projector turns on but the screen stays completely dark, no menu or anything, i can hear the fan running

— asked by Taylor

Quick answer: This is a failure of the light path. Three possible causes: a completely dead lamp, a failed DLP chip (DMD), or the lamp door safety switch is not engaged.

Diagnosis

This is a failure of the light path. Three possible causes: a completely dead lamp, a failed DLP chip (DMD), or the lamp door safety switch is not engaged.

How to Fix It

Perform a lamp check. Power on the projector in a dark room. Look directly at the lens. You should see a faint, deep blue glow if the lamp is striking. No glow means lamp failure. If you see the glow, check that the lamp cover is securely fastened. Its switch cuts power if open.

If That Didn't Work

If you see the blue glow but no image, the Digital Micromirror Device (DMD chip) or its controller has likely failed. This is a hardware fault. Listen for a faint, high-frequency buzzing from the DMD heatsink area—its absence suggests no power to the chip.

Heads Up

Before concluding lamp failure, try a forced reset. Unplug the power cord. Press and hold the 'Power' button on the projector for 30 seconds. Release, then plug in and power on normally. This clears any residual charge in the lamp ballast circuit.

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