When an LCD monitor is not working, it is best to check what you can before replacing the LCD screen. The LCD screen will be one of the more expensive components in a laptop computer, and changing out the LCD may not fix the computer that is having display issues.
This computer was having LCD issues, and the main issue was with the cable only. The cable was just acutally not connected properly to the LCD. Reseating the cable fixed the issue. In this guide however, I will be replacing the cable.
On many Dell computers, there is an LCD hardware test. To perform the test, hold down the “D” key upon power on the computer. The LCD should display a number of different colors on screen if the actual screen is working properly. This will provide help with the troubleshooting process.
To replace the cable, on the other side of the laptop is back panel and a set of screws holding down the back plate. Remove these screws to remove the backing plate, so that the LCD cable is accessible.
When working with the hardware of the computer, remember to remove the battery cable connector from the system board to help prevent any possible short.
The bezel or border will need to be removed in order to detach the LCD screen. To remove the bezel, gently reach in between the LCD back cover and bezel to separate the bezel and back cover. The bezel is held down with an adhesive and clips, and separating the bezel is best done with a pry tool.
Here is an example of a pry tool
Then remove the screws holding down the actual LCD. The screws are located near the hinges of the computer.
Carefully pull the LCD towards you to access the back of the LCD where the LCD cable is located. The cable is held down by a clip that lifts up. The adhesive tape is covering the clip.
Now that the cable is disconnected from the LCD, the cable can be disconnected from the main board. The cable can slip through the opening located near the hinges of the computer.
This model computer has a camera microphone built into one hardware component and the LCD cable is also connected to this piece of hardware as well. To remove the cable, the cable will need to be disconnected from the camera and mic.
The new cable will have adhesive on one side to securely stick onto the computer. Before installing the new cable, you might find it helpful to do a quick comparison of how the original cable is routed on the computer. Follow the route of the original cable the best you can and run the cable through the computer. Remember there is a opening near the hinges, and this is where some of the cable will be passing through.
The computer can be tested prior to full reassembly. The computer can be tested without the back plate and bezel. You might find it helpful to test the system prior to fully reassembling everything just in case some connection may not be connected properly.
To test the system, simply turn on the system and see if there is any display. Also use the F12 key to enter the diagnostics test mode, which will also test the LCD and other components.
