External Monitor

[jamiew]

Hello, I have a T43 and have been trying unsuccessfully to get an external monitor working.

I have two external monitors which work perfectly when simply plugged into other(non Thinkpad) laptops via the VGA port.

Clicking Fn 7 makes the T43 go blank but nothing appears on the external monitor.

When I get to the multiple monitor set up via desktop, ATI or control panel the result is the same.
- I right-click on the greyed-out Monitor2, attach it and tick extend my windows. Then, when I click Apply, the box momentarily disappears and then returns with the Monitor2 box greyed out again and the "extend windows" box unticked again.

Is this something really basic or incredibly complicated ?

[poshgeordie]

Welcome to the forums.

The external VGA Connector is located at the right hand top corner of the Thinkpad, and is internally connected to the top right and corner of the motherboard via a ribbon cable (above the Ultrabay Rail Assembly, as in Section 8 of this document.
Check the little connector from the ribbon cable is properly connected to the motherboard by removing the battery, CD/DVD drive, keyboard, palmrest and keyboard bezel, (and possibly Ultrabay Rail Assembly) which will let you check the connector and ribbon cable. 15" versions are slightly different but will give you the idea.

There's also an outside possibility that the Graphics Chip has become unsoldered and preventing the external analogue video output from working properly. We can get back with more details after you've checked the connector if it appears OK.

[jamiew]

Hello poshgeordie,

Many thanks for your prompt response.

Ah - I was dreading that it may be a physical problem . .

Taking it apart looks somewhat scary. I shall attempt it after the festive chaos . .

Thanks again,