FINAL UPDATE 2-19-2005, DO NOT BUY FROM CSO!!!----KDS 21 Inch VGA Monitor

[Arcadiac]

POOR PRODUCT AND NON-EXISTANT CUSTOMER SUPPORT HAS FORCED ME TO WITHDRAW MY RECOMMENDATION---READ MY LATEST POST FOR INFO---MY APOLOGIES ALL

[paigeoliver]

I love those monitors! I have a local source though.

[JackTucky]

Online ordering says $88 shipping.  How did you order yours to get the 4.99?

Art

[iwillfearnoevil]

they probably raised the shipping price. cso raises prices quickly once a few orders roll in from all the people posting at 'hot deal' forums.

[Snarbald]

They have a special going where all shipping is 4.99 no matter what the order.

[Bloinkxp]

The description of the monitor states that shipping will be between $50 and $75.  However on the front page it includes monitors on the 4.99.  I wrote CSO and asked for clarification...

D

PS.  I will post the email.

[Lilwolf]

they did the same thing when I bought two...  

And if you place the order, it came up with the right shipping.

btw, they are great monitors.. great specs..  SUPER heavy...  

but I think they are only good for pc games and development systems (I have dual monitors using them... the are great)... Sucky for arcade games.  They are too high resolution.. all basic svga monitor problems.

they are great for vector games though.  

[Arcadiac]

The description of the monitor states that shipping will be between $50 and $75.  However on the front page it includes monitors on the 4.99.  I wrote CSO and asked for clarification...

D

PS.  I will post the email.

Copy of my confirmation:

COMPUTER SURPLUS OUTLET ORDER CONFIRMATION
Dear Ronald,
Thank you for your order!

Order #: XXXXXXX        Order Date: 8/31/2004 9:14:46 AM

Bill to:                                     Ship to:
Ronald Holmes                                Ronald Holmes
                                             
6636 NOYB Rd.                            6636 NOYB Rd.
                                             
                                             
BFE, KY 402XX                       BFE, KY 402XX
US                                           US

Product Name    Description        Warranty    Quantity    Unit Price    Ext. Price
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MON-KDS21         KDS 21 Inch OEM C   30 Day        2        $89.00           $178.00
                                                            Subtotal: $178.00
                                                            Tax:      $0.00
                                                            Shipping: $4.99
                                                            Discount: $0.00
                                                            Total:    $182.99

To check your order status, please visit your Customer Profile page at:
https://www.computersurplusoutlet.com/login.asp?
Thank you, CSO

Shipping rate confirmation happens at the next to the last step, you review your order, submit, get the grand total, and place the order.  Hope this clears things up.  
BTW, sometimes after getting several orders they will discontinue the shipping special, so order soon if you want this deal, it may or may not change.  I think they have already offset the shipping "deal" by raising the basic monitor price from $59 to $89, but you never know what CSO will decide to do.  ARCADIAC!

[JackTucky]

same for me.  $4.99 shipping at confirmation.  Sweet.

Art

[monkeybomb]

I bought one last night when I saw the post.  It says 88 dollars shipping until you get to the last page.  Notice that the shipping total is an estimate and that it says there will be an actual total before you commit your money.

Now, should this be a vertical classics machine or a moonpatrol replica classic machine?

[Lilwolf]

remember... these are SVGA monitors that handle 1600x1200+ at a good refresh rate.

I say these are great for pc desktops

and

Vector games (they really are nicer at higher resolution... they look a lot more original)

[Generic Eric]

for those of you that have them...What do you say about this, from there web site?

# Note: There is no power button or control buttons

How do you make adjustments then?

[paigeoliver]

All that stuff is there, just hidden inside the casing.

[wakerlet]

Just ordered one.  I also picked up a few ISA SB cards.  Never can have too many of those lying around.

-Todd

[Arcadiac]

This might be helpful, read this thread:
http://www.arcadecontrols.org/yabbse/index.php?board=1;action=display;threadid=18490;start=0
Most of your questions including adjustments issues have been answered already.  ARCADIAC!

[wfg97079]

whats a good cab fit wise for these beasts?
any classics that I might be able to find eny empty cab that would work?
What about a pac cab?  Could I cram one in?

[tep0583]

remember... these are SVGA monitors that handle 1600x1200+ at a good refresh rate.

