Thinkpads Forum

I just got a T400 2676W1T unit with a backlight that goes out a few seconds after I turn it on. Unit works fine on external VGA. The inverter looks ok (nothing burned) but makes noise on startup and then goes quiet when the backlight goes out. I didn't notice any pink discoloration on the screen when it did work.

Could it just be the inverter (ordered one since they are cheap) or is the CCFL dead/dying?

Is it worth bothering to get a LED backlight screen assembly for this model? Changing backlight tubes is a pain.

That 2676W1T MTM points to an ancient R30.
Did you mean: 2767-W1T?

Sounds like a broken CCFL.
Starts up, CCFL heats up and the heat causes the CCFL-crack to widen, after which it switches off.
But if you're lucky, it could just be a bad inverter. Swap it and see.

To use a LED-screen you'll also need a LED-sub-board and a LED-LCD-cable.
Or swap the complete lid from a T400 or R400.

you need to find out exactly what screen model it is

then find out replacement costs

I'm sure you can upgrade a CCFL to an LCD.

I personally would not pay to replace an entire CCFL screen but I think you can just replace just the CCFL bulbs.

Depending who made the screen, replacing bulbs can be a real pain in the rear.

Yes, I meant 2767W1T S/N L3-AHC3E 08/10 type 2767-CTO

I ordered a new inverter and a new bulb, if I can't get the screen fixed I will order a new one.

I'd get a used machine with an LED screen. You get the screen, and a parts machine.

I have $20 into this machine, add another $15 for the inverter and bulb. I purchased the tube mostly because if you collect old Thinkpads you eventually will need to get good at CCFL replacements. If/when I can't get it working a new screen will be the next move.

Unknown_K wrote:if you collect old Thinkpads you eventually will need to get good at CCFL replacements.

I replace CCFL backlights with LED backlights.

Well the inverter came in before the bulb so I installed it. Seems to work ok (backlight has yet to shutoff after 45 minutes) but the inverter seems to get pretty warm (not making noise like the other one did).

Nevermind the BL went out again after the inverter cooled off. I assume the tube was drawing more power then normal and needs replaced.