14.1 LCD replacement options

[andy2000]

I know that the T410 was only available from Lenovo with a maximum resolution of WXGA+ (1440×900), but I'm wondering if it would be possible to upgrade the LCD. Does anyone manufacture a 14.1" wide screen LCD with a higher resolution? WSXGA (1680x1050), or even WUXGA (1920x1200) would be ideal. I like the size, and look of the W410, but the low resolution LCD is a deal killer, and I don't want to lug around a 15.6" T510.

I'm currently using a 14.1" 4:3 T60 that I upgraded to 1600x1200. I'm not afraid of making modifications if I can find something close.

[ThinkRob]

AFAIK, 1440x900 is pretty much the best 14.1 16:10 option out there. I don't know of any WSXGA+ panels in that form factor.

[andy2000]

In that case, can anyone recommend the best WXGA+ panel that will work in a T410? I've seen mixed (mostly negative) reviews about the T410's LCD, and I know there can be a huge variation in the quality of regular TN panels. I see an LG-Philips, and Samsung listed as official parts on Thinkwiki, and someone on ebay is selling an AUO panel they claim will fit the T410. I'm interested in good contrast and viewing angle rather than maximum brightness.

[setspeed]

I'm also interested in the same thing. Anyone got a recommendation?

[jayk]

Andy,

I feel your pain. I'm also still using a T60 upgraded with the excellent 1600x1200 panel. I've managed to keep it pretty useable with dual SSDs, but it shows it's age whenever I try to do heavy computational, graphics or big-memory stuff. The only modern Thinkpads in this class with a decent screen are the T/W510 with the FHD display, but I agree they are beasts (not to mention their enormous AC adapter). I think HP and Dell have some recent offering with IPS screens, but I'm not sure about size.

So sad nobody kept the high-quality 4:3 screens alive.

- jay

[andy2000]

Apart from the lack of small high resolution panels, I didn't mind the move to 16:10 too much, because for the most part they added pixels to the sides (1600x1200 became 1920x1200, 1400x1050 became 1600x1050,...). With the move to 16:9, rather than adding pixels, they're just cutting off the top and bottom (1920x1200 became 1920x1080, 1600x1050 became 1600x900). All you end up with is a larger bezel at the top and bottom and they call it a feature because it's 16:9, or full HD.

So, does anyone know what the best 14.1" panel that can be used in a T410 is? I have a T410 with a cracked screen that I would like to resurrect. I acquired it with a cracked screen, so I can't comment on the quality of the original (it's completely broken). I have the skills to make some electronic modifications if there's a good LCD that isn't a drop in replacement.

[sanjuro]

I don't think that you have much of an option for 14.1" LCD replacement. Supposedly ones made by Samsung were better for T400 and T410 so I would look for one of those. Don't think you have IPS or AFFS option in 14.1". Samsung also makes nice (for TN that is) 15" panel with 1680x1050 resolution for Apple's macbook pro but I don't think that it will fit in a 14" frame unless you are willing to cut out the bezel and get connector/inverter issue worked out.