UpNorth,

You say to turn the projector on first for 10-20 sec and that you use a Harmony 880. Do you have an interval set in you activities on the Harmony to do this automatically?


Yes I do, I have delays set up for both the on and off sequences. Had level two tech support help with this as they were the only ones capable of doing it. I then fine tweaked it myself after they had the codes in place and the timing close. Just call and ask to speak to level two tech support, tell them that there must be a delay for the equipment turning on after the projector and then a delay for the projector turning off before the equipment. Good Luck..it was not a fun process. I can also PM you my settings as well once you have it close.

I just received my HD7100 a couple of days ago and I'm having problems with the pj converting to 720p or 1080i. All I get is 720 x 480. I have a Denon AVR-2807 and a Sony upconverting DVD (cheap player - but works fine). I've tried the DVI from the DVD player to the Denon and I've tried the component from the DVD player to the Denon - both with the DVI out connected to the pj. I don't have my HD Directv hooked up yet, so I'm just using the DVD player.

I've even tried the HDMI directly from the DVD player to the DVI on the projector. Nothing.

The picture at 720 x 480 looks great, but I'd really like to see 720p or 1080i.

Am I missing something?


Seems obvious, but do you have the SONY DVD player set to output 720P or 108I??


I try to always hook up directly and eliminate any switching or other processing in the path.

Well... Optoma finally sent my bulb to the right location.

Hopefully I will get it soon :) my sp5700 is getting old.

btw. Upnorth, you said that you use the Harmony 880. Do you have any issues with the HD7100? or with codes and such?

thanks.


rod

No it works fine with the projector and all the other equipment I have including my lights. The Harmony 880 is very good, easy to use remote.

My third 7100 just died. I'm averaging one every two months at this point. I'm getting tired of spending $70 to ship it back for replacement every time --sorta like a $35/mo projector subscription. This one does hold the record for most hours, roughly 420. The others never made it to 200.

Symptoms leading up to the complete failure were the same as the other units. For the first ~50 hours it works flawlessly, then starts occasionally exhibiting a very slight "flutter" in the brightness. This is easy to miss, but apparent if you bring up the menus. Switching econo mode off and on again fixes the brightness fluctuation for anywhere from minutes to hours. This problem shows up maybe once every 20 hours. Eventually it will begin having false starts where it fires the lamp, the lamp grows to full brightness, but the Optoma logo never displays. If you wait, it cycles itself once or twice (killing and re-firing the lamp each time) and eventually initializes ok. The final stage is a complete blackout in the middle of normal operation, after which the pj can no longer fire the lamp at startup.

My impression is that this is a firmware bug which results in radically shortened lamp life. The fact that the lamp fires but the firmware doesn't seem to notice (thus no Optoma logo) and then restarts it has got to be bad for lamp life.

This is exactly what mine is doing now, noticed the flicker the other night, new bulb and with only 80 hours on it. So I agree that this must be in the software as surely not all these bulbs can be bad!!

I also spoke with a tech from SIC Technology(the makers of the physical, mechanical parts of this projector). He suggested that Optoma borrowed this platform from them and then added there own software/firmware to the machine. He also suggested that this issue was taken care of in there projectors two to three generations ago and wondered why this unit was having this problem. Could it be the software/firmware Optoma is using...I think so!!

Optoma does not have a firmware update out for this projector, nor does the tech know of any plans to do so?? I suggested he read the posts in this forum to better understand the scope of this issue, as he says they know of no such issue with this projector. They are treating me like I am the only one with this problem..just not right!!

So to me this would suggest that no matter what bulb is used, it will fail after a very short time. Please try other bulb makes and see if they work and report your findings. I really do not want to stick another $400.00 Optoma supplied bulb in it again to find out if three bulbs are bad.

This is exactly what mine is doing now, noticed the flicker the other night, new bulb and with only 80 hours on it. So I agree that this must be in the software as surely not all these bulbs can be bad!!

I also spoke with a Tech from SIC Technology(the makers of the physical, mechanical parts of this projector). He suggested that Optoma borrowed this platform from them and then added there own software/firmware to the machine. He also suggested that this issue was taken care of in there projectors two to three generations ago and wondered why this unit was having this problem. Could it be the software/firmware Optoma is using...I think so!!

Optoma does not have a firmware update out for this projector, nor does the tech know of any plans to do so?? I suggested he read the posts in this forum to better understand the scope of this issue, as he says they know of no such issue with this projector. They are treating me like I am the only one with this problem..just not right!!

So to me this would lead me to suggest that no matter what bulb is used, it will fail after a very short time. Please try other bulb makes and see if they work and report your findings. I really do not want to stick another $400.00 Optoma supplied bulb in it again to find out if three bulbs are bad.


Yup I totally agree!

They were bull$hitting me when I called them about my lamp dying at only 90 hours for no apparent reason.


They said that I was the only one. atleast Optoma Canada. and I find that VERY hard to believe.

My lamp is going in today. If it dies again... omg... Best sell this poor soul and get something with some longevity.

Why wouldn't they have a fw update? This pj must not be very imortant to them.

Kinda like certain cars that weren't successful over here. *imports* They fired off one model, and that's it... on to the next.


I can't take 3 years of this. If my lamp fails again. they most likely will want me to send in the UNIT.






rod

can you guys recomend a mount for this pj. mine will be here Monday so im kinda in a hurry to order one.

Just get a universal mount of any kind

i just bought one today from costco.ca with the graywolf screen.. i'm basically using it as a test unit to see if projectors are right for me and then will return it in store when i'm done with it

my lamp finally arrived.

I hope I get a couple thousand hours out of her.

Seems obvious, but do you have the SONY DVD player set to output 720P or 108I??


I try to always hook up directly and eliminate any switching or other processing in the path.


Yes, in the DVD menu I've set it to Auto, 1920x1080, 1280x720 and the projector still says 720x480. I called Optoma and the guy said that it will say whatever the resolution is that the pj is receiving. So if the DVD native format is 480, that's what it will say even though the pj converts to 720p. So I asked him if I hookup a HD signal, and if what he's saying is true, then 1080i signal will say 1920x1080, but will be converted to 720. He said yes. Not sure if that's true or not.

What does your resolution say on DVD's? How about HD?

When I have it set to 720p it says 1280x720, when I have 1080i, 1920x1080


That goes the same for my upscaling dvd player and tosh and my HD DVR.

Yes, in the DVD menu I've set it to Auto, 1920x1080, 1280x720 and the projector still says 720x480. I called Optoma and the guy said that it will say whatever the resolution is that the pj is receiving. So if the DVD native format is 480, that's what it will say even though the pj converts to 720p. So I asked him if I hookup a HD signal, and if what he's saying is true, then 1080i signal will say 1920x1080, but will be converted to 720. He said yes. Not sure if that's true or not.

What does your resolution say on DVD's? How about HD?

Not sure what he is saying is exactly right or if you understand it correctly. I will try to explain and clarify for you though.

Just because your projector suggests it can receive a 1080i signal does not mean it is what will look best, or what you should feed it. It will depend on your source and the output resolution of that source. You should always try and match your source signal resolution to the projectors native panel, in this case 1280x720p, so you should set your DVD players output to be 1280X720p. This helps to eliminate unwanted image processing and the introduction of addition video artifacts.

Your DVD player is deinterlacing and scaling a 480i source image and converting it up to the 1920X1080i source output image that you are sending to the projector which has a native panel resolution of 1280X720p. So the projector must then scale that image down again to 1280X720p which is its native panel resolution and it is probably also doing some other processing such as de-interlacing to the image as well. So you have now had this original 480i DVD image source processed two times, however you only want it processed once. The projector will show or should show 1920X1080i in this scenario.

Your DVD player is deinterlacing and scaling a 480i source image and converting it up to a1920X720p source output image that you are sending to the projector which has a native panel resolution of 1280X720p. So the projector does not have to scale that image down again to 1280X720p which is its native panel resolution. It is hopefully now not doing other processing such as de-interlacing to the image. So you now have had this original 480i DVD image source processed only one time, which is what you want. The projector will show or should show 1280X720p in this scenario.

Your DVD player is outputting a 480i source image and not converting up the image that you are sending to the projector which has a native panel resolution of 1280X720p. So now the projector does have to try and scale that image up again to try and achieve 1280X720p which is its native panel resolution. It is probably now doing the other processing such as de-interlacing to the image. So you now have had this original 480i DVD image source processed only one time, which is still what you want, just not as high a resolution. The projector will show or should show only 720x480i in this scenario. There is just not enough information sent in 480i signal for the resolution to be set any higher than this by the projector.

The above DVD explanations holds true for HDTV as well, if you send a direct 720p signal to the projector from the HD box it will or should display 1280X720p which was the original source signal resolution and the one you want. If you send a 1080i signal then the projector should show 1920X1080i, which again is what you want if that is what the original signal or source was. If you set your HD box to output only 720P then that is what it will output and the projector will have to again have to scale up for a 1080i signal sent this way, but the projector should still only show 1280X720p, even though it is a 1080i signal. If you set your HD box to 1080i only, then when the projector receives a 720p signal it will have to scale down. It should now show as 1920X1080i, even though it is 720p signal. It is worse for SD TV as it is the same for the DVD scenario, just not enough information and resolution to work with.

You should try and select auto out or native out on your HD box if possible. If not you will have to switch manually between the signal sources dependent upon the channel. If you can not set auto, and you do not want to try and guess what the signal resolution output is on each channel and or switch manually then just pick one or the other 720p or 1080i. Then see which looks better the scaling up or the down scaling by the projector. You may not or may not notice a big difference which ever way you may choose.

Hope this helps and was useful information!!

UPNORTH,

I wonder if our machines could be flashed to SIC firmware. I have found no indication of any malfunction on these units in Europe and they have been buying these for a long time in a much higher quantity. So it is possible that Optoma messed it up a bit with their revision. Still if you look at the menu structure of HD7100 it is the same as SIC and Metavision so whatever changes they made should be minimal.

How do we get out hands on SIC firmware? :confused:

Not sure what he is saying is exactly right or if you understand it correctly. I will try to explain and clarify for you though.

Just because your projector suggests it can receive a 1080i signal does not mean it is what will look best, or what you should feed it. It will depend on your source and the output resolution of that source. You should always try and match your source signal resolution to the projectors native panel, in this case 1280x720p, so you should set your DVD players output to be 1280X720p. This helps to eliminate unwanted image processing and the introduction of addition video artifacts.

Your DVD player is deinterlacing and scaling a 480i source image and converting it up to the 1920X1080i source output image that you are sending to the projector which has a native panel resolution of 1280X720p. So the projector must then scale that image down again to 1280X720p which is its native panel resolution and it is probably also doing some other processing such as de-interlacing to the image as well. So you have now had this original 480i DVD image source processed two times, however you only want it processed once. The projector will show or should show 1920X1080i in this scenario.

Your DVD player is deinterlacing and scaling a 480i source image and converting it up to a1920X720p source output image that you are sending to the projector which has a native panel resolution of 1280X720p. So the projector does not have to scale that image down again to 1280X720p which is its native panel resolution. It is hopefully now not doing other processing such as de-interlacing to the image. So you now have had this original 480i DVD image source processed only one time, which is what you want. The projector will show or should show 1280X720p in this scenario.

Your DVD player is outputting a 480i source image and not converting up the image that you are sending to the projector which has a native panel resolution of 1280X720p. So now the projector does have to try and scale that image up again to try and achieve 1280X720p which is its native panel resolution. It is probably now doing the other processing such as de-interlacing to the image. So you now have had this original 480i DVD image source processed only one time, which is still what you want, just not as high a resolution. The projector will show or should show only 720x480i in this scenario. There is just not enough information sent in 480i signal for the resolution to be set any higher than this by the projector.

The above DVD explanations holds true for HDTV as well, if you send a direct 720p signal to the projector from the HD box it will or should display 1280X720p which was the original source signal resolution and the one you want. If you send a 1080i signal then the projector should show 1920X1080i, which again is what you want if that is what the original signal or source was. If you set your HD box to output only 720P then that is what it will output and the projector will have to again have to scale up for a 1080i signal sent this way, but the projector should still only show 1280X720p, even though it is a 1080i signal. If you set your HD box to 1080i only, then when the projector receives a 720p signal it will have to scale down. It should now show as 1920X1080i, even though it is 720p signal. It is worse for SD TV as it is the same for the DVD scenario, just not enough information and resolution to work with.

You should try and select auto out or native out on your HD box if possible. If not you will have to switch manually between the signal sources dependent upon the channel. If you can not set auto, and you do not want to try and guess what the signal resolution output is on each channel and or switch manually then just pick one or the other 720p or 1080i. Then see which looks better the scaling up or the down scaling by the projector. You may not or may not notice a big difference which ever way you may choose.

Hope this helps and was useful information!!

upnorth, I appreciate the detailed explanation and it sounds like my issue may fall under your 3rd scenario of the DVD not upconverting. Here's a dumb question: even if I have a DVD player that isn't upconverting (even though it has an hdmi output and should be) is the pj failing to convert to 1280x720 also if the display shows 720x480? Also, I have a Denon 2807, which also upconverts all composite and component inputs. I've tried hooking up the DVD with component to the receiver and hdmi from the receiver to the pj...stil shows 720x480. I've also tried the DVD player directly to the pj via hdmi and component and neither show anything but 702x480. I have Directv coming this Friday to hook up the new HD20 so hopefully my HD will show something other than 720x480. Again, thanks for taking the time to respond.

I just bought a new Optoma 7100 from a forum sponsor. I've had the PJ
for about two weeks now and I thought I'd post my impressions.

Just some background from me so you know what my point of reference is.
I have been watching a Sanyo PLV-Z1 for 5 years. I spent MANY hours
tweaking that PJ, and after a LOT of work got it looking pretty good.
Even though I've been happy with my Sanyo, it has averaged only about
800 hours between bulb failures. After my bulb blew I decided I wasn't
going to feed this beast any more lamps. It was time to buy a new PJ.

Originally I had my heart set on the Mitsu HC5000. But due to price
and availability problems I decided instead to gamble on a low-end DC3
720p PJ. After a bunch of research I settled on the 7100.

Here's what I've found so far:

Good -
Excellent Contrast and Black level

Very Bright (At least compared to my Sanyo)

Smooth, film-like picture.

Lens-shift

Excellent color out-of-the-box.

Supports 1280x720p @ 48HZ and boosts the color wheel speed to 6X
when in 48Hz mode.

Bad -
Loud. Even louder than my Sanyo.

Bad user interface. The projector always powers-up looking for the
DVI input, regardless of what input it was on when powered-down. You
then have to manually select the port you want at a specified time
after the PJ starts up. Also, every now and then it will decide to skip
the DVI search and go to the last viewed input. Weird.
The menus are non-sensical, and hard to navigate. Also, there is
no confirmation when you save your settings. How are you supposed
to know the PJ received the command? Seriously, this is the worst
user interface I've ever seen.

Bizarre choice of throw/shift options. I don't know what Optoma was
thinking on this one either. This PJ has a short throw that makes it
unsuitable for a rear-shelf mount and a lens shift range that makes
unsuitable for many table-mounting and high-ceiling mounting
installations.

Lamp flicker. This is the worst problem. In low lamp mode the lamp
occasionally flickers. It so far goes away in high lamp mode, but I'm
afraid it will start flickering in that mode soon too.

No tweakability. While you can adjust the RGB bias and gain in the
user menus, there are no individual gamma adjustments and there is
no user control of the Iris. It would be nice to have the option of
opening up the Iris when the lamp gets a few hours on it to brighten
the image up.




Even though I have zero complaints about the picture quality and I got a great
price, I would not be able to recommend this PJ to a friend due to what appears
to be an inherent lamp problem. This is a shame because it really throws a
great image.

On a side note, has anyone who had the lamp flicker problem bought from Visual
Apex? I'm debating whether or not to send it in for service and would like a
first-hand account.

Mike

UPNORTH,

I wonder if our machines could be flashed to SIC firmware. I have found no indication of any malfunction on these units in Europe and they have been buying these for a long time in a much higher quantity. So it is possible that Optoma messed it up a bit with their revision. Still if you look at the menu structure of HD7100 it is the same as SIC and Metavision so whatever changes they made should be minimal.

How do we get out hands on SIC firmware? :confused:

Great idea, mbonikof!!
Let's hope that we hear from users familiar with the pj firmware.
In my search I have seen references to a Liesegang e-motion 4100 projector and Prestimage 5500 projector as being/having the same hardware platform as ours. Apparently they both retail in Europe in the 5000 euros range.
By the way, what do you mean by the menu structure of the hd7100 being the same as Metavision? Is this Metavision a projector like ours?

[QUOTE=mbonikow]UPNORTH,

I wonder if our machines could be flashed to SIC firmware. I have found no indication of any malfunction on these units in Europe and they have been buying these for a long time in a much higher quantity. So it is possible that Optoma messed it up a bit with their revision. Still if you look at the menu structure of HD7100 it is the same as SIC and Metavision so whatever changes they made should be minimal.

