lshotgolf,
Without being able to inspect the unit, it's difficult to diagnose. A lot of people may blame a similar symptom on the same part, but in reality, every service can be different. I'd hate to suggest a part, you pay for it, it not work, and you be out the money.
I'd recommend having your unit inspected. 3 years is about the time many bulbs need to be replaced anyway, but unfortunately, I don't have a diagnosis.
If you'd like to set up a service, you can call 800-SAMSUNG or fill out the Online Service Request form here:
http://www.samsung.com/us/support/service/request
--HDTech
My 3 year old Samsung 61" DLP developed a very dark picture over time and everything I read said replacing the lamp would solve the issue.
Well I got my replacement lamp in, top of the line OE replacement part and popped it in. While I was back there I removed the entire back panel and gave everything a good cleaning removing the 3 years of nastyness that finds it's way into the cabinet.
When I turned it on I swear the picture was bright and back to normal again, but within a day or two I'm right back where I started with the dark picture. I turned my contrast up to 100 and brightness is currently at around 80 and it's watchable, but something is clearly wrong as the picture is still very very dark.
What other replaceable parts could cause this problem? I considered replacing the color wheel, but if I do that and nothing changes I won't be very pleased to say the least.
Is it a ballast problem? Any help would be greatly appreciated at this point, I don't want to damage this new lamp if the board or something is bad.
Chowhound
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