ChuckiefromDallas

Q: Why does my screen flicker then go black?

The problem has recently just started. I'm realitvly new to apple computers but this is a problem I wouldn't know how to fix.

PowerBook, Mac OS X (10.5.8)

Posted on Dec 28, 2011 5:20 PM

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Q: Why does my screen flicker then go black?

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  • by Allan Jones,

    Allan Jones Allan Jones Dec 28, 2011 6:06 PM in response to ChuckiefromDallas
    Level 8 (35,166 points)
    iPad
    Dec 28, 2011 6:06 PM in response to ChuckiefromDallas

    There seem to be an inordinate number of G4 PowerBooks whose serial number begins with W8 that have display issues. However, these tend to be colored lines, not flickers.

     

    The more likely reason is that the cable that runs from the logic board to the display is failing after years of flexing. One way to diagnose this is to watch for flickers when you move the display on its hinge. Another is to attach an external monitor and see if the flicker goes away (a worn cable usually dos not affect an external monitor).

  • by old comm guy,Helpful

    old comm guy old comm guy Dec 28, 2011 7:34 PM in response to ChuckiefromDallas
    Level 4 (2,244 points)
    Dec 28, 2011 7:34 PM in response to ChuckiefromDallas

    Are you actually referring to the backlight flickering and going out?  If the illuminated Apple on the back of the display has gone dark, then that is what is going down.

     

    The backlight is powered by an inverter board inside the computer and it may be that the board is starting to fail or that the connector to the inverter board is not making good contact.

     

    You might find your machine on the iFixit repair information pages to get an idea just where the inverter board is on your particular model and try lightly rapping the case in that area to see if there is a loose cable connection when the backlight goes out.

  • by ChuckiefromDallas,

    ChuckiefromDallas ChuckiefromDallas Dec 28, 2011 9:37 PM in response to old comm guy
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Dec 28, 2011 9:37 PM in response to old comm guy

    The Apple on the back does in fact go out with the screen, the only way to fix the problem is to restart the computer. Can the problem be fixed internally or do I need to take it to the Apple Store for more support?

     

    Thanks for the help both of you.

  • by old comm guy,Helpful

    old comm guy old comm guy Dec 28, 2011 10:39 PM in response to ChuckiefromDallas
    Level 4 (2,244 points)
    Dec 28, 2011 10:39 PM in response to ChuckiefromDallas

    Depending on the model of PowerBook you have, the inverter board replacement is relatively easy.  Titanium models are straightforward; Aluminum models are quite involved.  You can find out your model's specific information by locating the serial number on the configuration label in the battery compartment or by bringing up System Profiler.  Then input the number at this site for detailed information.  You can then get full information by going to the Everymac specs page and find your model there.

     

    If you have a Titanium model, the inverter board is usually located to the right of the optical drive.  Aluminum models are tucked in at the back of the case where the display is attached.  A light rap at the location in question will be a test for an intermittent connection of the bulb wire.

  • by ChuckiefromDallas,

    ChuckiefromDallas ChuckiefromDallas Dec 29, 2011 12:40 AM in response to old comm guy
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Dec 29, 2011 12:40 AM in response to old comm guy

    Thank you a lot!!!!