How do we get out hands on SIC firmware? :confused:[/QUOTE

I would also like to know if that would be a solution to the problem. I have sent numerous emails to Optoma this week, siting my problems and other forum members concerns with this projector. I have copied quotes from some of you here and attached them in my emails; hope you all do not mind.

I have yet to receive any response back from Optoma Canada by either email or by phone, despite the fact that I requested a direct response and or an acknowledgement of the receipt of my emails by them I am not sure they are takeing me or this issue seriously, or wanting to take responsibility. I am afraid we may all be out of luck and left to our own demise with this projector. Below is my latest problem and email sent to them.

Morning Devan,

Went to turn on my projector last night and it would not turn on. When I went to turn it on, the blue light was not on, the projector was not on and the lamp was not on, The projector had power hooked up as I confirmed at the RGPC, that it was plugged in. I tried the factory remote two or three times still nothing, no blue light, no power on, no lamp fire, nothing. I had to unplug the projector and then plug it back in. I then got a blue light and tried the remote again. It fired up and the lamp went on, however it seemed to go to a bright white light screen for a moment, then returned to a more normal level of brightness and color. Would like to know what is going on with this projector and what Optoma is planning on doing about it.

Below is yet another new post from another new member, with problems with this projector.

Please forward this on as well.

Is there a firmware upgrade, or anything planned?

Pleases respond and let me know that you are at least receiving my emails.

Mike

I also just purchased this projector from a forum sponsor. I am kicking myself for not buying the lamp protection warranty right now.

I have had the projector for 2 days now. The lamp fired up on the first try on Day 1. However last night it took 3, yes, 3 strikes for the lamp to light up. (lit to a dim image - completely shutoff - lit to a dim image again - completely shutoff - lit to a dim image with Optoma logo page - searching DVI - TV image) All without touching the power button other than initially turning it on.

This is on a projector with 1 hour on the lamp life. I am getting really concerned.

What should I do? Are there tricks I can do to ensure that this does not happen again? (I left my cable box on overnight - hopefully tonight when I try to turn the projector on tonight it will light up on the first try)

[QUOTE=mbonikow]UPNORTH,

I wonder if our machines could be flashed to SIC firmware. I have found no indication of any malfunction on these units in Europe and they have been buying these for a long time in a much higher quantity. So it is possible that Optoma messed it up a bit with their revision. Still if you look at the menu structure of HD7100 it is the same as SIC and Metavision so whatever changes they made should be minimal.

How do we get out hands on SIC firmware? :confused:[/QUOTE

I would also like to know if that would be a solution to the problem. I have sent numerous emails to Optoma this week, siting my problems and other forum members concerns with this projector. I have copied quotes from some of you here and attached them in my emails; hope you all do not mind.

I have yet to receive any response back from Optoma Canada by either email or by phone, despite the fact that I requested a direct response and or an acknowledgement of the receipt of my emails by them I am not sure they are takeing me or this issue seriously, or wanting to take responsibility. I am afraid we may all be out of luck and left to our own demise with this projector. Below is my latest problem and email sent to them.

Morning Devan,

Went to turn on my projector last night and it would not turn on. When I went to turn it on, the blue light was not on, the projector was not on and the lamp was not on, The projector had power hooked up as I confirmed at the RGPC, that it was plugged in. I tried the factory remote two or three times still nothing, no blue light, no power on, no lamp fire, nothing. I had to unplug the projector and then plug it back in. I then got a blue light and tried the remote again. It fired up and the lamp went on, however it seemed to go to a bright white light screen for a moment, then returned to a more normal level of brightness and color. Would like to know what is going on with this projector and what Optoma is planning on doing about it.

Below is yet another new post from another new member, with problems with this projector.

Please forward this on as well.

Is there a firmware upgrade, or anything planned?

Pleases respond and let me know that you are at least receiving my emails.

Mike


I had to deal with devan/ optoma also. recently a lady at the front desk for optoma said that devan is off for a while. cuz of an family emergency or something.

that is probably why you recieved no emails.


Took 1 month to recieve my lamp.

Don't know how long it will last. but compared to others... not long.



There is something real wrong with this pj. and they don't seem to focus on it.

This PJ fell through the cracks.


I think it is just a Lemon...

I also just purchased this projector from a forum sponsor. I am kicking myself for not buying the lamp protection warranty right now.

I have had the projector for 2 days now. The lamp fired up on the first try on Day 1. However last night it took 3, yes, 3 strikes for the lamp to light up. (lit to a dim image - completely shutoff - lit to a dim image again - completely shutoff - lit to a dim image with Optoma logo page - searching DVI - TV image) All without touching the power button other than initially turning it on.

This is on a projector with 1 hour on the lamp life. I am getting really concerned.

What should I do? Are there tricks I can do to ensure that this does not happen again? (I left my cable box on overnight - hopefully tonight when I try to turn the projector on tonight it will light up on the first try)


Lamp Protection warranty? wtf is that???

With your dealer.. that sounds fishy. cuz I got my PJ right from Optoma, through a nice dealer that let me skip the middle man. and optoma says you get 90 days warranty on the lamp. so you should too.

mine died @90 hours. and I got a new one free.

...
Below is yet another new post from another new member, with problems with this projector.


Mike

I don't know if I like being referred to as a new member, since I've been posting here for 5 years now. ;)

At least I bought the 3 year lamp protection warranty with my 7100. It looks like I may need to use it.

I hope we can find a reasonable solution to this. I don't really want to have to send in my projector for repair.

The Other Mike

^ the funny thing is that Sending this PJ in for repair. really... solves nothing...


some people are on their 3rd or god forbid 4th one.

talk about beating a dead horse.

maybe this PJ is just defective.

I don't know if I like being referred to as a new member, since I've been posting here for 5 years now. ;)

At least I bought the 3 year lamp protection warranty with my 7100. It looks like I may need to use it.

I hope we can find a reasonable solution to this. I don't really want to have to send in my projector for repair.

The Other Mike

First my apologies., only meant that you were new to posting about your problems/issues with this projector.

I have sent my projector in to Optoma once for repair already and I have also stuck a new bulb in it. The problem was and is still not solved. I do not think that sticking new bulbs in this projector will help. I think it will be a waste of your hard earned money. I am also not sure that sending it in for repair will help you yet, at least not until the finally admit that there is problem with this projector model and propose a solution to fix it.

OK Guys!

I must say I am really amazed at all these strange issues. I wonder if I am the lucky guy due to the model I have. What does your PJ say on the bottom 7100 or 7300 and what are the serial #'s?

My says HD7300 and it was an early unit so I wonder if I got lucky. I think they changed the sticker to HD7100 later when they decided to sell it without the processor.

Going through Optoma Canada is a waste of time. They never did anything about H77 and knew nothing about the panning issues, while in US Guitarman managed to resolve it through Optoma and helped many members. I think US and AVS forum is the way to go and get the firmware upgrade.

I keep seeing posts to the effect: what was Optoma thinking etc.!
THIS IS NOT AN OPTOMA PROJECTOR!!!
It was marketed by them. It is sold under 5 or 6 different platforms from Chiilin Electronics. Optoma will have to get issues resolved with them to help us IMHO. Hence dealing with US or Taiwan is the only option in my opinion. I agree they have little incentive since they don't produce it.

Personally I still love mine and it's sad to hear you guys struggle. I come here to get tweaks and max. the performance of the pj, hard to get anything going when it's all about lamp failures.

I have my running with 72Hz input at the moment after trying the 48Hz and it's just silly how good the picture is. Smoothest picture I have seen out of DLP so far, an absolute joy to watch. I am seriously thinking of getting a scaler to get more out of it plus I am going with 2.35 setup despite short throw with a screen in 150" size. In Europe a bunch of hi end video buffs with the SDI fed scalers have forgone Rubys in favour of this setup (Prestimage in France). This tells you something.

Let's hope you can get the issues resolved

It has been 2 1/2 weeks since I have had a lamp misfire, and I am hoping that my strict start up procedure has something to do with that, but some how I doubt it since it is deferent than some others use. I suspect it is a random miss loading of the firm ware causing it, with no user remedy. I would like to know if anyone having this problem actually disconnects the projector from line power after it cools down when not using the projector, instead of just turning it off with the on unit power switch?

I reported my problem to Optoma 2 1/2 weeks ago and have heard nothing from them yet.

I also just purchased this projector from a forum sponsor. I am kicking myself for not buying the lamp protection warranty right now.

I have had the projector for 2 days now. The lamp fired up on the first try on Day 1. However last night it took 3, yes, 3 strikes for the lamp to light up. (lit to a dim image - completely shutoff - lit to a dim image again - completely shutoff - lit to a dim image with Optoma logo page - searching DVI - TV image) All without touching the power button other than initially turning it on.

This is on a projector with 1 hour on the lamp life. I am getting really concerned.

What should I do? Are there tricks I can do to ensure that this does not happen again? (I left my cable box on overnight - hopefully tonight when I try to turn the projector on tonight it will light up on the first try)

I just popped in here because a friend is thinking about this projector and I wanted to get some impressions. This lamp issue is a strangely familiar one. I have the H79 now and have 6 (count them - 6) lamp related failures in the past year and a half. That's 3 projectors, 2 lamp swaps and the problem has popped up again after only about 700 hours on the present lamp.

Optoma seems to have a real problem here.

mbonikow wrote:

I must say I am really amazed at all these strange issues. I wonder if I am the lucky guy due to the model I have. What does your PJ say on the bottom 7100 or 7300 and what are the serial #'s?
My says HD7300 and it was an early unit so I wonder if I got lucky. I think they changed the sticker to HD7100 later when they decided to sell it without the processor.

Well, mine is a 7100 of late issue, has about 130 hrs of use on it (original lamp) and I am still happy with it but concerned about what is now a known widespread problem. Based on reports here, I am convinced the pj is defective; perhaps it is the firmware, as may have been modified by Optoma.

Going through Optoma Canada is a waste of time. They never did anything about H77 and knew nothing about the panning issues, while in US Guitarman managed to resolve it through Optoma and helped many members. I think US and AVS forum is the way to go and get the firmware upgrade.

Agree.

I keep seeing posts to the effect: what was Optoma thinking etc.!
THIS IS NOT AN OPTOMA PROJECTOR!!!
It was marketed by them. It is sold under 5 or 6 different platforms from Chiilin Electronics. Optoma will have to get issues resolved with them to help us IMHO. Hence dealing with US or Taiwan is the only option in my opinion. I agree they have little incentive since they don't produce it.

Personally, I have yet only found references to only 2 other projectors that use the DC3 DLP chip: Metavision CHT-728 and SIC Cinema 2 mark lll. I am uncertain about the Lisegang e-motion 4100 and the Prestimage 5500 which may be using DC2 instead.
Could you help me to get info/posts on the Prestimage pj?

Personally I still love mine and it's sad to hear you guys struggle. I come here to get tweaks and max. the performance of the pj, hard to get anything going when it's all about lamp failures.

I support these statements; however, I think it is urgent to join forces and get the lamp issue(s) addressed.


I have my running with 72Hz input at the moment after trying the 48Hz and it's just silly how good the picture is. Smoothest picture I have seen out of DLP so far, an absolute joy to watch. I am seriously thinking of getting a scaler to get more out of it plus I am going with 2.35 setup despite short throw with a screen in 150" size. In Europe a bunch of hi end video buffs with the SDI fed scalers have forgone Rubys in favour of this setup (Prestimage in France). This tells you something.

What source(s) are you presently using to get the 72 Hz input? Are you doing it in the pixel to pixel mode? Are you using the DVI, component or VGA inputs? What kind of calibration do you do? Could you post your settings?
I have ordered the Optix XR calorimeter and have downloaded the HCFR free software. I will post results in due time once I learn how to use the new toys.

Guitarman, if you are still there, would you pls. support/help us? It seems that Optoma listens to you.




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It has been 2 1/2 weeks since I have had a lamp misfire, and I am hoping that my strict start up procedure has something to do with that, but some how I doubt it since it is deferent than some others use. I suspect it is a random miss loading of the firm ware causing it, with no user remedy. I would like to know if anyone having this problem actually disconnects the projector from line power after it cools down when not using the projector, instead of just turning it off with the on unit power switch?

I reported my problem to Optoma 2 1/2 weeks ago and have heard nothing from them yet.

I do the full disconnect from the power line, when finished, every time.
What is your start up procedure?

I always start up by turning on my OPPO dvd player connected with DVI, loading the disk, waiting untill the disk is playing, then turning the hd7100 on. So far, I always get an OPTOMA screen for several seconds, then a black screen with a white message that indicates it has found the DVI input, then the disk comes up (still very dark, but brightens up fairly quickly). My PJ always comes up in manual source mode.

Guitarman, if you are still there, would you pls. support/help us? It seems that Optoma listens to you.
That is funny. He really loved this projector, and seemed to give it one of the highest recommendations he has ever given (he said he even purchased one, which he had not done since the H30). By now he should know if there are any issues.

That is funny. He really loved this projector, and seemed to give it one of the highest recommendations he has ever given (he said he even purchased one, which he had not done since the H30). By now he should know if there are any issues.

tom offered to sell me his hd7100 for $1500 not too long ago. hmmmm.

He also stated the 7100 was better than the H79... Hmmmm.

That's right, He sold it. I saw an add for it with him selling it some time after I got mine.


Maybe he had a change of heart... hmm

That's right, He sold it. I saw an add for it with him selling it some time after I got mine.


Maybe he had a change of heart... hmm

Not too long ago he tried to sell to me via pm. he never mentioned any problems with the model line.

He prob bailed cuz he knew that it wuz a lemon.

I am thinking of selling mine... it is working fine now... but only at 10 hours on a new lamp.


for how long....

He prob bailed cuz he knew that it wuz a lemon.

I am thinking of selling mine... it is working fine now... but only at 10 hours on a new lamp.


for how long....


What a shame. I valued his opinion. he told me the only quirk was the digital output handshake issue with the toshiba hd dvd.

Anyway my hd7100 comes Tuesday from visual apex. Wish me luck.

What a shame. I valued his opinion. he told me the only quirk was the digital output handshake issue with the toshiba hd dvd.

Anyway my hd7100 comes Tuesday from visual apex. Wish me luck.


Luck.


The PQ on this pj is KILLER!. (on HD content at it's best.)

But the issues negate all that...

Hello, I got a replacement 7100 for my last one for brightness uniformity issue. Still seems to be dimmer on the left, just not as much as the last 2 I had, so for now am sticking with this one. It is also once again brighter on the right. As for the startup problem, I have had it, and as of now I turn off the power at the source (everything) , then I turn on the projector, once it comes on and says it is searching for a source, I turn on my DVD player which is hooked up to DVI, and it has found it so far. I am still thinking about getting a filter with half netural density fade on it to even out the brightness. Not sure if that would help or make it worse.

exgo thanks for the luck. what hdtv source are you running? i have a comcast motorola dvr/tuner model dct 6412 III. do you output 720p or 1080i to the pj?

Thanks
Woody

exgo thanks for the luck. what hdtv source are you running? i have a comcast motorola dvr/tuner model dct 6412 III. do you output 720p or 1080i to the pj?

Thanks
Woody

I run HDTV DVR, HDA1 HD DVD, Blu Ray via PS3. I always output 1080i.

My main Pj is my sp5700 now tho. I have decided to use my hd7100 very sparingly.

my sp5700 is only 576p but has never had a problem in almost 6000 hours. I am just about through the second bulb.

Luck.


The PQ on this pj is KILLER!. (on HD content at it's best.)

But the issues negate all that...

I agree..the picture quality is killer on this projector and HDTV or HIGH DEF DVD"S rule on this projector. I am able to achieve an over 4700:1 contrast ratio and 14FLB's on this projector with new bulb(100hours) in and calibrated using Colorfacts to 6500k from 20IRE to 100IRE with a very even grey scale and perfect gamma at 2.23.

However the flicker is getting worse and have to put it in bright mode to resolve it. :( It then it goes away and comes back a short time later. I do not have as many sync or start up issues however as I always use the same procedure as described in one of my earlier posts. Projector on first for about ten seconds then turn other equipment on, turn projector off first then turn off other equipment.

Mike

upnorth, I appreciate the detailed explanation and it sounds like my issue may fall under your 3rd scenario of the DVD not upconverting. Here's a dumb question: even if I have a DVD player that isn't upconverting (even though it has an hdmi output and should be) is the pj failing to convert to 1280x720 also if the display shows 720x480? Also, I have a Denon 2807, which also upconverts all composite and component inputs. I've tried hooking up the DVD with component to the receiver and hdmi from the receiver to the pj...stil shows 720x480. I've also tried the DVD player directly to the pj via hdmi and component and neither show anything but 702x480. I have Directv coming this Friday to hook up the new HD20 so hopefully my HD will show something other than 720x480. Again, thanks for taking the time to respond.


