How Long Does a DlP HDTV Lamp Last?
DLP TVs provide incredibly detailed high-definition pictures. As an evolution of projection TV technology, DLP televisions have use a lamp shining onto a electronically controlled color wheel to produce a picture. Eventually the lamp must be replaced, however.
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Lifespan
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On average DLP lamps typically last for approximately 8,000 hours of viewing time. Cheaper models, which use lower quality lamps, often have a lamp life of 1,000-2,000 hours.
Factors Affecting Lamp Life
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Operating your TV in extreme temperatures above those defined in its manual will reduce lamp life. Also operating your DLP in poor air conditions (cigarette smoke or dust) can negatively affect lamp life.
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When to Replace
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Over time the lamp will get progressively dimmer. This will result in a picture that is darker, less vivid, and has less detail. Each person will have a different tolerance for the reduced picture quality. However, most people change the lamp at the first sign of dimming.
Costs
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Replacement lamp costs vary greatly depending on the manufacturer of the TV and the quality of the lamp. As a rule of thumb, expect to spend around $200 (as of October 2009) on a replacement bulb.
Replacing the Lamp
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The lamps are user serviceable and designed to be replaced with a minimum of tools. Typically replacing the lamp involves little or no disassembly beyond removing the old one using a screwdriver and replacing it with the new bulb.
Extending Lamp Life
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To get the most out of your DLP lamp avoid television settings labeled dynamic or vivid as these excessively bright settings cause the bulb to work harder and shorten its life. Also make sure that yours DLP air vents and filter (if present) remain clean.
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