Issues with my DLP

[ryanjoachim]

So, over the past few months I've noticed the picture on my Mitsu 65" DLP getting more and more dim. Based on my quick google searches, I'm not sure if it's a problem with the bulb itself, or a problem with the coolant (or something like that).

Anyone have any experience with DLP's?

[steveinaz]

Sounds like the bulb to me. Once you replace it, you'll think you have a new TV.

Search around alot as prices vary wildly. Don't forget to recalibrate after replacing the bulb.

[ryanjoachim]

I honestly couldn't find a price for bulbs for my tv anywhere, it was weird...and what would I need to know about recalibrating?

Is that just resetting the color/brightness/etc?

[packetjones]

I have replaced the bulb in my tv as well as the color wheel. If it is getting dimmer i would say it is the bulb. What model TV do you have? Typically you can purchase the bulb on-line fairly cheap and it is a DIY job. Should be able to change it out in like 15 min.

[ryanjoachim]

I'll check in a sec...my stupid sig doesn't seem to want to work sometimes...

My System:


TV: Mitsubishi 65" DLP WD-65733

[KASR]

I don't think that you'll need to recalibrate that model - just replacing the bulb which is a pop-out, pop-in job. how long have you had it and what would you say the runtime is?

[ryanjoachim]

I've had it for...at least 2 years, maybe closer to 3. It's been on every day almost all day from 8am-11pm/12am (kid loves watching tv)

[KASR]

I've had it for...at least 2 years, maybe closer to 3. It's been on every day almost all day from 8am-11pm/12am (kid loves watching tv)

Oh yeaaaa...bulb is prime for replacing. Quick and easy (thanks God) and not like the rear projection of old (read: NIGHTMARE)

[LessisNevermore]

So, over the past few months I've noticed the picture on my Mitsu 65" DLP getting more and more dim. Based on my quick google searches, I'm not sure if it's a problem with the bulb itself, or a problem with the coolant (or something like that).

Anyone have any experience with DLP's?

Yes I do...I've got the WD52628, and had the very same condition-right before it went out completely.

After much searching, I found this site, and took a chance. Delivery was fast and easy. They even included a glove to handle the new bulb, and very clear instructions at the site. Here's the exact bulb for your set. (this company seems to purchase OEM bulbs, which I tend to trust more)
http://www.dlplampxpress.com/Mitsubi...%20housing.htm

You can compare the bulb number at Mits' site just to double-verify. On some bulbs, they sell bulb and housing as a unit, some have the option of bulb only-which requires you to disassemble and re-use your old housing, for a lower price.

I re-used the old housing, and it took about 15 minutes to swap it out. No re-calibration needed.

[ryanjoachim]

Thanks a LOT for the input LessisNevermore!

I'll definitely take a look.

[LessisNevermore]

My pleasure!

There are quite a few online stores that carry these, but this place had the best prices on OEM stock.

[steveinaz]

I honestly couldn't find a price for bulbs for my tv anywhere, it was weird...and what would I need to know about recalibrating?

Is that just resetting the color/brightness/etc?

Buy Digital Video Essentials DVE (BestBuy) DVD and follow the instructions for Basic Calibration. Taking your set out of "torch mode" will greatly enhance bulb life, not to mention give you a far more realistic picture.

[steveinaz]

I don't think that you'll need to recalibrate that model - just replacing the bulb which is a pop-out, pop-in job. how long have you had it and what would you say the runtime is?

TV's always benefit from calibration, especially when replacing the bulb as his contrast/brightness settings will probably be way off from compensating for the dimmer conditions.

Also re-calibrate anytime you switch/replace DVD/Blu players as each player will display differently.

I'm not talking about a "professional calibration" those are expensive, and far more intensive.

Everyone should have the DVE disk if they want a good basic calibration. It's the best $29 bucks you'll ever spend towards your new HDTV.

[steveinaz]

I honestly couldn't find a price for bulbs for my tv anywhere, it was weird...and what would I need to know about recalibrating?

Is that just resetting the color/brightness/etc?

The DVE disk will take you through contrast (white level)/brightness (black level)/Color/Tint/Sharpness focusing. It then has advanced help for color decoders that are off a bit, or tint that is difficult to set correctly. There is also a screen centering/sizing utility, but this requires going into your TV's service menu--which I don't recommend.

[steveinaz]

DVE:

http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Video-.../dp/B00005PJ70

It's also available in BluRay, but either one works fine (I have had both). Having DVE for a TV is like having a stylus brush for your turntable---it's a MUST HAVE.

[ryanjoachim]

Has anyone seen/heard of a blu-ray player oriented cleaning disc like they used to have with regular DVD players?

My player is getting to be a couple years old and skips a lot on discs that it used to play without issue. Just wondering if there's a good way like those cleaning discs to clear out dust/grime/etc.

[TECHNOKID]

Having DVE for a TV is like having a stylus brush for your turntable---it's a MUST HAVE.

...as the insignificant investment could also make a difference in the life span of your flat panel...

Has anyone seen/heard of a blu-ray player oriented cleaning disc like they used to have with regular DVD players?

My player is getting to be a couple years old and skips a lot on discs that it used to play without issue. Just wondering if there's a good way like those cleaning discs to clear out dust/grime/etc.

As a former repair shop owner, I always seen such disc as BS. How often one tried to clean their gear with such to finally bring their gear for cleaning in my shop

Cheers!
TK

[ryanjoachim]

Any suggestions on how to clean it without a disc like that?

[henson]

DVE is pretty cool.