Not sure why this is, as it should show 1280X720 if your upconverting in that resolution and 1920X1080i if your upconverting DVD player is set to output 1080i. Is there a menu selection or switch on the back of the DVD player to switch output from composite to component or HDMI? Has the issue been resolved with the new HD20?

OK Guys!

I must say I am really amazed at all these strange issues. I wonder if I am the lucky guy due to the model I have. What does your PJ say on the bottom 7100 or 7300 and what are the serial #'s?

Mine says OPTOMA HD7100

Going through Optoma Canada is a waste of time. They never did anything about H77 and knew nothing about the panning issues, while in US Guitarman managed to resolve it through Optoma and helped many members. I think US and AVS forum is the way to go and get the firmware upgrade.

I agree.. as I have no response yet and the first time I sent it out was no picnic either, as they do not reconize a problem with this projector and it almost feels as if they are blaming the customer for misuse.

I keep seeing posts to the effect: what was Optoma thinking etc.!
THIS IS NOT AN OPTOMA PROJECTOR!!!

It was marketed by them. It is sold under 5 or 6 different platforms from Chiilin Electronics. Optoma will have to get issues resolved with them to help us IMHO. Hence dealing with US or Taiwan is the only option in my opinion. I agree they have little incentive since they don't produce it.

I agree to disagree on this one. While Optoma may not have made the physical projector itself, they did however put their name on it and marketed it as their own and collected the money. In my books that makes them responsible for the problems and issues that may arise with this projector. They are the ones who offer the warranty as well.

Personally I still love mine and it's sad to hear you guys struggle. I come here to get tweaks and max. the performance of the pj, hard to get anything going when it's all about lamp failures.

I have posted my tweaks as well, a few pages back and have updated them recently and will post those settings shortly.

I have my running with 72Hz input at the moment after trying the 48Hz and it's just silly how good the picture is. Smoothest picture I have seen out of DLP so far, an absolute joy to watch. I am seriously thinking of getting a scaler to get more out of it plus I am going with 2.35 setup despite short throw with a screen in 150" size. In Europe a bunch of hi end video buffs with the SDI fed scalers have forgone Rubys in favour of this setup (Prestimage in France). This tells you
something.

Why did you not stick with the 48Hz set up, did it not go well? As I was thinking of trying this set up when I get my new video proccessor for Christmas.

Let's hope you can get the issues resolved

SEE ABOVE FOR MY COMMENTS

Yes, let's hope. I do believe though if we all band together and make our complaints known both in Canada and in the US that we have a better chance of resolving the issue with Optoma.

Hey folks, some potentially good news!

I was perusing the low-end forum and saw that the Pana AX100 guys were seeing a similar lamp flickering problem. Turns out this is a common and relatively harmless issue with all lamp-based projectors. See this link for more info:

http://archive2.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5820302&&#post5820302

The gist of this is if you see lamp flicker in Eco mode, run the PJ in High Lamp mode for a few hours and the flicker in Eco mode will go away.

I did this myself over the weekend and it seemed to work (So far ;) )

Good Luck

Mike

Upnorth,

In my books that makes them responsible for the problems and issues that may arise with this projector. They are the ones who offer the warranty as well.



I completely agree, but it's not what I was referring to. People are posting statements such as: " what was Optoma thinking..." etc. If there are design flaws Optoma line is not where we should look for answers, but rather in all the other variants of Chillin platform.

I have Bravo D1 and I found that 48Hz has some dropped frames here and there, while 72Hz seems to have cleared it out. I think it's probably Bravo, although I will need to see if HD7100 treats the signals differently. The pj still seems to show 48Hz as an input when fed 72Hz, but there is a difference. At the end of the day they are all multiples of 24, so it's all good.

One place where there might be some difference is in the way the color wheel syncs to the frequency it is fed. I will have to do some tests to verify benefits of 48Hz vs 72Hz.

Ultimately when I get my Lumagen HDP I intend to do inverse telecine and feed it 48Hz from the source.

Upnorth,

In my books that makes them responsible for the problems and issues that may arise with this projector. They are the ones who offer the warranty as well.



I completely agree, but it's not what I was referring to. People are posting statements such as: " what was Optoma thinking..." etc. If there are design flaws Optoma line is not where we should look for answers, but rather in all the other variants of Chillin platform.


Let's hope we find an answer somewhere. Anyone one here with Asian connections or contacts?


I have Bravo D1 and I found that 48Hz has some dropped frames here and there, while 72Hz seems to have cleared it out. I think it's probably Bravo, although I will need to see if HD7100 treats the signals differently. The pj still seems to show 48Hz as an input when fed 72Hz, but there is a difference. At the end of the day they are all multiples of 24, so it's all good.

One place where there might be some difference is in the way the color wheel syncs to the frequency it is fed. I will have to do some tests to verify benefits of 48Hz vs 72Hz.


Yes, multiples of 24 is where it is at and where we should be looking to go. That is the way that HDDVD and Blu-Ray are going, it's so awsome to be that much closer to analog film quality in a digital realm.


Ultimately when I get my Lumagen HDP I intend to do inverse telecine and feed it 48Hz from the source.

I am getting the DVDO VP30 for Christmas this year..got to love the wife more!! I plan on trying both 48Hz and 72Hz and see which one comes out better. Why did you choose the Lumagen? I looked at it but for the money, price and options you get I chose the DVDO. I do like there product though and the fact that everything on it is user upgradeable. Which model are you getting? Will it do 24Hz frame rate conversion and or 1080p processing or only pass through like the DVDO VP30?

I have the Oppo 971H right now, but have the Oppo 970HD on order with my DVDO as it does 480i out over HDMI and the 971H does not. Do you have calibrating equipment? I have Colorfacts..wife bought for me last Christmas..really need to love her more!! Should be some fun and interesting times ahead, we should stay in touch and compare notes on these two processors and the outcomes we get hooked up to this projector.

I have just finished emailing the customers service representatives for Optoma in all sale/market districts. I have expressed my concerns and that of those on this forum. I have suggested that they check it out for themselves. It took me some time to do. Was it worth it? We shall see. They will likely just think I am crazy and some random wing nut!!

^ Nice Work!

Hope something comes from it.

I am starting to see a flicker on my PJ now.

Nice job Upnorth!

Maybe something will come out of it, I know they are working on firmware for HD81, maybe ours will get s/th for Christmas :)

I think I can get a better deal on Lumagen, DVDO seems pretty expensive. That is the only reason. I'd go with the Gennum processor if it did inverse telecine, but it does not.

No processor for Christmas for me :mad: maybe we should do a wife swap...

I did get an anamorphic lens though, can't wait to try it out and see if I can pull it off with HD7100. I only get 2.35 DVD's and love the scope image.

I have Spyder2pro, looking to get s/th higher end in the future such as Eye One.

Happy to compare notes any time. I asked before if someone could look at Spyderman2 DVD bicycle scene and tell me if they get smooth panning, but no one reported back.

I think that H79 has better algorithms due to issues with H77. I think HD7100 DC3 timing algorithms are not as good. I could be wrong since I did not see how H79 pans the same scenes.

I would love to get into a service menu and play around with CWI and see if it helps. To be honest that is the only gripe I have at this moment with this pj. But I also think this is inherent with all pj designs to some degree. I knew how to get into my other pj service menu, but not this one.

i just got my 7100 yesterday. great PQ, im very impressed(used to run a 4805).
No start up problems yet.

I was very suprized at the little lens shift availabe and the offset. my fault i guess for not researching further.

I am shoooting 100" from 9'7" and i had to drop my ceiling mount about a foot, i was really bumed. Is this normal offset for this machine?

Woody

I am shoooting 100" from 9'7" and i had to drop my ceiling mount about a foot, i was really bumed. Is this normal offset for this machine?

Woody

Unfortunately, yes, this is normal. The lens shift limits you to just a bit past the
top and bottom of the screen vertically and only a few inches right or left of center horizontally. Nothing like what you get with the LCD PJs. :(

Mike

At least it has lens shift. There are a lot of projectors out there, some that cost a lot more than the HD7100 that don't have any lens shift. That was one of the key factors that led me to purchase the HD7100 for my setup.

At least it has lens shift. There are a lot of projectors out there, some that cost a lot more than the HD7100 that don't have any lens shift. That was one of the key factors that led me to purchase the HD7100 for my setup.


I feel stupid. The lens shift is more than adequate. I was using the horizontal and vertical positioning(overscan) in lieu of the mechanical lens shift controls. I guess the with the lack of a paper manual i dove right in and didnt understand where the len shift controls were. i removed the mount extension and i am very happy.

I have about 40 hours on the machine and had one lamp start problem already.

I received a call from Warren at Optoma USA. He spent about a half an hour on the phone listening to me patiently describe the problems I and others on this forum are having with this projector. He said he would have this information passed on to the engineers and thanked me for bringing the problem to light. At the end of our conversation he said he would call Optoma Canada and escalate my problem up to the top there. He also suggested that he would have the engineers visit this thread and take a read and maybe make some posts of their own. This call happened on Wednesday of last week. Nothing has changed or happened since then. No phone or email replies from Optoma Canada , and I do not think a tech has been on here answering forum questions yet. What is going on here Optoma? Are you ignoring me and all the other forum members that are having bulb issues?

Would love to know what they are thinking, however they would have to respond first in order for that to happen.

New issue same old problem. I reported a few posts back that my second bulb was starting to flicker. I ran the projector in high lamp (bright mode) to eliminate the flicker being seen in the low lamp mode for my viewings last week. With about a three to four hour usage each time, on both DVD and HD TV. This weekend I turned on the projector and was all set to watch a movie when... I turned on the projector first, got the Optoma logo, then turned on the processor, then the DVD player. I had a signal detected and the projector was showing the DVD's movie menu screen. I went to get some snacks and let the projector warm up for ten minutes. I came back and there was no picture on the screen!! I tried to restart several times, finally unplugged the projector and let it sit a few minutes, tried again. Nothing!! I took the bulb out to take a look at it. It is dead; the wire (filament) is busted. It looks grey (ash build up) and white crystallized (like what you would see on a corroded battery terminal) on the upper part near the glass, and the top tip of the glass itself has turned whitish in color. This bulb had a total of 135 hours on it. My first had 280 hours on it, for a total of 415 hours between the two. I have less than 500 hours of use on this new projector and I have gone through two bulbs already. The projector has had more down time than in use time. I do not consider this acceptable at all.

They had better call me soon and deal with this, or this will be the first and last Optoma projector I ever buy or recommend to anyone.

On a side note I am not sure if that by running the projector in bright mode caused the sudden death or if it would have died anyway. I could not live with the flicker, so what choice did I have. However the bright mode should not cause it to die early if everything is working right with this projector. Optoma lists in their manual that the bright mode actually reduces power consumption? Suggesting that this may be the preferred mode to operate the projector in.

I would not try running it in bright mode to eliminate flicker yet, until I hear something back from Optoma on this. You may be eliminating the flicker but instead really shortening the already short bulb life causing a premature failure.

I will let all know when I hear something back from Optoma. I am calling and emailing them again this morning; sending them this very same post.

upnorth,

I'm also on bulb #2. The description of your bulb is exactly what my first bulb looked like. I had less than 100 hours on the first one. I'm at 40 hours on the second. When I spoke w/ them about my first bulb, it was dismissed as a faulty bulb. Let me know if you find out otherwise.

upnorth,

I'm also on bulb #2. The description of your bulb is exactly what my first bulb looked like. I had less than 100 hours on the first one. I'm at 40 hours on the second. When I spoke w/ them about my first bulb, it was dismissed as a faulty bulb. Let me know if you find out otherwise.

Did they give you a new bulb, or just dismiss you and your concern totally, treating it as it was your fault?

upnorth,

I am sorry to hear about your problems.

I remember you from the Hitachi TX200 thread. You initially like that projector very much but became disillusioned and jumped ship. Are you sorry you did? I ask simply because I am contemplating upgrading as well.

Did they give you a new bulb, or just dismiss you and your concern totally, treating it as it was your fault?

No, they didn't give me a new bulb. I had a second bulb on hand since I purchased the projector when they were offering the free bulb promotion. I ran the projector for around 9-10 hours the day it failed. They said it could've been that or a faulty bulb. Let me know if you find out there is a projector problem. If there is a problem, I feel they do owe replacement bulbs.

upnorth,

I'm also on bulb #2. The description of your bulb is exactly what my first bulb looked like. I had less than 100 hours on the first one. I'm at 40 hours on the second. When I spoke w/ them about my first bulb, it was dismissed as a faulty bulb. Let me know if you find out otherwise.

that's the exact same $hit that I went through. to T.

my bulb blew on me at 90 hours. and i am now on 40 hours on my second warrantied bulb.


my lamp was exactly as upnorth described..

this is starting to suck.

definite patern

New issue same old problem. I reported a few posts back that my second bulb was starting to flicker. I ran the projector in high lamp (bright mode) to eliminate the flicker being seen in the low lamp mode for my viewings last week.
Been there.

With about a three to four hour usage each time, on both DVD and HD TV. This weekend I turned on the projector and was all set to watch a movie when... I turned on the projector first, got the Optoma logo, then turned on the processor, then the DVD player. I had a signal detected and the projector was showing the DVD's movie menu screen. I went to get some snacks and let the projector warm up for ten minutes. I came back and there was no picture on the screen!! I tried to restart several times, finally unplugged the projector and let it sit a few minutes, tried again. Nothing!!
Also been there. Three times. Argh.

I took the bulb out to take a look at it. It is dead; the wire (filament) is busted. It looks grey (ash build up) and white crystallized (like what you would see on a corroded battery terminal) on the upper part near the glass, and the top tip of the glass itself has turned whitish in color.
Yes! That's exactly what my bulbs looked like after each pj had the same series of problems and ended with a blackout. I've swapped the pj+bulb each time, so there is unquestionably an overall design flaw here.

On a side note I am not sure if that by running the projector in bright mode caused the sudden death or if it would have died anyway. I could not live with the flicker, so what choice did I have. However the bright mode should not cause it to die early if everything is working right with this projector. Optoma lists in their manual that the bright mode actually reduces power consumption? Suggesting that this may be the preferred mode to operate the projector in.

I would not try running it in bright mode to eliminate flicker yet, until I hear something back from Optoma on this. You may be eliminating the flicker but instead really shortening the already short bulb life causing a premature failure.
For what it's worth, on my first two pj with the flicker I babied them and did not switch to bright mode. Longest lamp lasted 150 hrs. On the third I had lost patience and ran it in nothing but bright mode from day 1. Lamp lasted 420 hours. Maybe coincidence, maybe not.

Fourth pj is supposed to arrive tmrw. Not expecting anything better.

Been there.


Also been there. Three times. Argh.


Yes! That's exactly what my bulbs looked like after each pj had the same series of problems and ended with a blackout. I've swapped the pj+bulb each time, so there is unquestionably an overall design flaw here.


For what it's worth, on my first two pj with the flicker I babied them and did not switch to bright mode. Longest lamp lasted 150 hrs. On the third I had lost patience and ran it in nothing but bright mode from day 1. Lamp lasted 420 hours. Maybe coincidence, maybe not.

Fourth pj is supposed to arrive tmrw. Not expecting anything better.

Wouldn't it be better to buy a projector that doesn't have all these problems?

Wouldn't it be better to buy a projector that doesn't have all these problems?
Of course.

If I could go back in time and undo the $3000 I spent on the Optoma I'd do it in a heartbeat. Seeing as I don't have a time machine, I'm stuck trying to get $3k worth of use out of a pj that, on average, has to be RMA'ed every 60 days.

On an unrelated note, anybody want to buy an HD7100? ;)

They should do a recall. or give a lifetime lamp supply.

I received phone calls from both Warren from Optoma USA and Diva from Optoma Canada. I spoke with them again in length about my issues and that of the other forum members. So here is a brief summary of the outcome of that conversation. First the good news (well kind of)! Optoma is going to swap my current unit for a new one after the holidays. It was my choice on the time frame as I do not want to be with out my projector on Christmas morning. However if they would have answered my emails earlier and had not waited almost two weeks to do so, I may have had time to swap the projector out before Christmas. However that is not the case it took almost two weeks of constant emails, phone messages and phone calls for them to answer me. My son and I will want to play his new Xbox 360 and I will want to fiddle with my new DVDO processor. We also plan on watching King Kong in HD over the Xbox 360's add on HD drive. We have seen the movie before, but I want to watch it again in HD and through the processor hooked up to this projector; should be awesome, if the bulb does not die first or during the movie.

They are going to give me 90 days warranty on the bulb that will come (in) the unit. They are going to take my old unit and have it sent out for testing and they promised to let me know the results/outcome of that. They say that the issues I have presented to them have been brought to the engineer’s attention. They will be taking care of me on an individual case basis. I suggested that they also visit the forum themselves read the posts and make a few posts of their own to easy the growing concerns and frustrations by other owners. They said that they would visit the forum and that is being worked on.

