Samsung DLP Contrast Problems

Since being founded in South Korea in 1969, Samsung Electronics has been a leading force in producing televisions, mobile phones and home appliances. Despite being a leader in the electronics industry, Samsung is not without flaws. Although Samsung's line of DLP (digital light processing) TVs offer detailed and sharp HDTV, they may experience contrast problems.

DLP Technology

Digital light processing (DLP) technology uses a DMD chip (Digital Micromirror Device), containing thousands of mirrors on its surface, to produce an image. In order to add color to the image, a light source is passed through a color wheel, which is projected onto the DMD chip. The color wheel reflects off of the mirrors, thus giving the picture color.

Contrast Problems

Samsung DLP TVs experience contrast ratio problems due to the the spinning color wheel. In darker scenes, a trail of color can be scene near a brighter object such as a lamp or window. This brief color image is known as the "rainbow effect." In their test of the Samsung HLN617W DLP TV, CNET reported seeing a trail of color in certain scenes. CNET also noted that not everyone testing the Samsung DLP saw the color spot on the screen.

Solution

If you experience any noticeable rainbow effect, you should contact Samsung. Serious contrast problems may require a new color wheel or a DMD chip. Internal repairs on the TV should be made by a professional. If the problem is barely noticeable, it may not be a candidate for repair.

References

• CNET Reviews: Samsung HLN617W
• CNET Reviews: LCD vs. DLP
• DLP TV Review: DLP TV vs. Plasma TV
• Samsung: History

Resources

• Samsung DLP TV Owner's Manual
• DLP TV Review: DLP TV Explained