Problem with external flat panel screen blanking out

[dilip]

For some months now I have an annoying behavior on my T42 docked with a 13R0291 mini-dock. Many times a day, the external IBM flat panel screen will blank out. I have to push the screen's power button off then on - and usually it immediately blanks again. Typically after a few such iterations, I'll have my image back. It seems to oddly happen more when a window is opening or there is some other UI activity.

I suspect the problem is in the docking station - would others agree? I know that on eBay one can pick up great deals on docks - would the solution be to get another mini-dock or even a 287710U Dock II (which would allow me to put an extra hard disk in it)? Are there diagnostics that I can run to isolate the problem? Thanks!

Dilip

[dilip]

I replaced my 13R0291 mini-dock (which I will now list for sale here) with a 287710U Dock II, but the problem didn't go away. IBM has suggested sending the Thinkpad in for service. Any other thougths? Thanks.

Dilip

[basketb]

Does the problem also occur if you connect the monitor directly to the Thinkpad?
Have you tried another (VGA) cable? If connected by VGA have you tried connecting using DVI or vice versa?
Maybe the monitor is the problem?

[dilip]

It doesn't seem to happen if the computer is connected directly to the monitor, but I've not had it set up this way at length. I hadn't thought about the cable - and can my external flat panel VGA monitor connect via DVI cable? Good ideas!

Dilip

Does the problem also occur if you connect the monitor directly to the Thinkpad?
Have you tried another (VGA) cable? If connected by VGA have you tried connecting using DVI or vice versa?
Maybe the monitor is the problem?