http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11099028 en Sat, 18 May 2013 14:08:02 EDT Sat, 18 May 2013 14:08:02 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12586215 as well. I would love to take you up on your offer of a free I8000 screen. Please write: witslo@yahoo.co.kr Thanks.

luvwarmthpeoplepccom wrote:

I have an Inspiron 8000 screen that I am willing to give away to anyone who wants it. I just purchased a new flex cable and backlight for it. Someone can use it for parts, particularly the CCFL backlight and flex cable.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12586215 Sat, 05 Feb 2005 00:43:39 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12580483
It is starting to sound like the inverter card, but.. A bad lamp can cause this kind of problem too.. If the inverter cant start 1 of them, then it usually doesnt get the other one going either.. Depends on how smart the inverter is..

Sorry I cant give you any more help.

Id still say replace the tubes first.. Theyre probably the cheapest, easiest to find part (compared to the inverter)

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12580483 Fri, 04 Feb 2005 13:01:32 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12575992 Only one(the top connector)of the CCFL "sputter"'s. The other (bottom) CCFL does nothing. So I interchanged them(thinking that the bottom CCFL is the bad one) but again only the top one sputtered. Is it normal that only one side gets power when the CCFL's failing?

Thanks.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12575992 Thu, 03 Feb 2005 22:37:01 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12572640
Sputter is usually the main cause of CCFLs going kaput. When the lamp turns on, a small amount of either the cathode, or anode (I dont recall which) literally vaporizes, and If memory serves me, somehow reacts with the mercury vapor causing it to become less effective over time. Eventually it gets to a point that the inverter cant keep up with the voltage demands of the tube, and shuts it off.

Even tho these things have anywhere from a 15-50 thousand hour "Half life" Its cycling the bulb on and off that puts the most wear and tear on it. Ive heard estimates from 10,000 to 50,000 cycles can kill the bulb.

Since you have the bulbs out, the cheapest solution would be to buy replacement bulbs and give them a try.. If that doesnt fix it, then its time to locate another inverter.

Hope this helps!

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12572640 Thu, 03 Feb 2005 16:46:55 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-12570348
Any input will help. Thanks. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-12570348 Thu, 03 Feb 2005 12:52:09 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12559592 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12559592 Wed, 02 Feb 2005 11:13:42 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12473928
Alas, These arent a replaceable type screen. *Sigh* It would have been *sooo* much easier if it were.. LOL

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12473928 Mon, 24 Jan 2005 14:08:29 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12467040
P.S. This is the instruction on how to replace CCFL, This is from the web site you order the tube.
»www.lcdpart.com/images/ccflinstallation.pdf]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12467040 Sun, 23 Jan 2005 18:29:31 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12449274
Im guessing that these companies that make / sell CCFL tubes probably only do so in certain "standard" lengths. It *may* be possible to find an exact length replacement *somewhere* on the web, but for my (impatience) I decided to go with a reasonbly easy to find replacement.

The Website I ordered the tube from touts it as a suitable replacement for the Hitachi Display I had, and such has turned out to be true.

As far as Voltages, I can only guess given the length of the tube, and dia. Id *guess* the breakdown voltage ("Kickstart") to be in the neighborhood of 1,200-1,500V, with the hold-on voltage somewhere in the 600-700V. But, again, these are just guesses.

I do know quite a few of the 300mm long color CCFL used in custom computer lighting run at 650-690V.

Hope this helps!

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12449274 Fri, 21 Jan 2005 18:47:20 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-Part-12449097
Also, do you know what the Voltage output should be for the inverter to the tube?

Thanks]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-Part-12449097 Fri, 21 Jan 2005 18:28:20 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-Part-12438373
I got the tube from »www.lcdpart.com

The part number is ms20305 (Im assuming 20305= 2.0mm dia, 305mm long)
Direct link: »www.lcdpart.com/Products/ms20305.html

Cost was 9.99 for the tube, 9.99 for S&H, plus California tax.

Total cost: $20.85

The inverter I purchased (as it turns out, I didnt need)
I got from Bliss Computers. »www.247laptoplcd.com
Part number: J12I005.00
Price: $65.00
Shipping $10
Total: $75.00

Direct link to part:
»www.247laptoplcd.com/laptopinver···pair.htm (first part on the left)

Bliss takes orders through paypal.

You can also order the whole screen from bliss, for ~300 refurb, IIRC.

