Benq Th690st Led Gaming Projector User Manual

Digital Projector
User Manual
Home Entertainment Series I TH690ST/TH690SX
V 1.02 

Warranty and Copyright information

Limited warranty
BenQ warrants this product against any defects in material and workmanship, under normal usage and storage.
Proof of purchase date will be required with any warranty claim. In the event this product is found to be defective within the warranty period, BenQ’s only obligation and your exclusive remedy shall be replacement of any defective parts (labor included). To obtain warranty service, immediately notify the dealer from which you purchased the product of any defects.
Important: The above warranty shall be void if the customer fails to operate the product in accordance with BenQ’s written instructions, especially the ambient humidity must be in-between 10% and 90%, temperature in-between 0°C and 35°C, altitude lower than 4920 feet, and avoiding to operate the projector in a dusty environment. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights which vary from country to country.
For other information, please visit www.BenQ.com.
Copyright
Copyright 2022 by BenQ Corporation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system or translated into any language or computer language, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without the prior written permission of BenQ Corporation.
Disclaimer
BenQ Corporation makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims any warranties, merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. Further, BenQ Corporation reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes from time to time in the contents hereof without obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. *DLP, Digital Micromirror Device and DMD are trademarks of Texas Instruments. Others are copyrights of their respective companies or organizations. Patents Please go to http://patmarking.benq.com/ for the details on BenQ projector patent coverage.

Important safety instructions

Your projector is designed and tested to meet the latest standards for safety of information technology equipment. However, to ensure safe use of this product, it is important that you follow the instructions mentioned in this manual and marked on the product.

1. Please read this manual before you operate your projector. Save it for futurreference.

   

2. Do not look straight at the projector lens during operation. The intense light beam may damage your eyes.

   

3. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
   
4. The light source becomes extremely hot during operation.
   
5. In some countries, the line voltage is NOT stable. This projector is designed to operate safely within a mains voltage between 100 to 240 volts AC, but could fail if power cuts or surges of ±10 volts occur. In areas where the mains voltage may fluctuate or cut out, it is recommended that you connect your projector through a power stabilizer, surge protector or uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
   
6. Do not block the projection lens with any objects when the projector is under operation as this could cause the objects to become heated and deformed or even cause a fire. To temporarily turn off the light source, press the ECO BLANK button.
   
7. Do not operate light sources beyond the rated light source life.
   
8. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product may fall, sustaining serious damage.

   

9. Do not attempt to disassemble this projector. There are dangerous high voltages inside which may cause death if you should come into contact with live parts.
   Under no circumstances should you ever undo or remove any other covers. Refer servicing only to suitably qualified professional service personnel.
   
10. Do not block the ventilation holes.
    – Do not place this projector on a blanket, bedding or any other soft surface.
    – Do not cover this projector with a cloth or any other item.
    – Do not place inflammables near the projector.

    
    If the ventilation holes are seriously obstructed, overheating inside the projector may result in a fire.

11.  Always place the projector on a level, horizontal surface during operation.
    
12. Do not stand the projector on end vertically. Doing so may cause the projector to fall over, causing injury or resulting in damage to the projector.
    
13. Do not step on the projector or place any objects upon it. Besides probable physical damage to the projector, doing so may result in accidents and possible injury.
    
14. When the projector is under operation, you may sense some heated air and odor from its ventilation grill. It is a normal phenomenon and not a product defect.
15. Do not place liquids near or on the projector. Liquids spilled into the projector may cause it to fail. If the projector does become wet, disconnect it from the power supply’s power outlet and call BenQ to have the projector serviced.
    
16. This product is capable of displaying inverted images for ceiling mount installation.
    
17. This apparatus must be earthed.
18. Do not place this projector in any of the following environments.
    – Space that is poorly ventilated or confined. Allow at least 50 cm clearance from walls and free flow of air around the projector.
    – Locations where temperatures may become excessively high, such as the inside of a car with all windows rolled up.
    – Locations where excessive humidity, dust, or cigarette smoke may contaminate optical components, shorten the projector’s life span and darken the image.
    
    – Locations near fire alarms
    – Locations with an ambient temperature above 40°C / 104°F
    – Locations where the altitudes are higher than 3000 m (10000 feet).
    

Risk Group 2

1. According to the classification of photobiological safety of light source and light source systems, this product is Risk Group 2, IEC 62471-5:2015.
2. Possibly hazardous optical radiation emitted from this product.
3. Do not stare at operating light source. May be harmful to the eyes.
4. As with any bright source, do not stare into the direct beam.

To avoid damaging the DLP chips, never aim a high-power laser beam into the projection lens.

