4100mp fan won't turn off

Hi firebottle,

In 'Eco mode', projector runs in lower power mode (200 Watt). When 'OFF', projector operates in normal power mode (250 Watt). Since it is shutting off when run in 'normal mode', it appears that the projector is overheating and is experiencing a thermal shutdown.

The following message appears if the projector has overheated. The 'Temp led' also comes on, resulting in projector shutting off.
 

- Would like to know if the projector lamp has been replaced or has 'Lamp hours' been reset in the past.
- Please check 'Lamp Hours' to see if the lamp is approaching the end of its useful life in full power operation. (Refer to images below)
      

The 'High Altitude' feature is not present in 4100mp projector. However, the projector is designed to operate optimally within temperature range:  (41oF–95oF) or (5oC–35oC), which meets the average 'highest day time temperature in Denver' in July (88.0°F). Please check if the the projector is being used in a location with good room ventilation.

If the lamp has not been replaced before, you may try replacing the projector lamp before replacing the projector itself. Do reply if you have any further questions. I would be glad to assist.

Thanks so much for your kind response.

2 things:  When I got the unit, it had 850 hours on the bulb.  In fiddling with the menu, I accidentally reset the lamp hours.

Also, the unit is very clean with nothing blocking the cooling vents, and it is being run in a well ventilated, cool area.  Since the fan is  not turning off, even after being shut off, all night, could the temp sensor be faulty, also resulting in the overheat shutoff under 250W mode?

Thanks so much for your continued assistance!

Hi firebottle,

Thank you for your prompt response. The fan may run continuously on this projector even after the lamp cool down routine finishes. It is possible as a portion of the switching power supply may remain energized (running) even when the projector is at rest. Yes, you correctly said that it may be an issue with the 'temp sensor'. It may also be an issue with the fan speed control chip. It may also be an issue with the lamp itself. I suspect that you are not sure if the lamp hours were reset even before you purchased it. The best I recommend at this time is to replace the projector lamp (only if you are sure that it has not been replaced before). Else, you may continue using the projector in Eco mode or replace it if you are not happy with with it's performance in the Eco mode. Hope this helps.

Thank you, Saurabh A.

Again, the fan does run after being turned off until it is unplugged.

Would the lamp assy. not being seated properly cause any of this?  If so, should I remove and reinstall?

Thanks again for all your help!

Hi firebottle,

Re-seating the lamp assembly would be worth a try. You may find the below mentioned steps useful:

CAUTION:
- Before re seating the lamp, please follow the below mentioned safety instructions
- The lamp becomes very hot when in use. Do not attempt to replace the lamp until the projector has been allowed to cool down for at least 30 minutes.
- Do not touch the bulb or the lamp glass at any time. Projector lamps are very fragile and may shatter if touched. The shattered glass pieces are sharp and can cause injury.
- If the lamp shatters, remove all broken pieces from the projector and dispose or recycle according to state, local, or federal law.

1  Turn off the projector and disconnect the power cord.
2  Let the projector cool for at least 30 minutes.
3  Loosen the 2 screws that secure the lamp cover, and remove the cover.
4  Loosen the 3 screws that secure the lamp.
5  Pull up the lamp by its metal handle.
6  Reverse steps 1 through 5 to install the lamp.

Hope this helps.

Thanks!

Also, I'm a bit of a electonics buff; even have me own oscilloscope.  Any chance I can get the fan control chip number, better yet, a link to a schematic for this unit?

Thanks in advance for all your help!

Hi firebottle,

Good to know about your interests. We do not offer any part numbers for the fan control chip. I apologize for not being able to help with this information. You may download the user's guide of your projector: http://dell.to/OfW0rw

Hope this helps.

One last question.  Any advice on where I might find a schematic for this baby?

Thanks for all your help and here's wishing you a wonderful rest of your year! tm

Hi firebottle,

Thank you for your response. I am researching to find a schematic for this projector. I have also contacted the product group team. It may take another 2 - 3 business days. I will keep you posted.

Hi firebottle,

As mentioned in my previous post, I've forwarded the details to the concerned team. Apologies for taking longer time than expected. It may take another  2 - 3 business days. I will keep you updated.

Hi firebottle,

Thank you for your patience. I have been in touch with our product group team. Since the schematic includes design related information, we would not be able to share it due to confidentiality reasons. I apologize for the inconvenience. Do write for any further questions.

Thanks for all your help!