Ghosting/Double Image On Upper Screen
The information in this article can help you when:
- The upper screen image appears in 3D, but the image has a slight ghost effect.
- Around the edges of a 3D object you can see a copy or double image.
What to do
When viewing the screen at the proper distance and angle, different images are displayed to each of your eyes. However, that doesn't mean that the images for your left and right eyes are completely isolated from each other.
The Nintendo 3DS has been designed so that there are no issues when it is used under most circumstances. However, scenes that display extremely high-contrast visuals (for example, if a bright object is displayed on a dark background) can make the lack of complete image isolation more noticeable. Under such conditions, there is a possibility that a faint ghosting (doubled image) may be visible.
There are a few steps that can be taken to reduce this effect:
- View the screen straight on from directly in front of you. Hold the screen 10 to 14 inches (25-35 centimeters) from your eyes, or 12 to 16 inches (30.5-40.5 centimeters) from your eyes if using the Nintendo 3DS XL.
- Adjust the angle of your line of vision by holding the system at different heights. Each person is different, so find the distance and angle that are most comfortable for you.
- If the ghosting is occurring while playing a game or feature that uses the Nintendo 3DS camera (AR Games, Face Raiders, etc.) try reducing the contrast between the background and the 3D images.
- Do not play against a black or dark background.
- Make sure your surroundings are well lit.
- Make sure a screen protector is not causing the issue.
- Follow the game play recommendations included in the software manual.
- The Nintendo 3DS system is equipped with a 3D depth slider that lets you select the level of 3D that works best for you.
- Do not start with the depth slider turned all the way up, as each game or application may have different 3D depths.
- Start with the Depth Slider at a low setting, and then adjust it up to find the best position for the game or application you are playing.
Situation not resolved
The following systems are available for service from Nintendo:
- New Nintendo 2DS XL - Serial numbers begin with "NW"
For your convenience, Nintendo provides a quick and easy-to-use online service request process.
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My Nintendo 3DS Family System isn't listed as available for service
Nintendo no longer services the following systems:
- Original Nintendo 3DS - Serial numbers begin with “CW” or “CB”
- Original Nintendo 3DS XL - Serial numbers begin with “SW” or “SB”
- New Nintendo 3DS - Serial numbers begin with “YW”
- New Nintendo 3DS XL - Serial numbers begin with “QW” or "QB"
- Nintendo 2DS - Serial numbers begin with "AW" or "AB"
If you want to try replacing the non-working system, see our information on Where Can I Find Refurbished, Older, & Used Nintendo Products?
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Where is the serial number on Nintendo 3DS Family Systems?
The location of the serial number will differ depending on the system:
- Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo 3DS XL, Nintendo 2DS: The serial number will be visible on a white sticker with a bar code under the battery.
- New Nintendo 3DS XL: The serial number isn't visible under the battery. The serial number is found on a white sticker with a bar code under the back cover plate.
- New Nintendo 3DS: The serial number isn't visible under the battery. The serial number is found on a white sticker with a bar code under the front cover plate.
- New Nintendo 2DS XL: The serial number is found on a white sticker with a bar code inside the game card slot.