I say these are great for pc desktops

and

Vector games (they really are nicer at higher resolution... they look a lot more original)

UNderstood, but they CAN handle lower resolutions, rigth?

If so,  I think I'm going to order one for my next project....

[Lilwolf]

Yes, they handle all the resolutions I've tried great.

Just the normal SVGA problems with mame... in that it looks too blocky.

Take a look at Oscars site looking at the monitor comparison to see what I'm talking about.

[Arcadiac]

Disagreeing without being disagreeable, these monitors are fine for MAME as an arcade monitor alternative.  
Mine looks great in my first project, good enough to buy two more for the next projects.
Relatively inexpensive, easy to install and definitely better looking IMO than using a TV for a monitor.  Tried the TV option, looked like crap.  
Admittedly I have no experience with arcade monitors in MAME cabs, it just seemed too cost prohibitive (monitor,
Arcadevga card, etc.) to me.  
Some here swear by TVs, many would not consider anything less than an arcade monitor.  
Its really a matter of budget, aesthetics, experience and personal preference.  
I'm in the process of restoring a Nintendo VS upright and two VS cocktails and will use real monitors for them for authenticity.  
Anyway, just passing along a value to my friends here at BYOAC,  Respectfully, ARCADIAC

[tep0583]

Yes, they handle all the resolutions I've tried great.

Just the normal SVGA problems with mame... in that it looks too blocky.

Take a look at Oscars site looking at the monitor comparison to see what I'm talking about.

Ah, cool, just wanted to make sure.

To be honest, every game I play on my PC monitor looks OK to me, so I'm going to go with one of these.

Just wanted to make sure there wasn't something
else I didn't know about...

[esfb8zs]

I've used one of these before with almost perfect results.  I just ordered three more.  Thanks to the original poster!

Jay

[tep0583]

Well.... I just took the plunge.

I'll post my impressions as soon as it arrives.

I'm really, really happy, now this was the last major peice of equipment I needed for my main cab project!

[wfg97079]

anyone manage to cram one of these into a cocktail?

[Arcadiac]

anyone manage to cram one of these into a cocktail?

It would be a tight fit in a cocktail but I don't see why not.  The monitor without the outside case is about 19-20" deep.  It stuck out the back of my cabinet about an inch, so I just left the back off of it.  From the mounting board back its about 18", if I hadn't used the original mounting angle and mounted it straight it would have cleared the back.  As for your earlier question, my cab inside width was about 23 1/2" leaving a couple inches on each side and top and bottom for the mounting board.  You will want a cab at least that wide in order for it to fit.  Mine was an Atari Food Fight originally,  http://www.arcadecontrols.org/yabbse/index.php?board=10;action=display;threadid=17788
there are pics of how I mounted my monitor in that thread.
Good luck all with your projects!! ARCADIAC

[esfb8zs]

Anyone that ordered one get it yet?  Or get it shipped?  I ordered three on the 31st and they still are not showing shipped on the web site.  I sent email to their shipping dept, but have not heard back yet (just did it).

Jay

[Arcadiac]

Anyone that ordered one get it yet?  Or get it shipped?  I ordered three on the 31st and they still are not showing shipped on the web site.  I sent email to their shipping dept, but have not heard back yet (just did it).

Jay

When I ordered back in April it took over 2 weeks to arrive, Apr. 23/May 10.  I also ordered on the 31st of Aug., expect them this time next week, approx. 15-20 days.  Also, keep in mind that we had a 3-day holiday weekend, may take a bit longer than before.  Please post when we get them so others will know whats going on.  FYI I had terrible experience with CSO e-mail, others didn't, go figure.
Hang in there!  ARCADIAC!

[gregor7777]

Thanks, just ordered with a 450w PSU. $109.00 shipped total.

[Arcadiac]

Anyone that ordered one get it yet?  Or get it shipped?  I ordered three on the 31st and they still are not showing shipped on the web site.  I sent email to their shipping dept, but have not heard back yet (just did it).

Jay

When I ordered back in April it took over 2 weeks to arrive, Apr. 23/May 10.  I also ordered on the 31st of Aug., expect them this time next week, approx. 15-20 days.  Also, keep in mind that we had a 3-day holiday weekend, may take a bit longer than before.  Please post when we get them so others will know whats going on.  FYI I had terrible experience with CSO e-mail, others didn't, go figure.
Hang in there!  ARCADIAC!

