My projector is a few years old and I have the same problem..the dots appear to be pixels that are failing to read the info. I wish dell would respond on this issue. My projector just started doing this after my last move. Before the move it worked fine.

Hi bwhigham,

The dots visible on projected image may be due to various reasons:

- Corrupt menu settings of projector
- Issue with projector bulb
- Configuration and settings of Input source (Computer, etc.)
- Dust accumulation on lens panel

1. Check the performance of projector screen on start up. Does the Dell logo at start up look fine?

- If the dell logo appears corrupted, we will reset the factory default settings on the Dell Projector to see if that works
- If that step fails, we need to check and reseat the bulb
- If the Dell logo appears fine, try a known-good computer or video source to the projector, if available
- If the problem gets fixed with a known good PC, the functionality of your input video source (PC, etc) needs to be checked

2. I would appreciate your answers to the following queries. With this information handy, I will be able to provide you with precise troubleshooting steps.

- Name and model of you Dell projector
- What is the color of dots visible on the screen
- Has the projector bulb been replaced before?
- What input video source are you using? Is it a computer?
- Which operating system is installed in the computer?
- If yes, which video card is installed in the system?

If you are unsure about the type of video card installed, you may find these steps useful (Only for Windows operating system):

 - Click ‘Start Icon’, and then click ‘Control Panel’
 - Click ‘Hardware and Sound’
 - Click ‘Device Manager’
 - ‘User Account Control’ dialog box may appear
 - Click Continue
 - ‘Device Manager’ Page opens up
 - Expand option ‘Display Adapter’
 - Capture the names of listed devices

Hope this helps. Please reply with the required information. I would be glad to help.

I have a similar problem with a Dell S300W.  On the projected image there is a black band that is progressively worse toward the bottom and lightens up toward the top.  It appears to be somewhat speckled.  Additionally, there are white speckles slightly to the right of the black speckled band in the lower left adjacent to the band.  I have tried blowing out any dust that might be in the unit after removing the covers and using air in a can.  I can't tell whether it is due to dust, or electronics but I suspect the latter.  Any suggested remedies?

John

Hi barjohn,

The speckled effect on the screen may be due to various possible reasons:
- Corrupt projector settings
- Dust accumulation on the projector bulb
- Configuration and settings of Input source (Computer, etc.)
- An issue with the bulb

Step 1: Follow these steps to restore settings to factory defaults. Refer to the image below:
 

You may find the steps useful:
- Go to 'OSD' (On screen display) option
- Go to 'Others'
- Check the projection results

If issue still persists, try the next step
Step 2: Check the performance of projector screen on start up. Does the Dell logo at start up look fine?
- If no, we need to check and reseat the bulb
- If the Dell logo appears fine, try a known-good computer or video source to the projector, if available
- If the problem gets fixed with a known good PC, the functionality of your input video source (PC, etc) needs to be checked (Refer to Step 4)

Step 3: Steps to reseat the projector bulb
- 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.
- Turn off the projector and disconnect the power cord
- Let the projector cool for at least 30 minutes
- Loosen the two screws that secure the lamp cover, and remove the cover (Refer to image below)
  
- Loosen the two screws that secure the lamp (Refer to image above)
- Pull up the lamp by its metal handle
- Wipe away any dust or dirt from the lamp using a can of compressed air. Be gentle when working so you don't dislodge or damage any of the parts
- Re seat the lamp
- Tighten the two screws that secure the lamp
- Replace the lamp cover and tighten the two screws
- Reset the lamp usage time by selecting "Yes" for Lamp Reset in the OSD Lamp tab (Refer to image below)
  
- After you re-install the lamp, select Yes to reset the lamp timer
- If the issue still persists, it indicates a hardware problem with the projector
- Bulb replacement may work in that case

Step 4: If the Dell logo appears fine, check with a known good computer / input video source
In case you are unsure about the type of video card installed, you may find these steps useful (Only for Windows operating system):
- Click ‘Start Icon’, and then click ‘Control Panel’
- Click ‘Hardware and Sound’
- Click ‘Device Manager’
- ‘User Account Control’ dialog box may appear
- Click Continue
- ‘Device Manager’ Page opens up
- Expand option ‘Display Adapter’
- Capture the names of listed devices
- If needed, I will provide detailed instructions to re-install the device driver

Hope this helps. Do reply with the results. I would be glad to assist.

I have tried all of these things and they have not resolved the issue.  I am starting to suspect the DLP chip.  If anyone knows the TI part # that would help as I could look at buying and replacing it.

Hi john,

Since the issue still persists even after performing the troubleshooting steps, it looks like a hardware issue. I am adding you as a friend. Please accept the request and reply through a private message with the projector's 'Service Tag' and 'Account Holder's' name. I will check the warranty status of the projector. And will get back to you with the best support options.

I have responded by what I think is your PM mechanism.  Not sure as it doesn't say that is what it is.  I see no way to friend on this site and I don't do Facebook.

Hi John,

I understand the kind of inconvenience this might have caused; I apologize for the experience you've had. As you mentioned, the projector is out of warranty; and in such a case there is a charge attached for any service. You've already spoken to this department. Dell does not offer any part number for the DLP chip.
Apologies for the inconvenience.