Thomson purchased the RCA electronics brand in 1987; previously, RCA had been responsible for manufacturing a range of consumer electronics, including TVs and radios. Remedy problems with many Thomson RCA TVs by examining connections and adjusting menu options where required. If doing so doesn't fix the TV, leave the job to a professional.
Black and White Pictures
RCA Thomson sets sometimes display images in black and white instead of color. If you have an older set that uses an antenna for broadcasts, try adjusting its position to see if color is restored. An antenna that's receiving a weak signal can result in sound distortion and colorless images.
Change the picture settings via your RCA Thomson remote control by pressing the "Menu" button, followed by the Picture Quality option. You can now adjust color range, contrast and brightness, which may remedy the problem. Thomson RCA sets that continue to display black and white images may require a factory reset. Press the "Cancel" or "Reset" button on your Thomson remote to restore your TV's original settings. You can also select the "Reset" option while changing the picture settings, notes the RCA Customer Support website.
Buzzing Noise
RCA Thomson sets may produce a buzzing or humming sound. This is usually a problem with new plasma sets, and is caused by the set warming up to its regular operating temperature. When the TV is properly warmed up, the noise should disappear completely. However, noise problems may reoccur depending on where you position your set. Thomson plasma sets that are placed in particularly warm rooms are liable to produce the humming noise. Try drawing the drapes or increasing air conditioning levels to remedy the issue. Sets that are mounted on walls may also emit a humming noise. Place your set nearer to ground levels and the problem should cease.
Widescreen Ratio
Some Thomson RCA widescreen sets display black bars at the sides of broadcast images. This is usually due to a discrepancy between the aspect ratio of the set when compared to the broadcast on screen. Most shows are broadcast in a standard aspect ratio of 4:3. Widescreen sets are designed for images displayed in a ratio of 16:9, resulting in the image being squared off during standard-definition broadcasts. You can adjust the aspect ratio on most Thomson RCA sets by pressing the "Menu" option, followed by "Picture Settings." The RCA Customer Support website advises users to contact the company directly if the problem cannot be fixed via the Menu options, as there may be a technical fault.
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