Symptoms
- Screen flashes or strobes intermittently
- Flicker worsens with motion
- Flicker only on one input
- Flicker gets worse the longer it's on
Likely causes
- CommonLoose or damaged HDMI cableA marginal connection drops signal briefly, showing as flicker.
- CommonSource refresh rate mismatchA refresh rate the projector doesn't fully support can cause visible flicker.
- PossibleAging or failing lampLamps near end of life can flicker before going out completely.
- PossiblePower fluctuation or bad outletAn unstable power supply can cause the lamp or electronics to flicker.
- PossibleHDMI handshake issue with an AV receiver in betweenPassing signal through a receiver adds another point of failure.
What to do
- Reseat the video cable at both ends and try a different cable if one is available.
- Connect the source directly to the projector, bypassing any AV receiver or switch, to isolate the cause.
- Lower the source's refresh rate (e.g. from 120Hz to 60Hz) in its display settings.
- Plug the projector into a different outlet, ideally not shared with large appliances.
- Check the lamp hour counter; if it's near end of rated life, flicker often means it's failing.
- Update the projector's firmware if an update is available from the manufacturer.
Tools and parts
- Spare HDMI cable
Replacement projector lampSearch: “[projector model] replacement lamp”
When to call a pro
If flicker persists after isolating cables and source, and the lamp is not old, a technician should check the power supply.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.