Digital/Data Projector Trouble Shooting:
Q. My Projector powers up and the menu works, but I do not have any image.
A. Check your source menu. Is RGB 1 (or RGB 2) selected?
Is your RGB cable connected to the source selected (RGB1 or RGB2)?
Check that the RGB source is set to standard.
Q. My image is split, it looks like half the picture is there. What's going on?
A. It could be that the graphics card in your PC can't push both the monitor image and the projector image. Turn off the monitor. Usually this is done via a function FN key on a laptop. Look for an icon that resembles a desktop computer/screen. Toggle to get the correct setting.
Q. Why is my picture fuzzy, especially the text?
A. The BEST picture is obtained from running your computer at the same resolution as the projector. For example, an SVGA projector runs at 800 X 600 native resolution, so the computer should be 800X600. The computer can run higher (1024X768) but the image will be manipulated, sometimes with less than satisfactory results. Some manufacturers have proprietary processing to remedy this, such as NEC's AccuBlend™ which ensures detailed image formatting in non-native resolution.
Q. My image flashes in and out... help!
A. If you see flashing or flagging try turning the Auto mode off in the Image Adj. Menu of the projector. If the problem persists check the VGA (computer) cable. As a rule, the maximum length of a good quality shielded cable is about 30 feet. Beyond that, a distribution amp is required.
Q. What's the maximum cable length between a computer and a projector?
A. Approximately 30 feet of shielded VGA cable, then you may need a distribution amp. Sometimes you can push this distance. Try the cable first, then order the amp if you need it.
Q. Why does my projector powers off by itself.
A. Some projector models have a Power off feature. If turned on, the projector will power down after some minutes of inactivity. This feature is to prolong lamp life. If this is painful, go to the power menu and deselect the power off option.
Q. Can I use both S-video and video at the same time and switch between them?
A. Yes, most projectors have 2 video inputs (Video & S-Video). Both inputs can be connected at the same time and you can use the remote or the menu to switch in between them.
Q. My image looks whacked, like a parallelogram! What's going on?
A. If the image is not square, the try aligning the projector physically to be at a level horizontal plane and 90 degrees from the screen surface. If this isn’t possible, most projectors have keystone adjustment, and many now have digital keystone adjustment that allow you to adjust all 4 corners of your image. Look for this feature in the menu options.
Q. Why is my picture scrambled? Where are my Windows icons?
A. If you are using a laptop computer, try turning off the laptop screen. Some equipment combinations will not work with simultaneous display of your laptop and the projector, often because the graphics card is lacking in horsepower. Consult your computer manual for the proper way to do this.
Match your computer's resolution to the projector's resolution. For example, if you have an XGA projector, match your native computer resolution to 1024 x 768.
Q. Lamp Life - How many hours will a lamp last?
A. The projector and the lamp are co-dependents. The cleaner and cooler the projector is, the longer the lamp will last. By regularly cleaning the filters (every 3 months) and ensuring the projector isn’t unplugged before the cooling cycle has completed, you will have given your lamp every chance for a long, fulfilling life. The 2000-3000 lamp-life hours that ALL manufacturers publish is under lab conditions. Honestly, in these days of lighter, smaller (read: hotter) 1000 hours is a really good run.
Here some other ways to prolong lamp life:
- Don't move the projector while the fan is still running. Wait until it shuts down.
- Ensure that nothing blocks the airflow to your projector's cooling fan. This means books, laptops, or it's rack/ceiling/wall mount.
- Higher than normal AC line voltage and spikes/dips can put any kind of electronics at risk. Although it may not affect other electrical appliances such as coffee makers and microwaves an increase of only two volts will shorten lamp life by as much as 20%, five volts as much as 58%! If you notice a problem with short lamp life, it's worth having an electrician test your lines.
- Don't daisy-chain extension cords. Use surge protected power bars.
Q. Why is the status light on my NEC projector blinking red (or orange or green)?
A. It's telling you some very specific, though coded, information by its color and blink rate. It could be you need a new lamp, or that the security feature has been engaged rendering the projector useless until overridden. Check your user manual's troubleshooting guide. Status light meanings are projector model specific. Call us if you get stuck!
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