Now, for the bad news (for me and others). They are not willing to acknowledge at this time what appears to be a wide spread problem with this projector model and or the bulbs. Diva said that he is not aware of an issue with this projector model. Warren said that he sometimes hears of bulb issues with other Optoma projector models and it is a problem that happens with all projector makes and models. They both suggested that the forum members are only a small representation of the total market and that there are many other owners out there with no issues with the bulbs and or with this projector model. They both also suggested that they can not determine the cause of bulb failure and that; there are many reasons why a bulb might fail. Can you say user blame and denial, in one breath?

They are not going to cover my dead bulb at all, I am getting 90 days warranty on the new bulb included with the new unit and that is it. What about my other bulb with a cost value of $300+ dollars?? They went as far as to suggest that they are going out of their way to help me and it is above and beyond what they are required to do under warranty. I do not feel that they offered me anything different than what my warranty covers. I feel that they tried to minimize the cost of the issue with me to as little an amount as possible for them. This does not speak volumes about their customer service, and the satisfying of their customer needs. I asked what happens when this new projector arrives and the bulb blows on the new projector at around 100hours. They responded with, if the bulb is under 90 days they will cover it. So it looks like a new bulb for me every 90 days! Should be nice and bright, especially if I run it in bright mode to eliminate the flicker!! They have also yet to post or respond to other forum members. They are still treating this as if it is a limited problem/issue; namely me! So I guess we are still each on our own for now, and will be dealt with on an individual basis. Can you say cheap and blanket denial in one breath?

What I think we need to do is all band together and call and email Optoma USA and Optoma Canada until they deal with us as a whole and address the forum. Do they not realize that we are customers and will not or may not remain customers for long, if nothing is done? They seem to also fail to realize the weight that the AVS Forum holds. That a lot of their potential customers from all over the world come here to check a particular projector out before purchasing it. What will a potential customer see right now if they check out this thread; I am afraid it does not look good for you Optoma.

Will I still get the support and help (which is what is covered under warranty), after they read this post of mine? I am not worried as I do not think they will visit the site, nor do I think they would care if they did. As I have already discussed this issue to death with them. We will have to wait and see, what happens after the holidays when I get my new projector and supposedly get word back from them on what is wrong with the old projector. I do however still hope Optoma proves me and all the forum members wrong and acknowledges with a blanket admission of bulb issues with this projector, and issues a projector recall or bulb replacement program. I guess I still have hope and feel that way because the Tooth Fairy just visited me and I know Santa is coming to see me in a couple of days!

I will be updating my website over the holidays and will post my full review of this projector with screen shots and calibrations made. I do not feel inclined to hold back on the negative comments I have to make on this projector or on Optomas customer service support at this time. Last projector review I posted on my site created over 6,000 visitors and views. Gee, I wonder if that is a big enough market segment for Optoma to be concerned with over potential customer loss? For my self I will likely be moving on to a different projector, which will not be an Optoma. I would have loved to hang on to this projector for another year, but not willing too at this level of cost and frustration.

Anyone want to buy a new/used projector? With a dim flickering bulb in it and a dead spare bulb, with less than 500 hours total use time on the projector?

I sent this to both Diva & Warren as well before I posted it here, (brave huh..or stupid..not sure which yet) giving them time to respond. I have received no repsonse, which is exactly what I expected.




Happy Holidays to all forum members!!
Optoma (Scrooge) you better make this right, before it is the death of this projector model, and the three ghosts of Christmas come and take this market segment away from you!!

Of course.

If I could go back in time and undo the $3000 I spent on the Optoma I'd do it in a heartbeat. Seeing as I don't have a time machine, I'm stuck trying to get $3k worth of use out of a pj that, on average, has to be RMA'ed every 60 days.

On an unrelated note, anybody want to buy an HD7100? ;)


I agree and would do the same now if I could; as it looks like this will be the road I am soon to travel as well.

They should do a recall. or give a lifetime lamp supply.


I agree the should initiate a 100hr use or 90 day which ever comes first lamp replacement policy.

upnorth,

I am sorry to hear about your problems.

I remember you from the Hitachi TX200 thread. You initially like that projector very much but became disillusioned and jumped ship. Are you sorry you did? I ask simply because I am contemplating upgrading as well.

I am not unhappy that I jumped ship. This DLP projector has excellent black levels, no AI, no vertical banding and no color uniformity issues. I however am not totally happy at the moment with the particular issue that this projector seems to have with eating bulbs. If they fix it then, I will be most satisfied and have nothing to complain about. If not I will switch to another projector and it will more than likely be a DLP projector.

I can not recommend this projector at this time based on the bulb issue, stay tuned to see if the issue gets resolved before purchasing this one. If the issue gets resolved then I would give it my full recommendation and a go ahead on the purchase of this projector.

Why are you planning to switch from LCD to DLP, same issues?

Nice job Upnorth!

Maybe something will come out of it, I know they are working on firmware for HD81, maybe ours will get s/th for Christmas :)

I think I can get a better deal on Lumagen, DVDO seems pretty expensive. That is the only reason. I'd go with the Gennum processor if it did inverse telecine, but it does not.

No processor for Christmas for me :mad: maybe we should do a wife swap...

I did get an anamorphic lens though, can't wait to try it out and see if I can pull it off with HD7100. I only get 2.35 DVD's and love the scope image.

I have Spyder2pro, looking to get s/th higher end in the future such as Eye One.

Happy to compare notes any time. I asked before if someone could look at Spyderman2 DVD bicycle scene and tell me if they get smooth panning, but no one reported back.

I think that H79 has better algorithms due to issues with H77. I think HD7100 DC3 timing algorithms are not as good. I could be wrong since I did not see how H79 pans the same scenes.

I would love to get into a service menu and play around with CWI and see if it helps. To be honest that is the only gripe I have at this moment with this pj. But I also think this is inherent with all pj designs to some degree. I knew how to get into my other pj service menu, but not this one.

I will look at Spidey 2 over the holidays and let you know.

Been there.


Also been there. Three times. Argh.


Yes! That's exactly what my bulbs looked like after each pj had the same series of problems and ended with a blackout. I've swapped the pj+bulb each time, so there is unquestionably an overall design flaw here.


For what it's worth, on my first two pj with the flicker I babied them and did not switch to bright mode. Longest lamp lasted 150 hrs. On the third I had lost patience and ran it in nothing but bright mode from day 1. Lamp lasted 420 hours. Maybe coincidence, maybe not.

Fourth pj is supposed to arrive tmrw. Not expecting anything better.

Yeah I have no confirmation from Optoma to report on wether running the projector in bright mode or economy mode will hurt it or help it. So I guess just pick one mode or the other and take your chances.

I will run my bulb in my current machine in bright mode over the holidays and see what happens. I will likely try running my new replacement projector and bulb in high mode as well, based on your experience. What do I have to lose, if they are giving me 90 days warranty on the new bulb?

Why are you planning to switch from LCD to DLP, same issues?

I think the picture on the TX200 is quite good. I have had no problems with VB, color uniformity or dust blobs, although I did lose a bulb at around 150 hours.

I think that I am just chasing that better overall picture that only several thousand more dollars can bring until you notice the deficiencies in that projector.

I wish I could just relax and enjoy movies instead of examining each frame for defects!

It looks like we are just collateral damage. I too feel the same. I like this pj but the issues *namely the bulb stuff.* outweighs the rest.

I am probably just going to shelf it and get a CRT projector. better blacks with 30,000+ CR.

over 10,000 tube life. Modular, better resolution. as there is no fixed res.

I wish I could just relax and enjoy movies instead of examining each frame for defects!

Yes I agree..D@M critical eye!!

No processor for Christmas for me :mad: maybe we should do a wife swap...




It depends, is your wife pretty..mine is!!

Guys, please stay on topic here. I think there is a dedicated forum for wife swapping :p . Seriously though, Upnorth, thank you for being the champion of our cause. Whether Optoma comes through or leaves us out to dry, your efforts to represent all of us with this lamp problem is greatly appreciated.

Anyone w/ a 7100 using an HDMI switch? I purchased the Gefen 4X2 switch and it's not working out. The picture will display for a few seconds, then turn to snow. The picture will keep flashing in an out of the snow, but never produce a picture. I have an HDMI booster at the end of my 25 ft. hdmi cable, so the signal should be strong enough. Optoma tech support said they recommend Gefen and a booster. The vendor I purchased the switch from said the next thing we can try is a 4X1 into a 1X2. He said that will work for sure. If anyone's using a switch w/ good results, please let me know what is working.

Upnorth,
Thank you for your efforts to make Optoma aware of the problems with the HD7100, in particular the lamp problem and for demanding a resolution. They better do something quickly or we all loose.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

Anyone w/ a 7100 using an HDMI switch? I purchased the Gefen 4X2 switch and it's not working out. The picture will display for a few seconds, then turn to snow. The picture will keep flashing in an out of the snow, but never produce a picture. I have an HDMI booster at the end of my 25 ft. hdmi cable, so the signal should be strong enough. Optoma tech support said they recommend Gefen and a booster. The vendor I purchased the switch from said the next thing we can try is a 4X1 into a 1X2. He said that will work for sure. If anyone's using a switch w/ good results, please let me know what is working.


I am using a Monoprice 2x1 switch. It works like a charm.

I have only 40 hours on my lamp and am starting to get worried.

Does anyone have more than 500 hours on a HD7100 lamp?

Everyone please post how many hours you have on your current lamp and previous lamps.....

600+, no flicker, no sync problems, works like a charm, knock on wood...

90 hours previous 85 hours now. 2 false startups and a few flickers.

908 hours on my third projector. Other than the fact that I have no idea what input is going to come up when I turn it on, this one has been very good, so far.... bruising hand as he ferociously knocks on top of desk which is made of real wood.

My first PJ, 1.5 months old, has 90 hours on it. It has had 6 false starts, most 2 strike, but two three strike. No flicker however, and works well otherwise so far.

I feel like a crash test dummy. :D

Original projector/lamp, about 200 hours with several (uncounted) false strikes. No flicker and still going. Once is fully on, the PQ is remarkable.

upnorth, How goes the battle?

I currently have 100 hours on my 2nd bulb. frequent false starts. (starts with light shining on screen but wont find sources.)

some flickering.

man, the Htpc I am currently typing on (my sp5700) has 2671 hours on it.


I would be so happy if my hd7100 made it to that. but unfortunently it seems like it will be a lost cause.


Every moment I watch it... I feel as though it will die at any moment.


not a good way to enjoy a 3500 dollar machine.




rod

Today, with about 200 hours on the lamp, my pj had what appeared to be 2 false consecutive strikes and then, after going through a cycle of changing fan speeds it finally lighted up and hold on to the component1 source which I had manually requested with the remote. I wonder if I can direct the pj to lock on to the selected source manually by using the input control on the the projector proper? Has anybody tried that?

eXgo, I also feel that the freaking thing will die at any moment. Not a good feeling , particularly when friends and family are waiting to watch the show :mad:

Optoma, when are you going to accept that these projectors have a common problem and do something about it?? This is my second Optoma pj but if these issues are not addressed soon, it will be the last one for me!!!! :mad:

Looks like rking401 has the most hours on a HD7100 bulb with 908 hours.

I know there are more people with an HD7100.

Everyone please post your hours and experience with the bulbs. Thanks.

I had similar problems, as did some others, with my NEC HT1000. It turned out to be a bad ballast. I wonder if Optima has looked at this as a possibility?

Jack

Looks like rking401 has the most hours That's what happens when you're a crash test dummy. 959 hours now.

I am looking for the access code to the service menu of this pj. Anybody knows, please?
Also, has anyone access to this pj's (or Metavision CHT-728, Liesegang e-motion 4100, SIC Cinema 2 Marklll, Chi Lin CHT-728, Prestimage 5500) firmware?
Thanks.

My HD7100 now has 203 hours and never has looked more gorgeous!
Have to set it to component via the remote on fire-up but other than
that mild incovenience I'm very pleased with its picture...

mine started flickering last night. damn!

So far when i first fire it up. it is good. then after about 15 minutes it starts to flicker.

then goes away after about 10 minutes.

It is so clear that Optoma doesn't give a rats ass!.

There is no FW update. No reacalls . ffs. this pisses me off.


I should have shelled out a extra 3k. just so i could get something with some reliability. like Infocus.


if my second bulb dies. what am suppostu do? just call them and get a replacement.
again?.


If they do nothing. *which is clear that is the way she goes.*

Optoma is the equivalent of Jolex watches. and Calvin Clone.

#1 pj/lamp: 120 hours
#2 pj/lamp: 160 hours
#3 pj/lamp: 420 hours
#4 pj/lamp: 47 hours and counting

#3 was run in "bright mode" from day 1. Trying the same with #4.

I notice that the user manual has old screenshots where "bright mode" is reversed and called "eco mode". I wonder if this is one of the things Optoma changed from the OEM and possibly where they screwed the firmware up. Bad PWM algorithm on the lamp voltage or improper fan speed could definitely create a lamp eater.

adk0212 if you are on your 4th pj. doesn't optoma see there is a patern?

won't they awknowledge that there is a issue?

I also see what you mean in the manual. about eco mode.

so when the Bright mode is not on. it would mean that the projector is in eco mode? correct?


they seem to have changed the menu.


they also could have screwed this pj up with new FW.


ffs. this keeps getting better. and it really pisses me off that they have no Firmware updates.

http://www.infocus.com/service/recall/recall.asp?site_lang=1&site_region=1&

look here ^

now that is a company I respect.

3 years and not 1 problem on my sp.

I really like my optoma, i just wish... as a company. they would do right by us.

I have around 156 hours on my 7100 now. Mine did flicker, starting around 70 hours and appears to have returned to normal (no flicker) at around 130 i think. When it did flicker I would switch to high mode for a few seconds then back. Of course I would have to do this 2-3 times depending how long i watched the projector.

I want to add my name the the growing list of Optoma customers who are having problems with the otherwise stellar HD7100 front projector. I purchased the unit in late November from VisualApex, adding the extended warranty on both the lamp and the projector. I have 95 hours on the unit to date with 4 lamp fail to strike events already. The first occured at 55 hours..familiar, i know. My business involves the technical support of xenon lamp systems for the cinema industry where multiple strikes on a new lamp is a HUGE NO-NO. Each strike/ignition eats up to several hours of normal lamp life. These multiple or "false" strikes indicate the rare bad bulb, but much more commonly, a faulty power supply (incorrect voltages, poor filtering, improper igntion function, etc.). Different technology, sure, but i expect many crossover elements. In my latest 40 hours of operation i have had four improper lamp strike events in addition to that other damnable problem with the 7100: HDMI/DVI handshake failure. I have spoken to Optoma Customer Service. Warren Pierce there, good man that he is has not been able to secure any information from Engineering related to these obvious problems. When several of the good people on this forum have tried two or three or more samples of this model-all with nearly identical issues...:OBVIOUS PROBLEMS. OPTOMA: THIS IS THE AGE OF INFORMATION AVAILABILITY. GOOD NEWS, BAD NEWS OUT HERE MAKES, BREAKS COMPANYS. WAKE UP! Dave Handley.

Yes Yes. Optoma is a cheapo projector company. I will never get one of these again.

they suck.

To anyone who reads this. when the optoma workers are too busy looking at porn. when they should be aware of the huge issues plauging their line.


F U optoma.

I recently emailed optoma Tech Support. and told of my problems..
guess what. No response.


they are worse than Falling in a pile of horse dung face first then breaking your neck and dying a slow painful death while being eaten alive by ants.

Aw, come on, tell us how you REALLY feel. Maybe it's time to change your sig line. At this point I consider myself VERY lucky that my third projector has worked so well. (Knocking on wood again).

^ what can I say. I am mad.

and your on your 3rd pj. You must be easy going.

I got 1 burned lamp. and I am pissed. along with all of the other people with *with coinciding problems... gets me very worried.


then on top of that. Optoma doesn't even answer emails... even upnorth was emailing the same person as me. and No Go.

I'm closing in on 1000hrs. Still on the same bulb but the lamp fails to light on an average of 3 times a month. Optoma's lack of support for this problem has caused me to drasticly change my opinion of both the company and their products. Not only will I never buy another Optoma product again, I can no longer in good conscience ever recommend one of their products either. That is unfortunate because when the projector does work, it does produce an outstanding picture. It is just not worth the risk to buy this projector when myself and others hold our breath every time we turn it on. Why should I believe that any of their other products are any different? Why take the risk when there are so many other choices. Avoid Optoma if you're looking to buy a projector.

Hi, Flyhigh,
Well said; same here. I am in my second Optoma pj (both purchased in 2006) and that 's it unless Optoma looks seriously into the problems and finds a solution pronto. In the meantime, I will do as much negative publicity to Optoma as I can.
On another issue, how long have you waited to get your rebate on the purchase of this projector? I am over 10 weeks wait and not a word from Optoma yet. Pls. post your rebate waiting time to reception.
Thank you.

