[tmwalsh]

I'd like to hear from anyone regarding the lifespan of the bulbs in a DLP RPTV. All but bought Mits 57" Diamond DLP (wd55831?) and this is the only concern I have left. Set will be primary tv for family viewing in multi=purpose room (i.e family room attached to open kitchen).

we watch fair share of movies (4 kids, 6 and under) and occassionally they let dad watch some hd sports. As this is the main television, it will be used daily, not all day every day, but certainly each day. I know replacements are around $200-225msrp and I don't want to be buying one a year. Thanks!

 

[Sky042]

Minimum lifespan is expected 4000+ hours.

Though some of it will have to do with your habits.

If you are constantly turning the TV off and on this will shorten the life.

We've gotten into the habit of if we're gonna be out of the room for 30mins or so just leaving our 65732 on. Apparently start up is most of the wear and tear on these bulbs.

 

[walford]

My Samsung lamp lasted 29 months under 8+ hours a day of usage.

I bough a new one for $200 after 15 months so had it ready when the first one went.

It took me less then 5 minutes to change following the instructions in the manual.

 

[tmwalsh]

Thanks for the input. Our usual habit is once its on, its on. I'm sure experiences differ but its heartening to hear about longevity. And I do like the idea of buying the spare and holding for the inevitable.....Anyone else care to comment?

 

[BillP]

I'm still on my 1st Samsung DLP bulb, 3 1/2 years later.

 

[skar]

I (and many other AVSForum users) got a warranty that covers bulb replacements. See this thread for details:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=727816


BTW, I have a LCOS rear projector that is 4 months old with the original bulb.

 

[dghampton]

I have a Toshiba 64HMX84 that I purchased in June 2005. The original bulb went after ~2000 hours (10 months). That was replaced under warranty with one that Toshiba claimed that had rectified lifetime issues. That one lasted 8 months.


Neither of these of lasted any where near the 6000-8000 hours claimed by Toshiba.

Some people suggest keeping a spare. Given the high price tag for these, and that Toshiba was only giving a 90 day warranty on a replacement, this does not seem like a good idea. The warranty will expire before you have a chance to use the bulb. If there are any problems with the replacement, you will be out of luck.

 

[stonecrd]

I bought a HLN model in Sept 2003, the first lamp was changed last Aug and was still running. My wife stays at home so the Tv is probably on 10+ hrs a day.