Introduction

Shipping contents
Carefully unpack and verify that you have all of the items shown below. If any of these items are missing, please contact your place of purchase.
Standard accessories

Projector	Remote control with batteries	Power cord
Quick start guide	Warranty card*	Regulatory statements

• The supplied accessories will be suitable for your region, and may differ from those illustrated.
• *The warranty card is only supplied in some specific regions. Please consult your dealer for detailed information.

Replacing the remote control batteries

1. Press and slide off the battery cover, as illustrated.
2. Remove the old batteries (if applicable) and install two AAA batteries. Make sure that the positive and negative ends are positioned correctly, as illustrated.
3. Slide the battery cover in until it clicks into place.

• Avoid leaving the remote control and batteries in an excessive heat or humid environment like the kitchen, bathroom, sauna, sunroom or in a closed car.
• Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the battery manufacturer.
• Dispose of the used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions and local environment regulations for your region.
• Never throw the batteries into a fire. There may be danger of an explosion.
• If the batteries are dead or if you will not be using the remote control for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to avoid damage to the remote control from possible battery leakage.

Projector exterior view

Controls and functions
Projector & Remote control

All the key presses described in this document are available on the remote control or projector.

1. POWER/TEMP/LIGHT
   (See Indicators on page 44.)
2. POWER ( / )
   Toggles the projector between standby mode and on.
3. BACK
   Goes back to previous OSD menu, exits and saves menu settings.
4. Arrow keys ( )
   When the On-Screen Display (OSD) menu is activated, these keys are used as directional arrows to select the desired menu items and to make adjustments.
   When OSD menu is inactive, workable under CEC-capable sources only. Keystone keys ( , ) (keypad) Displays the keystone correction page. Volume keys / (keypad)
   Decreases or increase the projector volume.
5. MODE/PIC MODE
   Displays the picture mode menu.
6. ECO BLANK
   Used to hide the screen picture.
7.  OK
   Confirms the selected On-Screen Display
   (OSD) menu item.
8. SOURCE
   Displays the source selection bar.
9. MENU
   Turns on/off the On-Screen Display (OSD) menu.
10. 
    Displays the keystone menu. See Correcting keystone on page 15 for details. items and to
11. 
    Toggles projector audio between on and off.
12.  SOUND MODE
    Displays the sound mode menu.
13. 
    Selects a preset picture and sound mode for games (Bright/Dark).
14. Press to open/close Auto focus page.
    *Available on compatible projectors only.
15. /
    Decreases or increase the projector volume.

Remote control effective range
The remote control must be held at an angle within 30 degrees perpendicular to the projector’s IR remote control sensor(s) to function correctly. The distance between the remote control and the sensor(s) should not exceed 8 meters (~ 26 feet).
Make sure that there are no obstacles between the remote control and the IR sensor(s) on the projector that might obstruct the infra-red beam.

• Operating the projector from the front

• Operating the projector from the top

Positioning your projector

Choosing a location
Before choosing an installation location for your projector, take the following factors into consideration:

• Size and position of your screen
• Electrical outlet location
• Location and distance between the projector and the rest of your equipment
  You can install your projector in the following ways.

1. Front
   Select this location with the projector placed on the table in front of the screen. This is the most common way to position the projector for quick setup and portability.
   
2. Front Ceiling
   Select this location with the projector suspended upside-down from the ceiling in front of the screen. Purchase the BenQ Projector Ceiling Mount Kit from your dealer to mount your projector on the ceiling.

   

3. Rear
   Select this location with the projector placed on the table behind the screen. Note that a special rear projection screen is required.
   
4. Rear Ceiling
   Select this location with the projector suspended upside-down from the ceiling behind the screen. Note that a special rear projection screen and the BenQ Projector Ceiling Mount Kit are required for this installation location.
   

Obtaining a preferred projected image size
The distance from the projector lens to the screen, the zoom setting, and the video format each factors in the projected image size.
Projection dimensions

•  The screen aspect ratio is 16:9 and the projected picture is in a 16:9 aspect ratio

For example, if you are using a 120-inch screen, the recommended projection distance is 2019 mm.
If your measured projection distance is 150 cm, the closest match in the “Distance from screen (mm)” column is 1514 mm. Looking across this row shows that a 90” (about 2.3 m) screen is required.
To optimize your projection quality, we suggest doing the projection by referring to the values listed in the non-gray rows.
All measurements are approximate and may vary from the actual sizes.
BenQ recommends that if you intend to permanently install the projector, you should physically test the projection size and distance using the actual projector in situ before you permanently install it, so as to make allowance for this projector’s optical characteristics. This will help you determine the exact mounting position so that it best suits  our
installation location.

Mounting the projector

If you intend to mount your projector, we strongly recommend that you use a proper fitting BenQ projector mounting kit and that you ensure it is securely and safely installed. If you use a non-BenQ brand projector mounting kit, there is a safety risk that the projector may fall down due to an improper attachment through the use of the wrong gauge or length screws.

