Q: My equipment is not working or is acting strange, what should I do?
A: Try unplugging it from the power source for 5-10 minutes. If that does not correct the problem it is possible you have inadvertently placed it in a demo or service mode.
Check the operator manual or call the manufacturers help line listed in the manual.
If the problem only happens under certain specific conditions and otherwise works normally, it is possible that software or firmware needs upgrading.  Check your owners manual to see if this is something you can do yourself.

Q: I have a Magnavox TV that won't turn off unless I unplug it, and is displaying a list of features on the screen, none of the controls will work.
A: Hold down the volume up and the volume down buttons on the front of the TV at the same time for a few seconds (not the buttons on the remote). The TV should turn off and work normally after that.

Q: I am trying to hookup some new equipment and can't get it working correctly or I can't fiqure out how to get certain features to work, what should I do?
A: First call the business where you purchased your equipment. If they can't help you, then call the manufacturers help line listed in the operator manual. If you still can't find the help you need try the many on-line forums found on the internet; try search words like "Sony help forum" or your model number.

Q: My equipment is under warranty and needs service, who do I call?
A: If you purchased your equipment from VanNoord Home Entertainment, call us (see the "contact us" page). If purchased elsewhere, check the operator manual or visit the manufacturers web site to obtain the names of servicers in your area.

Q: What is the average cost to repair electronic equipment?
A: CRT type television average is about $125; Projection CRT television average is about $250.; LCD and Plasma average is about $300; AV Receivers average about $150.; DVD players average about $125. Keep this in mind when considering whether or not to spend any money for an estimate to look at your equipment.

Q: I have an older piece of equipment that I realy like, should I spend any money on it even though it may not be economical?
A: If your item is over 10 years old there is a increased chance that parts may no longer be available to repair it. If it contains mechanical parts there is an increased likelihood of more unpredictable failures in the future. If it is a TV and the picture is still bright, clear, and has good color rendering, it may be worth fixing despite it's age.
In general, if it has no moving parts, is a quality name brand product, contains all the features you want, and meets your needs, it's probably worth fixing.

Q: My equipment is dead, should I remove the cover and try replacing a fuse.
A: NO-CERTAINLY NOT, for 2 very good reasons.
1: It's dangerous, there is a warning label for that reason.

2: In all likelyhood the new fuse will continue to open because a defect still exists.

Q: Should I fix my equipment or is it obsolete?
A: Nothing is obsolete if it meets your needs.

Q: My equipment got wet, is there anything I can do myself?
A: First of all - UNPLUG IT FROM IT'S POWER SOURCE. Pull out the AC power plug, disconnect the AC adaptor, remove the batteries.
If the item is inexpensive and not worth paying a professional to look at, put it in a warm dry place for 12-36 hours, depending on how wet it got.(maybe outdoors on a dry sunny day, but not in direct sunlight unless you rotate and check it regularly).
You may be able to speed things up with a hair drier, but be careful not to over heat.
If it is an expensive item you should get it to a professional as soon as possible.

Q: My equipment was damaged by lightning, can it be fixed or is it likely to have hidden damage that will show up some time in the future.
A: Our experience has been that the majority (90%+) of repaired equipment damaged by lightning does not exhibit delayed or continued failures in the future, however this does not rule out the possibility entirely.