Firmware update for PN50A550

There is a new firmware update for the PN50A550 which is the US version of the PS50A550 / PS50A556.

It’s being discussed here on AVforums:

Robert: On your website there is a new firmware listed for my pn50a550. What problems does this firmware correct?
Dylan D: I will let you know about it.
Dylan D: Let me check that for you.
Robert: ok thanks
Dylan D: Firmware update will fix intermittent red blur when watching moving pictures. It will enhance the color processing capabilities of the TV. It will fix a problem with a totally green screen when connect to certain HDMI devices. It will improve the WiseLink detection.
Dylan D: Is there anything else I can help you with Robert?
Robert: Is that all the update addresses?
Dylan D: Yes Robert. I am reading directly from the service bulletin matched to this update. Have I answered your question?
Robert: Yes, thank you.

I do hope that this update will come soon to Europe also, as the european version is still flawed with false contouring.  Actually I believe both versions are flawed, guess you only notice it on PAL source material.

Samsung PS50A550: before you begin

1) update firmware
The first thing you should do after you unboxed your Samsung PS50A550, is update the firmware!  This will fix several key issues with this set.  Including fixes for focus / blur issues, judder at 1080p24.  The latest firmware also reduces issues with false contouring on human flesh(but doesn’t complete fix it).  You can download the latest firmware at the samsung website , and an easy to follow manual.

2) connecting the PS50A550 / PN50A550
Connecting the set is quite easy.  Just a few reminders

only scart1 is RGB.  If you’re still using Scart cables, buy a fully wired one, and connect it to scart1.
when using a DVI=>hdmi cable you must use HDMI2

3) how to enter the PS50A550 service menu :

When off, press info, menu, mute and power.
To get out again you’ll have to turn the tv off and then on.

ALL SETTINGS WILL BE LOST WHEN YOU ENTER THE SERVICE MENU

4) for my optimal settings please check
http://lievenvw.wordpress.com/2008/09/14/my-settings-for-the-samsung-ps50a550/
However I’m still changing them
note that this set is also known as the ps50A551, PS50A556, PS50A557, PS50A558 or PN50A550

my settings for the Samsung PS50A550

settings HDMI

Mode: Movie
Cell Light : 10
Contrast : 80
Brightness : 53
Sharpness : 0
Colour : 47
Tint : 50 50
Gamma : -1
Colour : Auto
Colour Temp : Warm 2
White Balance Menu:
Red-Offset : 29
Green-Offset : 25
Blue-Offset : 27
Red-Gain : 6
Green-Gain : 25
Blue-Gain : 24
Flesh Tone : 0
xvYCC : Off (or on if you have a xvYCC source ,  hint, your bluray player is not a xvYCC source)
HDMI Black Level : Normal
Just Scan enabled
Movie Mode High (test your source, you might prefer low)
Just scan (enabled for bluray / DVD)
Noise Reduction : High

VGA (Xbox 360)

same but brightness on 50, and most options disabled (not applicable on VGA anyway).

on VGA you might want to disable pixle shifting.  (makes a white line appear around the edges).

Note, the PS50A550 is the same as the PN50A550 or PS50A556, PS50A557, PS50A558.

For more information, check avforums.com or avsforum.com