Welp.. Hope this helps someone out there.
a $20.85 fix for what dell said was going to cost more than $1000 to repair. LOL

Good luck, and have fun..

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-Part-12438373 Thu, 20 Jan 2005 16:28:03 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-Part-2-12438294
Heres the old (with the wires attached) and new (on the cardboard) tubes.
[att=1]

Now you have a tube, with a couple wires on it.. Use your soldering iron (Less than 25 watt.. 15 watt is what I used) and de-solder the wires from the tube leads.. You can now make the light-saber sounds as you wave the old tube around.. Go ahead.. Ill wait... :)

Actually, breaking these tubes probably isnt a good idea. They contain Mercury vapor (Granted, a tiny amount) But Hg vapor is bad. Very, very bad.

Now, back to the soldering.. I couldnt find any information on how to designate the anode or cathode end of the tube, so I believe it doesnt matter for a CCFL.

The replacement tube is ~ 3-4mm shorter than the original, dont freak, shorter is okay.. longer, isnt. However, you must keep in mind that the tube is going to have to go back into those rubber endcaps, and back into the screen, so solder the wires on the lamp leads, a couple MM out from the base of the lamp.. This will also help prevent an excess amount of heat going back down the lamp lead, and possible compromising the seal at either end of the tube. Solder quickly, dont sit there with the heat on it.. This is bad for the lamp.

Also, dont bend the wires at the lamp base, bend them a mm or two away from the base.. again, no need going and breaking the seal around these wires..

Heres before, and after pics of my (beautiful?) soldering job.
[att=2]
[att=3]

Finally, use some thin needlenose (Or in my case, Mosquito forceps) to hold the wire at the base of the tube, and bend the connection around the pliers so it will fit into the rubber endcaps. The needlenose pliers will prevent the lead at the tube end from bending, or folding.. Remember: Paranoid level of care.

Replace the rubber endcaps,
[att=4]
and get ready to put the new tube back into the display.

The installation is pretty much the reverse of removal, however you need to be sure that the tube is sitting in front of one sheet of material, and the wire is outside that sheet.
[att=5]
See how the bulb is in fron of the fold in the white plastic sheet (yellow arrow)? and the wires are outside the fold? (red arrow)? Now, theres another plastic sheet (behind my finger) that has the fold going the other way (towards the back of the screen) This fold needs to also go above the tube, but under the wire. Make sense? These plastic sheets are responsible for "catching" as much light as possible, and sending them down, through the glass distrobution plate.

Heres a cheesy cross section of how it goes together..
[att=6]

There is another sheet or two of "stuff" that stays in front of the "front sheet" but I didnt put them in my diagram.

Once all the sheets are in place, and down. The wires are run, and in place, its time to put that metal channel back on. Theres no easy way to do this.. that channel holds all the various sheets of stuff in place, aganst the back of the panel. Pay attention to what youre doing here.. The plastic back of the display bends real easily, and your tube is in there held in place by its endcaps.. It would be very easy to snap the tube if your not careful.

It took me a solid 15 minutes to get that blasted metal channel back in place. Grrr..

But thats it!

Press the screen halves back together, and re-bend the tabs that hold it together back to their "locked" position

Gently re-connect the Inverter feed ribbon, and the screen data connector plug. Fire it up, and you should be greeted by the nice warm glow of a functional backlamp and screen!

[att=7]

Ill post Websites, and PN# next.

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.

Wires on the original tube
Hey, I said I could solder.. I didnt say i could do it *well*
Wheeee!

]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-Part-2-12438294 Thu, 20 Jan 2005 16:17:22 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-12437991
General assumptions:
1) You can solder (reasonably)
2) You have the display out
3) You havnt drank a pot of coffee.. :)

Warnings:
1) These bulbs are *EXTREMELY* fragile (Especially the ends where the wires go in). Handle with a paranoid level of care.
2) The Brown mylar connectors that plug into the back of the screen are *EXTREMELY* fragile (I cant stress this one enough) No undue folding, flexing, handling, pulling, tugging, ripping cutting, etc..
3) Once opened up, ANY dust that falls into the screen will show up as little black spots on your screen.. Clenliness is paramount. (I have a few tiny black spots in my screen now.. Acceptable, but not optimal)
4) This is not a "replaceable tube" screen. These weren't meant to be broken into, so go slow, easy, and gentile.

Okay.. That said, Now to the fun stuff..

