Blinking Power and OPC Lights on a Sharp TV

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The lights on a Sharp TV are meant to be clues about the status of the unit. The blinking of either the power light or the OPC (Optical Picture Control) light is an error message or fault code. It is not easy to tell what is causing the error. It may be a setting on the television, it might be a problem with the firmware or a mechanical issue that requires service. Testing out a few common solutions will be the key to getting your Sharp TV back to normal.

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Firmware

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Firmware is the software that runs the computer on your Sharp television. Manufacturers will release new versions of firmware as needed to enhance the features of your unit. When it comes time to update the firmware on your television, make sure to follow the instructions to install the application. For example, you might download the firmware to a USB drive on your computer. Read the instructions provided to ensure the USB device is compatible with the television. If the instructions specify FAT formatting of the USB drive, check the device to make sure it is compliant. Attempting to install firmware improperly can cause the TV to stop working and lights to blink.

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Default Settings

It may be that a setting on your television is causing a problem and leading to the blinking lights. To fix this, resetting the unit to the default setup will give you a clean slate. Default means returning the TV to the settings it had right out of the box. You can then reapply any custom settings, such as color adjustments, to see if the problem recurs. How you go about resetting the Sharp to default will depend on the model and design of your TV. Read through the documentation from Sharp to determine how to perform the reset. In some cases, you may need to hold down several designated buttons at once.

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Blinking Pattern

The pattern of the blinking may not mean much to you, but it will mean something to a service technician from Sharp. Watch the blinking lights and make note of the pattern. For example, the power light might blink twice as fast as the OPC light. It might blink three times and then the OPC light blinks once. This is a code that will tell the technician more about the functioning of your system. Call Sharp Product Support at 1-800-237-4277 (1-800-BE-SHARP) and tell them the pattern code. They can instruct you on how to fix the problem.

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Mechanical Failure

Mechanical failure is another possible scenario causing the lights to blink on your Sharp television. There may be power issues or the unit could be overheating. Fixing a TV is not something you should try unless you have experience working with electronics. Sharp can provide you with a list of certified technicians in your area that will be able to diagnose your problem and provide any repairs. If the television is still under warranty, trying to fix it or replace a faulty part might violate the service agreement and void your warranty.

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