Before mounting the projector

• Purchase a BenQ projector mounting kit from the place you purchased your BenQ projector.
• BenQ recommends that you also use a security cable to secure both the base of the mounting bracket and the security bar on the projector. This will perform the secondary role of restraining the projector should its attachment to the mounting bracket become loose.
• Ask your dealer to install the projector for you. Installing the projector on your own may cause it to fall and result in injury.
• Take necessary procedures to prevent the projector from falling off such as during an earthquake.
• The warranty doesn’t cover any product damage caused by mounting the projector with a non-BenQ brand projector mounting kit.
• Consider the surrounding temperature where the projector is ceiling mounted. If a heater is used, the temperature around the ceiling may be higher than expected.
• Read the user manual for the mounting kit about the range of torque. Tightening with torque exceeding the recommended range may cause damage to the projector and subsequently falling off.
• Make sure the power outlet is at an accessible height so that you can easily shut down the projector.
  Ceiling mount installation diagram
  Ceiling mount screw: M4 x 8 mm

Adjusting the projected image
Adjusting the projection angle
If the projector is not placed on a flat surface or the screenand the projector are not perpendicular to each other, the projected image becomes trapezoidal. You can screw the
adjuster feet to fine-tune the horizontal angle. To retract the feet, screw the adjuster feet in a reverse direction.

Do not look into the lens while the light source is on. The strong light from the light source may cause damage to your eyes.
Fine-tuning the image size and clarity

1. Adjust the projected image to the size that you need using the zoom ring.
2. Sharpen the image by rotating the focus ring.
   

Correcting keystone
Keystoning refers to the situation where the projected image becomes a trapezoid due to angled projection.
To correct the distorted image:

1. Display the 2D Keystone correction page from the following menus.
   • The setup wizard during the projector initial setup
   • The Basic menu system
   • The Installation menu of the Advanced menu system
2. After the 2D Keystone correction page appears:
   • To correct keystoning at the top of the image, use▼ .
   • To correct keystoning at the bottom of the image, use ▲.
   
   • To correct keystoning at the right side of the image, use ◀.
   • To correct keystoning at the left side of the image, use ▶.
   
   • To reset the keystone values, press BACK for 2 seconds.
   • To automatically correct the vertical sides of the distorted image, press OK for 2 seconds, or enable Auto Vertical Keystone in the Advanced menu – Installation menu.
3. When done, press BACK to save your changes and exit.

Connection

When connecting a signal source to the projector, be sure to:

1. Turn all equipment off before making any connections.
2. Use the correct signal cables for each source.
3. Ensure the cables are firmly inserted.

1. HDMI cable (with ferrite cores)
2. SPDIF audio cable
3. Speaker

• In the connections above, some cables may not be included with the projector (see Shipping contents on page 7).
  They are commercially available from electronics stores.
• The connection illustrations are for reference only. The rear connecting jacks available on the projector vary with each projector model.
• Many notebooks do not turn on their external video ports when connected to a projector. Usually a key combo like FN + function key with a monitor symbol turns the external display on/off. Press FN and the labeled function key simultaneously. Refer to your notebook’s documentation to find your notebook’s key combination.
• If the selected video image is not displayed after the projector is turned on and the correct video source has been selected, check that the video source device is turned on and operating correctly. Also check that the signal cables have been connected correctly.
• “Audio In” port only works when the projector input source is set to HDMI, and is connected to a DVI device via a DVI cable with a DVI-to-HDMI adapter.

Operation

Starting up the projector

1. Plug the power cord. Turn on the power outlet switch (where fitted). The power indicator on the projector lights orange after power has been applied.
2. Press on the projector or remote control to start the projector. The power indicator flashes green and stays green when the projector is on. The start up procedure takes about 10 seconds. In the later stage of starting up, a start-up logo is projected. (If necessary) Rotate the focus ring to adjust the image clearness.
3. If this is the first time you turn on the projector, the setup wizard appears to guide you through setting up the projector. If you have already done this, skip this step and move on to the next step.
   • Use the arrow keys ( ◀/▶/▲/▼) on the projector or remote control to move through the menu items.
   • Use OK to confirm the selected menu item.

Step 1:
Specify Projector Position.
For more information about projector position, see
Choosing a location on page 11.

Step 2:
Specify OSD Language.

Step 3:
Specify 2D Keystone, and choose to activate Auto Vertical Keystone.
For more information about keystone, see Correcting keystone on page 15.

Step 4:
Specify Game Settings.
You can select a preferred Room Setting, and adjust more image settings in this menu.
See Game Settings on page 26 for details.
Now you’ve completed the initial setup.