1) First off, we got to get the screen apart. I decided to not fully open the panel, instead leave the bottom (Copper sheet) connected and work in it "clamshell" style. No need to go cutting / prying anything we dont need to..

Start by prying out the tabs around the back of the screen.. I pryed out all the tabs I could see.
[att=1]
(Marked in yellow)

2) Once you have all the tabs pryed out, there are two "locks" at the top of the screen. Be aware of these.. If you just pull on the white plastic backing, it will flex (with the tube inside it) and likely break the tube.
[att=2]
I used a razor to gently pry out the sides, to release the locks.

3) Now with the panel opened a bit, youll see another piece of metal channeling.. This holds the light distrobution glass panel, and all the other "coatings" in. It can be removed by prying its metal holding tabs (Yellow marks) off the plastic backing. Pay attention to how the various sheets of stuff fit back together, as getting this channel back on is the most frusterating part.
[att=3]

Here, its off..
[att=4]

4) Okay, now youll see the tube in the plastic housing, Its held in place by 2 rubber caps. These caps will slide out, bringing the tube with it, Use a razor, and a steady hand to tease the endcaps out of their homes, and the tube will come out with them.
[att=5]

Now that the tube is out, wipe the sweat, grab a beer / smoke / Bawls whatever, and fire up the soldering iron.

..To be continued..
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger

...Should your drama prove sincere

Do it somewhere far away from here.

Ignore the arrows.. Theyll be explained later...

]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Inpiron-8100-Tube-replacement-tutorial-12437991 Thu, 20 Jan 2005 15:36:03 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12433616 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12433616 Thu, 20 Jan 2005 00:56:30 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12432852
I am posting from the offending laptop, with display glowing in full glory!

Okay.. Yup, it was the tube

They are rather difficult to replace, and the replacement tube quoted above was ~3mm shorter than the original...

I will post pics of the process, as well as a tutorial of what I did come tomorrow, when Im not on dialup.

But its done, in, working, and a $20 fix.

Note: This panel is *not* considered a "replaceable tube panel. There is some soldering, and rather delicate yet frusteratingly complex steps involved.

Now: To log off, and put all the screws back in...

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12432852 Wed, 19 Jan 2005 23:14:47 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12409122 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12409122 Mon, 17 Jan 2005 15:18:47 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12408888
thats why I went for the more expnsive, (but easier to get to) inverter card first.. I too assumed that the tube *should* still be good.

The only thing I can think, is somehow the envelope got compromised, and a slow leak might have developed, allowing atmospheric air in. (Nitrogen will arc redish / yellow, possibly causing the red flash at boot up?)

I still cant get over how thin these CCFL tubes are. All of the light coming from your laptop screen is coming from this thing no thicker than a quarter.

Amazing..

Oh, I in no way take any responsibility if anyone decides to hack into their screen. You will void any warranty you have on it, and you may even void your life and homeowners insurance ;)

If HF High-voltage systems (>2,000V) or very delicate optics that dust will instantly kill make you squeemish, dont try ripping your display apart.

That said, Here are some pics of the tube itself.. Very, very delicate..

[att=1]
[att=2]
[att=3]

the website Im going to order the CCFL from : »www.lcdpart.com/Products/ms20305.html

Specs:
2.0mm Dia, 305mm Overall length.

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.

]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12408888 Mon, 17 Jan 2005 14:50:06 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12401510
CCFL tubes normally have a 20,000 to 25,000 Hour Service life (that's down to 50% light output, BTW.)

If you don't have anywhere near that amount of hours on it, then You may just have had a Defective CCFL tube, or a defective Tube connector... :huh:

-Tursiops_G.
--
If You're Unsure, "RTFM"... If You're SURE, "RTFM" Anyway. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12401510 Sun, 16 Jan 2005 17:56:49 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12401340
So, due to the process of elimination, there are only 2 possible problems left. 1) The CCFL tube itself is bad, and 2) the mylar cable that poweres the inverter is bad.

I decided to try for the CCFL first, With a deep breath, I started prying the retainer tabs on the screen open, to get to the tube..

The tube itself is running along the bottom of the screen, starting in the corner where the wires dissapear (Pink & Gray). I opened the screen only enough to unsnap the silver channel that holds the glass distibution plate, and the various "coating" sheets in place. the tube is running inside a channel in the white plastic frame of the screen. Its not really difficult to get out, however, i was astounded at how thin the CCFL tube really is.. Is a 2mm dia. tube, really no bigger than the pink wire going to it. Care and gentile handling are the name of the game here.

