Notebook Computer Backlight Problem

Its usually the CCFL (Compact Cold Fluorescent Lamps) that need replacing or much more likely, as they all fail, is the inverter that generates the high voltage to drive them - a common failure mechanism.

The inverter is a small sparate pcb in the laptop that can easily be changed, providing you can find a suitable replacement.

Contact Compaq service and see if they have replacements (they're bound to have, but at what cost?)

Sorry to say, but, an old Compaq... you may ask, but it's more likely that a replacement part is going to cost you as much as a new computer. If you are able to get it.

Or, have you seen another one similar to yours around? Maybe a transplant...

The previous answers are to my mind most accurate, but a if you do not intend to use the Laptop while underway, simply buy yourself a cheap 19" screen (LCD) and use that instead....at least when the Laptop finally gives up the Ghost, you will still have a useable screen.

May I also point out that about the only Laptop maker that is able to usually supply and spare part for any of its older machines is Toshiba. Not cheap, but a good safe buy even when secondhand. I still have 4 of my old Toshiba Laptops as well as a new one!!! up to now, the only expense has been an occasional battery for all of them!!! 2 x 386, 1 x 486, 1 x Pentium, 1 x core Duo.....

All still run, backlights as well!!!

I refuse to buy anything from toshitba. Ever since they were caught selling military technology to the USSR. A company that would sell secrets to their enemy does not deserve my or anyone else's business.

Are you referring to the silent submarine propellers in the 60's? Good for you.Someone remembers!

Try this link: http://www.ccflsurplus.com/?gclid=CMW3-MqHlJcCFRgqHgod-kWo-w There are others. Simply google ccfl lamps. Good luck.

I does sound like the CCFL tube is going out/gone out. There are not that expensive these day (it was difficult to find them only a few years ago). They can be a difficult to replace, unless you have some experience with electronics repair, even then it can be a chore. The link from the earlier poster would be a good place to start. You can also do your own search and come up with many more. I haven't searched for one for a while, I would imagine that the sites have a way to input your laptop model number, and they will know which lamp you need, otherwise, you will need to get in there and take two measurements, the length and the diameter (they are usually specified in millimeter). If you want to attempt the replacement and run into some problems, post back here, I've done a few of these in the past.

Tom

I have been able to find replacement inverters on ebay for some mainstream laptop computer brands such as Toshiba, Dell, Sony, HP, IBM, etc. If you are not familiar with ebay, just type the URL in your browser and follow the instructions to sign up (its free) and search for the inverter. It will help if you can find part numbers on the old inverter to use in your search for a new inverter. Since there will be hundreds available, though, you may be able to find one by comparing the old one to the pictures of new ones. Sometimes a newer version may be available for a good price.

I have never paid more than $20 for one, but there are some hard to find inverters which cost more.

Good luck!

Larry