Vertical Lines on My Optoma Projector: How Do I Fix It?

Optoma projectors are highly rated when it comes to color contrast and accuracy. However, many people wonder if they are prone to having vertical lines over projected images like most other brands.

Unfortunately, even high-rated products like Optoma projectors can become defective at some point. Nevertheless, it’s not something to get worked up about.

You see, vertical lines are common in most projector brands, even the highest quality ones. But here is the kicker: it is possible to fix your projector so it restores its functionality.

If you are wondering how to get rid of the vertical lines, search no further. This write-up will answer all the questions you have on the matter. 

More often than not, these vertical lines are due to poorly connected cables, but when the lines are permanent, it could indicate something more critical.

Some viable solutions to this glitch include pushing down on the projector, securing cables, and repairing or replacing the mainboard. Of course, replacing the mainboard is quite technical and costly; hence, it should be the last alternative. Resort to it only if every other option proves futile.

If you wish to learn more about fixing the vertical lines glitch on your Optoma projector, keep reading. 

What Causes Vertical Lines in Optoma Projectors?

In many instances, vertical lines point to inoperative or poorly connected cables. A bad cable can cause a poor ground signal, thus resulting in vertical lines. 

You can denote the problem’s origin by plugging and unplugging various cables to see which one is faulty. 

Since Optoma projectors incorporate the DLP technology, another possible cause of the problem could be a malfunctioned mainboard that fails to process the DLP chip. 

DLP refers to Digital Light Processing. The DLP chip works in different ways depending on the type of projector. 

For instance, the home DLP projectors create colored images by splitting light into individual blue, red, and green colors. 

A defect can occur when the connectors binding the mainboard to the DLP fail. When you use the projector for a long time, the connectors tend to rust.

So it makes sense why your projector would show vertical lines when the DLP chip isn’t working appropriately. 

Fixing the Vertical Line Issue

It can be when you can’t tell whether the lines are coming from your computer or the projector.

However, you can tell by moving the projector up and down, and if the lines also move, you know the projector is the problem. If not, check your source device. 

The vertical line problem is not considered a manufacturing defect; however, if it happens while your warranty is still valid, do not hesitate to take it back to the manufacturers so they can help fix it. 

Let’s look at some of the ways to fix this frustrating problem.

Pushing down the Projector

This hack is a temporary solution. It is just a quick fix to help you through until you can get the chance to work on a better, more permanent solution.

If it happens that you are in the middle of a presentation or watching a movie, and the vertical lines suddenly appear, put your thumb approximately 3 inches behind the screen dial and press on the projector firmly.

Now, you should notice that the lines start disappearing. However, do not let go till they are completely invisible. 

When you finish using your projector, opt for other solutions since the vertical lines will probably show up the next time you power up your projector. 

Securing the Projector’s Cables

Before getting into any intricate solutions, check your cables. To confirm whether or not the cables are the problem, plug them in, then don’t display anything at all.

If you see a blue background with no vertical lines, the setback could be something else. However, if the lines show, try securing the cables to see if it resolves the issue.

To secure the cables, first ensure that the projector has been turned off. Remove all cables and then plug them in again. 

Your Optoma projector should now work fine if the unsecured cables were the cause of the glitch. 

Cleaning and De-Corroding the Connectors

As mentioned earlier, connectors rust when used for a prolonged period or when exposed to moisture and other elements. The good news is that you can clean and de-corrode them. 

For this task, you need the items below:

• A cotton earbud 
• DeoxIT 
• Prying tool
• Different-sized Philips screwdrivers 

First, you must disassemble some components. Start by popping off the projector lens, then turn the projector upside down and loosen any screws. 

You can either use your hand or a prying tool  to pop the projector open. You will see a ribbon connector that links the control panel to the connectors: carefully disconnect it.

Next, unscrew the sheet placed over the mainboard. Unfasten the screws holding the mainboard and carefully unplug all the cords from the board. 

Remove the mainboard and turn it to its rear end. You may notice that it has some debris in certain areas. Spray some DeoxIT on a cotton earbud, and use it to clean the mainboard and connectors. 

This procedure is quite technical for many. If you also find it too complex, you can watch a tutorial on cleaning Optoma connectors.

When done, reassemble the device to its original state and try it out. If the problem is still persistent: move to the next solution. 

Here’s a great video tutorial on how to teardown and reassemble a projector to help guide you.

Repairing or Replacing the Mainboard

It would be best to ship the projector to the manufacturer or hire a specialist to help replace the mainboard. However, some people might find this to be pretty expensive and opt to fix the device themselves.

If you believe you are capable of doing this without jeopardizing your device, then why not?

To repair the mainboard, remove the cover, then press the connection side: this should clear out the vertical lines. The connection side is the side that has the cables that connect the mainboard to various parts of the projector.

If you need to replace the DLP chip, contact your manufacturer before getting a replacement DLP chip or new mainboard. 

Keep in mind that replacing the mainboard is no walk in the park. It’s much better to incur extra costs than risk ruining your device completely. 

Conclusion

In a nutshell,  the vertical line hurdle is neither a manufacturing defect nor your fault. 

Many people never see it coming, yet it is quite a common problem with DLP projectors, not only Optoma projectors. 

To avoid this, maintain your device in the best way possible. Make it a habit to frequently clean the entire device, especially the connectors and mainboard. 

If you have more questions concerning this issue or other Optoma glitches, feel free to contact Optoma service and support.