What Does This Suggest...

... bad display panel, bad display inverter, both, or something else?



Thanks.

 

I agree to first try a different monitor on this computer to rule out the card (or driver). Or try this monitor on a different computer.

As far as a possible inverter problem, first understand that inverters were only used in older LCD monitors that also used a CCFL (cold cathode fluorescent light) for back lighting. Newer LCD monitors used LED backlighting which do not require inverters. So if your monitor is a newer model with LED backlighting, it cannot be an inverter problem.

Also, typically when the backlighting fails, if you shine a flashlight into the display, stick your nose up close and peer into the screen, you will still be able to see a very faint desktop image.

To me at first guess, this looks like a graphics solution (card or integrated graphics, or driver) problem and not the monitor. Make sure the interior of the computer including the graphics solution is not blanketed with a layer of heat trapping dust and that all fans spin freely.

 

I suspect it's a broken panel, impact damage.

 

It's an HP 2000 laptop and an attached monitor works fine.

 

Then most likely satrow is correct. And that's a good thing because a new panel is a lot cheaper than a new notebook motherboard. If you feel comfortable, you can change it out yourself (or at least open it up and look for loose connectors and/or pinched wires). If you have a shop do it (and there's no shame in that) they are on the hook to ensure they order the correct replacement panel and don't cause more damage in the process.

At least with it working with an external monitor, you can see to backup any data you don't want to lose (hint, elbow jab, hint, hint! ).

 

Thanks. I can handle it, just didn't want to replace the wrong part(s).