LCD Decision Help Needed Here

[Bill Z]

I have this T30 (2366) that has had a 2.6GCPU installed. Nice machine except during one of the moves, it got the LCD busted (Several big cracks). The machine still works with an external monitor.

The busted LCD is FRU 11P8294 which is listed as XGA (not shabby). However, the best LCD for this machine is listed as being a 11P8291 a SXGA+. Apparently the screen resolution would jump from 1024X768 to 1400X1050.

My question is: Could I buy and install the SXGA+ (11P8291) and use it now and then later buy the inverter (I think that is what the card is called to make it work) later when I get more money? Sort of like buying a monitor that your video card can’t take full use of yet.

Also, since I have this 2366 apart, I’m thinking about upgrading the wireless B to a G and I would like some direction to that (like, how to).

As always, I appreciate all of you guys' input.

[Stargate199]

I think you could upgrade the screen with no problem. I believe the graphics chip is the same between as T30s. The one thing you may need to do is replace the LCD cable. The LCD connector may be different between XGA and SXGA+.

[Bill Z]

Just to make sure that I know exactly what to do next: what board or cable(s) should I be looking for to make this LCD work to use all of it's features?

[rkawakami]

If you don't already have it, download a copy of the Hardware Maintenance Manual for your T30 from here:

http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... MIGR-42308

In it, you should find that the SXGA+ LCD requires the use of several different inverters, depending upon the model of panel you have. The 11P8291 is listed as a 150nit Samsung and therefore needs either the 26P8412 or 91P7147 inverter. It's not clear to me why only a couple of different type numbers of T30 requires the 7147 inverter nor what the real differences are between them. If it were me, I'd try the 8412 inverter first, unless you know for sure which system your panel was in before.

The SXGA+ cable is FRU 27L0707.

[Bill Z]

Ray and others,

I want to say thanks of helping. You really do help us novices out.

It seems the 27L0707 cables are currently rare. When I find one on the net and inquire, it is gone. I guess timing is everything. I’m still looking.

Again, thanks.