Clearing Sharp LC-50M Error Code 404 After Software Update

Understanding the Sharp LC‑50M Error 404 After a Software Update

When a Sharp LC‑50M television is running its latest firmware, you may encounter the dreaded error 404. Although the number resembles a web address error, on a Sharp TV it indicates that the system has lost communication with one of its internal modules or that a required firmware component could not be located. The error pops up almost immediately after the update is applied, the TV is turned on, or even while the user is navigating menus.

This guide explains why the 404 error appears, how to determine the root cause, and provides a comprehensive, step‑by‑step procedure to resolve the problem. The instructions are written for homeowners who want to keep their entertainment system running smoothly without calling a technician.

What Causes Error 404 on the LC‑50M?

How to Verify the Error Code

1. Power Cycle
   Turn the TV off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. If the error persists, proceed.

2. Check the Display
   Look at the bottom‑right corner of the screen. The number 404 will appear in a small banner. Confirm that this is the exact code and not a channel number or other number.

3. Confirm the Firmware Version
   Press the Menu button → System → About → Version. Note the firmware number and compare it with the latest release on Sharp’s support site. If your version is newer, the update was applied successfully; if older, the update may have failed.

4. Verify Internet Connection
   From the same menu, check the network status. If the TV reports “Not connected”, it may have failed to validate the firmware during installation.

If all the checks above confirm that the error is genuine, you can safely proceed with the troubleshooting steps.

Step‑by‑Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Perform a Safe Power‑Off

• Press the power button on the remote or on the TV itself to turn off the screen.
• Disconnect the power cord from the outlet for 60 seconds.
• Re‑plug the cord and turn the TV on again.
• If the error disappears, the problem was a temporary glitch.
• If the error persists, continue.

2. Reset Network Settings

• Navigate to Menu → Network → Reset Network.
• Confirm the reset.
• Re‑enter your Wi‑Fi SSID and password.
• Verify that the TV connects and that the IP address appears as a valid number.
• Re‑attempt the update if the firmware is not yet current.

3. Re‑run the Firmware Update Manually

1. Download the Update
   Go to Sharp’s official support page and download the firmware file for the LC‑50M. Save it to a USB drive formatted in FAT32.

2. Insert USB
   Plug the USB into one of the TV’s USB ports.

3. Select the Update
   Menu → System → Update → USB Update.
   Choose the file and confirm.

4. Wait for Completion
   Do not unplug the TV or USB during the update. The screen will display a progress bar and a message once finished.

5. Reboot
   After completion, the TV will reboot automatically. The error 404 should no longer appear.

4. Restore Factory Settings

Caution: This step will erase all user‑customized settings, channels, and apps.

1. Go to Menu → System → Factory Reset.
2. Confirm the reset.
3. Once the TV restarts, follow the on‑screen setup wizard.
4. Apply the latest firmware update again (see step 3).
5. Test all inputs to ensure the error is resolved.

5. Check External Cables and Accessories

1. HDMI Cables
   Remove all HDMI cables and plug them back in one by one.
   Look for any loose connectors or frayed wires.

2. Tuner Module
   If the TV has a built‑in tuner, ensure that the antenna or cable is connected securely.

3. Power Cable
   Swap the power cable with a known good one.
   A bad power cable can cause irregular voltage spikes that interfere with firmware flashing.

4. Remote Control
   Replace the battery or try a different remote to rule out remote‑command errors.

6. Verify the Firmware Integrity

If you have access to a computer, you can double‑check the downloaded firmware file:

• Check the File Size: It should match the size listed on the Sharp support site.
• Checksum: Use a checksum tool to calculate MD5 or SHA‑1 and compare it to the one provided by Sharp.
• Re‑download if any discrepancy appears.

7. Contact Sharp Support

If the error persists after all the steps above, you may be dealing with a deeper hardware issue:

• Open a Support Ticket
  Provide the TV model, serial number, firmware version, and a concise description of all steps you have taken.

• Schedule a Remote Diagnostic
  Sharp may remotely access the TV to read system logs and confirm the cause.

• Request a Replacement
  If the unit is still under warranty and a hardware fault is confirmed, the manufacturer will typically provide a replacement.

Quick Reference Checklist

• [ ] Verify error code on screen
• [ ] Check current firmware version
• [ ] Ensure network connectivity
• [ ] Power‑cycle the TV
• [ ] Reset network settings
• [ ] Manually update via USB
• [ ] Restore factory settings if necessary
• [ ] Inspect all cables and accessories
• [ ] Validate firmware file integrity
• [ ] Contact Sharp support if unresolved

Tips for a Smooth Update Experience

• Stable Internet: Use a wired Ethernet connection if possible.
• Power Backup: Keep a surge protector or UPS connected during updates.
• Avoid Interruptions: Do not turn off the TV mid‑update.
• Read Release Notes: Sharp’s update notes sometimes list known issues and workarounds.
• Keep Backups: For advanced users, backup channel lists or other data before a factory reset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the error appear only after the update?

The update modifies firmware modules that the TV uses for communication. If any module is corrupted or fails to install, the TV shows a 404 error to indicate that it cannot locate a required component.

Is there a way to skip the 404 screen during boot?

No. The screen is a safety indicator; skipping it would bypass the system’s self‑diagnostics. The only way is to resolve the underlying problem.

Can I downgrade the firmware to avoid the error?

Downgrading is not officially supported. Sharp firmware updates are designed to be cumulative, so rolling back may introduce other compatibility issues.

Will opening the TV help fix the error?

Opening the TV may expose internal connectors that are loose, but it is risky and can void the warranty. It is best to try software fixes first, and only if those fail should you consider professional repair.

How can I prevent future errors?

Keep the TV’s firmware updated, avoid power outages during updates, and keep all cables in good condition. Regularly check for firmware notices on Sharp’s website.

Final Thoughts

The Sharp LC‑50M error 404 is a common post‑update glitch that can usually be fixed with a systematic approach. By following the steps outlined above—starting with a simple power cycle, moving through network resets, manual firmware updates, and finally factory resets—you can restore your TV to full functionality. If the error persists, the issue is likely hardware‑related, and contacting Sharp support is the next best step. Remember to keep your firmware up to date and maintain stable power and network conditions to reduce the chances of encountering this error again.