My Samsung DLP set just bit the dust. Again!

I’ve replaced the bulb twice and the ballast once in the six years I’ve had the set (a Samsung HLP-4663 model).

Well, the other night while my wife and I were enjoying a rare date night away from the kids, the sitter called to inform us that the playroom TV died shortly after a loud popping noise was heard.

I figured that the bulb was about due for its 2 year replacement so I ordered another one from Amazon ($130 plus shipping).

Unfortunately, the bulb replacement didn’t do the trick, so now I’m stuck with a 46″ door stop in the middle of our playroom.

Anyone have any ideas on what to check or how to make sure the replacement bulb is good?