FYI, got an email today that said mine will arrive on the 20th.  If that turns out true, it will be about 3 weeks from ordering to arrival.  I'll post again upon delivery.  Others please post when yours arrives and how you like/dislike it.  Thanks all!  ARCADIAC!

[JackTucky]

Mine supposed to be here Sept 21st.

Art

[tep0583]

Mine shipped yesterday and is supposed to arrive Monday. (I'll be out of town until tue., of course)

[Excretious]

Its been 12 days since i placed my order and like everyone else, i got antsy and emailed em.  They quickly replied with this email......


Mr. Vaccaro,

 

Thank you for your inquiry.  Due to an unexpected overwhelming response, the expected ship time on all those monitors were delayed. I apologize for the delay and any inconvenience it may cause you.  Your order will be shipping out today.  If there is anything else I can do for you, please let me know.
 
Thank you,
 
Rowell
 
Computer Surplus Outlet
284-C East Lake Mead Dr. #170
Henderson, NV 89015-5582

[esfb8zs]

I got the same thing.  Mine are supposed to be here Monday.  Thanks Jay

[Lilwolf]

Remember...

"Waiting is 1/2 the battle"

these monitors are HUGE and HEAVY.  They take a bit to get there.  For the price they charged for shipping... Don't expect them to drop them overnight air

btw, for when you get them.

You turn them on by pressing a button on the left side thats hidden.  You will see two bolts that holds a board on the inside of the metal cabinet.  You press the buttons by pushing a pencil or something through the holes.  If you look closely, you will see where they are.

I'm mentioning this, because a bunch of people get their monitors and think they don't work...  Start freaking out... And come screaming.

[Arcadiac]

Remember...

"Waiting is 1/2 the battle"

these monitors are HUGE and HEAVY.  They take a bit to get there.  For the price they charged for shipping... Don't expect them to drop them overnight air

btw, for when you get them.

You turn them on by pressing a button on the left side thats hidden.  You will see two bolts that holds a board on the inside of the metal cabinet.  You press the buttons by pushing a pencil or something through the holes.  If you look closely, you will see where they are.

I'm mentioning this, because a bunch of people get their monitors and think they don't work...  Start freaking out... And come screaming.

Thanks Lilwolf, very helpful stuff.  BTW these can be removed from the case for mounting, giving you a little more lee-way and lessening the weight by about 30 lbs. when installing.  Just be sure to remove the two screws  holding the adjustment board that Lilwolf mentioned in addition to the case screws.
Handle carefully and don't forget to DEGAUSS!  I'm one of the ones who freaked out, thinking I got a bad monitor when all it really needed was degaussing and fine tuning.  Thanks for the replies, glad to be able to pass on the deal that was passed on to me!  Good Luck! ARCADIAC!  

[esfb8zs]

Got my three today.  One box was really beat up by UPS (I made them note this), but all three worked fine.  The last place I ordered these from, I had two bad ones.  They took care of it though.  Thanks to the original poster for this deal.

Jay

[Kremmit]

Got mine today as well- box was in great shape, the shipper used spray-in foam, not peanuts or bubble wrap, so the monitor was undamaged.  Works fine, no screen burn or scratches.

My wife thinks it's ugly.

[Gunstar Hero]

Installed mine in my PolePos cab today. =)

Really had to stuff it in there, bit it looks great, much better than just setting a 19' PC monitor inside the cab for sure.

Great picture quality and it's one SOLID and HEAVY unit, not one for a flimsy monitor shelf, thats for sure!

I had to add a new shelf and strut to the back for support, space my monitor glass just a little bit out, and of course recut the bezel... but it was worth it!

It just "feels" more authentic now. =)

[JackTucky]

Received mine yesterday.  That thing is huge.  I'm going to try and wedge it into that Outrun cab I get from PCAtes.

"Honey, get me my pryin' bar and fittin' hammer"

Art

[owj]

Gunstar Hero,

Would you mind posting a pic of your Pole Position with the KDS monitor in it?  I am thinking of doing exactly the same thing.

[monkeybomb]

 

UPS refused to let my apartment manager sign for it it.  They sent mine back, what can I do.  Will I get anything now or am I just out the money?

[wakerlet]

Got mine yesterday.  I has a small amount of screen burn (very slight) in the upper right.  Shouldn't be that noticable though.  Keep in mind that these are used.

