We all know how agonizing customer service on the telephone can be, especially when it’s a struggle just to get a human being on the other end of the line rather than a recording. Panasonic is trying to give high-definition plasma TV owners a lift this week in its phone consultations by offering all consumers access to its Plasma Concierge toll-free information service through June 17—yes, giving fathers everywhere another reason to join the HDTV fray in time for their special day or the near future. Ordinarily only available to Panasonic HD Plasma owners, the service will be accessible, for this week, to any consumer who would like to learn about HDTVs from a live expert, the company says.

Panasonic’s Plasma Concierge Program, which began in June 2006, offers its Panasonic Plasma owner members features that include live access to specialized Plasma TV consultants, a loaner program if a unit needs to be removed for repair, on-line chat capabilities and call staff that are empowered to resolve issues swiftly, according to the company.

In addition to answering basic and technical questions, Panasonic says its Plasma Concierge experts will work with consumers to help them figure out the type of flat panel television that best suits their needs by interviewing them about their TV-watching environment, viewing habits, room design/dimensions and lighting.

Consumers can access the service by calling 1-888-777-7134 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET. Consumers also go to www.panasonic.com/plasmacentral for more details about the company’s offerings.

Arlen Schweiger - Editor of Electronic House Magazine

Arlen writes about home technology installations and product news and reviews for electronichouse.com and Electronic House magazine.