Hi All,

After lurking on this site for some time I feel compelled to join in. First of all thanks for all your comments and knowledge, particularly on the Optoma HD7100. I will jump into this thread for my first post. I purchased an HD7100 in December and now have 90 hours on the unit. I too have had some flickering of the bulb which started around 60 hours. Generally it goes away on it's own after 10 minutes or so. To date the bulb has lit first time everytime. I was a bit reluctant to go with the HD7100 due to the issues well documented on this site. However, the picture quality is extremely good and I decided to take the risk and purchased through the very popular wholesale warehouse due to their return policy. (can I say Costco on here?) I am hoping I won't have an early bulb failure or continued flickering issues. (If I do, projector goes back)

I have put on 2900 hours on my Infocus X1 without any bulb issues other then very occasional flickering starting around 2000 hours, bulb still strikes first time everytime and after cleaning the colorwheel recently I once again see why I originally purchased it, great picture, just not the resolution I have been looking for.

I too am wondering if the current firmware needs to be updated to address the bulb issue. I installed 4 firmware updates to my X1, the last addressing a sync issue. Each time the projector became a better unit once updated. From reading earlier posts (or maybe on a UK site) it doesn't appear they have the bulb issue on the other side of the pond. So, a question for OPTOMA....are you listening!!! Should there be a firmware update for North America? It would be great if a simple firmware update could turn this very good projector into a GREAT Projector.

Richard

^^ Infocus is a Much better company than Optoma.


They don't respond to issues/emails.

They don't acknowledge a problem.

They don't give a $hit.

Well, I was very seriously ready to finally upgrade from my X1 to this projector. It had everything I was looking for, and the short throw was fine for my situation. But I'm going to listen to everyone here. Optomo has just lost at least one sale. And I'll bet there are a lot more like me out here. You would think Optoma would wake up and take care of their customers better. I can tolerate product problems. I can't tolerate a company that won't deal with them. Thanks for all the warnings everyone...it sounds like you saved me a lot of headaches.

Flooper,

I would recommend the Sharp XV-Z3000. It should have very similar PQ to the Optoma and a roughly equivalent street price. The Mitsubishi HC3100 is another candidate, but I don't know if it's available in the states yet.

BTW I have a 7100, and love it. But I'm only at about 130 hours on the bulb so far. Mine did flicker a bit but I fixed that by running in high lamp for a few hours. Hasn't flickered since. (Knock wood).


Mike

I did some reading and found that the flickering is a issue for almost all Pj's.

It is how the lamps work.


I never noticed on my screenplay cuz they have measures built in to eliminate it.

Hi, Flyhigh,
Well said; same here. I am in my second Optoma pj (both purchased in 2006) and that 's it unless Optoma looks seriously into the problems and finds a solution pronto. In the meantime, I will do as much negative publicity to Optoma as I can.
On another issue, how long have you waited to get your rebate on the purchase of this projector? I am over 10 weeks wait and not a word from Optoma yet. Pls. post your rebate waiting time to reception.
Thank you.


FGM, I received my rebate in about 8 weeks. Have you sent an email to optoma rebate support?

Currently, I have a PS/3, DirecTV HD receiver, and OTA feeding 1080i and some 720p from DTV to my Optoma. I am thinking about adding a Lumagen HDQ in the mix. Goal would be to feed the 1080i into the Lumagen and let it process and feed 720p to the Optoma. I was curious if anybody is using a video processor and what their impressions were. If anyone is using the HDQ, I'd really like to hear your thoughts. Thanks for any feedback.

FGM, I received my rebate in about 8 weeks. Have you sent an email to optoma rebate support?
01-09-07 02:11 PM
ak99999, thank you for the info.
I have called the Optoma rebate centre and they have said that the check will go out this week. I look forward to it.

I would recommend the Sharp XV-Z3000.

Mike

Thank you for saying so. I was thinking about the 7100 until this thread and was going to inquiry on a similar projector. I hadn't heard anything about the Sharp so I'm glad you mentioned it. Sounds almost identical if not better!

Neuner

Thanks for the suggestion, Mike. I was looking very seriously at the Sharp Z3000, and it looks good except it is missing one thing that I really, really need....lens shift! Oh well, maybe Optoma will get the problems with the 7100 straightened out.

I think that the lens shift is probably the reason a lot of us HD7100 owners purchased this projector. That it is not available on a wide array of other projectors, even ones that cost $5000 more then the HD7100 is ridiculous.

I bought mine because of the short throw and the fact that I could do a direct replacement of my X-1 and maintain the same screen height without cutting more holes in the ceiling and pulling out the cable stretcher. Once I got the first one in place I fell in love with the picture and didn't want to part with it, well, not until it and the second one failed. As I stated before, the third one has been fine, other than the input selection problem, for over 900 hours (so far).

Is there anyone that is having these problems that wasn't a part of the additional replacement bulb deal? I wonder if a production run had a problem or they new something was possibly bad with the bulbs and gave away free ones because of it.

I am having the input selection problems and I had no additional replacement bulb deal.

If it helps the HD7100 is allot better than the HD73 coming out. Way more contrast and the difference in picture clarity of the lens is huge.

I got 1800.1 on the HD73 and near 4000.1 on the HD7100. Plus the HD7100 is allot brighter. Still could be the budget buy on DLP DC3's.

In everyone's opinion here, would adding an external processor of some kind, like the HD-3000 solve the input selection problem or would the projector simply not know to come up on the digital input? Would there be any other advantages to adding such a processor to the 7100

Projector #4 (102 hours) just had 3 false strikes in a row, one of which involved a high-pitched screech that lasted for several seconds. It's also been flickering regularly for the last week, even in bright mode.

Yet another soon-to-be dead 7100. This thing is like a bad dream.

If it helps the HD7100 is allot better than the HD73 coming out. Way more contrast and the difference in picture clarity of the lens is huge.

I got 1800.1 on the HD73 and near 4000.1 on the HD7100. Plus the HD7100 is allot brighter. Still could be the budget buy on DLP DC3's.

Tom do you still have your set? And have you experienced any of the problems with lamps... etc..


thanks


rod

As I said before, the bulb problem is probably a bad ballast design or match with the projector. Chances are slim they will redesign or configure the ballast.

^Optoma sux as a company.

If I had a chance to go back... I would have got the Bq 8720, or sp777 even.

As I said before, the bulb problem is probably a bad ballast design or match with the projector. Chances are slim they will redesign or configure the ballast.

If the problem(s) were hardware based, it would appear logic that the other projectors that share the same hardware with the HD7100 such as the Metavision CHT-728, Liesegang e-motion 4100, SIC Cinema 2 Marklll, Chi Lin CHT-728, Prestimage 5500 (there may be others) would also show the same problems. I have been lurking at other forums/sites and have found no evidence of that. Prestimage, Liesesang and SIC enjoy an excellent reputation in Europe.
I still think Optoma may have inadvertently (or not) done something wrong to the firmware.
If we could only get and try the firmware of any of the HD7100 "clones"???

^That would be great.

Since Optoma are ignorant to any problems. And won't release any FW updates.

Agree with FGM, the pj has an excellent reputation in Europe, after 3 generations no less. So it could be as simple as a firmware glitch.

Tom do you still have your set? And have you experienced any of the problems with lamps... etc..


thanks


rod

That unit has over 900hrs on it now with no bulb problems. On a rare occurrence I would have to wait out a second firing on bulb ignition. I mentioned that to Optoma, said I'd keep an eye on it but it rarely happened. Next time I talk to Wing I'll re-hash about getting the overscan firmware and looking over user tech problems, plus the Toshiba HDA1 problem. I know he's talked with Taiwan a couple of times but shows and other things (1080p machine) took up most of their time.

Thanks, Tom,
Keep it going,please. Some of us firmly believe that a little effort from Optoma and some problem solving co-ordination with the Taiwanese manufacturer should yield good results to the benefit of all.

bump, I totally agree.

Because they won't even answer emails.

That unit has over 900hrs on it now with no bulb problems. On a rare occurrence I would have to wait out a second firing on bulb ignition. I mentioned that to Optoma, said I'd keep an eye on it but it rarely happened. Next time I talk to Wing I'll re-hash about getting the overscan firmware and looking over user tech problems, plus the Toshiba HDA1 problem. I know he's talked with Taiwan a couple of times but shows and other things (1080p machine) took up most of their time.
Tom, do you know if Optoma is working on solution for H7x bulb problems too?

Large number of H7x owners have been suffering from similar problems as H7100 owners listed on this thread but as far as I know Optoma has not done anything in last two years. Maybe Wing could do something about this.

Hello All, Ive been following this thread for some time now. I purchased an HD7100 from visualappex on 12/18/06 and its still on back order. It looks like I will loose the $400 rebate. So based on the information in this thread I was thinking of cancelling my order and purchase the Benq8720 instead. Im building an attic home theater with the following specs. 14.6' wide 20' long with 8/12 pitch to a 4ft wide ceiling 8.5 ft high. My first row seating will be approx 9.8 to 10ft from the screen, second row w/10in riser. The screen is a bright white with a 1.2 gain 100in diagnal. Will the benq work with my seating distance and screen size? I will be watching HD tv and movies on a upconverted dvd player and possible computer hook up. Is the quality of the benq worth the extra few hundred $? I would appreciate any input.
Thanks
Scott

Go for the BQ/ it was my main choice... but when i got my 7100 it was $6000.00


now it is the same price I paid for my HD71.

Well believe it or not Visualapex just sent me an email telling me my HD7100 just shipped. I hope this thing works as it should. Am I in trouble?

^ the 7100 delivers a killer picture.

it has problems tho.


the flickering I thought was a defect. but it is normal for all mercury arc lamps.

except infocus.

Well believe it or not Visualapex just sent me an email telling me my HD7100 just shipped. I hope this thing works as it should. Am I in trouble?


Don't be worried. What you are reading here is from a select group of people who are having problems with their lamps not lighting or having flickering problems. I am one of those who have problems with my lamp not lighting from time to time. However, I will say that the projector delivers a picture that is nothing short of spectacular. You will be very happy indeed with the projector. I'm sure their are a great many owners of this projector who never see any side of this projector except for the one that throws an amazing image, has lens shift that virtually no other PJ offers, and is available at incredibly competitive prices. If you do wind up being one of us who has problems, well, you know where to come to try to find a solution. Until that time though, if it ever even happens, sleep well and enjoy a truly amazing picture.

-Flyhigh. 1000+ hrs on 1 bulb. Multiple no lightoffs though. No flickering.

Thanks for the post. A friend of mine purchased one and it does look amazing. Oh ya the price is right. I started to build my home theater in my attic a few weeks ago. Its a slow process trying to convert a 140yr old attic into a modern home theater but its going to be awsome. Ill post some pre construction pics as well as some progress pics. Can someone give me some hints on screen height from floor and projector distance from screen. I'll be sitting approx. 10ft from a 100" white 1.2 gain screen. The ceiling height is 8.5ft. and I do not mind using a drop bar on the mount. Im just not sure how far to drop it.
Thanks

Thanks for the post. A friend of mine purchased one and it does look amazing. Oh ya the price is right. I started to build my home theater in my attic a few weeks ago. Its a slow process trying to convert a 140yr old attic into a modern home theater but its going to be awsome. Ill post some pre construction pics as well as some progress pics. Can someone give me some hints on screen height from floor and projector distance from screen. I'll be sitting approx. 10ft from a 100" white 1.2 gain screen. The ceiling height is 8.5ft. and I do not mind using a drop bar on the mount. Im just not sure how far to drop it.
ThanksYours sounds like a near clone of my setup. I have an 8' ceiling, 98" screen and sit about 10.5' away. The screen (below the frame) is 9" below the ceiling making for a very comfortable viewing angle, add 6" to that for your situation. My screen, a DIY, has no gain, this is something I want to look into in the future. You can take a look at my setup here:
http://www.pbase.com/rking401/image/69561841 (this picture is a composite of two images)
or here: http://www.pbase.com/rking401/image/69952315
The evolution of my set up can bee seen here: http://www.pbase.com/rking401/my_home_theatre

Your theater looks great. Cant wait to finish mine. Thanks for the tips.

attichome......My HD7100 shoots an AMAZING picture onto a Carada 118" BW screen. A videophile friend of mine has a 60" Sony SXRD XBR and he is green with envy. Wonderful, saturated colors, great blacks, and all the brightness you'll need. Get the biggest screen that will fit, you won't be sorry. 220 hours on the bulb and everything working perfectly (knock on wood). Can't imagine a 1080P for thousands more could be much better

6 weeks and no rebate check, yet.

Cowboy how close do you sit to the screen? Im thinking of a 100in screen from 10 feet away.

Cowboy how close do you sit to the screen? Im thinking of a 100in screen from 10 feet away.

I watch DVDs from 10ft on a 92" screen with no SDE.

Cowboy how close do you sit to the screen? Im thinking of a 100in screen from 10 feet away.

I sit between 11' and 12' away from the 118" screen. However, I can sit as close as a touch over 8' back and still not see any screen door effect. For a 100" screen, seating that is 10' away will be ideal. For the full immersion effect you can scoot as close as 7.5' and suffer little SDE, IMO.

I had second thoughts before my 7100 arrived, but once it was set up a running it was home theater nirvana. Calibration out of the box was very good and a little tweaking with data from those on this board made it better. I think the inputs can be found on page 17 or 18 of this thread.

I installed my first HD7100 in Nov. Quite shortly I discovered that the pj did not always fire the lamp on power up. Often the pj would shut itself down after about 5 min. Powering up right after that always worked normally. I contacted Optoma and they quickly agreed to an RMA for the pj. However, I wasn't willing to be without it so I waited for another pj to be available for an advance replacement. The new pj was swapped out with the original one one week ago.Within two days the new pj had the same problem, only worse. I had to unplug it once. Then I found this forum and discovered that this was not an isolated problem. Very discouraging. I am pondering my future moves.

With respect to the rebate, I received mine in 10 weeks. I called after 8 weeks and was told that the check was on the president's desk (sorta like "your check is in the mail").

I will say that my dealing with Optoma on the initial return was courteous and prompt. Can't believe that I want to go through the swap to a 3rd pj.

Just have 1 source turned on. when you start the PJ. it seems to help.

I have all sources turned off until I see the Optoma logo and the bug in the lower right corner indicate "searching". No fire up problems so far. I did have the bulb go dark once after the projector had been on for several hours, the last hour on full bright. Turned everything off and then successfully fired it up again.

These pjs are not TVs, don't expect complete consistency of operation. There seems to be considerable variability of reliabliltiy between given units. I guess swapping out until you get a good one is the way to go.

Just have 1 source turned on. when you start the PJ. it seems to help.

Probably a DVI/HDMI source would be best. You ever notice how the PJ's first looking at DVI, it's looking for the scaler box. So maybe having the DVI signal on might help. Also don't shut down or unplug if the PJ doesn't start right up, wait it out and a few mintutes later it will fire the bulb on it's own. Mine did that once in a while but it would recycle on it's own and fire up with no problem.

I did some reading and found that the flickering is a issue for almost all Pj's.

It is how the lamps work.


I never noticed on my screenplay cuz they have measures built in to eliminate it.

Yes it is normal to have some flicker, however, early bulb death is not normal nor is it exceptable.

Yes it normal to have some flicker, however, early bulb death is not normal nor is it exceptable.

How Goes it upnorth?

any progress with Optoma?

Can anybody help in finding the access code to the service menu on the HD7100? Perhaps somebody with contacts with the ISF community?
I have already tried Bruzzi's post here and quite a few commercial providers w/o any luck.
I'll be willing to pay for the service manual if available or to contribute paying for the info leading to the the service menu if required.
Are there any other users interested in accessing the service menu?
Thank you.

Start up problem again

I have started to keep a log of each time I turn on my PJ and any problems I have. A pattern is starting to emerge for the PJ not starting up correctly. It looks like once it starts up correctly, it will fire 8 more times correctly, but on the 9th time it fires 2 or 3 times before it works right, then 8 more good starts, then a series of misstarts again. It looks to me like we have two separate problems at work here. One is a problem misreading the firmware that prevents the computer from compleating its start up procedure but allows the bulb to fire, then turns off the bulb, waits, then tries to start up again ( and again). The other problem is a reliability problem with the bulb causing premature burn outs, and flicker. I have 205 hours on my bulb at 80 days of use, with no problems with it so far, only the boot up problem. Has any one else noticed the periodic behavior of the boot up problem?