-Todd

[Arcadiac]

UPS refused to let my apartment manager sign for it it.  They sent mine back, what can I do.  Will I get anything now or am I just out the money?

Since UPS is the only one who knows their policies, you should probably start with them first towards finding a solution.  Mine came in 2 shipments, for 2 monitors.  I signed for the first one and then the deliveryman asked if he could just leave the other one if I was away.
Got 1 on the 20th, other on 21st.
I finally had time to test both of mine and everything appears fine.  One screen has a bit of adhesive still on the screen but both arrived intact and needing no adjustment.
All told a better experience this time around. ARCADIAC!

[tep0583]

Got mine on monday. (but, of corse, I was 200 miles away, until last night)

Fired it up this morning. The screen is absolutely flawless and I didn't even have to degauss it! (nor could I as I have yet to locate the controlls. Have to go back to find the post that tells about 'em)

I have to say that I'm very happy with the monitor. I'm seriously thinking about getting another to replace the TV in my classic cab.

[Iori]

Finally went ahead and ordered mine...  I don't know if it will fit in my cab or not, but at that price I figure I can build a new cab for it if not.    Or maybe I can slightly alter what I have now if I have to.  

[Gunstar Hero]

owj -

Sure thing, I'll get my friend with a digicam to snap me a few pix and post 'em ASAP.

[wakerlet]

Just wanted to mention that I'm not 100% satisfied with my monitor.  I have visible screen burn on the top right and along the right side of the screen.  It's not horrible but noticeable.

Does anyone else have this problem with their monitor?  I know they are used but I expected them to be in good condition.  I'm just wondering if it is worth complaining to the company.

-Todd

[Gunstar Hero]

You may as well let them know of your dissatisfaction, maybe they'll knock some bucks off of the price or something...

But if they want you to ship that heavy beast back, forget it! =)

[Arcadiac]

Just wanted to mention that I'm not 100% satisfied with my monitor.  I have visible screen burn on the top right and along the right side of the screen.  It's not horrible but noticeable.

Does anyone else have this problem with their monitor?  I know they are used but I expected them to be in good condition.  I'm just wondering if it is worth complaining to the company.

-Todd

Contact CSO.  Someone who ordered back in the spring had problems with their monitor and the company just sent them a new one.  Read back thru this post and you will find a link to the springtime thread.  Once there, go to the 3rd page, look for Witchboard's posts.  I'm fairly sure they didn't even have to return the old monitor.
Hope they can help you.  ARCADIAC!

[barranger]

Anyone know where to get one of these in Ontario?  I'm guessing the $5 shipping doesn't apply  

[DrewKaree]

UPS refused to let my apartment manager sign for it it.  They sent mine back, what can I do.  Will I get anything now or am I just out the money?

Usually if the person isn't there, they leave a note saying when they are coming back to try redelivery, and on the notice, they give you their local hub address where you can pick it up in case you can't be there at that time, either.

Mebbe call 'em up and see where they are, see if they have your package, otherwise, see if your Apt manager has that note.

[monkeybomb]

Thats just it.  No attempt with the manager despite a note to do so.  No Hub address and they didn't even hold it at the hub.  Ups says it's my problem to deal with the vendor.    

I've never had a UPS thing like this before and I'm really suprised.

[exibar]

UPS just plain sucks donkey butt....  why in the world would a 1 pound package take almsot 10 days to deliver, cost $14 to ship, and then they won't leave the dang thing at your door if you happen to be in the shower when they arrive?  God forbid you want it in 2 days, it will then cost you like $30 to ship

  USPS priority mail takes 2-3 days for delivery, costs $3.85, they'll deliver to your door on Saturday and they don't care if you're home or anything.

 FedEx will at least let you sign a waiver at their office (or from any driver) stating that they can leave the package on your dorrstep (or whereever you'd like them to leave it).  They cost less, deliver quicker.  

  I don't get it why people still use UPS... I used to think getting a package UPS was the coolest thing in the world, but that was when I was 10 years old too.....  of course, truck frieght shipments are the coolest thing now... but I digress :-)

[tep0583]

USPS does not deliver, if a signature is required, but you can sign the form that they leave and they'll drop it off a couple of days later. (I had a couple I had to do this for)

Other than that, no complaints with tham.

I assume these com UPS because they are better equipped to ship large packages and/or they have a bulk deal going with them.