4. If you are prompted for a password, press the arrow keys to enter a 6-digit password. See Utilizing the password function on page 20.
5. Switch all of the connected equipment on.
6. The projector will search for input signals. The current input signal being scanned appears. If the projector does not detect a valid signal, the message “No Signal” will appear until an input signal is found.
You can also press SOURCE to select your desired input signal. See Switching input signal on page 21.

• Please use the original accessories (e.g. power cord) to avoid possible dangers such as electric shock and fire.
• If the projector is still hot from previous activity, it will run the cooling fan for approximately 2 seconds before energizing the light source.
• The Setup Wizard screenshots are for reference only and may differ from the actual design.
• If the frequency/resolution of the input signal exceeds the projector’s operating range, you will see the message “Out of Range” displayed on the background screen. Please change to an input signal which is compatible with the projector’s resolution or set the input signal to a lower setting. See Timing chart on page 48.
• If no signal is detected for 3 minutes, the projector automatically enters saving mode.

Using the menus

The projector is equipped with 2 types of On-Screen Display (OSD) menus for making various adjustments and settings. The Basic OSD menu provides primary menu functions while the Advanced
OSD menu provides full menu functions.
To access the OSD menu, press MENU on the projector or remote control.

• Use the arrow keys ( ▲/ ▼/◀ /▶ ) on the projector or remote control to move through the menu items.
• Use OK on the projector or remote control to confirm the selected menu item.
  The first time you use the projector (after finishing the initial setup), press MENU, and the Basic OSD menu will be displayed.

If you intend to switch from the Basic OSD menu to the Advanced OSD menu:

1. Go to Menu Type and press OK.
2. Use ▲/▼ to select Advanced and press OK. Your projector will switch to the Advanced OSD menu.

Likewise, when you wish to switch from the Advanced OSD menu to the Basic OSD menu, follow the instructions below:

1. Go to System > Menu Settings > Menu Type and press OK.
2. Use ▲/▼ to select Basic and press OK. Your projector will switch to the Basic OSD menu.

Overview of the Basic OSD menu.

1. Menu type
2. Sub-menu and status
3. Current input signal
4. Function keys

Overview of the Advanced OSD menu.

1. Main menu
2. Current input signal
3. Sub-menu and status
4. Function keys

The OSD screenshots are for reference only, and may differ from the actual design.

Securing the projector
Using a security cable lock
The projector has to be installed in a safe place to prevent theft. Otherwise, purchase a security cable to secure the projector. A security bar is located on the right side of the projector. See item 12 on page 8. Insert a security cable to the opening of the security bar and secure it to a nearby fixture or heavy furniture.
You can also purchase a lock, such as the Kensington lock, to secure the projector. There is a Kensington lock slot on the rear side of the projector. See item 18 on page 8. A Kensington security cable lock is usually a combination of key(s) and the lock. Refer to the lock’s documentation for finding out how to use it.
Utilizing the password function
Setting a password

1. Go to Advanced menu – System > Security Settings. Press OK. The Security Settings page appears.
2. Highlight Change Password and press OK.
3. The four arrow keys (▲ , ▶, ▼,◀ ) respectively represent
4. digits (1, 2, 3, 4). According to the password you desire to set, press the arrow keys to enter six digits for the password.
5. Confirm the new password by re-entering the new password.
6. To activate the Power On Lock function, go to System > Security Settings > Power On Lock, press OK and / to select On. Input the password again.
   

 • The digits being input will be displayed as asterisks on-screen. Make a note of your selected password and keep it in a safe place in advance or right after the password is entered so that it is available to you should you ever forget it.
• Once a password has been set and the Power On Lock is activated, the projector cannot be used unless the correct password is entered every time the projector is started.

If you forget the password
If you enter the wrong password, the password error message will appear, and the Input Password message follows. If you absolutely do not remember the password, you can use the password recall procedure. See Entering the password recall procedure on page 21.

If you enter an incorrect password 5 times in succession, the projector will automatically shut down in a short time.

Entering the password recall procedure

1. Press and hold OK for 3 seconds. The projector will display a coded number on the screen.
2. Write down the number and turn off your projector.
3. Seek help from the local BenQ service center to decode the number. You may be required to provide proof of purchase documentation to verify that you are an authorized user of the projector.

Changing the password

1. Go to Advanced menu – System > Security Settings. Press OK. The Security Settings page appears.
2. Highlight Change Password and press OK.
3. Enter the old password.
   • If the password is correct, another message Input New Password appears.
   • If the password is incorrect, the password error message will appear, and the message INPUT
   CURRENT PASSWORD appears for your retry. You can press BACK to cancel the change or try another password.
4.  Enter a new password.
5. Confirm the new password by re-entering the new password.

