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Thread ID: 91926 2008-07-23 02:08:00 Monitor sparking, fading, then recovering Annette2 (13999) Press F1
Post ID Timestamp Content User
691332 2008-07-23 02:08:00 My Compaq S700 monitor is crackling, the screen fades for a moment & then recovers. How do I fix this & how dangerous is it during any home repair time?
I once had a monitor that 'blew up' while I was in front of it. If the cable connection to the monitor is disconnected & the CPU turned on there is no problem. The 3 pins in the plug to the power outlet are clean; there are no bent pins in the CPU connection. Could it be the cable connection or is there a problem with the monitor that is oldish, 1999 & was in use while there was lightning around.
In the past there was a grinding sound but that has been gone for several months. I would really appreciate help here as I'm not computer savvy & I'm 67yo. Thank you
Annette2 (13999)
691333 2008-07-23 02:22:00 Based on your description, I think the most likely explanation is a buildup of dust & 'crud' around the high voltage components. Add in a bit of absorbed moisture from the air and you have a good scenario for a periodic discharge, accompanied by an audible 'crack' and a brief fading of the display as the voltage drops and then recovers. Does the picture shrink as well?

There will likely be a visible discharge track in the monitor where the breakdown occurs. Get a friendly technician to have a look. A simple clean-up might be the solution, though it is possible that a component somewhere is on the point of failing.

Time for a new LCD monitor?
Jayess64 (8703)
691334 2008-07-23 03:18:00 Thank you. I am following up on your suggestion. First the friendly technician, then a new monitor if that is the diagnosis.Much appreciated. Annette2 (13999)
691335 2008-07-23 04:09:00 If your located in Christchurch I can give you a 17" CRT monitor that I have no use for.
Its yours if your here and you want it.
DeSade (984)
691336 2008-07-24 01:25:00 Thank you for your generous offer but I am in Henderson & I'm trying to source a preloved one up here. I love Chch & it's people - I trained there as a Dental Nurse for 2yrs. Go the Sth Island! Thanks, again! Annette2 (13999)
691337 2008-07-24 07:02:00 Thank you for your generous offer but I am in Henderson & I'm trying to source a preloved one up here. I love Chch & it's people - I trained there as a Dental Nurse for 2yrs. Go the Sth Island! Thanks, again!

I am in Sth Auckland and have a 17 inch monitor you can have.
Colpol (444)
691338 2008-07-24 11:23:00 Hi

As Jayess64 has already stated this is due to a build-up of crap around the high voltage components. Normally where the high voltage enters into the cathode ray tube (screen). This being the case, it is completely repairable but should be approached with caution. I will explain how, totally at your risk and I'm not to blame if you kill or damage yourself, others or your property. I strongly advise against it if you don't know much about electronics or electricity. Take the earlier advice and see a qualified technician.

Reckon this is a great excuse to get Mum, (Wife), to buy you that Lcd Monitor you know you want!!

First step is to fully understand, THERE ARE VERY HIGH VOLTAGES INVOLVED, even when the monitor is turned off or/and unplugged. These voltages CAN AND WILL KILL YOU!!

Next unplug and remove the back of the monitor case. Look for a rubber sucker with a heavy duty lead going into it. This is mounted on top of the cathode ray tube.

Attach a heavy insulated lead to a decent earth, using decent insulated pliers, hold the other end near the sucker at all times. Do not hold the wire inside the lead at any time. This will discharge any voltages to earth safety. Heavy insulated gloves are highly recommended.

Now, spray an electrical cleaner lightly around the sucker on the the back of the cathode ray tube. I use WD40.

Using a clean rag, wipe the cleaner and crap off until nice and clean. Repeat if necessary. Remove the sucker if required and clean underneath too. Use caution and common sense.

Replace the sucker and monitor cover and you are now in business again.

The best advice however is to scrap the monitor buy the LCD or go to a technician.

Hope this helps

BURNZEE
Burnzee (6950)
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