Hi Sam,
I understand that you guys are getting swamped at the moment. I truly hope that we can identify the issue without having to replace the unit and I can wait a little longer for you to analyse the other returned unit (considering how long it would take for mine to get back to the UK).
The device is responsive when Kodi is stopped using sudo systemctl stop mediacenter including SSH connectivity. Note that this is only the case when I am going from a cold start. Normally I cannot run the ssh commands after the unit has started the sad face loop. It is only when Kodi is running that I have seen the reported screen distortion. When kodi is stopped, is the unit under any significant load?
I have been watching this other thread and many of the reported issues are very similar though mine was doing it out of the box. Remote not responding when connected to my TV - #4 by Guy
I’ll purchase a new PSU on the weekend and give it a go.