Once out (and as the screen sits now) Upon closer inspection, I find that the tube ends are blackened rather badly, and that a small bit of plastic had melted to one end of the tube, So at this point I have a rather good notion that the tube itself, and not the inverter was bad in my case. I will be ordering the tube sometime this week, and hope to get it in, and installed. Once everything is here, I will post website addresses, and part numbers, along with full prices here, as Im assuming some of the previous posters dont have their problems fixed yet..

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12401340 Sun, 16 Jan 2005 17:34:07 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12395608 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12395608 Sat, 15 Jan 2005 22:15:13 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12386782
also found a company selling the CCFL tube for this display for $9.99

Will have more info later.

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12386782 Fri, 14 Jan 2005 20:00:59 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12355420
At that point I could do nothing with the machine except take out the HD and get someone to extract my files for me.

Fortunately, I had purchased the machine on American Express and that covered 1 extra year of service...so after a repair shop declared it dead, Amex paid for my Inspiron 600m to replace it. Not so bad...but it was a problem while my machine was down.

Back up that disk.
--
Danieli Consulting LLC, Strategy and Branding »kdanieli.com]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12355420 Tue, 11 Jan 2005 16:35:14 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12354470
After a lot of web searching, I found a company (Bliss Computers) that seems to stock the OEM replacement inverter. Its $65 +$10 shipping. I ordered one, and will let you know how it works out.

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12354470 Tue, 11 Jan 2005 14:56:29 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12353593
I too am in this same boat now.

Grrr..

Insperion 8100, with the exact same hitachi display as pictured above (TX38D99VC1CAA) and same story as Daveywave,
Screen blinks red for a split second on power up, but then remains off untill reboot. I used to build OIT embedded computers with either 10.4" or 15" displays, and in my experience Even tho I had replaced maybe 60 Inverters, there was only 1 CCFL failure that I recall. Those screens were NEC tho, not Hitachi.

So, has anyone had any luck finding a replacement card? I called screentekinc.com as they have the whole display module (for ~$500, IIRC) but dont sell just the inverters.. Screentek referred me to www.mpdparts.com who said they didnt carry dell 8100 stuff..

So, Here I am again, Stuck.
Grrr..

-Jason
--
...If you choose to pull the trigger
...Should your drama prove sincere
Do it somewhere far away from here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-12353593 Tue, 11 Jan 2005 13:29:30 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11982714
have you got the LCD screen to work yet?

i am in the same EXACT boat as you. i have the exact same 15.3" hitachi sxga+ TFT lcd screen with that same model number: TX38D99VC1CAA.

but i believe i know what we did wrong. while you had ordered a very very similar lcd inverter, made for a samsung lcd , i had ordered one made for an lbm lcd.

but now i just realized this inverter model is a j12i005.00 ambit chip. and looking to track one down currently. there is nothing on ebay, and google results a few unstocked items around. i will follow this thread up as soon as i get something going.

ps. my screen blinks red on bios boot then the backlight is off until next powerup.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11982714 Mon, 29 Nov 2004 15:16:37 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11602079
Well I switched what I assume to be the CPU (videocard?) and it still did the same thing. I would assume now that it is the motherboard. I think the video is integrated. But it still doens't make sense that it works in VGA mode.

I'm going to order one on Ebay and I'll let you all know if it works.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11602079 Sat, 16 Oct 2004 02:23:52 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11601916
I got another laptop of the same kind. My partner happened to have one that was fried. Well I took the screen from that one and swapped and it was the same. So it's not a bad screen. I don't understand what else it could be? The laptop works in VGA output. It has to be something on the mainboard.

The second laptop that was fried, I found the peice that was bad. I don't know what it is... I think it's the Powerboard from what I've googled. Is this the Inverter? Or is the Inverter inside the LCD. If it is, it cannot be the Inverter.

Where is the video card? I'm not a huge laptop junkie, but if I replace the power board from the Dim LCD laptop into the fried one, the fried one works. So that eliminates this part from being bad.

