Member Avatar for the3stars

I have this old laptop that i have scrapped. I am wondering if there is any way i can rip the screen out and use it for something else? Extra monitor? Mini TV?
Or is this totaly impossible. Or cheaper to get a mini plasma :P

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Short answer: you can often remove a laptop LCD and use it as a standalone monitor, but it is not plug‑and‑play. was correct that laptop displays use proprietary connectors inside the lid, yet hobbyist controller boards exist that turn the panel’s LVDS/eDP interface into HDMI/VGA/DVI so the screen will behave like a normal monitor. (instructables.com)

Practical workflow:

  1. carefully remove the bezel and note the panel model printed on the back (e.g., LP156WH4…).
  2. search that model on panel databases or search “LCD controller board [model]” to find a matched driver kit (board + LVDS cable + OSD keypad + power).
  3. connect the board, the correct backlight/inverter or LED driver, apply the specified DC power and test. Identifying the panel number is the single most important step; many guides walk this process. (reshine-display.com)

Quick cautions and tips:

  • Older panels use CCFL backlights and require a high‑voltage inverter (dangerous if mishandled); newer panels use LED backlights and need an LED driver instead.
  • Panels differ by interface (LVDS vs eDP vs older TTL), pinout and power‑sequencing — wrong wiring can damage the module. Use a seller who programs the controller for your exact model or buy a model‑specific kit. (bestsoldering.com)

Value judgement: and are right that many laptop screens (small TN panels) won’t rival a good desktop monitor, but high‑end laptop IPS panels can look excellent. If the panel is intact and you enjoy a hands‑on project, it’s a cheap and useful reuse; if you want a hassle‑free good desktop monitor, buying one is often faster and cheaper in time spent. For step‑by‑step examples and community builds, see the how‑to guides and projects linked below. (instructables.com)

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Member Avatar for Zachery

eh, dont bother, laptop monitors are ok at best, most dont beat a CRT

Member Avatar for Dani

I'm an LCD fan (over CRT) but I agree, laptop LCDs aren't really that great that they're worth preserving.

Member Avatar for TallCool1

I have this old laptop that i have scrapped. I am wondering if there is any way i can rip the screen out and use it for something else? Extra monitor? Mini TV?
Or is this totaly impossible. Or cheaper to get a mini plasma :P

LCD laptop screens have custom interfaces on top of using digital signals. This makes reuse effectively impossible, unfortunately.

Member Avatar for Zachery

i will give LCD's credit where its deserved >.> however they are not all that great at this current point in time unless your using one made for a mac

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