Disabling the password function
To disable password protection, go to Advanced menu – System > Security Settings > Power On Lock, press OK and ◀/▶ to select Off. The message Input Password appears. Enter the current password.

• If the password is correct, the OSD menu returns to the Security Settings page. You will not have to enter the password next time turning on the projector.
• If the password is incorrect, the password error message will appear, and the message INPUT CURRENT PASSWORD appears for your retry. You can press BACK to cancel the change or try another password.

Though the password function is disabled, you need to keep the old password in hand should you ever need to re-activate the password function by entering the old password.

Switching input signal

The projector can be connected to multiple devices at the same time. However, it can only display one full screen at a time. When starting up, the projector automatically searches for the available signals.

Be sure the Advanced menu – Display > Auto Source Search is On if you want the projector to automatically search for the signals.
To manually select the source:

1. Press SOURCE. A source selection bar appears.
2. Press ▲/▼until your desired signal is selected and press OK.

Once detected, the picture from the selected source will appear. If there is multiple equipment connected to the projector, repeat steps 1-2 to search for another signal.

• The brightness level of the projected image will change accordingly when you switch between different input signals.
• For best display picture results, you should select and use an input signal which outputs at the projector’s native resolution. Any other resolutions will be scaled by the projector depending upon the “aspect ratio” setting, which may cause some image distortion or loss of picture clarity. See Aspect Ratio on page 32.

Shutting down the projector

1. Presson the projector or remote control and a confirmation message will appear prompting you. If youdon’t respond in a few seconds, the message will disappear.
2.  Press on the projector or remote control a second time. The power indicator flashes orange, the projection light source shuts down, and the fans will continue to run for approximately 2 seconds to cool down the projector.
3. Once the cooling process finishes, the power indicator becomes a steady orange and fans stop. Disconnect the power cord from the power outlet.

To protect the light source, the projector will not respond to any commands during the cooling process.

Menu operation

Please note that the on-screen display (OSD) menus vary according to the signal type selected and the projector model you are using.
The menu items are available when the projector detects at least one valid signal. If there is no equipment connected to the projector or no signal detected, limited menu items are accessible.
Basic menu
Structure

Advanced menu
1. Main menu: Picture
Structure

Function descriptions

Menu	Descriptions
Picture Mode	The projector is preset with several predefined picture modes so that you can choose one to suit your operating environment and input signal picture type. • Bright Maximizes the brightness of the projected image. This mode is suitable for environments where extra-high brightness is required, such as using the projector in well lit rooms. • Living Room With well-saturated color, fine-tuned sharpness, and a higher brightness level, Living Room mode is suitable for TV streaming in rooms where there is a small amount of ambient light, e.g. your living room. • Game With optimal Audio-Visual settings for 2 types of games: Bright games and Dark games to give a perfect gameplay experience at home. • Sports With well-saturated colors and higher brightness level, this mode is best for watching sporting events in a bright room. • Cinema
	With accurate color and deepest contrast at lower brightness level, Cinema mode is suitable for playing movies in a environment with a bit of ambient light, as if in a commercial cinema. • 3D Optimized to bring up 3D effects when watching 3D contents.
	This mode is only available when 3D function is enabled. • HDR10/HDR Game Delivers High Dynamic Range effects with higher contrasts of brightness and colors for HDR Blu-ray movies or HDR games. After auto-detecting metadata or EOTF info from HDR contents, HDR10 and HDR Game are available for selection. HDR10 is best for displaying Blu-ray movies, while HDR Game is used to activate Game Settings menu for HDR gameplay. • HLG Delivers High Dynamic Range effects with higher contrasts of brightness and colors. Picture Mode will be switched to HLG automatically while detecting metadata or EOTF info from HLG streaming contents. • User Recalls the settings customized based on the current available picture modes. See User Management on page 26.

• Gamma Selection
  Gamma refers to the relationship between input source and picture brightness.
• 1.8/2.0/2.1/BenQ: Select these values according to your preference.
• 2.2/2.3: Increases the average brightness of the picture. Best for a lit environment, meeting room or family room.
• 2.4/2.5: Best for viewing movies in a dark environment.
• 2.6: Best for viewing movies which are mostly composed of dark scenes.

Advanced Color Settings

• Color Temperature Tuning
  There are several preset color temperature settings available. The available settings may vary according to the signal type selected.
  When Bright is selected for Picture Mode, the color temperature switches to Native, and cannot be changed.
• Native: With the light source’s original color temperature and higher brightness, this setting is suitable for environments where high brightness is required, such as projecting pictures in well lit rooms.
• Normal: Maintains normal colorings for white.
• Cool: Makes images appear bluish white.
• Warm: Makes images appear reddish white.

You can also set a preferred color temperature by adjusting the following options.