Yes! I have had the no or reboot problem since about the 55 hour point. Im now at about 110 hours and approx. 7 "misfires" as I call them. Optoma's "Stephen" says this is progressive and will lead to complete projector failure at some point. My compliments to Optoma for the honesty! Many have had this happen to one degree or another though. Some have returned their units only to receive a worse behaving unit. Some are on their third and fourth exchange. I would like to see some feedback posted here now on this particular issue: Have you had or do you have any problem start-ups with your Optoma HD7100? Solved at some point? Post your experience, please. Im 26 days past the 90 day ownership point so I apparently dont qualify for a "brand new" replacement....only others returned problems or "refurbs"(corporate double-speak for "Lets give em a second (third?) whirl..")... Is everybody feelin lucky? I love this projector, but im not at this point a totally happy customer. Yes, there are other issues..but not right now. I think this is THE deal breaking main problem to get resolved (or not) which is likely linked to the chronic lamp life problem.

Yes! I have had the no or reboot problem since about the 55 hour point. Im now at about 110 hours and approx. 7 "misfires" as I call them. Optoma's "Stephen" says this is progressive and will lead to complete projector failure at some point. My compliments to Optoma for the honesty! Many have had this happen to one degree or another though. Some have returned their units only to receive a worse behaving unit. Some are on their third and fourth exchange....

is the Stephen that you refer to Stephen Cha. He quickly gave me an RMA when I reported the start up problem and I did an advance replacement. The new pj exhibited the same problem, perhaps worse. I talked to the Tech Support Manager at VisualApex where I purchased the original pj and, after reviewing my home theater equipment and installation, suggested that I might have an electrical power problem and recommended that I try plugging the pj into another circuit. I did this. The pj failed to start on the 2nd try, but I have now had 12 consecutive normal power ups (it was failing once in every two or three power ups before the change in circuits). I have an electrician coming next week and he will install two new circuits to my A/V equipment "closet" with one dedicated to the pj. I will report how this goes but I am "cautiously optimistic" at this point. Like you, I love the images this pj produces and would like to find a way to keep it.

it don't matter how many Pj's you get.

they all inherently have the same problem

Is anyone using any type of equipment to get Picture in Picture (PIP) or Picture on Picture (PoP) working with the HD7100? I am getting D*'s new HR20 HD DVR and will be keeping my existing H20 HD receiver so I will have two separate HD sources. I'm looking for a cheap way to get this functionality. Does anyone have any suggestions?

I am running all HD sources. but haven't thought about doing that.

I have a B*Verly 9200 DVR with dual tuners. PiP works fine there :D

While D*'s HR20 can tape 2 shows at the same time, and watch a third if it is OTA, it can not do PIP :mad: . I'll need to use some other box to get PIP but I don't know what to use.

OK, this thread is getting quiet :eek:

I thought I'd spice it up a bit with some new info. I have been searching and searching for Service level access to adjust CWI index. After about 3 months of looking around the world, I finally found a way to get in, thanks to our German friends at Metavision plus our friends in Taiwan. There is not that much in there, but there is service level color adjustment and CWI index as well as selection of the world standard ie. NTSC,PAL etc. One thing that's really nice is the test patterns build into the service menu that show off how good the lens is on this unit.

I will post the sequence as soon as I nail it, at this time I wasted about 3 hours of lamp time to get in even with the help, I think there is a keystroke or two that might be off. Stay tuned!

Mike

Sounds good Mike! :)

My Optoma H78DC3 just died two weeks ago. The unit would start and run for a while and then the red light would come on and the image would just disappear from the screen. Once this pattern started, it reoccurred regularly and I sadly had to return it to the store that rhymes with 'Moscow'. ;)

So, now I'm deliberating between the JVC RS1 and the HD7100. I'm scared to purchase the JVC sight unseen given that I haven't viewed LCOS before. I'm used to DLP and especially the exceptional images that Optoma projectors can deliver when they aren't being temperamental.

Anyone have any advice for me about whether I should take a chance with either of these projectors?? :confused:

Wayne

my 7100 just died and wont fire . about 100 hours on it i was watching it for about a hour and than it just went black not pop not flicker just dead . it does power on and i can hear it trying to start im assuming the bulb etc died . great and im just at 90 days. yes i have had the start up problem but hooking up a dvi source all but cured it . i guess i was wrong . this sucks .i cant wait to hear what visual apex and optoma have to say.

Hey Wayne!

I have a special place in my heart for you mate :D
After all I did get that H57 because of you!

Sucks about the H78, but you got it from Moscow so you should be covered.

If you have the $$$, go with RS1, I will when I do. The idea of spending that kind of $$$ though is scary at this time.

Now for the HD7100. There are no rainbows with this sucker. Running it at 48Hz at 6x speed color wheel. The picture is sharper than H78 by a good margin to me. Blacks are solid and I love the color pop in dark scenes.

I think for the money this thing is hard to beat: 48Hz, no rainbows, sharp as a tack optics, and over 650 ansi contrast (better than RS1)

Now people seem to have problems with these, so that is s/th you got to figure out if it's worth it for you. I got 750 hrs+, starting to get occasional start up misfire, but I just wait and all is good.

Let me know what you decide!

Mike

Hi Mike!,

Thanks for the kind words. :) Yes, for the money the H57 was phenomenal and didn't have any of these reported problems although mine was a 'buzzer' but I got used to it.

I appreciate your mini review of the HD7100. Getting it from 'Moscow' is hassle free. I returned my H78DC3 to them the week it started acting up and it was the easiest return experience I've ever had with any piece of merchandise at any store. Those 'Russians' sure are accommodating! ;) :D

I really want the RS1 but as you say, it's scary to lay down that kind of money when you aren't getting it from 'Moscow'. ;) It's a brand new projector and brand new technology given all of the tweaks that JVC has done with D-ILA to accomplish this 15000:1 CR. You can't calibrate it either because it doesn't have any RGB gains/cuts parameters in the user menu and as you also mentioned, the ANSI contrast levels are apparently much lower than the specs would indicate. I don't know if this really is important or not but it gives me pause when a manufacturer errs in this regard.

Anyway, I'm projectorless for now and we'll see what happens. I may just bite the bullet and go for the RS1 anyway because I'm ticked that the HD7100 doesn't have HDMI and I have an HD-A1 or more accurately a first generation RCA unit. I'm fearful that it won't work with this projector. But that's what good return policys are for right? So again, I'll make up my mind soon. There will be a review on ProjectorReview.com soon as well as an update at Cine4Home.com so that should be interesting pertaining to the RS1. There's no rush luckily as I have a 64" Pioneer RPTV (CRT).

Thanks again for your input Mike and I'll make a decision public once I make it.

Wayne

Sounds good Mike! :)


Anyone have any advice for me about whether I should take a chance with either of these projectors?? :confused:

Wayne

As quoted earlier in the thread, have you looked at the Sharp z3000 or DT-500?

No I haven't. :o

I don't know anything about them. I'll do some research. Thanks! :)

Wayne

A few dealers here in Canada stopped selling the Sharp z3000, (the ones I have spoken too)

they said they have ballast issues, and lamp burning (similar to Hd7100???)
and Sharp was real bad on warranties. (here in canada).

Yikes! :eek:

Can't anyone produce a reliable projector anymore! :(

Wayne

I would spend more money get get a Infocus. they are a great company. and have superb support. ( 24/7 ) not to mention great warranties (1 yr lamp).

You are so right. I loved my X1. Infocus projectors are very close to D65 right out of the box. Great warranty on the bulb as you mentioned. Nice to have good customer service as well.

Unfortunately they don't have a 1080p projector out and I don't know of one in the works either. :(

I kind of don't like the styling of the IN72 and IN76. Sort of weird to me.

Lots of companies make projectors though so I have lots of options to choose from. :)

I wish Pioneer would make projectors. Their electronics gear is so well made. I have a Pioneer 64" HD RPTV (CRT) that's almost 4 years old now and it still kicks butt with awesome black levels and the best stretch of 4:3 material anywhere in my opinion.

If Pioneer made projectors I'd buy one! Of course I'd have to get a 2nd mortgage on my house to pay for it. ;)

Wayne

ok projector shipped out today . it was 20 to ship and 30 to insure . and i wont be reinburst . is all shipping insurance this high or is it just ups . i hope i dont have to send it in every 3 1/2 months or shipping is going to cost more than the projector . robert from optoma was very nice but that means nothing the end result is what matters . he told me they would send out a new updated one he did confirm they have a start up problem .

Hey Steve,

What do you think a new updated one means? Could it be a new firmware for it?

Wayne

i dought it . he siad there china manufacturer has a fix and i will be getting one . i dont think they have a fix because one of the other guys is on his 4 th and was told the same thing( i think dont hold me to that) . i dont think you can beat this projector in this price range and it is the only one that fits my application. i dont want to bash optoma (yet) but i have kept a close eye on this forum from the beginning and things dont look good . i cant tell you how disappointed i am . fingers crossed

You are so right. I loved my X1. Infocus projectors are very close to D65 right out of the box. Great warranty on the bulb as you mentioned. Nice to have good customer service as well.

Unfortunately they don't have a 1080p projector out and I don't know of one in the works either. :(

I kind of don't like the styling of the IN72 and IN76. Sort of weird to me.

Lots of companies make projectors though so I have lots of options to choose from. :)

I wish Pioneer would make projectors. Their electronics gear is so well made. I have a Pioneer 64" HD RPTV (CRT) that's almost 4 years old now and it still kicks butt with awesome black levels and the best stretch of 4:3 material anywhere in my opinion.

If Pioneer made projectors I'd buy one! Of course I'd have to get a 2nd mortgage on my house to pay for it. ;)

Wayne

A good 720p pj is way better than a cheap 1080 one.

try Infocuz in78 / ex. or infocus 777.


they are the best.

OK, this thread is getting quiet :eek:

I thought I'd spice it up a bit with some new info. I have been searching and searching for Service level access to adjust CWI index. After about 3 months of looking around the world, I finally found a way to get in, thanks to our German friends at Metavision plus our friends in Taiwan. There is not that much in there, but there is service level color adjustment and CWI index as well as selection of the world standard ie. NTSC,PAL etc. One thing that's really nice is the test patterns build into the service menu that show off how good the lens is on this unit.

I will post the sequence as soon as I nail it, at this time I wasted about 3 hours of lamp time to get in even with the help, I think there is a keystroke or two that might be off. Stay tuned!

Mike

Wow!! What a piece of great knews!!
When do you think you will be able to share the SM access sequence?
Thanks a million!!

eXgo,

That's very good advice, almost philosophical. :) I'll take a look at those two Infocus products.

Thanks!

Wayne

I have not posted in awhile due to my on going issues and battles with Optoma over my HD7100 projector. I have them resolved now with Optoma, and I am moving on. I have wasted so much of my time and effort getting this resolved that I care not even to speak of it anymore, I am so tired....I have not enjoyed my home theatre in months due to this projector and it's problems. All I can say is this, the projector produces a great picture when it works, to which three different replacements of mine did not..end of story!! I hope all of you have better luck with your HD7100 than I did. I am sorry that I managed to accomplish nothing for the rest of you on here with similar issues...I feel for you!!

On the up side, I have my new home theatre website up and running now. Anyway you can check my site out @ http://frozen-toes-home-theatre.com The HD7100 full review has been cancelled, however I will still post a few screen shots and a mini review within the next couple of weeks. I also plan on testing and reviewing the RS1 when I receive mine in a couple of weeks. I will post my results here on the RS1 AVS forum thread and up date my website as well at that time.

It has been great chatting with you all, maybe I will see some of you on the RS1 thread..peace out!!

How Goes it upnorth?

any progress with Optoma?

Please read my last and final post..or pm me if you need to know more, as I will not post any additional information on here!!

I have not posted in awhile due to my on going issues and battles with Optoma over my HD7100 projector. I have them resolved now with Optoma, and I am moving on. I have wasted so much of my time and effort getting this resolved that I care not even to speak of it anymore, I am so tired....I have not enjoyed my home theatre in months due to this projector and it's problems. All I can say is this, the projector produces a great picture when it works, to which three different replacements of mine did not..end of story!! I hope all of you have better luck with your HD7100 than I did. I am sorry that I managed to accomplish nothing for the rest of you on here with similar issues...I feel for you!!

On the up side, I have my new home theatre website up and running now. Anyway you can check my site out @ http://frozen-toes-home-theatre.com The HD7100 full review has been cancelled, however I will still post a few screen shots and a mini review within the next couple of weeks. I also plan on testing and reviewing the RS1 when I receive mine in a couple of weeks. I will post my results here on the RS1 AVS forum thread and up date my website as well at that time.

It has been great chatting with you all, maybe I will see some of you on the RS1 thread..peace out!!

wow, you sound like optoma body snatched you.

no progress reports.

just a good-bye?

:)

anyways.

have a good one, and good to hear you "worked out you problems with craptoma


-Yesss I like the picture. it's rad!. but it sux when it breaks. again. and again.. and " " "

The crash test dummy might as well jump in at this point with a progress report. I am now at 1150 hours on my third unit and all appears fairly well, with the exception of the continued problem of never knowing what source the projector will wake up in. It's really too bad that it took 3 projectors to get one good one, but it appears to be about par for the course. Sometime I would really like to shoot par for a course.

FGM

I know you have been looking for the sequence for a while so here it is:

SERVICE LEVEL ACCESS HD7100 + all DC3 variants from Metavision, SIC etc.

KEYS: UP RIGHT DOWN LEFT UP RIGHT DOWN LEFT MENU :D

My CWI was set at 172, German Metavision was set at 165 lowered to 160 to improve posterization.

Sometimes it took me a few tries to get in. I usually wait a few seconds to hit menu to get in. It will show up in the top right corner.


Mystery
I sold my HD7300 two days ago. Will be getting a 1080p pj soon...


I went to my local high end retailer to look at some pj's.
I spend 2 hours by myself with a Ruby and Pearl in a totally controlled room with Stewart Firehawk.
I had a chance to review all my favorite material that I know intimately from my previous Optoma pj's.
I also got to play with Ruby +Blue Ray + Fifth element 1080p HDMI

All I can say, our HD7100/300 pj's have nothing to be ashamed of. I found the difference to be subtle, and in some cases I preferred the image of the HD7100. I did like the Xenon bulb, but at $1000 a pop it should be nice.

In any case HD7100 is a fine pj when it works, and it's hard to justify to pay double for 1080p projectors at this time.

Cheers!

Thanks Mike! :)

They're all up in arms over on the RS1 thread now because it's been discovered that the JVC has overscan turned on and it can't be turned off. In light of that, your post is making me think hard about the HD7100. I saw the Panny AE1000 recently and it was very nice but didn't seem to be any better than what I remember my H78 looked like.

rking401,

1150 hours!? That's pretty good I think. Too bad it took 3 units to get there. :(

Wayne

Thanks Mike! :)

They're all up in arms over on the RS1 thread now because it's been discovered that the JVC has overscan turned on and it can't be turned off. In light of that, your post is making me think hard about the HD7100. I saw the Panny AE1000 recently and it was very nice but didn't seem to be any better than what I remember my H78 looked like.

rking401,

1150 hours!? That's pretty good I think. Too bad it took 3 units to get there. :(

Wayne

The overscan issue on the JVC ONLY applies to 480i/p 576i/p. 720p/1080i/1080p can all have overscan turned OFF.

Wayne,

I saw your posts in RS1. I think you are fighting against spending that type of dough on a pj :)
I don't blame you as I am in the same boat. However the Gennum chip in that machine is worth 1K to me, so me think HD7100 +1K for a processor = close enough to 1080p pj with processor build in.
HC5000 can be had for mid 2K from Fleebay and Epson from HK for not much more with full warranty. We can play with them and then sell in a few months here in Canada for the same amount as they will only hit the shelves by then. I have not lost any money on my used Optomas so far and have enjoyed over a year of viewing. I will miss my HD7300, as I never had the issues described, but I am going to a 2.35 setup and it has too short a throw for me. Also, a slight motion blur on pans similar to my H77 annoyed me. Anyways, there are a lot of options out there...

Yeah, it is a lot of money for sure. :o I'm used to spending between $1500.00 and $3500.00 and don't really want to spring for another 3 grand on top of that. :( We'll see what happens soon I'm sure. ;)

Wayne

Mike,
Thank you for sharing the access code with us.
I have tried to get in implementing the sequence with the remote several times w/o success. Then, I tried the same sequence with the pj keys and voila, the service menu showed in all its glory. I can now have a shot at adjusting the color saturation /tint of the primary and secondary colors and hopefully get a good CIE graph. I am thrilled.
My pj's CW Index is at 170; what is this?
Under color type we can also adjust "lightness". Is this some sort of brightness adjustment?
Mike, it is sad that some of you had to get rid of your HD7100/7300 due to Optoma's lack of support . I hope you will enjoy your next projector much better.
Fermin

Hi to all,
this is my first post in this forum. First of all excuse me for my bad english.
I am an owner of metavision cht 726, and I am experiencing problem while connecting my VPR to an oppo 981hd by an atlona 50ft ultra series hdmi to hdmi cable (plus hdmi dvi adapter) . When I connect the oppo to vpr at 1280x720@50hz (Pal) I got a lot of digital noise, only 720x576@50Hz works fine. I've also tryed with an atlona hdmi enhancer (or equalizer) but this not solve at all the problem, in dark scene some sparkling pixel are visible.
Some of you have experienced same problem or some of you could help me to solve this problem?

