really dim screen [ Edited ]

[rkscomp]

I recently noticed my screen was taking a long time to come to normal resolution after coming out of hibernation mode. This morning I noticed my screen flicker a few times. It then went very dim.

I tried to restart, updated the BIOS and drivers, but it didn't seem to fix. How should I approach?

Thanks for your help.

The Windows splash screen and fingerprint verification work perfectly upon startup. The desktop doesn't. 

Message Edited by rkscomp on 05-22-2009 11:38 AM

[fabulousdude]

I started to have the same issue at the beginning of this month.
 
Display suddenly seemed to be dimmer not as bright as before especially on the sides. This is even more visible when machine is running on battery. The dimness is not only visible in windows but also when the BIOS appears during boot up.
 
I plugged in an external display and the issue was not reproduced, so I know it’s not the video card.
 
I called the support center. My Thinkpad was still under warranty so I agreed to send it to the repair center in Ontario. http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site.wss/document.do?lndocid=MIGR-4HWSE3
 
I’m supposed to get it back next week.

[rkscomp]

is replacing the video card expensive?

[fabulousdude]

I don't think it's the video card.
 
Like I said: I plugged in an external display and the issue was not reproduced, so I know it’s not the video card.
 
I'm not sure but I believe they need to replace the LCD panel and that is expensive.
 
I will know more next week.
 
If your product is out of warranty you might still be covered under a consumer protection law of your state, look into it. Them call lenovo support and see what they can do for you.

[fabulousdude]

I just read your post again.

If your display is ok when you log on and then gets dimmer you might want to change the settings of your power options.

http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/disable-power-management-on-windows-vista/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOnOd9m0Pxo

[sktn77a]

What model Thinkpad do you have?  If it's a T4x, your backlight may be going out.

[thinkpadpro]

its not your backlight. Its your inverter board. I just had this issue on my T30. I picked up an inverter board off ebay for 10 bucks and it fixed the issue. Just look up your FRU, type in up on ebay, buy it, install it, and enjoy your thinkpad again.

[rkscomp]

thanks for the tip. do have a instruction reference on how to replace the inverter on my own? i've never taken apart a laptop before.

[ajkula66 Guru]

What machine type are we discussing here?

[rkscomp]

It's a T60