I think the smudges are from dust on the light engine? It appears that is the case and I only see them when on a pure white background (only see them with the new wii).

Anyway, how can I clean this? Is it possible and what do I need to do? I'm 3 months out of warranty.

Thanks!

DLP light engines can't really be cleaned (like LCD RPTVs can). If you are sure it's not the screen or between screen layers, I guess you could clean the lens and mirror (if necessary). If the anomolly is still there after cleaning those, maybe pull the lamp and check for debri there and where if fires into. Other than that the DMD may have a flaw (requires replacement).

Hammer

I have a HL-P5085W. I'm getting these smudges as well and it is getting worst. Very visible if the background is white.

It's a good thing I bought an extended warranty and have called in for service and they'll come over these weekend. I'll give feedback on the outcome.

I have been doing some internet research on this problem. Besides the fact that the problem is common to Samsung DLPs, the smudges can be attributed to cold temperature. Come to think of it, my unit is in the basement and it's usually cold down there. It looks like a screen replacement is the solution to the smudges.


"A number of Samsung DLP TVs are displaying blotches or smudges on the insides of their screens. These blotches or smudges are caused by the bending movement of the Lenticular screen, a screen set directly behind the screen you view. The bending of the Lenticular screen is partly due to distortions of the Fresnel lens, which is immediately behind the Lenticular screen. The distortions in the Fresnel lens are caused by changes in the temperature of the Fresnel lens that occur as the TV heats up during the operation. The blotches or smudges are most noticeable on lighter backgrounds."


http://erms.samsungusa.com/customer/sea/jsp/faqs/faqs_view.jsp?PG_ID=3&AT_ID=17146&PROD_SUB_ID=41&PROD_ID=153

Here's what it looks like on my unit (Left and RIGHT side).

UPDATE:

For once I'm glad I got an extended warranty. :)

The tech guy came over today and checked out my complaint. He said they would place a screen replacement order for my unit. It would most likely take a week to get one.

UPDATE: My unit was fixed today. They replaced both the inner and outer screen. Looks good as new! :)