Thanks in advance for your help

Regards

\Domenico Ricci from Italy

FGM

I only left HD7300 because of short throw as I am going to 2.35 Otherwise I had no issue with this machine, it has been by far the best pj to date for me :)

CWI stands for color wheel index. It will affect posterization in dark scenes. Look at the old H77/79 threads (google it), they will give you the scenes to adjust it on. The LOTR (walking through the caves) has torches glowing in the darkness, you can see rings around the fire, CWI will adjust that. U571 scene is an excellent one as well.

I have not played with secondaries as my machine was tracking d65 fine. Make sure you write down the numbers!

drmix

It's your cable! 50ft is way too long, you'll get sparkles. Look through this thread on cable length, plus Oppo does not have the strongest signal either.

Okay, I finally decided between the RS1 and the HD7100 and I ordered the Optoma from 'Moscow' last night. :)

Why did I do this?

1. I like DLP.
2. I like 'Moscow'. ;)
3. The HD7100 is 1/2 the cost of the RS1.
4. The way 1080p projectors are dropping in price, next year the deals should be even better. :)
5. I'm nervous about misconvergence issues even with the ability to adjust panels. Reminds me of CRT convergence screens which I've happily not missed while viewing DLP projectors.
6. I wouldn't even be considering these options if my H78DC3 hadn't died three weeks ago. :(

So, we'll see how long this experiment lasts. I'm well aware of the start up, bulb flicker and syncing issues etc... How could I not be. I've read this entire thread. :D

Wayne

Congratulations on the purchase, I hope all works out well for you.... on the first try.

Hey, thanks! :)

I realize it's a gamble but I've literally got nothing to lose but some time and effort really.

Another reason why I decided not to go with the RS1 is it's reportedly high decibel levels. The H78DC3 was so quiet that I don't think I could go back to a projector that's that high although I realize that the HD7100 is a bit noisier than the H78DC3. But the RS1 seems even louder. Here's a quote from Alan Mac over on the AVForum in the U.K.:

"I have rechecked the noise level of my JVC DLA-HD1 projector with a second, independently calibrated, sound level meter. The sound pressure levels measured are as follows:

In “Normal” (LOW) mode

36 dB(A) , 49 dB(C) at 1 m in front of the projector
35 dB(A) , 48 dB(C) at 1 m behind the projector
34 dB(A) , 47 dB(C) at seated viewer’s ear height


In “HIGH” mode

40 dB(A) , 51 dB(C) at 1 m in front of the projector
39 dB(A) , 50 dB(C) at 1 m behind the projector
37 dB(A) , 48 dB(C) at seated viewer’s ear height


The room has a volume of about 100 cubic metres (10 m x 4 m x 2.5 m). Reverberation time is estimated at about 400 ms.
The projector is positioned in front of the viewers, on a low stand about 100 mm from the floor. With the projector turned off, the ambient noise level in the room is about 22 dB(A).


I assume that JVC’s figure of “25 dB” was measured under free-field conditions (or perhaps free-field with one defined plane reflector to simulate the projector being mounted close to a ceiling or floor). Either way, 25 dB(A) , if that’s what is meant, seems rather a long way from 36 dB(A).

I rather suspect these levels to be typical of this projector and that there is therefore no point in going to all the trouble of returning it only to find that its replacement is just as noisy (or even worse!). Nevertheless there is always that nagging doubt that a replacement might be quieter.

Has anyone else actually measured the noise level of this, or indeed any, projector in a real room?


Alan"

Mike,
Thank you for sharing the access code with us.
I have tried to get in implementing the sequence with the remote several times w/o success. Then, I tried the same sequence with the pj keys and voila, the service menu showed in all its glory. I can now have a shot at adjusting the color saturation /tint of the primary and secondary colors and hopefully get a good CIE graph. I am thrilled.
My pj's CW Index is at 170; what is this?
Under color type we can also adjust "lightness". Is this some sort of brightness adjustment?
Mike, it is sad that some of you had to get rid of your HD7100/7300 due to Optoma's lack of support . I hope you will enjoy your next projector much better.
Fermin

Last night I spent some time in the service menu. I adjusted the CWI, but it turned out that it was set perfectly where it was (168).

I also had hoped to eliminate some of the excess yellow from the green primary using the color adjust controls. Unfortunately, all I could accomplish was a paler and less saturated green primary that was still too yellow. It makes sense, I guess, since you can't add more green to the green primary. (Which is what it needs.)

Looks like there won't be much use for the service menu for most folks.

Mike

. I have an electrician coming next week and he will install two new circuits to my A/V equipment "closet" with one dedicated to the pj. I will report how this goes but I am "cautiously optimistic" at this point. Like you, I love the images this pj produces and would like to find a way to keep it.

The dedicated circuit to the HD7100 has been installed for three weeks now and I have not had a single start up problem. At this point I believe that the ballast electronics is a marginal design and subject to problems whenever the power is not entirely clean or up to voltage. Anyway, I am happy with this "band aid" solution and the pj continues to produce excellent images. This beats swappng pj's back and forth with Optoma.

Along this line, are any of the people having start up problems with the HD 7100s using it on a smart uninteruptable power supply, the kind that filter voltage fluxuations out as well as provide clean sinusoidal power?

Lake-Please keep us informed how the HD7100 performs with the dedicated circuit. Sure would be nice to have a solution to this aggrivating problem.

I have a simpple UPS but it does not filter voltage, etc. So far only issues are about 5 failures to light the bulb on the first time but it automatically lights up the second or third time.

Could any of the issues be worse if the projector is mounted upside down to hang from the ceiling? heat build up, poor internal part design, connections, etc?

I have the Monster Power Home Theater HT200 Clean Power Surge 1 Protector. Whew! That's a mouthful. :)

I just received my HD7100 today. Set up was a breeze. Just squared up a smaller image so that keystoning didn't appear necessary and then utilized the lens shift and zoom to fill the screen. Easiest installation I've ever had and this is my 5th projector in less than 4 years. I'll never buy a projector again without lens shift let me tell you. ;)

Started it up twice without problems. Crossing my fingers on this one. Images straight out of the box were amazingly accurate and need very little perhaps even no tweaking as far as colors go. I did have to raise the brightness levels using AVIA to bring out shadow details. Contrast was fine at it's stock value.

The thing that struck me the most I think was the quality of the lens. Corner to corner and side to side the sharpness is incredible and uniform. I like the black levels and contrast. I find it to be plenty bright with my 106" Da- Lite High Power screen. I have the HD7100 ceiling mounted but low at about 6 feet in order to have as high a gain as possible with this screen. It recognizes my Scientific Atlanta 8300HD PVR, the Oppo 971 and my HTPC over DVI just fine through my Monoprice 5 x 1 switcher. My RCA HD DVD player however suffers from the HDMI ERROR 1 problem and won't work with the HD7100. I was ready for this and am not overly disappointed. I can use component for now until I upgrade either to another HD DVD player or to another projector or both. ;)

Overall, it's a better projector than the H78DC3 which it replaces in my home. But the H78 was quieter. This one also has a slight buzz or humm but none of this bothers me because I don't hear it when the audio system is on. I find it's a nicer looking projector than the H7xx series projectors.

Anyway, it's only been one day but so far so good. I'm hoping that it can tide me over until the next generation of 1080p pjs arrive. I'm expecting even more price drops and improvements by then.

I don't know if the surge protector will make any difference or not relating to the lamp misfires but I'm glad to have it just in case.

Wayne

The dedicated circuit to the HD7100 has been installed for three weeks now and I have not had a single start up problem. At this point I believe that the ballast electronics is a marginal design and subject to problems whenever the power is not entirely clean or up to voltage. Anyway, I am happy with this "band aid" solution and the pj continues to produce excellent images. This beats swappng pj's back and forth with Optoma.


i have a dedicated15 amp circuit . always had start up issues . although the dvi input did solve the problem for a while . 100 hours 3 months and it is at optoma as we speak .

Has anyone had an ISF calibration on their 7100? I've been thinking about it, but Greg Roger's review on the HD81 has me thinking twice. It seems the contrast and lumens were affected negatively after his calibration. I was curious if the same results could be expected for the 7100?

Here's a link to some of the discussion.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9900839#post9900839

HD7100 on DVI is practically flat, remember it's not an Optoma pj, comparing it to HD81 is pointless. Look at htprojector.com under SIC 2 cinema settings he has. They are good starting point if you want a bit of a tweak.

HD7100 on DVI is practically flat, remember it's not an Optoma pj, comparing it to HD81 is pointless. Look at htprojector.com under SIC 2 cinema settings he has. They are good starting point if you want a bit of a tweak.

thanks quattro. what was that website again? i don't think it's getting me to the correct site.

Here you go:


Brightness = -3
Contrast = -1
Sharpness = Normal
Gamma = 2.0
Color temp = 6500°K (x=0, y=0)
Picture setting = Custom 1
White balance
Red Gain = 1
Green Gain = -1
Blue Gain = 1
Red Offset = -1
Green Offset = -1
Blue Offset = 0

Has anyone had an ISF calibration on their 7100? I've been thinking about it, but Greg Roger's review on the HD81 has me thinking twice. It seems the contrast and lumens were affected negatively after his calibration. I was curious if the same results could be expected for the 7100?

Here's a link to some of the discussion.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9900839#post9900839

Well, I think that contrast and lumens are always affected when calibrating for color accuracy, maximum dynamic range and optimum gamma, gray scale and color temperature.
I have spent many hours tinkering with my HD7100 with the help of S&V disc, DTP94 colorimeter and best of all HCFR calibrating software.
One useful observation has been that basic settings as brightness and contrast set with a reference DVD may change dramatically just by changing the output from the DVD player, say from component at 480p to component at 1080i. Also , the settings may be totally different from the same outputs taken from a different DVD player.
I am presently concentrating on calibrating the DIVI output from a Bravo DA1 DVD player on DVI at 720p and 72Hz on the pixel to pixel format w/o scaling performed by the pj. The room has total light control; however, the walls and ceilings are of light color. To help minimizing the effect of light reflection washout, I am projecting on a retroreflective gray screen with a gain of 1.8 which is very good at rejecting light coming from the sides.
Here are my present settings (still tweeking):
Brightness -16
Contrast 17
Sharpness softest
Color Temp 6500K with x=0 y=0
Gamma 2.35
Green gain -13
Blue gain -11
Blue offset -1
From the service menu:
CWI 170
Red saturation -1
Blue saturation -2
Red tint -5
Green tint -7
Yellow saturation -7
Yellow tint -11
Magenta sat -4
Magenta tint -1
Cian tint 7
The service menu adjustments have helped a lot to get the primary and secondary colors in place as they are also affected by the other settings so you have to do a couple of iterations before they correspond to each other.
At these values I will try to improve in high IRE gamma and low IRE gray scale.
However, all that said, this is the best PQ I have obtained from my set up and it is "SUPERB"
I am sharing my experience with other members for comments and exchange. I do not think these values can be imported into another system with the same/similar results.

I have my HD7100 paired with my Denon 3930CI dvd player. I currently have the Denon hooked via HDMI to DVI (bluejeanscable) at the 720p setting (62hz i believe). I'd like to shut the scaling from the PJ off if possible, as the Denon Realta HQV by silicon optix is much better than the PJ. Can this be done? Also, I am going to try this CWI hack and see where I'm at any idea where the numbers should be? and just for those wondering about build quality....I have put about 200 hrs on mine so far with 0 problems, the picture is great, and I love it on my screen innovations 110" screen mounted from 11.7 ft. away. I do have a dedicated 20 amp service for the projector, and maybe that is helping avoid the issues some people are having.

for those who would like a follow up. i got my projector back .surprise surprise it still does not fire everytime in fact its worse .its like a broken record in this thread . i love this projector and do not want to replace it i just want it fixed .way to go optoma . i wonder if i get to eat the 50.00 shipping agian.. :mad:

Hi, all,
Since I have connected about 2 months ago my HD7100 to a DVD player with DVI output I have not had a single start up failure. Actually, now I can comfortably switch inputs (from DVI to component and back to DVI) without a tick. I have the projector set on manual source identification but the DVI signal pops in just by itself like if it was in automatic. Go figure.
In my start up sequence I always turn on the source before the projector so that there is a signal available when the pj looks for it. I do the reverse to turn them off.
I am enjoying a "superb" PQ now w/o having the failure syndrome concern in the back of my mind all the time. I am now a happy camper and hope to remain so for a good while.

FGM....I hate to sound like a dittohead, but I'm saying ditto to your positive experiences with the HD7100. I'm turning on and off the equipment in exactly the opposite order from you, that is the only difference.

The manual states to turn on the HD7100 first and then everything else. I did that the first time I fired it up the day I received it but I've found so far that it doesn't seem to matter what's on first (who's on second, I don't know's on third....a little Abbott and Costello humor there :o ). It seems to me that I used to read whereby it was recommended to turn on projectors in general last. :confused:

I guess in the end, you do what works for you. :)

Wayne

[QUOTE]I'd like to shut the scaling from the PJ off if possible, as the Denon Realta HQV by silicon optix is much better than the PJ. Can this be done?
GrapeNuts, I am no expert on this but I think that it can be done just by turning the "native/pixel to pixel" on the HD7100.

I am going to try this CWI hack and see where I'm at any idea where the numbers should be?
What CWI hack are you referring to? The CWI setting on the SM for my pj was set at 170.

FGM, I did go to NATIVE and Pixel to Pixel...and WOW did the picture get that much better! It was great before, but now I'm am extremely impressed. The Denon 3930CI's Realta chip is amazing. I keep it at the 720P setting and not 1080i (haven't calibrated the 1080i with avia yet..but I'm guessing the 720p is going to yield the best pic).

I've failed a million times now at trying to access the SM...is it just up, right, down, left (then repeat sequence) then press menu on the remote? It just doesn't want to show

GrapeNuts,
The sequence on the remote has failed me often too.
Try the sequence on the projector, not the remote. Also, leave a pause of 4-5 seconds before you enter "menu". This works for me 95% of the time.
Good luck.

Try a Samsung BDP 1000 or PS3/ HDA1. then you will see a good picture.

I litterally threw away all my DVD collection after getting an HD DVD/ Bluray Player.

there is just absolutely NO contest!.

exgo,
I have the xbox 360 HD DVD player and the picture on HD dvd's are fantastic. But you wouldn't believe what the Denon will do to a standard DVD. It's ridiculous...you don't have to be a videophile to see the difference between it and others in the 2K price range...it's just flat gorgeous. Picture is Crystal clear on even my 110" screen. I feel like I'm watching a giant plasma with that dvd player..especially since I have shut down the scaling on the HD7100. FGM. I'm going to give that a go tonight after I get back from dinner with the wife.

exgo,
I have the xbox 360 HD DVD player and the picture on HD dvd's are fantastic. But you wouldn't believe what the Denon will do to a standard DVD. It's ridiculous...you don't have to be a videophile to see the difference between it and others in the 2K price range...it's just flat gorgeous. Picture is Crystal clear on even my 110" screen. I feel like I'm watching a giant plasma with that dvd player..especially since I have shut down the scaling on the HD7100. FGM. I'm going to give that a go tonight after I get back from dinner with the wife.

Thats All good and well, but if there was no such thing as HI DEF I would spend 2k+ on a good DVD player. but since I can spend less than half that much on something that will do leaps and bounds over DVD. nuff said.

Quick question for you HD7100 folk.

Will a PS3 1080p over HDMI work properly with this projector?

I currently have the HD6800 and it works perfectly. But I want to upgrade to the 7100 and wanted to make sure before doing anything.

Thanks!

Hi Sam,

Further to our last conversation unfortunately my two week old (as of today) HD7100 has begun the start up dance with me. It happened 4 or 5 times over the weekend. I don't wish to discourage you after I built the case up so high for this projector due to it's immaculate presentation of just about any material. I still mean that and I now understand why so many people have struggled for so long trying to get their problems resolved with Optoma. The lens on this thing is so good that you just don't want to part with it because when it works, WOW, its's dynamite!! Anyway, this doesn't answer your PS3 question but I thought you should be aware that this problem is still around and it appears that Optoma not only hasn't done anything about it, but also doesn't intend to either.

I plan to monitor the situation and try to keep this for a while. I really, really like it otherwise. I hope it settles down. :(

Wayne

Quick question for you HD7100 folk.

Will a PS3 1080p over HDMI work properly with this projector?

I currently have the HD6800 and it works perfectly. But I want to upgrade to the 7100 and wanted to make sure before doing anything.

Thanks!

I have a PS/3 and set it to output at 1080i and it works fine.

Wayne!

I'm so, so sorry to hear that! You were so enthusiastic and so happy with it that this must come as a huge let-down.

Certainly dampens the honeymoon, doesn't it?

