this is why I like everyone to have a linux live cd handy, you can stick it in the cd drawer and boot the pc which will have it boot to linux cd rather than windows and work can be done on the windows area like run a virus scan from the linux cd. You can download and burn a linux live cd free from many locations online, also most linux magizines in book stores have free live cd in the mag. Ubuntu is the most common version. These are some examples of using a linux live cd Use Ubuntu Live CD to Backup Files from Your Dead Windows Computer Trinity Rescue Kit This is a great series on how to create and use rescue cd's Bootcamp 403: PC rescue pt 1 Bootcamp 404: PC rescue pt 2 Bootcamp 405: PC rescue pt 3 Part 3 includes the directions for Bart Pe. Should you choose to use any of those methods let us know how it went for you. One question were you able to get to any of the options such as last known best or any of the safe mode options at all?

I'm guessing that by the "electronic hum" you probably mean the High Voltage for the CRT. The problems you state could be caused by many things. Personally, I would verify that the picture tube is good. Has to be tested with a CRT Tester. I would then look at the low voltage power supply and verify if all the outputs are correct and clean(no AC component). I've never heard of a TV making clicking sounds when you change channels. Since it's all electronic and not mechanical, these click sounds are either made my a relay or a spark of some sort. Sorry Kenny, there are no easy solutions from a user's stand point of view. If you have an air compressor, you could remove the back of the TV and blow it out. Sometimes dust bunnies cause arching between components. If you're careful enough, you could leave the back off and see if you can locate the source of the clicking sound. As to why the screen goes black or blank, either the picture tube is defective or getting there, or the low voltages or signals going to the PCB on the CRT neck are missing or incorrect. You will probably have to end up taking it to a repair shop. I take it that you no longer have a warranty on this set? Sorry I couldn't be of more help to you. Without a Service Manual/Schematic and the proper test equipment, there isn't much else that you can do. Good luck in finding a good reputable TV repair shop.

You have a failure in the "vertical circuit". A vertical failure will also "blank" the picture. The repair should not be very expensive(my judgment), as this is not a very expensive circuit. But, this is a "big screen tv", which requires the tech to make a trip to your location, disassemble, examine the operation, examine/test the circuit, to give you an exact repair estimate. There may EVEN be other problems that you never noticed or failed mention. After all, the set is 12 years old. Now your judgment may classify the repair as "very expensive". But, you will still have to contact someone in your area and get a repair estimate. good luck, pw

@Patricia Colwell I already have white countertop with a few thin grey lines. BM clasdic gray on walls. Wish to cabinets with very light gray paint. Confused between drift of mist and city loft. sharing some pics. please let me know. Left drift of mist, right city loft. which of these will go well with blue. I have blue decor and blue in splashback. Thanks! Your thoughts are appreciated.