[Kremmit]

UPS is supposed to make 3 attempts; did they ever leave you a door tag?  If they did, and you never responded, then it's your own fault, but if they didn't make 3 attempts, or never left you a door tag, you've got 'em by the balls.  Call 1-800-Pick-UPS and wade through the automated system until you get a real person.  If they didn't do what they're supposed to, then don't take no for an answer, but if they did, be really nice, and you may be able to get them to re-route the box to your work address, your parent's house, your buddy's house, etc.  - But do it immediately - if they get the box all the way back to the shipper, they will definately NOT re-route it, and then you'll have to deal with the seller, who'll probably want you to pay for repeat shipping.

Good luck!

[Arcadiac]

Barringer you may want to contact CSO and see what they can do, many here have had favorable experiences with them, possibly they can work something out.
I think Monkeybomb probably has enough info regarding the UPS problems, I too just this month had a $200 package allegedly delivered by them only to never have signed for, seen or received it.  
UPS SUX, we know already!
Sorry but I'd rather this thread return to the topic of the monitor's quality, performance etc.
Respectfully, ARCADIAC!

[monkeybomb]

They left two notes not three, and they ignored the huge one to leave all packages with management.  They leave them there all the time and I would be surprised if they didn't leave others on the days when they were ignoring my usual request.  This is the first time they chose to ignore it but not the first that need a signature.  I didn't wade through the automated system cuz I didn't think I needed to.  (wrong, shame on me)

When I woke up the day after note two, my package was gone from the hub.  My story is not something I can prove.  It's too easy for a driver to say that there was no note and that he left all three.  

[JackTucky]

The UPS guys probably don't like moving that 90lb box too much.  I have a friendly relationship with my driver, he's here a lot (too much internet shopping for me).  He came at 10am instead of his usual 3-4pm because he said he didn't want to be moving my 90lb box all over his truck while making his other deliveries.

I joked with him that if I liked what was in there, I was going to order 10 more, to be delivered for 2 weeks consecutively.  He said he would drop them off the truck  

remember, UPS drivers are teamsters.  they really don't have to work if they don't want to.    

Art

[Henson123]

For those of you who have recieved you monitors - did they ever send you e-mail confirmation that it was sent, or did it just show up?  It's been over three weeks for me now, with no e-mail contact other than the order confirmation.  Did their tracking system or anything like that ever work?

Just trying to calm my nerves down a little bit as I wait and wait and wait.  Thanks.

[JackTucky]

I got an email from his UPS shipping system that my package was shipped.

Art

[Kremmit]

me too

[Gunstar Hero]

I got some emails... I don't remember one of them being a shipping confirmation, just an order confirmation.

Looks like they're in Nevada. Maybe that's why mine arrived so fast, since I'm in Northern Ca. I'm sure they use the slowest shipping possible at that price, so probably just need to be patient and await the arrival of that big box.

[Arcadiac]

For those of you who have recieved you monitors - did they ever send you e-mail confirmation that it was sent, or did it just show up?  It's been over three weeks for me now, with no e-mail contact other than the order confirmation.  Did their tracking system or anything like that ever work?

Just trying to calm my nerves down a little bit as I wait and wait and wait.  Thanks.

Be sure to check your spam folder, my shipping confirmation went there.  BTW 3-4 weeks is normal turnaround for these, hang in there!  ARCADIAC!

[Kayday]

Hey everyone, need some help with this monitor.  I just got it yesterday and when I turned it on, it has a yellow tint color.  I tried adjusting the color, contrast, brightness and it does not get rid of it.  Today, I realised that I couldn't adjust the blue, only red and green.  Any way to fix this?  Could going the RGB route instead of the vga cable fix this or am I screwed and need it replace?

BTW, this is going into a Sega Titan cab I got off ebay a couple days ago.

Rich

[Gunstar Hero]

Did you degauss?

(standard monitor question #1!)

[Iori]

HOT DAMN!   I got mine today and I am very pleased with it, the only small problem  I have with mine is there is a small blemish on the monitor toward the right of the center, but it is barely noticeable, probably won't be noticeable at all when there is smoked glass over it.  This thing PERFECTLY fit into my cab thankfully, no modification of my cab is need (and my cab isn't big at all).  Can't wait to get this puppy fully installed and update my project page... (finally)    Highly recommend this monitor to anyone that is thinking about getting it.

[Kayday]

Did you degauss?

(standard monitor question #1!)