That makes me pause because my 6800 is working admirably so far (fingers crossed). I wouldn't want to go through another round of Optoma troubles and certainly NOT with their service dept. (i.e. Devan R, who is the sloppiest RMA tech I've ever dealt with).

db13,

Are you over HDMI? Can you please try 1080p for me? 1080p is selectable in the display menu and it will output for the dashboard as well, not just for movies.

Thanks!

Sam,

Thanks for your kind thoughts. :) I went into this with my eyes wide open and expected that it could happen so I wasn't all that surprised really. I can't say that I'm even annoyed or angry either. The bloody pictures on this thing are so incredible that it might take a whole lot more aggravation to turn me off this thing. :D No problems today so far. I have the unit plugged into a Monster Clean Power two receptacle surge protector that mounts directly on the electrical outlet wall plate. Last night I thought I'd try something a little different and I unplugged the HD7100 from the one receptacle and put it in the other one. Might be different electrical tolerances at play here. May not make a difference but it's worth a try. The projector hasn't failed to strike since I switched inputs. Crossing my fingers.

This issue hasn't soured me on the model yet. I'm wondering if anyone's tried unplugging the projector when not in use. Since you have to do a hard reboot anyway when it fails to strike, why not just cut to the chase and turn it off then unplug it after each use? Not much of an inconvenience if it does the trick, especially when the images are so terrific. Just a thought.

Wayne

Hey Wayne!

I thought I'd give you an update on the shootout I saw in Seattle. Marantz, Pearl, RS1. I know you were thinking about RS1 before getting HD7100. I loved my hd7100, but I must say that the new RS1 was a pick for me even over Marantz.

I'll say that differences as subtle at this level, the source seems to make the biggest difference, however, both RS1 and a well tuned Pearl offer a refined image that is seducing in its presentation. If you decide to return your HD7100, you will love the RS1. I'll say that the whole ansi vs on/off argument is becoming no issue for me. RS1 and the Pearl had a punch, no rainbows and beautiful image. The biggest thing I did not miss about the DLP was the motion blur.

However, if you stick with the DLP, I'll say that the Marantz was great, but it should be at 13K+, I would not upgrade to it from my HD7100 however, as I always said, the optics on it are amazing and it displays less rainbows for me than Marantz when fed 48Hz. The motion blur on HD7100 is annoying though.

Hope this helps :)

Mike (H57 club)

Thanks Mike! :) So have you made a final decision Pearl vs. RS1? :confused: :)

I envy you being able to see those three pjs. ;) I appreciate your feedback and don't feel that I'm missing much in going with the HD7100 other than having a few thousand $$$$ extra in the bank. The motion blur doesn't bother me and I'm not even sure if I've even seen it. DON'T SHOW ME HOW TO!! :eek: That's all I need is something else to look for and stew about. :o

It's behaving for me today. I noticed that some times like Tom said, it takes a minute or two before an image suddenly pops on the screen seemingly from nowhere. I'm used to waiting though since I have a first generation HD DVD player. ;)

Mike, in your estimation, does the RS1 deliver the same 'pop' as a DLP product such as the HD7100? I just can't imagine any of the technologies competing with DLP when it comes to the bold, bright 'wow' factor. How close does the RS1 or Pearl come to delivering the same?

Wayne

i would not get to upset either . i went in knowing there is a problem . i sent mine in got it back and its is worse than when i sent it in . i called them up told them and they sent ups to my house to pick it up and are sending me a new unit . i asked if they found a fix and they siad no . at least they are being honest. they may not be very knowledgable but at least they always answer the phone and have always been very nice . with a 3 year warranty this might get old. i love this projector and nothing in my price range will fit my location. on a personal note theres no way they dont know whats wrong i think they are just being cheap .

I'd like to see them issue a firmware fix for this if it's possible. But that's not Optoma's style.

Sorry to hear about your trials too Steve. Hopefully your next one will do the trick. It is a good fit for many rooms and so I can see why so many of us try so hard to get it right.

Can you imagine how many of these Optoma would have sold without these problems? Then again, all projectors have a problem of some sort or other.

I understand that this is a design that Optoma has 'adopted'. I wonder if it's possible to purchase the European model? I think I read that it performs better.

Anyway, unless it stops working completely I'll persevere. It exhibits the best images I've seen yet from any of the 5 projectors in total that I've owned.

Wayne

Hey Wayne!

To answer your question, you don't need to worry about that elusive "pop". I know what you are talking about and all I can say that as anal as I am about my picture, watching those two fed with top notch material made me forget about the projector. You have to remember that they were compared against Marantz 1080p, which HAS as much "pop" as any dlp on the market at the moment and I did not think they left anything to the Marantz, RS1 a bit more so than Pearl. They are a different look though, but having owned nothing but DLP all my life, I am going to the dark side :D

I would say that a scaler turned on the DVI is probable the way to go to keep the HD7100 going. Those units were modified by Optoma to turn on with the Gennum scaler in the chain.

[QUOTE=mystery]Sam,

. I'm wondering if anyone's tried unplugging the projector when not in use.

Wayne,
I do unplug the whole thing every time when finished. I don't know if it has helped at all but since I switched to a DVI input about 2 months ago, I have not had a single incident of misfiring. I am on manual source selection mode.
The pj is now climbing to the 500 hours mark!! I"ll keep my fingers crossed. :)
Good luck.
Fermin

Thanks Mike,

I'd like to get the video processor for it but can't afford one at the moment. I'm not bothered by artifacts for the most part though so maybe the VP would be overkill for me, especially since I consider the image of the HD7100 to be basically perfect now after calibration and close to perfect OTB. Thanks for your feedback on the shootout. This is my 5th DLP in a row (I've never owned anything else either) and the thought of switching technologies frightens me since I've seen LCD and don't like it but I understand that LCOS is another thing entirely. I guess I'd have to demo one myself to compare and see if it's for me.

Fermin,

Very interesting. I'll keep the unplugging trick in mind if this problem crops up again. It's been stellar since the weekend with no start up problems in 6 tries now since Sunday.

I wonder what Optoma is going to do next after the HD73 has been out a while? I think they need to incorporate lens shift into another model and not just the HD7100.

Wayne

i received this unit yesterday. worked great....... for 15 minutes. Looked awesome out of the box. dvd looked great then the light just went out. No changes/ adjustments. When I turn it on, the fan kicks on for a few seconds then I hear a kinda of crackling(not sparking) the light never comes on. I therefore dont know if there are any error messages. there wernt any beofre it went out. Will i have to send it back? the manual doesnt help and Optoma only offers email support(wtf?) with a 24-48 hr turnaround time.

Try unplugging it and then replugging it into either the same or a different outlet. Did you allow the projector to warm to room temperature after taking it out of the box?

If this doesn't help then it sounds like you're a candidate for a hot swap.

Wayne

warmed to room temp.
tried unplugging it.

RMA time I guess(sigh) :mad:

btw- for anyone needing real time support for Optoma
888-289-6786
choose tech support option and hold after the recording tells you to go to the website.

warmed to room temp.
tried unplugging it.

RMA time I guess(sigh) :mad:

btw- for anyone needing real time support for Optoma
888-289-6786
choose tech support option and hold after the recording tells you to go to the website.

did the same crap on mine.

it aint the PJ. it's the LAMP. don't bother RMA the whole unit.

just get another lamp.

10:1 pull out ur lamp, and the filament will be broken.

i got a new lamp, and am onto 400 hours+ .

I am close to reaching 200 hours and just had another instance of the bulb not turning on until its third automatic retry. Heard a bunch of crackling sounds before it fired up on the third retry also. I hope this bulb makes it.

I haven't checked my time on the bulb in a while but I was over 1000 hrs a few months ago so I'm probably close to 1500hrs now on the original bulb. I haven't had a problem with the bulb not lighting off in several months. In the past, I was plagued by this issue. For those of you who are having this problem, here is what has been working for me:

-I'm running HDMI to DVI from my Yamaha RX-V2600 receiver to the PJ (25ft Bluejeans Cable)
-Harmony 890 RF remote
-I found that by introducing a slight delay with the Harmony remote, so that the PJ turns on in sequence before my Receiver does, I drastically reduced the number of instances where the "bulb failed to fire"
-When it "failed to fire", I found that even though my screen was dark and even though I may not have even gotten the Optoma logo, the bulb had in fact fired. It just didn't appear that it did because no image was shown, not even the logo. In these instances, I would be forced to wait for the PJ to recycle itself. It would turn itself off and then back on again after waiting about 3-5min.
-On the rare occasion that this happens now (since adjusting to have the PJ come on before the source) I realize that the bulb is most likely "on" and that the problem is poor software in the PJ that is finicky about how it handles the signals the PJ receives.****Try This**** Next time you get one of these light off problems, cycle through your inputs (go from DVI to PC to Component and back to DVI). See if you notice the text in the bottom right that tells you "searching for signal" If it does, well you need a lit lamp to give you that image don't you? When you get back to DVI you should have a full working image, maybe try one more cycle. If you don't, next try changing sources. Try going from your TV source to Xbox or DVD for example. Anything that would change the input type (HDMI source to component source into your receiver) That should do it. Then go back to TV or whatever you want.

I know it shouldn't have to be this way, but it's been a few months now using this workaround and I haven't had that anxiety about whether the PJ will start up or not. I know that if it doesn't, I can ALWAYS fix the problem now with a couple of button presses. It's not like I have a unit that is immune to this problem. I'm one of the guys who was really bashing Optoma early on in this thread for a lack of support on this bulb issue. It still sucks that we can't just get a firmware update to fix this. Let me know how this works for you guys and PM me if you want a clarification.

BTW. Look forward to not losing any noticeable brightness when you guys hit 1500hrs! Still an amazing picture. I'm happy now, no thanks to Optoma

I noticed all the problems effecting my projector went completely away after 350 hour mark.

no source problems, false starts or flickering.

good stuph. must have just been broken in.

Just to confirm what was said above, my 7100 has misfired a few times as well, and every single time the bulb lit up just fine. I think this problem is getting mis-characterized as a bulb strike failure when it is not.

My guess is that whatever sensor they are using to determine if the bulb is lit is no damn good.

Mike

I have 340 hours on my 7100 now, and I also have had a number of "misfires", and each time the bulb has lit too, which happens usually every 7 to 12 times I turn it on although as many as 20. My guess is that the computer has failed to boot correctly. I think it is caused by a power problem, voltage fluxuation, or noise on the line. I did notice that when I turn on my 7x110 watt receiver, the lights on that circuit dim! What I am trying now is to not turn any other equipment on until the PJ is up and running. I also bought an APC SmartUPS (uninteruptable power supply) for the PJ. This is working so far. I have not had a "misfire" since I got the ups going, although it has only been 25 turn ons so far. This PJ has such a great picture, it is a shame to have these problems ruin our enjoyment of it.

Last night while distracted by other matters, I turned on my receiver before the PJ had finished booting up, and sure enough, the PJ "misfired". I am now confident that the receiver is the cause of my PJ problems. What surprises me is that the uninteruptable power supply did not prevent the interference as I had hoped. I will have to be more careful about my start up procedure, and see if that really is the solution.

my new projector has worked perfect . the original went out at 100 hours . got it back still not working correctly . got a new unit even starts faster has not droped out . now tonight when i fire it up it will probalbly blow up now that i have siad that. :D

High Temperature Fault

Last night in the middle of the finale of "Saving Private Ryan" My 7100 stopped dead indicating the lamp was too hot. The manual says to check the filters are not clogged, however, I can't find any mention in the manual of how to access the filters or how to clean them. They only show cleaning the external ventilation holes with a vacumb cleaner. Of course neather Optoma or my dealer have any service staff on the weekend. Can anyone help on this?

Thanks

I have just over 250 hours now. The picture has always looked sharp and I do not think it can be beat for the price.

Havent had any false starts since 150 hours so hopefully it is good now.

Here in canada most Vendors cite the HD7100 as being Discontinued.

FFS Optoma, it isn't barely 1 year old.

Is anyone using Toshiba's HD-A2 successfully over HDMI/DVI to the HD7100? I'd like to know if this projector does the handshake since there seems to be some trouble syncing with the earlier HD-A1 unit.

If the HD-A2 works consistently using HDMI then I may return my RCAHDV5000 (HD-A1) and pick the second generation model up.

Thanks for any insight into this.

Wayne

I use the A1 and it works fine. Over component just can't upconvert. *bigdeal*

besides. HD DVD is going to lose the war :D

I also got a PS3, and it has no problems.

Is anyone using Toshiba's HD-A2 successfully over HDMI/DVI to the HD7100? I'd like to know if this projector does the handshake since there seems to be some trouble syncing with the earlier HD-A1 unit.

If the HD-A2 works consistently using HDMI then I may return my RCAHDV5000 (HD-A1) and pick the second generation model up.

Thanks for any insight into this.

Wayne

I have no problems with connectivity from the A2 to Lumagen HDQ to HD7100. Before adding the Lumagen, I had a Gefen HDMI switch and that worked, too.

Thanks guys. :)

I bought the HD-A2 yesterday and it works on my HD7100 over HDMI/DVI. There's a bit of snow before the handshake for a few seconds and then the image pops in nicely. I'm using a Monoprice switcher HDX-501 (5 x 1). One thing I noticed is that when I switch to another HDMI input and then go back to the HD7100 it takes a minute or so before the image is restored. The screen is black until the signal reconnects. No problem. I'm just glad to not to HAVE to use component. I see a difference between HDMI and component and appreciate having the choice. I guess the RCAHDV5000 is going back. Just couldn't get an image over HDMI/DVI no matter how hard I tried.

Got a good deal on the HD-A2 as it was an open box and didn't come with a remote. So I used the remote from the RCA unit which works perfectly on any HD-A1 to program my Logitech Harmony 659. So even though I don't have a remote for the HD-A1 I now have all of the capabilities of that remote through the Harmony thanks to the RCA remote.

Rented 12 Monkeys. Disappointed in the image quality.

Wayne

Wayne,

Nice!! Glad to hear that you've finally got HD DVD in digital to the 7100. Sure beats component, eh? :D

Exgo,

Is your PS3 going to the 7100 using HDMI/DVI? Or just thru component?

Sam

Thanks Sam! :)

I saw a good deal on the HD-A2. I like it better than the A1 so the first generation model is going back. After all that eh? :o

What's the news on the BenQ??

Wayne

Wayne,

Nice!! Glad to hear that you've finally got HD DVD in digital to the 7100. Sure beats component, eh? :D

Exgo,

Is your PS3 going to the 7100 using HDMI/DVI? Or just thru component?

Sam


no problems with PS3 at all.

no problems with PS3 at all.

But what I'm asking for the 2nd time is whether you're doing component or HDMI, which is a make or break for me.

So, component from PS3 or HDMI from PS3?

Thank you!

HDMI, no problems at all!

:D

I am using th HDA1 with component. and the Colorspace looks just as good as with HDMI (which also works). it just doesn't handshake when upscailing dvd's.

upscailing dvds is soo overrated. when you see a HD DVD or BD. it blows every conveivable thing away in every single aspect of normal DVD's.

300 bux for a hd dvd player. and 2000+ for a decent upscailer.

do da math.

HDMI, no problems at all!

:D

I am using th HDA1 with component. and the Colorspace looks just as good as with HDMI (which also works). it just doesn't handshake when upscailing dvd's.

upscailing dvds is soo overrated. when you see a HD DVD or BD. it blows every conveivable thing away in every single aspect of normal DVD's.

300 bux for a hd dvd player. and 2000+ for a decent upscailer.

do da math.

Perfect, thanks Exgo!

Ok here goes. Who has Calbirated this Display with the HD DVD of DVE?

Maybe it's just me, but the image looks to my eyes perfect except for minor tweaks to brightness, contrast, etc. Beyond that, I have not been tempted to play with the image at all.

On an unrelated note: Last Friday I was watching a flick and the projector popped and went dark. The warning light was flashing, and I assumed that the bulb just blew. Turns out that it had just overheated, and the bulb was fine. (If getting a bit dim now.)

Unfortunately I didn't discover this until last night, so my PJ was running 48 Hrs straight!

Just an FYI for the rest of the 7100 owners.

Mike

just a follow up my new unit starts everytime and very fast. none of the old ones work as well as the new unit . 3months and no miss fires etc . keeping my fingers crossed :)

HDMI, no problems at all!

:D

I am using th HDA1 with component. and the Colorspace looks just as good as with HDMI (which also works). it just doesn't handshake when upscailing dvd's.

upscailing dvds is soo overrated. when you see a HD DVD or BD. it blows every conveivable thing away in every single aspect of normal DVD's.

300 bux for a hd dvd player. and 2000+ for a decent upscailer.

do da math.

Thanks for posting the info.
Do you know what color space this projector uses to display a SD signal from a DVD? An upscaled signal from a SD DVD? A HD signal from a HD DVD?
Is there any one with access to the service manual? Any leads as to how/where to obtain it?
Thanks.
Fermin