Member Avatar for ardentsunshine

He does anyone know how or if it is possible to mod an old laptop lcd screen and use it as a vga monitor? I have two old laptops 200mhz that don't work but I would like to try and build a portable pc with the lcd screens. Any help would be appreciatd -thanks

  • 4 Contributors
  • 3 Replies
  • 189 Views
  • 1 Day Discussion Span
  • Latest Post Latest Post by goldeagle2005

Dani AI

Generated

Quick reality check and context from the thread: salvaging a laptop LCD into a standalone VGA/HDMI monitor is entirely possible, but the glass-and-driver assembly in the lid is only part of the system — a matching controller board and the correct backlight driver are required. That’s the route implied by ’s pointers and the project-style examples mentioned; the simplest reliable workflow is identify → match → buy a controller kit → wire and test. (hackaday.com)

Steps (condensed workflow)

  • Remove the panel and note the full part number on the metal back (those LP/LM/Model codes matter).
  • Use that part number to find the panel datasheet/pinout and confirm the signaling type (LVDS, eDP, or legacy TTL) and connector pin count.
  • Confirm backlight type: CCFL (needs a high-voltage inverter) or LED (needs an LED driver).
  • Order a controller board whose output/interface and supported resolution match the panel, plus the correct inverter/LED driver and a compatible LVDS cable or adapter.
  • Assemble on a bench, connect the LVDS cable, backlight driver, and power supply to the controller, then feed VGA/HDMI into the controller and test. (crimperman.org)

Practical tips, pitfalls and cost
Match resolution/timings and the exact connector — panels with the same diagonal can use different pinouts and channel counts, and cheap universal boards sometimes won’t support unusual timings. Controller kits and driver boards are widely available at low cost (dozens of dollars), but buying the wrong board is the most common failure mode; weigh time/effort versus buying a ready monitor (the “buy a regular screen” point from is often valid). (hackaday.com)

Safety and final notes
CCFL backlights involve high-voltage inverters and contain mercury; handle and dispose of them carefully. LED conversions exist but require precise matching of LED string voltage/current and careful soldering. Keep original cables intact when possible, observe ESD precautions, and bench-test with the power off until connections are verified. (electronicdesign.com)

Recommended Answers

All 3 Replies

Member Avatar for nizzy1115

As you can see, most people realize that it is way to much of a hassle to do this, and just buy a regular screen.

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.