• R Gain/G Gain/B Gain: Adjusts the contrast levels of Red, Green, and Blue.
•  R Offset/G Offset/B Offset: Adjusts the brightness levels of Red, Green, and Blue.
•  Color Management
  The Color Management provides six sets (RGBCMY) of colors to be adjusted.
  When you select each color, you can independently adjust its range and saturation according to your preference.
  To make adjustments, press the / arrows to highlight an independent color from among Red (R), Green (G), Blue (B), Cyan (C), Magenta (M), or Yellow (Y), and press OK. The following menu items are displayed for your choice.

Advanced Color Settings (Continued)

• Hue: Increase in the range will include colors consisted of more proportions of its two adjacent colors. Please refer to the illustration for how the colors Yellow RED GREEN relate to each other. For example, if you select Red and set its range at 0, only pure red in the projected picture will be selected. Increasing its range will include red close to yellow and red close to magenta. Magenta Cyan BLUE
• Saturation: Adjusts the values to your preference. Every adjustment made will reflect to the image immediately. For example, if you select Red and set its value at 0, only the saturation of pure red will be affected.
• Gain: Adjusts the values to your preference. The contrast level of the primary color you select will be affected. Every adjustment made will reflect to the image immediately.

If you selected White Balance (W), you can adjust the contrast levels of Red, Green, and Blue by selecting R Gain, G Gain, and B Gain.
Saturation is the amount of that color in a video picture. Lower settings produce less saturated colors; a setting of “0” removes that color from the image entirely. If the saturation is too high, that color will be overpowering and unrealistic.

• Light Source Mode
  Selects a suitable light source power from among the provided modes. See Extending light source life on page 43.
• HDR Brightness
  The projector can automatically adjust the brightness levels of your image according to the input source. You can also manually select a brightness level to display better picture quality. When the value is higher, the image becomes brighter; when the value is lower, the image becomes darker.
• Noise Reduction
  Reduces electrical image noise caused by different media players.

Reset Current Picture Mode

Returns all of the adjustments you’ve made for the selected Picture Mode (including the preset mode, User) to the factory preset values.

1. Press OK. The confirmation message is displayed.
2. Use ◀/▶ to select Reset and press OK. The current picture mode returns to the factory preset settings.

The following settings will still remain: Picture Mode, Game Settings.

2. Main menu: Audio
Structure

Function descriptions 

3. Main menu: Display
Structure

Function descriptions

Menu	Descriptions
	There are several options to set the image’s aspect ratio depending on your input signal source. This image adjustment might impact latency in Game mode. We suggest setting Aspect Ratio to Auto to enjoy low latency gaming. If no source is detected, this function is not available, and the Screen Fill is set to 4:3 or 1:1. • Auto Scales an image proportionally to fit the projector’s native resolution in its horizontal or vertical width. • 4:3 Scales an image so that it is displayed in the center of the screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio. • 16:9 Scales an image so that it is displayed in the center of the screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio.
Auto Source Search	Allows the projector to automatically search for a signal.
Source Rename	Renames the current input source to your desired name. On the Source Rename page: 1.  Press OK to display the on-screen keyboard. 2.  Press ▲/▼ /◀ / ▶ to select each desired digit/letter, and press OK to confirm each input. 3.  Repeat the step above and when done, press BACK and  to highlight Commit. 4.  Press OK and the source name changes.
3D	This projector supports playing three-dimensional (3D) content transferred through your 3D-compatible video devices and contents, such as PlayStation consoles (with 3D game discs), 3D Blu-ray players (with 3D Blu-ray discs), and so on. After you have connected the 3D video devices to the projector, wear the BenQ 3D glasses and make sure the power is on to view 3D contents. When watching 3D contents: • The image may seem misplaced; however, this is not a product malfunction. • Take appropriate breaks when watching 3D contents. • Stop watching 3D contents if you feel fatigue or discomfort. • Keep a distance from the screen of about three times the effective height of the screen. • Children and people with a history of oversensitivity to light, heart problems, or any other existing medical conditions should be refrained from watching 3D contents. • The image may seem reddish, greenish, or bluish without wearing 3D glasses. However, you will not notice any color bias when watching 3D contents with 3D glasses. • The 4K source will not be displayed. • 3D Mode The default setting is Auto and the projector automatically chooses an appropriate 3D format when detecting 3D contents. If the projector cannot recognize the 3D format, manually choose a 3D mode according to your preference. When this function is enabled: • The brightness level of the projected image decreases. • The Picture Mode cannot be adjusted. • The 2D Keystone can only be adjusted within limited degrees. • 3D Sync Invert When your 3D image is distorted, enable this function to switch between the image for the left eye and the right eye for more comfortable 3D viewing experience.
HDMI Settings	• HDMI Format Selects a suitable RGB color range to correct the color accuracy. • Auto: Automatically selects a suitable color range for the incoming HDMI signal. • Limited: Utilizes the Limited range RGB 16-235. • Full: Utilizes the Full range RGB 0-255. • HDMI Equalizer Sets a suitable value to maintain the HDMI picture quality in long distance data transmission. • HDMI EDID Switches between Enhanced for HDMI 2.0 EDID and Standard for HDMI 1.4 EDID. Selecting Standard which supports up to 1080p 60Hz may solve abnormal display issues with some old players. • Electronics Control When you enable this function and connect an HDMI CEC-compatible device to your projector with an HDMI cable, turning on the HDMI CEC compatible device automatically turns on the projector, while turning off the projector automatically turns off the HDMI CEC compatible device. • Power On Link/Power Off Link When you connect an HDMI CEC-compatible device to your projector with an HDMI cable, you can set the behavior of powering on/off between the device and the projector.

