Nothing is more annoying than a constant flickering light, especially when it interrupts a show’s season finale. JVC projectors produce one of the crispest pictures on the market and have a great reputation, so why is the image flashing?
Don’t worry. You can follow our tips to regain your projector’s crystal clear picture in no time.
Why is your JVC projector flickering?
What can you do to fix it?
Keep reading to find out!
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Change the 3D Settings
Your projector may be set to 3D mode.
JVC projectors use active shutter technology to produce 3D images. This method quickly flashes the image between alternating eyes so it looks 3D when you’re wearing your shutter 3D glasses .
Your shutter technology glasses use liquid crystal to cover and reveal each lens, so your brain thinks the multiple 2D images are one 3D object.
However, when seen with the naked eye the lamp may appear to be flickering. Luckily it’s an easy fix.
Find the 3D Setting button on your remote. Click it until you see the Auto option, automatically detecting 3D content and shutter the images accordingly. If the images are still in 3D mode while watching 2D content, select the 2D option.
Remember, if the 3D Setting is set to 2D, you’ll have to change it back to Auto, Side by Side, or Top and Bottom to watch 3D content.
You’re Projecting 3D Content in Fluorescent Lighting
Turn off any fluorescent lights.
Flashing images are crucial to creating a clear 3D image. They require a delicate balance of light and carefully timed flickering to trick your eyes into seeing a 3D picture.
Fluorescent lights also flicker which can intervene with the projector’s 3D image and your 3D glasses’ alternating shutter pattern.
The simplest way to fix the flickering is to turn all fluorescent lights off.
As a rule of thumb, it’s always best to project in total darkness to eliminate any external light interference and ensure the brightest picture.
You’ve Recently Moved the Projector
An internal unit has been misplaced.
JVC projectors and their lamp units can be very delicate, so if you’ve recently moved the projector something internal may have been misplaced. Always exercise caution when moving your projector, taking care not to drop it.
If you’ve recently mounted your projector to the ceiling or taken it down from the fixture, it’s a good idea to make sure everything is properly secured. You may need to check the projector’s lamp and drive mechanism.
How to Adjust Lamp Unit
To adjust the lamp unit, make sure the projector is unplugged and cool to the touch. Unscrew the lamp compartment found on the back of the projector, making sure not to lose the loose screws.
Inside the projector, unscrew the two screws fixing the lamp unit in place. Examine the lamp for any burns or imperfections and gently clean off any grime with a microfiber cloth. Never touch the lamp or lens with your fingers, as this could damage it and produce a fuzzy picture.
Replace the lamp unit and see if the projector is still flickering.
Fix the Drive Mechanism
A projector’s drive mechanism brightens the picture and prevents cross-talk. If it’s not working properly or is misplaced, it may need to be fixed or replaced.
This can be a complicated and highly technical process, so contact JVC support for further guidance.
Adjust the Lamp Mode
Try changing the lamp mode.
The lamp’s bulb flickering could be caused by the “arc wander” phenomenon. Simply put, arc wander refers to when the lamp’s arc moves around the electrode. This electrical instability inhibits the steady output of light, causing flickering.
If this sounds complicated, don’t worry. It’s an easy fix.
In the settings, adjust your lamp power mode from low or eco mode to high, or vice versa. Let it run on the new power mode for several hours, ensuring the projector doesn’t overheat. See the results.
You can also adjust the image modes, which changes the light output.
Replace the Lamp Unit
The lamp unit must be replaced.
It’s possible that your projector’s lamp unit has come to the end of its life and needs to be replaced. This can be a possibility, even if you haven’t received a notification alerting you that your lamp will need to be replaced soon.
Lamps can burn out or malfunction before their 3,500-hour runtime, especially if your unit has frequently overheated.
To replace the lamp, turn off and unplug your projector. The lamp units become very hot when in use, so let them cool before touching them.
Unscrew the lamp compartment’s door, and notice the two parallel screws. Unscrew them and carefully remove the lamp by pulling the metal handle. Never touch the lamp or projector lens with your fingers.
Throw away the used lamp following your local recycling laws.
Put the new lamp into the projector and reattach all the screws.
Power up your unit and watch it shine!
Tip: Don’t forget to reset the lamp timer by clicking the Menu button and pressing Lamp Reset. Press Yes on the pop-up window to confirm your choice and you’re all set.
Check the Ballast Unit
See if the ballast unit needs replacement or repair.
The ballast unit enables your projector to produce a steady stream of light by producing an electrical current that kindles the lamp’s mercury vapor. If this voltage is unstable, the projector may flicker since it cannot properly light the vapor, creating brightness.
If you live in a moist climate or have experienced flooding, your ballast unit could have sustained water damage.
Since these units handle high amounts of electricity, they can also burn. This may emit an unpleasant smoky smell from your projector and increase the risk of a fire hazard.
Ballasts can also leak oil, damaging the projector’s other processing units.
If you’re an experienced projector fiend, you may feel comfortable changing a ballast unit yourself. If you’re curious about how to fix or replace ballast units at home visit Projector Ballast Problems: How To Troubleshoot And Fix Them?
However, be aware that ballast units are very intricate. If you are not a seasoned projector mechanic, it’s recommended to call JVC support and take your unit somewhere to be professionally fixed. Your projector will thank you.
Wrapping Things Up
A flickering projector can be as concerning as it is annoying, but it’s no cause for alarm. Projectors are complex and it’s not uncommon for one unit to malfunction or need replacement.
Remember to check your 3D and lamp settings, turn off any fluorescent lights, and consider replacing the lamp unit. If all else fails, call JVC support and check if your ballast unit needs to be changed.
Good luck!
What’s your experience with JVC projectors flickering?
Let us know in the comments below!
Yesenia Achlim is a technical copywriter and editor with a focus on AV equipment. She aims to break down complicated topics and make technology accessible, no matter your technical expertise. When she’s not teaching you how to replace a projector lamp, you can find her reading and baking.