What else can it be? It cannot be the screen, the powerboard or the video card. Or can it still be the video card even though it works in VGA mode? Can it be the motherboard itself?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11601916 Sat, 16 Oct 2004 01:50:15 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-3700-Laptop-LCD-problem-11585813 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-3700-Laptop-LCD-problem-11585813 Thu, 14 Oct 2004 12:42:17 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11529511
-Tursiops_G.
--
If You're Unsure, "RTFM"... If You're SURE, "RTFM" Anyway. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11529511 Thu, 07 Oct 2004 21:07:23 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11528336
If there is, it's the backlight...
If there isn't, or is low, measure again with backlight disconnected... If higher than 100V DC it is probably the backlight loading down the power supply for backlight...
--
Looking for 1939 Indian Motocycle]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11528336 Thu, 07 Oct 2004 18:54:33 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11528216
The only way to be sure, is to open up the Laptop's case itself... But unless you know EXACTLY HOW to do it, you may break off one or more of the case's internal plastic tabs that secure the case halves together... :o

I'd suggest finding a Repair Shop that can service your Laptop, and taking it there for a Repair Estimate...

If that is not an option, then you're pretty much on your own... :(

If you DO decide to open it up yourself, Be EXTREMELY careful... Laptops can be a real BEAR to open... Don't just force the case halves open, and be sure to look for any Hidden screws (Underneath the bottom feet, in the Battery compartment, under any other removable covers on the bottom, under the Labels, etc.)... Also look to see if the Keyboard has Locking tabs near the bottom that will allow you to lift up the Keyboard to access any screws underneath. There usually are also places on the sides of the laptop where you will have to Push the plastic frame inward, in order to disengage any hidden Locking Tabs.

Either that, or just use an External Monitor from now on.

Good Luck,

-Tursiops_G.
--
If You're Unsure, "RTFM"... If You're SURE, "RTFM" Anyway. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11528216 Thu, 07 Oct 2004 18:41:33 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11521681
I have a notebook from Powernotebooks.com. It is the same as the Dell 5000. It is about 4 yrs old.

It has been a great laptop!!!

But I would say in the last 6 months the monitor began to just go garbly for a few seconds. It would go away and it was fine. Then like about a week ago (after I left the machine on all night to defragment) woke up and began to use my laptop. When I adjusted the screen ( as far as more open or more shut) for viewing, it began to actually turn on and off (the screen). Then even as I moved the screen it would not come back on.

I continuued to adjust, twist, open and close slightly, and even bump slightly. This didn't work. As I was opening and closing the lid slightly, I noticed I could see the icons on the desktop ( it was very dim). But then as I was fiddling with the lid, I could see the dimmed out desktop then begin to garble. Kind of like a fuzzy tv picture.

I then plugged it into an old external monitor that I had. The laptop works beautifully, just not the lcd.

After much surfing the net, I found jklamps.com and there distributor digikey. I found out what kind of bulb($12.00) the inspiron 5000 takes in the Hitachi LCD. I ordered it. I also found the inverter for the Dell Inspiron 5000 on ebay ($15.00).

Got them both in, and nothing??????????

How should I troublshoot this?????

I guess I need to find some way to test the inverter and the bulb???????] Any ideas??

Then what else could it be?????? (since it does put a great pic on an external monitor, does that eliminate the video card as a possible problem? )

The connections? Could that be a problem??

I deeply appreciate any comment to my situation.

Jason ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11521681 Wed, 06 Oct 2004 22:59:48 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11303267 said by Netbars:

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Oh yeah; the number for Dell Spare Parts is a bitch to find. Here it is for those who need it:

1-800-624-9896

dial #1 I think for the extension option
the extension number is 69937.

---

Thanks for that.

I added it to the Notebook faq, with a link to this thread.

Let me or BAyoung know if any clarifications are necessary.
--
The preceeding post may contain dry humor. Read and respond at own risk.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11303267 Sat, 11 Sep 2004 10:53:34 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11301981 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11301981 Sat, 11 Sep 2004 03:20:17 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11300401 --
Join Team Discovery In The Fight Against Cancer]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11300401 Fri, 10 Sep 2004 22:41:27 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11300296 said by BA:

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It sounds like the CCFL is gone. You can definitely replace it - check under the copper colored film. Often, you'll need to unsolder to get it out.

Contact »www.jkllamps.com/ and they should be able to find you a replacement.