4. Main menu: Installation
Structure

• LumiExpert: When this function is enabled, the projector actively detects the ambient light conditions and automatically adjusts balanced visual brightness to create an optimum viewing experience.

This function is not available in Test Pattern, or when the Picture Mode is HDR10, HDR Game or HLG. It is also not available when there is no source detected.

• LumiExpert Level: Adjusts the gamma offset.

LumiExpert

This function is not available when LumiExpert is Off.

• Manual Calibration: According to the ambient brightness, you can do the calibration manually.
• Manual Calibration Status: Shows the status of manual calibration.
• Calibrate: Enact this item to start the calibration process.
• Reset Manual Calibration: Resets the gamma offset to factory preset values.

Test Pattern

Adjusts the image size and focus and check that the projected image is free from distortion.

High Altitude Mode

We recommend you use the High Altitude Mode when your environment is between 1500 m–3000 m above sea level, and ambient temperature is between 0°C–30°C.
Operation under “High Altitude Mode” may cause a higher decibel operating noise level because of increased fan speed necessary to improve overall system cooling and performance.
If you use this projector under other extreme conditions excluding the above, it may display auto shut-down symptoms, which is designed to protect your projector from over-heating. In cases like this, you should switch to High Altitude mode to solve these symptoms. However, this is not to state that this projector can operate under any and all harsh or extreme conditions.
Do not use the High Altitude Mode if your altitude is between 0 m and 1500 m and ambient temperature is between 0°C and 35°C. The projector will be over cooled, if you turn the mode on under such a condition.

Baud Rate

Selects a baud rate that is identical with your computer’s so that you can connect the projector with a suitable RS-232 cable and update or download the projector’s firmware. This function is intended for qualified service personnel.

Screen Fill

Select user preferred aspect ratio, see Screen Fill on page 35 for details.
The EDID change is only available on HDMI.

Digital Lens Shift

Use ◀/ ▶to horizontally shift the projected image.

• This is only available with HDMI input source.
• This function is not available in 3D mode or when Screen Fill is set to 16:9.
• When Screen Fill is adjusted, Digital Lens Shift resets to 0.

5. Main menu: System
Structure

Function descriptions

Security Settings	• Panel Key Lock: With the control keys on the projector locked, you can prevent your projector settings from being changed accidentally (by children, for example). When the Panel Key Lock is on, no control keys on the projector will operate except POWER. To release panel key lock, press and hold ▶ (the right key) on the projector or remote control for 3 seconds. If you turn off the projector without disabling panel key lock, the projector will still be in locked status the next time it is turned on. • Change Password/Power On Lock See Utilizing the password function on page 20.
Factory Default	Returns all settings to the factory preset values. The following settings will still remain: Projector Position, 2D Keystone, Auto Vertical Keystone, High Altitude Mode, Baud Rate, Light Source Information, Security Settings, Screen Fill, Digital Lens Shift.
Reset System	Returns all the settings in the System main menu to the factory default values. The following settings will still remain: Light Source Information, Security Settings.

6. Main menu: Information
Structure

Function descriptions

Menu	Descriptions
Detected Resolution	Shows the native resolution of the input signal.
Source	Shows the current signal source.
Picture Mode	Shows the selected mode in the Picture menu.
Light Source Mode	Shows the used light source mode.
3D Format	Displays the current 3D mode. 3D Format is only available when 3D is enabled.
Color System	Shows the input system format.
Dynamic Range	Shows the picture dynamic range, e.g. SDR, HDR10, HLG, etc.
Light Source Usage Time	Shows the number of hours the light has been used.
Firmware Version	Shows the firmware version of your projector.
Service Code	Shows the projector’s serial number.

Maintenance

Care of the projector
Cleaning the lens
Clean the lens whenever you notice dirt or dust on the surface. Please be sure to turn off the projector and let it cool down completely before cleaning the lens.

