can't see where though. Could you please advise?

Thanks for you Help

Jake Roberts

Jake Roberts, May 2004

Hi Jake,

You have two problems at the same time: (1) your high-voltage transformer (sometimes known as a "flyback") is bad, and (2) your horizontal output transistor is probably shorted.

You should put the cover back onto your TV and not fix it yourself. I say that because the flyback is connected to the crt (tube) by way of an anode cap. That tube can contain up to 30,000+ volts, even if the TV is unplugged. If you want a taste of what the electric chair is like then try removing a flyback transformer without the proper tools and training. Sony may not even want to give you the parts (I'm a Sony ceertified technician, and even I have problems sometimes).

This is typically the type of repair that is best left to the TV shop, for safety reasons.

Grahams TV Service
West Columbia, SC

Jim Lee- technician, May 2004