Member Avatar for LPChart

I'm wanting to use a laptop in my boat with charting software and would like to detach the monitor, mount it on the dash and have the laptop running below the dash and out of the way. Any ideas on this?
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As asked about mounting the laptop screen on a dash, the thread already points to two routes: keep the laptop intact and drive a separate dash display, or try to make the laptop panel work as a standalone monitor. , and raise the right practical and technical concerns: the internal panel, its connector and backlight circuitry are model-specific and fragile, so treat anything that involves cutting or extending factory harnesses as a last resort.

For a reliable, low-effort install: use an external display made or selected for automotive/marine use (12 V models, anti‑glare and readable in sunlight). Key setup steps:

  1. pick a sunlight‑readable panel that accepts the laptop’s external video (VGA/HDMI/DisplayPort) or use a simple adapter;
  2. supply power safely (12 V DC monitor or a fused inverter/DC‑DC converter), and mount with sealed fittings;
  3. configure the OS to use the external screen as the primary/only display and ensure the laptop stays ventilated under the dash.

If converting the original laptop LCD is desirable and you understand the risks, the correct DIY path is to find the panel part number and buy a matching controller board (LVDS or eDP interface + backlight driver/inverter). Typical steps: identify the panel on the sticker, confirm whether it uses LVDS or eDP (LVDS, eDP), buy the correct controller kit, bench‑test with a proper power supply, then fit into a waterproof bezel. Warnings: CCFL inverters carry high voltage, panels are delicate, and compatibility must be verified before powering.

For marine use also consider vibration mounts, corrosion‑resistant connectors, and a dedicated chartplotter or rugged tablet if reliability and sunlight readability are priorities.

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Member Avatar for jbennet

Thats generally impossible as laptops tend to use power and video cables specific to thier model/range. If you could somehow extend these cables you would have a big task as you would ned to make a housing to hold the backlight and screen together. It would maybe be easier to buy a cheap 17" TFT and link it to the laptop. NOT ALL LAPTOPS SUPPORT THIS BUT MOST DO.

Member Avatar for rmrd

It's possible to do this, even with a laptop's video cables -- just cut it and splice in more wire for both ends -- but it would probably be less of a hassle for you to go with jbennet's suggestion.

Member Avatar for dcc

The cables that are used to connect the monitor screen and the motherboard are of a very specific impedance and changing this could lead to loss or degradation of signal.

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