Yeah, degauss it several times.  Used the vga cable that came with the monitor and a spare one I had with the same result.  I did a search and found what might be the problem.  The blue gun is definitely not working from either a bad solder or simply, the monitor is bad.  I will be getting a RGB cable today and hopefully the connection there will work.

[Gunstar Hero]

I'd try the RGB, but let CSO know about your issue anyways.

From what I've been reading in the older posts they'll make it right.

[gregor7777]

Just got mine today and it has that problem with blue as well. When I fired it up it worked fine, and had a great pic. but after about 10 minutes I lost blue...how do I degauss it?

[tep0583]

There's a series of buttons, just ahead of the LED and one behind it, all recessed into the holes in the case. The hole behind the LED is the power button. The four in a diamond shape in front of the LED are the controlls. I believe that one most forward in that group in the degauss.

[gregor7777]

There's a series of buttons, just ahead of the LED and one behind it, all recessed into the holes in the case. The hole behind the LED is the power button. The four in a diamond shape in front of the LED are the controlls. I believe that one most forward in that group in the degauss.

Cool, found it. Didn't fix the issue though. Sent an email to computersurplus outlet. Hopefully they can get anoher one to me...

[crashwg]

Hells yea!  Got my monitor today!  It's friggin huge!

Funny story actually...

I was taking a nap with my daughter, well not with her but at the same time rather.  My GF came home and was getting changed and right at that moment someone knocks on my door!  Ahhhh, so I rush to throw on some cloths and run down stairs.  I look through the peep hole and see a HUGE box outside my door... Hmmm, what the heck could that be I think.  I open the door to see the DHL guy getting back in his truck and drive off.  Can they do that?  I didn't think they could just leave a humugous box out there for anyone to steal...  For like 5 minutes my GF and I are tring to figure out what the heck this 4

[johnnysmitch]

just an FYI - looks like this deal is dead.  They still have the monitors for $89, but they have real shipping rates now - $77 ups... not too great of a deal anymore

[Gunstar Hero]

The $4.99 shipping doesn't show up until after you enter your order Try it. Don't worry, cause you still get the option to cancel your order once you see the shipping rates, and you can just click the Paypal button to avoid putting in credit card information.

I jut checked (for a local MAME buddy) and it still comes up fine.  

[Matt, GoC]

Can these things work fine sitting on their own in the open or do they HAVE to be put in an enclosure?  Just wondering if there's a shock hazard or something.  A friend of mine might be very interested in this... and so am I .  I got an old 10 yard fight cab that needs to be mamed.  P.S., did anyone click on the XXX option at the bottom of the list?  Funny!

[paigeoliver]

I have owned A LOT of these.

First off. If they lose a color it is likely the neckboard. Take the back of the casing off and reseat the neckboard. Or just push on it a bit and the color should come back.

These are fine to use out in the open. I have one on my desk and I have the top and back casing completely removed (this is the one that will lose a color from time to time).

You aren't going to get shocked by one of these unless you go diving under the anode cap. I will once again repeat that i use one of these on my desk, with the casing removed, and I reach inside all the time to make adjustments.

[Matt, GoC]

cool, thanks!

[iwillfearnoevil]

I open the door to see the DHL guy getting back in his truck and drive off.  Can they do that?  I didn't think they could just leave a humugous box out there for anyone to steal...  

even if not, they do. i have ups leave packages out in the rain at my house all the time without even ringing the doorbell to let us know there's a package. several years ago, they even delivered a scanner (in its original retail box not a shipping box) in the snow while it was still snowing. i came home from work and saw the box all wet even and someone was home the whole time. our drive is too lazy to knock or ring it seems.

[Sephroth57]

anyone have any pics of their monitor, the one on their website sucks

[crashwg]

1

[crashwg]

2

[crashwg]

3

Notice the holes in the middle of this picture, 1 to the left of the LED 4 to the right in a diamond patern.  The left one is power the other 4 are for OSD adjustments.  You need to insert something to push the buttons.

BTW Paige, what can you tell us about the controls board?  Is it posible to extend the controls elsewhere or do they have to stay connected for some reason?

[paigeoliver]

I took my top/rear casing off my monitor and removed the control boards from the side so I can just reach in and use them instead. You could easily extend them though. You will need to splice 4 wires to do so.

