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Upgrade your notebook to Vista
Another possible upgrade path is to use an external graphics upgrade such as Asus' all-new XG Station (as soon as it becomes available, we'll review it). This connects to a notebook's ExpressCard slot and allows standard desktop graphics cards to be used to bring your machine's graphics performance up to scratch. Unfortunately, it isn't portable, and requires an external monitor to work.
It might seem a little extreme to fit a new screen to your notebook, but if you have a modicum of ability with a screwdriver it's just about possible. That could be to replace a broken screen, to upgrade it to a screen with a glossy finish, or even update to a higher resolution.
That said, on most occasions, the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" maxim is the best advice. Even if you can get the screen off your notebook, there's a chance you won't be able to get a new one on.
If it's broken, before you undo a single screw make sure the problem doesn't lie with your graphics card by connecting the notebook to an external monitor. With that ruled out, you can start to dismantle the screen. Sometimes it works out quite simply: we had the
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You'll want to check the cables at this stage - these can become dislodged during a fall or trapped in the screen's hinge and severed. If you're not sure, use a multimeter to check them.
If the cables are fine, you'll need to consider replacing one of the two main components, which you'll see once you've prised off the fascia. The panel itself should be obvious, but there should also be a small circuit board mounted in the edge of the screen. This is the inverter, which provides power to the screen's backlight and can be a cause of screen failure. If your screen flickers or the backlight has failed completely and the external monitor output is still working, your problem is likely to be here. Google any part number on the board and you'll probably find a parts supplier.
To remove the panel itself, it's usually a case of undoing a few more screws and unplugging cables to remove the panel. Be extra careful here, however, as the ribbon cable attached to the rear of the panel is fragile and often taped in place.
Again, there should be a model number somewhere on the panel - usually on a sticker on the back. Google it to find out where (and if) you can obtain a replacement. A replacement for the aforementioned V25 was a mere £89 from an Ebay merchant, or you could visit www.screentekinc.com.
