Matt MC

Q: Black Screen + Flicker

Hi,
The screen on my 15" Powerbook has gone extremely dark. It is still just visible, and is readable if for example I use a torch. It also flickers and does briefly come back on then goes off again. Its stay on slightly longer if the lighting is set lower, although still goes dark again after a few seconds. This problem is consistent for the whole screen, ie it is all dark and there are no specific lines or damage visible. From scanning the topic board, it sounds like this is a problem either with the inverter board or the cable connecting the inverter board. Does this sounds correct, or could it be the backlight itself that need replacing? If it is the backlight, can that specific part be replaced or does the whole screen need replacing?

PowerBook G4 15", Mac OS X (10.5.4)

Posted on Apr 12, 2011 7:02 AM

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Q: Black Screen + Flicker

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  • by louie,

    louie louie Apr 12, 2011 4:41 PM in response to Matt MC
    Level 4 (2,945 points)
    Apr 12, 2011 4:41 PM in response to Matt MC
    I think you are right - it very much sounds like either the cable or inverter. I'd open it up and try reseating the cable connectors and jiggling the cable, which costs nothing. If jiggling the cable helps, I would consider replacing it. Otherwise, consider replacing the inverter. Of course, it's possible that it's something else.

    I haven't taken the display apart, but my understanding is that the backlight is taped together with the display. I don't know if anyone sells just the backlight parts or not. In any event, I would not sink too much money into repairs, considering the age of the computer.
  • by Matt MC,

    Matt MC Matt MC Apr 13, 2011 1:08 AM in response to louie
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Apr 13, 2011 1:08 AM in response to louie
    Many thanks. That's very helpful - I'll go with your advice,
    Matt