[gregor7777]

OK Guys allow me a rant.....let me first get something out of the way:

IF YOU ORDER FROM THIS COMPANY PLEASE HAVE A LOOK AT THIS: http://www.resellerratings.com/seller1782.html AND ALSO CONSIDER MY SITUATION.

Ok here's the story, ordered the monitor and a power supply in mid September. Beginning of October it ships, two and a half weeks later. Placed another order in late September for 2 CPU's, a couple Heatsinks, and a video card. It never shipped. It's been over a month.

Monitor arrived with the problem posted in one of my posts above. I'm going to try Paige Oliver's suggestion and I'll post back.

Why I'm mad:

First, I've emailed this company FOUR times since mid september and have not recieved a single reply. I actually told them in my fourth email I was going to call the police in their area. No response.

My second order never arivved after a full month. I was charged though. Finally I printed my email with the threat to call the police and faxed it to them and finally without any sort of warning or apology I got my money back for the second order.

They have offered me $50 STORE CREDIT (talk about monopoly money) for the broken monitor. Then I lose $50, and still have a broken monitor. Mind you this is after MANY emails and threats.

I will never order from them again, and judging from the past six months of reseller ratings, not many will. They have a below 1 rating (out of ten being the best) from the last six months.

BEWARE!

[Gunstar Hero]

That sucks gregor. Don't give up until you get satisfaction out of them.

If you used your credit card talk to your credit card company. They often offer buyer protection plans that you may have not even realized they had.

If not lets all carpool out there, torch the place, and load up on cheap monitors! Awwwww jeah.  

I feel lucky my purchase went so smoothly now.  

[jfunk]

First off. If they lose a color it is likely the neckboard. Take the back of the casing off and reseat the neckboard. Or just push on it a bit and the color should come back.

Did anyone try Paige's suggestion?  I got mine today, and it's the same thing.  Loses blue after about 5-10 minutes.  Give it a small shake or tap, and you can sometimes get it to come back on.  Sounds like a loose connection, but I don't want to remoeve the warranty stickers unless I'm positive...

Paige, is this 'reseating' something that'll have to be done alot?  Or will it be 'safe' to put into a cab being relatively certain it won't recurr..?

Anyone gotten any 'satisfactory' responses to email inquiries?

[Arcadiac]

Sent an RMA REQUEST on 10-14-2004, within the warranty period,
waited 2 weeks for reply, resent the same mail with a "what's going on?"  addendum, explaining that I was the one who recommended these monitors and CSO this time thru and was very dissatisfied with their complete lack of service.  A couple of days later I received this:

<<Mr. Holmes,

I apologize if you have not had a response to your previous e-mails regarding obtaining an RMA number.  I will have our shipping department pull a replacement monitor to test and ship it out as soon as possible.  You do not need to return the defective monitor back to us.  If there is anything else I can do for you, please let me know.
 
Thank you,
 
Rowell
 
Computer Surplus Outlet
284-C East Lake Mead Dr. #170
Henderson, NV 89015-5582

mailto:rowell@computersurplusoutlet.com
http://www.computersurplusoutlet.com/
 
"The Internet Liquidator of Today's & Yesterday's Computer Products" >>>>>

We'll see what happens next.  Have yet to receive a shipping comfirmation.

Those having problems with service/email may want to try:  rowell@computersurplusoutlet.com
That's where this response came from.

My apologies for anyone who ordered these from my recommendation, the company has rapidly gone downhill since last spring, a shame really as the first monitor is still kicking away in the cab I installed it in last spring.  ARCADIAC!

[jfunk]

Heh.  I wouldn't worry about it..  I knew the risk when I 'took the leap'..  Used monitor from an online seller?  

I figure, if nothing else, I should be able to open 'er up and tinker a bit.  I'm trying the tech support route, though, just in case it's beyond my abilities.  If I don't hear back from them, soon, I'll go the RMA route and trying emailing your contact.

Thanx for the info!  It does give me hope!  

[Gunstar Hero]

My apologies for anyone who ordered these from my recommendation, the company has rapidly gone downhill since last spring, a shame really as the first monitor is still kicking away in the cab I installed it in last spring.

You don't have to be sorry man.

Of course there have been some PITA experiences, but alot of people have used this thread and nailed some pretty nice monitors.

I don't want to tick anyone off who has had trouble, but I love this thing. It really makes my cab for me. And if not for your recommendation, I never would have thought to order it and still have a 17 inch monitor with a cardboard bezel.

