Yes, they were entered as hex commands, just as described. Settings were 9600,8,N,1. CM232 was controlling an outboard video processor up until today, did not have another one on hand.

Did not try to connect via hyperterminal due to not having a serial port on my pc and not being able to find out what USB to serial converters will function with this display (Samsung was less then helpful overall).

As a temp fix, display was switched back to IR, Bluray player was changed from HDMI to component and AVR is being used to handle switching duties between Bluray and HD cable.

The hokey ir work around is now used only for a seldom used composite device and is also in place as a semi hidden button in the event that the display ever gets switched off component by accident.

Will try to get more information and possibly revisit this issue at a later date.

Really nice display, crappy command structure, even worse manufacturer support.

Thanks for the help guys.