TV Repair
Although we are living in a throw away society where it is generally cheaper to buy a new appliance than repair, a screen can be something that is worth doing.
Disclaimer: Never work on the device whilst it is connected to mains power!
It can actually be easier than you might imagine. There are only 3 main components:
- Screen
- Powerboard
- Motherboard
Please note: If the screen if under warranty it is always better to contact the supplier and make a warranty claim.
If the fault is screen display issues Google the model number and check to see if there is a firmware update from the manufacturer. This can be the easy fix
The fault will be an indicator of the likely part that needs replacing.
Lets start with the screen. If you have a power indicator light but cant get an image on any input it is probably the screen in which case bin it. The screen is the one component that is not worth replacing however this is uncommon. Other screen faults are pixels out or lines across the screen. Bin it if this is the case. Sometimes you may be able to see the image if you look very closely in good light. In this scenario the backlight has blown. This is also not worth repairing.
Parts that are worth replacing are the powerboard and the motherboard. To access these parts you’ll need to remove the backing of the screen. There is usually about twenty screws or so holding this in place. It is suggested that all electronic repairs be done with a hand screwdriver and not a drill as electronics are fragile and require the human touch. Once you have removed all the screws and taken the backing off you will see two main electronic components.
Normally about 250mmx250mm. These are the power board and motherboard. Do a visual inspection and see if there’s anything obviously wrong. Look for burn marks and have a good smell. Blown capacitors have a very distinct and pungent aroma. This will also help you diagnose the fault.
Powerboard: This will have only a few cables leading into it, including the main power cable. It also looks less complicated than the motherboard. If you have no action at all from the TV it is likely the powerboard.
Motherboard: This is the brains of the operation. This will have more cables connected to it, including all the speaker wires and all the video inputs many of which will be mounted directly to the board itself. If the fault is is a display issue on certain inputs, intermittent display or sound or pretty much anything other than the previously mentioned faults it is probably the motherboard that needs replacing.
Now that you have determined which part is faulty you need to order the replacement part. Both the powerboard and motherboard should have a part number marked on them. Google this part and order it. You can expect to pay around $100 for either of these.
To replace them carefully unscrew anything holding it in place. Normally 4-6 screws. unplug all the connecting cables (everything plugs in) and the rest is self explanatory.
Any problems please hit me up in the comments below!
MLM Electric
Port Macquarie
New South Wales, 2444
