That does suck. From what you are describing it does sound like vertical banding which can occur from deterioration of the LCD panels over time from overheating. Its can be a problem with all LCD displays but the early projectors and TVs are more susceptable. That's the main reason I buy extended warranty coverage only for my LCD displays. The Z2 was a great projector when it first came out 5 years ago. Look at the bright side, now you can upgrade.

John