We commonly get asked about the types of lamps we sell and how to tell if you need a new lamp. So, we've put together a list of frequently asked questions to help guide you with your purchase.
Projector lamps explained:
One of the most common questions we get asked is ‘Is it a bulb or a lamp?’ and we’re here to give you the answer. Some people may not think there’s a difference, but there is!
Now onto the lamp itself. You will see all manner of terms used to describe the lamp being sold; genuine, genuine original, genuine compatible, original this, original that. It can get quite confusing. Each of the types listed are actually all types that we sell, and there are a difference to each of these too…
There are just 3 types of lamp you can purchase. We carry all 3 options so you can offer your customers the best possible choice;
Our quality compatible range of replacement lamps are a cost-effective alternative to the original lamp. We produce our compatibles to exacting specifications to ensure the highest level of quality.
VIVID lamps offer the perfect balance. This means your customers need not have to pay what can amount to hundreds of pounds more for a genuine lamp without compromising on quality.
Projector Problems:
When your projector starts to fail, it is common logical to blame the lamp, but this isn’t always the case. Below outlines the most common things that can go wrong with your projector.
Top 7 Projector Problems:
Projector Problem 1 – Colours from projector distorted on the image
There are a several reasons why this may be occurring. The first thing to check is your projector cables. Ensure they are connected properly. If this does not fix the issue the best thing to do is to change these to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the problem may lie with your colour wheel / main board.
Projector Problem 2 – Lines / Dots on the image
This is a problem caused by the projectors main board (DMD Chip). When there is a problem with the main board (DMD Chip), it may be worth considering comparing the cost of getting a completely new projector rather than buying the main board (DMD Chip).
Projector Problem 3 – Projector overheating
This is quite a common case and is quite distinctive. It is usually caused by a problem with the fan. If there is no noise, then that means the fan will not be working and helping cool down your projector. Other things to look out for are the air filters within the projector., Over time they become clogged with dust. Either replace the filter or at the very least remove the filter and clean. Make sure that you aren’t leaving your projector in very bright direct sunlight as this obviously won’t help the projector cool down.
Projector Problem 4 – Projector turning on then turning off straight away
There are a number of things to look out for. The first thing to check is your power supply and make sure that all of your cables are in fully working condition and connected properly. After that, it would be worth checking how dusty the projector is, this may occur after a long period of time. This would mean having to service your projector.
Projector Problem 5 – Projector on but no image
If you can get your projector to turn on but then get no image, make sure that the cables that you are connecting with are connected correctly. If this is all OK, then it most likely you have a problem with your lamp ballast unit. The lamp ballast unit is what provides power to the lamp. If the lamp ballast unit goes, then most likely the lamp will usually go as well. Price varies on these units so your projector would have to be taken in for an assessment.
Projector Problem 6 – Shadows appearing on the image
This problem only applies to DLP Projectors. This yet again could be a problem with the projector’s main board, or it could be a problem with the mirror. The projector would need to be assessed to find the full extent of your problem. A mirror for your projector would be a reasonably cheap repair but again with the main board if that is the problem, it would be worth considering buying a new projector.
Projector Problem 7 – Colour around the edge of the image
This may occur on LCD projectors if the LCD prism becomes faulty. An LCD Prism is an expensive component on a projector and should only be thought about if necessary, in most cases it may just be best to look at buying a new projector.
How to get the most out of your projector:
Depending upon how your projector is handled, or serviced etc, will determine how long your lamp will function for. There are steps you can take to ensure you get the best performance from your projector.
Modern projectors may have a built-in timer to keep track of how long the lamp has been in use. The timer will eventually reach a certain point and display a message on your projector screen, or you may notice, over time, the lamp is not as brilliant as it was when you first installed it. These are warning indicators that you may have to start considering buying a new lamp.
How to preserve my projector lamp performance: listed below are 7 ways to preserve lamp performance