I now have 400hrs on my mits projector. From day one there was an odd buzzing sound that would come from the unit during start up. To be more specific, the sound would begin about thirty seconds after I turned the projector on, it would then last ten to fifteen seconds before going away. What makes this more odd is that it only occurs when it's cold. I figured I'd give it some time and see if it got any worse. Well, at 400hrs nothing has changed. The sound is still there but isn't any louder, nor does it last any longer.

In case you're wondering why I haven't sent it in under warranty, it's because I took a chance and bought it directly from Japan. Shipping rates are $150+. Has anyone else experienced this with their dlp projectors? Could it be something other than the color wheel? If you were in my shoes what would you do? thanks

scrubsr1,

This could be the bearing in either the color wheel or the exhaust fan. I had the same problem and it continually got worse (over 4000hrs). Eventually the color wheel seized up and had to be replaced. The cost for repairs was around $500.

Thanks maxfli100, looks like I'll be sending it back to Japan. I guess $150 doesn't seem so bad after reading your experience. What projector did you have?

On a side note I talked to the Mits service dept. today and was taken back when I was told that the color wheel needs to be replaced every 4000 hrs. He said that's standard for all single chip dlp powered displays. There has to be units out there that have gone much longer, otherwise dlp wouldn't be as popular as it is.

There has to be units out there that have gone much longer, otherwise dlp wouldn't be as popular as it is.

Actually if you determine the average number of hours the typical dlp owner uses their PJ, you will find that most don't get to 4,000 hours before buying a new machine.

There are of course those who have gone over 4,000 hours and not had to replace their wheel. It's just like the timing belt on your car. There is a mileage mark for when to replace it but how many ever do?

I have a Sharp XV-Z2000 and I use it as my main tv. I've had it approx for 2 years and run it everyday for at least 4 hrs . If you don't plan on using it like i do, it should last much longer, but you never know.