You da man, ARCADIAC!

[tep0583]

My apologies for anyone who ordered these from my recommendation, the company has rapidly gone downhill since last spring, a shame really as the first monitor is still kicking away in the cab I installed it in last spring.  ARCADIAC!

No worries, man. Mine came out just fine and it sounds like a lot of others did, too. Even if it haden't, that's  not your fault. You ordered from them and they delivered as decribed, so you about your experiences. That's good enough for me. Not everyone's going to have positive experiences, especialy considerin that we're dealing with used equipment here.

I went into the whole transaction understanding that I might get a dud and it might be a pain to get them to make it right. That's that chance you take when you buy sight unseen.

[nostrebor]

<snip>

My apologies for anyone who ordered these from my recommendation, the company has rapidly gone downhill since last spring, a shame really as the first monitor is still kicking away in the cab I installed it in last spring.  ARCADIAC!

Hey Arcadiac, no apology required. I ordered one also (about a month ago). Got it Monday and it works perfect right out of the box. These guys are insanely slow to ship, but the monitor was worth the wait. They also responded to my E-mail's about the ship delay (after some persistance).

Job well done and thanks for the heads up!

[JackTucky]

I want another one of these.  My first one arrived after a delay but was perfect.  Not sure what to do  

ARt

[Iori]

Sorry to hear that things have gone bad for so many people with this deal.    I was lucky to get mine in a decent amount of time (I think it took a total of 2 weeks from time of order to get to me) and it works great.  Only problem is there is a small blemish on the screen that is barely noticeable, though it will be invisible once I get some smoked plexi in front of it...    If you can find these monitors elsewhere or don't mind taking a bit of a chance on buying one from these guys they are truly awesome for the cost...

I don't think that you should worry about this Arcadiac, nobody thinks any less of you, you had a good experience as alot of us have with this monitor at a great price and you just passed that experience on to others.  You can't hold yourself responsible in any way.

[gregor7777]

Mine actually has been working on and off now. Sometimes I get a great pic, other times not. I opened it up, pushed on what I thought was the neck board or whatever, and it seems to do the trick. It appears that this will be a common occurance. Luckily, in my cocktail I should be able to open it up easily enough.

No worries about the recommendation, all online transactions with used equipment must be considered buyer beware...it's noone's fault. But....that being said this company seems to be REALLY shady when something goes wrong.

[Arcadiac]

UPDATE:
Still waiting for a replacement monitor, originally asked for RMA in Oct.
Shame to see a good company go so wrong, DO NOT BUY FROM THIS COMPANY!
I'm sure there are other, more reputable companies that would love to have our business.  I'm done with these jerks, my money's gone.    ARCADIAC!

[Gunstar Hero]

Super lame.

Sometimes a bargain is less than a bargain.

Mines still working well (knock on wood) and I have buddies who have recieved theirs too. No problems yet...

[iwillfearnoevil]

UPDATE:
Shame to see a good company go so wrong, DO NOT BUY FROM THIS COMPANY!
I'm sure there are other, more reputable companies that would love to have our business.

[Arcadiac]

FINAL UPDATE:

After several emails and no replies, I emailed yet again threatening to contact state Atty General, Visa etc.  Last Thurs. my son awoke me from a nap t say "Dad there is a really big box on our porch."  CSO finally, 5 months after requesting RMA, replaced the bad monitor I received last Sept.  As it was cold out and this box weighs a hundred pounds or so I figured that I would just wait for the spring thaw to see if it works.  If it does then great, if not, oh well sometimes you just gotta let things go.

FYI, CSO has sold their company, but are still "resolving"  RMA's thru customer service email until July.  So if you have any unresolved issues with this company, now is probably your last chance to attempt to get it settled.  It's worth a try I guess.  The new owner will not settle CSO issues, I already tried, they claim that they have "no access to CSO database." 

If anyone out there has a reliable lead on these monitors for future reference, please let us know.

ARCADIAC!

[Chris]

I bought my Wells-Gardner from http://www.bizsyscon.com/ and had a good experience... they have 10 of the KDS 21" monitors.  They're all used, and I've heard that some have some amounts of burn-in, but they were pretty good about pulling them off the shelf and looking at them individually when I called about them before.  I worked with a guy named Mike there who was great, but that was two years ago.  The monitors are $75... I don't know what the shipping is, but those monitors are freaking heavy...

--Chris