Make a log for replacing CCFL's?

[Outlaw]

Just curious. I picked up a 15" Dell monitor. Model 1504FP for $10 bucks at a local pc shop. We plugged it in and there was a picture just no light. I did a quick search not knowing what size CCFL's are in it and they don't seem to expensive. I think I am going to try doing this and just crossing my fingers in the process. Do you guys think I should log it, or just wasting my time? Thanks.

[jdbnsn]

Sure, sounds like usefull info to me.

[Outlaw]

that was quick. lol I kinda started, just popped the casing off and unplugged the back, but I can get pictures. Not sure when I'll actually start it, just wanted to know if it was worth the time to do. Thanks for the quick response.

[xRyokenx]

We don't have that on log here (or at least not that I know of), and even if we do, multiple points of view are usually quite helpful.

[Outlaw]

Cool thanks and good point. I'll see if I can actually start this Wed. because I have off work. We'll see how it goes though.

**updated**

Just looked up what it uses.

CCFL (4) edgelight system (http://support2.jp.dell.com/docs/monitors/1504fpis/en/specs.htm)

which means...
An edge-light type backlight system including a point light source, a light guide panel including a light incident part into which light enters from the point light source and a light emitting surface from which light is emitted, and an optical path-changing unit which changes a propagation path of light traveling inside the light guide panel. The light incident part includes a light incident surface on which a prism pattern is formed, the light incident surface facing the point light source, and first and second surfaces extending from the light incident surface in a direction in which light travels inside the light guide panel and adapted to reflect light passing through the light incident surface to reduce a direction angle, the first and second surfaces being opposite to each other with respect to an optical axis. Freepatentsonline.com (http://www.freepatentsonline.com/20040207775.html)

which means...
This should be interesting.

[Outlaw]

Links would be appreciated. I did a quick google search on the kind I would need and really didn't find anything. It appears to NOT be a standard CCFL.

[Outlaw]

Cool, thanks for the links. No the next trick is to find the camera that my daughter hid. She's only 2 and not very cooperative. I asked her where it was and she said in the couch. I asked her again and she said she hid it in her bedroom. I am still looking for it. I guess the good side is that i have time to measure and get the bulbs I'll need.

Thanks again.

[Outlaw]

Quick question...

Since this monitor has 4 CCFL's, do i have to replace all 4? or can I just get 2 bigger ones and solder them in? Would cut down on energy(very slightly) and maybe save some time/money.

**update**
And I am pretty sure I am going to need this one x4. The bulbs are 316mm or 12 and 3/8 inches long. I think they have these in 311mm but that seems like it would be too short. Plus I donno if all CCFL's are like this but they have these rubber boots on the ends that I can reuse if I keep them the same length. Hopefully I'll find that camera soon.

[Outlaw]

What do you mean about the filters? And I forgot I have a multi-meter. (checked the cap on the back of the board for the ccfls, and it was like a timer counting down, that and it was less then 1V.) Maybe if this board is bad... I'll look into the whole making a projector project. I guess well see.

And yes this is a Desktop LCD.

Thanks.

**update**
If the ccfl inverter is bad. I can get one here (http://www.lcdrepair.us/1504fp-inverter.html) for $30.
**update**
Would I be able to hook the ccfls up to a power supply(using the proper voltage) to see if the light works. I was thinking about it, and for some reason, it didn't look good. :) Thanks again
**another update**
I was looking on the web, and even if I spend the 30 for the new board and 40 for new bulbs. I come out even or better then buying this monitor. PLUS I get something that they couldn't have... the knowledge of fixing it myself. Plus I've been getting some other idea's for this monitor. lol

[Outlaw]

That makes sense. I was wondering what they were for. There is 1 white sheet and one thicker clear/opaque sheet. If that makes sense. I think those lights are rated for 7.9v or at least according to the ccfldirect site of the 2.6mmx316mm lights. 5ma and 3.9w. And yes there is a power light and picture, just no back lighting.

**update**
I couldn't get the lights to light up either. Started at 5v and went upto 8.3 I think it was. I'll probably just have to order all of that.
**update**
What do you think? I just take the dive and purchase the inverter and the 4 ccfl's? No reason not to replace them since it's apart.
**update once again**
I was looking at ccfldirect. I am going to go off the monitor closest to mine, the 1503. Says its a 316mm and 2.6diameter. The recommended is 310mm and 2.0diameter. The 2.6diameter is closest at 316mm but I know I don't want that, then next one down is 285. I think that would come up too short. Just wondering do I go with what they say?

[Outlaw]

YEYEYEYEY, My daughter found the camera! It was in her princess bag! Who Knew?! lol I will start with the log tonight and not get very far now that I know I have to order some other parts.

**update**
Not sure where to put this log. The "work in progress" i think is for case modding.