I got my hands on an old Gateway Solo laptop and I'm trying to fix it up. The big issue is that the screen no longer lights up. I can see some action going on in the darkness and when I plug it into a monitor it works. What is the most likely culprit? I was THINKING of ordering an inverter for it, but is there another part that would be more likely to be broken?backlight.


Most LCDs have a flourescent backlight. Wether this can be replaced (cheaply, that is), I haven't a clue.The problem you're experiencing is usually caused by a bad LCD inverter...they are cheap and easy to replace.So- he was right then. Yes...

It could be a loose harness, but I've seen this particular inverter online for as low as $8 (USD).OK, so I got the inverter in the mail and it looks slightly DIFFERENT. How can I tell if it is a compatible model? I tried it out and it didn't fix the problem. So what's next? I have tried resetting the cables in their sockets as well. In my very limited knowledge I believe this leaves the cable and the light, correct?First off...CHECK with the company you purchased the inverter from to make sure you have the correct ONE...and whether or not it's DOA. Also, check the harness and light as you suggested.How would I know if it was DOA without replacing the other parts?