Laptop Screen

[Retro Active]

A bit of a bummer when I found my one-month old laptop screen was internally cracked tonight! I don't recall any drops or other abuse, but Gateway indicated screen damage was exempt from warranty and wanted about the cost of the laptop to replace the screen!

I found a replacement screen on-line for about $60, shipping included. The screen seems to be an exact match by comparing part numbers. Never having done this before, I was able to get the old screen off in about five minutes using a tutorial found online. Very easy to do.

Bottom line - If your laptop screen goes, pursue other options before going to the manufacturer or big blue to have it replaced. It's a very easy task with a screw driver and a bit of patience. Easier than changing an impeller or cleaning a carburetor.

[c0untryf1sh3r]

That happened to me a couple years back with my old IBM, didnt drop it or anything on it that I recall. It was old and outdated so I figured it was time for a new one rather than trying to fix it. Thats my brothers department anyways so I think I'll stick to rebuilding carbs, a lot easier, and a lot more simple to me.

[upnorth]

If you pick them up with one hand and squeeze a bit too hard, you can crack the screen. I have seen people crack a screen pile books and paper on top of them too.

[Powerstroke]

I was gonna say, usually I've seen them crack from someone crushing it while closed either by piling stuff on it, sitting on it etc.

Glad it was fairly easy to fix.

[Nick Kuhn]

Yep, LCD panels are just plug and play for the most part in electronics. The toughest part is usually working with a ribbon cable that has no extra length whatsoever.