• Use a canister of compressed air to remove dust.
• If there is dirt or smears, use lens-cleaning paper or moisten a soft cloth with lens cleaner and gently wipe the lens surface.
• Never use any type of abrasive pad, alkaline/acid cleaner, scouring powder, or volatile solvent, such as alcohol, benzene, thinner or insecticide. Using such materials or maintaining prolonged contact with rubber or vinyl materials may result in damage to the projector surface and cabinet material.
  Cleaning the projector case
  Before you clean the case, turn the projector off using the proper shutdown procedure as described in Shutting down the projector on page 22 and unplug the power cord.
• To remove dirt or dust, wipe the case with a soft, lint-free cloth.
• To remove stubborn dirt or stains, moisten a soft cloth with water and a neutral pH detergent. Then wipe the case.

Never use wax, alcohol, benzene, thinner or other chemical detergents. These can damage the case.

Storing the projector
If you need to store the projector for an extended time, please follow the instructions below:

• Make sure the temperature and humidity of the storage area are within the recommended range for the projector. Please refer to Specifications on page 46 or consult your dealer about the range.
• Retract the adjuster feet.
• Remove the battery from the remote control.
• Pack the projector in its original packing or equivalent.
  Transporting the projector
  It is recommended that you ship the projector with its original packing or equivalent.

Light source information

 Getting to know the light hour
When the projector is in operation, the duration (in hours) of light source usage is automatically calculated by the built-in timer. The method of calculating the equivalent light hour is as follows:

1. Light Usage Time = (x+y1+y2+z) hours, if
   Time used in Normal mode = x hours
   Time used in ECO 1 mode = y1 hours
   Time used in ECO 2 mode = y2 hours
   Time used in SmartEco mode = z hours
2. Equivalent Light Hour = α hours
   

X= light source life spec of Normal mode
Y1= light source spec of ECO 1 mode (Bright mode)
Y2= light source spec of ECO 2 mode (Other modes)
Z= light source spec of SmartEco mode
A’ is the longest light life spec among X, Y1, Y2, Z.

For time used in each light source mode shown in OSD menu:
• Time used is accumulated and rounded down to an integer in hours.
• When time used is less than 1 hour, it shows 0 hours.
When you calculate Equivalent Light Hours manually, it will probably have deviation from the value shown in OSD menu since projector system calculates time used for each light source mode in “Minutes” then rounds down to an integer in hours shown in OSD.

To obtain the light source information:
Go to Advanced Menu – System > Light Source Information and press OK. The Light Source Information page appears.
You can also get the light hour information on the Information menu.
Extending light source life
• Setting the Light Source Mode
Go to Advanced Menu – Picture > Advanced Color Settings > Light Source Mode and press ◀/▶ to select a suitable light source power from among the provided modes. Setting the projector in ECO, or SmartEco mode extends light life.

• Setting Auto Power Off
  This function allows the projector to turn off automatically if no input signal is detected after a set period of time to prevent unnecessary waste of light source life.
  To s e t Auto Power Off, go to Advanced Menu – System > Operation Settings > Power On/Off Settings > Auto Power Off, and press ◀/▶ to set a period of time.
  Changing the light source
  The LED light can last around 20,000 ~ 30,000 hours. In most cases, it would not be necessary to change the light source during the projector’s lifetime. When it is needed, LED light replacement is not user-serviceable. Please contact the service center for changing LED light.
  Indicators

Indicator			Status & Description
POWER	TEMP	LIGHT
Power events
			Stand-by mode
			Powering up
			Normal operation
			Normal power-down cooling
			Download
			Light source life exhausted
			Burn-in ON
			Burn-in OFF
Light source events
			Light source error in normal operation
Thermal events
			Fan 1 error (the actual fan speed is outside the desired speed)
			Fan 2 error (the actual fan speed is outside the desired speed)
			Fan 3 error (the actual fan speed is outside the desired speed)
			Temperature 1 error (over limited temperature)
			Thermal IC #1 12C Connection error

: Off

: Orange On : Orange Flashing

: Green On : Green Flashing

: Red On : Red Flashing

Troubleshooting

The projector does not turn on.

No picture

Blurred image

Abnormal image

Remote control does not work.

The password is incorrect.

Specifications

Projector specifications
All specifications are subject to change without notice.

Dimensions
366 mm (W) x 118 mm (H) x 244 mm (D)

Timing chart
Supported timing for HDMI (HDCP) input

• PC timings

The timings showing above may not be supported due to EDID file and VGA graphics card limitations. It is possible that some timings cannot be chosen.

•  Video timings

RS232 command
RS232 pin assignment

References

• Patent Marking List
• BenQ.com
• Welcome | BenQ Europe