Yet another LCD problem

[RoadHazard]

The problem is that the LCD back light on my T42p goes off randomly. However, I know the laptop is still on because I can barely see the pixels. Only the back light is off. If I put the laptop to sleep and resume then the back light comes back. This behavior is the same on both Windows and Linux so I guess it's a hardware problem? I'm guessing the inverter is the problem? How hard is it to change the inverter myself? And is there a specific type of inverter I should be looking for? Is an aftermarket one okay? Is there a possibility that the problem is somewhere else?

[sjthinkpader]

I would say the CCFL is going out.

[ajkula66]

Has your LCD been reddish/pinkish on initial boot or when running on battery?

[RoadHazard]

Sorry I've been away for a bit.

The LCD is pinkish at first turn on but becomes normal within a few seconds.
It also looks pinkish on battery (or at lower brightness) but not very obvious.

Here's what I found today. The back light seems to go out randomly at full brightness. But if I set it to lower brightness then it works fine. Haven't tested to find out yet which brightness level that the back light starts to go out.

When the LCD sits at full brightness for a while, if I lower the brightness then the back light goes off.
FN+F7 doesn't bring the light back. I have to suspend and resume in order to make it the light come back again.

[ajkula66]

Your backlight is on its last leg. It might also take inverter with it.

Replace the CCFL, or swap the entire LCD.

Good luck.

[RoadHazard]

How many CCFL do I need?

[RealBlackStuff]

Only one CCFL.