---

If it's dim, it's almost certain it's the CCFL. You'll sometimes get flickering, change in color hues, and longer warm up (to full brightness) times.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11300296 Fri, 10 Sep 2004 22:31:11 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11300232
-Tursiops_G.
--
If You're Unsure, "RTFM"... If You're SURE, "RTFM" Anyway. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11300232 Fri, 10 Sep 2004 22:23:39 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11300099 --
Join Team Discovery In The Fight Against Cancer]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11300099 Fri, 10 Sep 2004 22:07:12 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11270527 There's a fair chance that dropping it may eventually crash your HD... :(

Stick with the "Little Twist" method, until you can get it properly serviced. ;)

-Tursiops_G.
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If You're Unsure, "RTFM"... If You're SURE, "RTFM" Anyway. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11270527 Tue, 07 Sep 2004 18:48:18 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11264279
I had most of it apart at one time looking for the problem, but i couldn't see anything that I should have "messed with" :)

Apparantly though there is a conneciton somewhere above the keyboard's Function Keys, under the plastic cover.

It's hasn't been a huge problem, but before I found that twisting the base slighly fixed the problem, I used to pick it up slighly, and let it fall onto the desk, giving it a slight jolt. Not such a good solution, as well as making me look a little funny to my coworkers in the morning. :)

Maybe I'll open it up again and give it another look. Otherwise it's back to the twisting!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11264279 Mon, 06 Sep 2004 23:25:48 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11264081
What I would do first, is to try removing and reseating your RAM modules... If that doesn't work, then I'm afraid that your laptop will have to be opened up for further troubleshooting (it could be something as simple as a loose internal connector, or as bad as a cracked ribbon cable, circuit trace, or solder connection)... In that case, I'd leave it up to a Professional, as opening up a laptop without damaging the case can be very tricky... (There usually are several hidden plastic catches that have to be pried open in a specific way to avoid breaking them.) :o

-Tursiops_G.
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If You're Unsure, "RTFM"... If You're SURE, "RTFM" Anyway. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11264081 Mon, 06 Sep 2004 23:02:21 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11263905 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11263905 Mon, 06 Sep 2004 22:43:47 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11216837
»www.sacramento.bbb.org/commonrep···47000139]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11216837 Wed, 01 Sep 2004 11:27:04 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11214300
»www.portablecomputer.com/repair/···pair.asp
--
Bush/Cheney '04
Raven's Realm]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11214300 Wed, 01 Sep 2004 00:47:23 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11213774
»cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi···163&rd=1

--
Join Team Discovery In The Fight Against Cancer]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11213774 Tue, 31 Aug 2004 23:45:39 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11210668 said by luke223:

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randomly my screen flickers, it comes with purple squares and sometimes the screen is unreadable. any solutions?

---

Screen corruption like that could be caused by a failing Video card/chipset, buggy or corrupt Video Drivers, Corrupt Direct-X or OS system files, Overheating CPU, Bad RAM, etc... :(

To eliminate the RAM, give memtest86+ a try... »www.memtest.org

If the RAM checks out OK, then try re-installing/upgrading (or even DOWNgrading) your Video drivers, re-install Direct-X, etc...

Use a Motherboard Status Monitor utility to check that your CPU isn't overheating (bad/dirty fan, etc.)

Reinstalling your OS should be considered as a "last Resort", if all other methods fail...

-Tursiops_G.
--
If You're Unsure, "RTFM"... If You're SURE, "RTFM" Anyway. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11210668 Tue, 31 Aug 2004 18:29:26 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11204928
"LCD Inverter " just what u need
»search-desc.ebay.com/dell-invert···pfidZ181 1QQreqtypeZ1QQalistZa14Q2Ca26444Q2Ca12Q2Ca3801Q2Ca25710QQpf_queryZdellQ20inverterQ20boardQ20 8100QQsotrZ2QQcoactionZcompareQQcopagenumZ1QQcoentrypageZsearch]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11204928 Tue, 31 Aug 2004 06:45:42 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11204239 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11204239 Tue, 31 Aug 2004 02:04:59 EDT http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11146685 said by Netbars:

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Me: So you don't sell the inverter board separately.
Dell SP: Not a chance.
Me: So if the LCD is fine, I couldn't buy the inverter board itself.
Dell SP: That is correct.
Me: That sucks.
Dell SP: Yeah I guess..

---

Jeez great cust service, love the responses looked like you were talking to some AOL kid. They could have responded " Sorry we don't" " Unfortunately that is how it is sold".]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Dell-Inspiron-8100-Laptop-LCD-problem-11146685 Wed, 25 Aug 2004 00:14:24 EDT