Dell 1420 blacked out screen

I researched some of the posts about screens going blank and came to a conclusion that i may have an issue with the inverter on my laptop. For the time being, I was using an external monitor, but... the external stopped working. I confirmed that it's not a problem with the monitor.

Any thoughts on what could be my problem? I can still faintly see an image on the screen, but it's VERY faint.

Thanks - Dave G

If you can see the image on the screen but the screen itself is black, then you do have a problem with backlighting. The fix 98% of the time for this will be the inverter, so good diagnosis, my friend!

As for the video output to a second monitor quitting on you, that sounds more like the graphics section pooping out on you.

Replacing the inverter is going to be cheaper and easier, I'm thinking. Hopefully, the external output is the only problem with the graphics and your replacement inverter will fix the main video output.

Ooh! Is this an Nvidia graphics processor? There is a massive recall/class-action settlement on those right now; you should hit Dell up for possible repair/replacement.

Thanks for the quick reply.

As for the external monitor 'issue' - I did some additional research and was able to correct that by hitting 'FN' + "F8'. I don't know why it worked for a little while then all of a sudden stopped, but regardless, that's not an issue any more.

I will look at the video card, but it's out of warranty, will they still cover it?

I will be looking into getting the inverter and giving that a try - I was able to successfully take it all apart last night, so I am very comfortable replacing it. I have a 1520 that I also took apart to see if I couldn't use the inverter from there, but.... that one is riveted so I didn't know how to get it off or even if it would be compatible.

Any suggestions on where to get the inverter?

Thanks again for you input.... Dave G

I would contact Dell about the recall anyway... it doesn't hurt to ask and may help.

As for the inverter, eBay has been my friend for a very long time. Just search for the model number you need and go with one of the established stores.

Great - I will contact them.

So - while looking for an inverter, I saw a couple references that said the inverter from a 1520 was compatible. I looked at both and noticed that they looked identical, but the one on the 1520 was riveted and the one on the 1420 was screwed on. I took a chance - disconnected the wires from each - and with the inverter still attached to the 15" screen, I hooked up the 1420 to it.... same results.... not sure if i shouldn't have done it, but figured i would give it a shot. bad idea? does the inverter have to be 'attached' to the screen for it to work ??

Thanks..... Dave

PN on the 1420 is K02I114.01 (i believe that's the pn)

NYLAPTOPPARTS dot com shows the compatibility if you look up the 1520 inverter ( K02I115.05 )

It shouldn't matter, unless there is a ground required that you didn't get because it wasn't screwed into the chassis.

nope - no ground. i have to start assuming that it may be the screen. at this point, i'm not taking a chance. an external monitor - OR - a new laptop seems to be a better idea.

Agreed??

Thanks for all you help - sincerely appreciated!

Dave

Well, I'd look into the recall first, but yes, a new laptop is always a good idea.