is a broken lcd screen dangerous free sample
I used to work for a laptop manufacturer doing support, and we were instructed that in the event that a customer ever called reporting a leaking LCD we were to IMMEDIATELY tell them to hang up the phone, call emergency services, and get a hazmat team onsite, while we escalated the call to our internal dedicated safety response team. That seems like a pretty harsh response (it"s more severe than what I would have been expected to do for anything short of "My laptop set my house on fire") so I"m inclined to think this stuff isn"t especially safe. It may be true that it"s only a hazard if ingested, though; based on my semi-limited knowledge of the chemistry involved that seems possible. If it were me, though, I"d take the extra cautious route just in case.
(In practice, this basically never happens short of a severe puncture like a blade would cause because of the way these things are manufactured. I"ve actually never personally heard of a situation where an LCD was leaking short of taking a bullet.) EDIT: Let me just make this stronger. This hardly ever happens, ever, anywhere, ever - it"s designed to prevent exactly this sort of problem. Unless you actually witness it in action there is probably no reason to worry about it. See further discussion in comments.
Gone are the days when people used to buy CRT based computer monitors. Well! With time, the picture has certainly changed. CRT screens have become obsolete now and these have been perfectly replaced by LCD screens. With an LCD screen, it is not only fun to work in but also the interface looks more colorful and stunning. LCD screens are expensive for sure; and, thus it becomes hard to accept when such screens get damaged. Whenever a computer screen gets damaged, users often overlook the idea of repairing the screen immediately. But, mostly they do not realize that it can be hazardous.
Exactly! A broken LCD screen can be pretty harmful for the user and for the surrounding environment. And, this is high time to realize that. So, here we have tried to highlight the risks involved with a cracked LCD computer screen. Without further ado, let’s talk about it.
The computer LCD screen generally uses Mercury in order to produce the visible light for the viewing purpose. When a crack develops on the screen, then Mercury generally vaporizes. If the Mercury level drops, then it can become hazardous for the human body; allergic reactions, severe rashes on the screen, and birth defects are some of the often-reported disorders that can be triggered due to this low level of Mercury. And thus, we always suggest this thing to everyone that the moment you find a crack on your LCD screen, please visit a reputed repairing store. At iTech Xpress, our clients say that we offer the best LCD screen repair service inCovina.
LCD screens usually take the help of liquid crystals for the formation of a particular picture. And, it is quite an uncommon phenomenon when the crystals leak from the system. Well! When crystals leak out, they usually do not look like liquid anymore. It is not quite a well-known fact that how the human skin reacts with these crystals; this phenomenon is yet to study. So, it is always mandatory to contact a repairing service center the moment users find a crack to develop on the screen.
Whenever a crack develops on the computer LCD monitor, there are a number of health hazards that every user needs to be aware of. It is mandatory to use gloves and masks while handling these materials; one cannot simply overlook the hazardous components and the unknown side effects associated with the materials. At iTech Xpress, we try to repair every kind of broken LCD screens. Unlike many repairing centers, we simply do not ask users to buy a new monitor or something like that. We strive for excellence and that makes us one of the best repairing centers in Covina & Glendora. We are ready to serve you, are you?
Liquid Crystal monomers don’t have protein. Their chemical structures look like below. The effect of these chemicals shows in MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet).
– In Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Giesy’s research team assembled and analyzed a comprehensive list of 362 commonly used liquid crystal monomers gathered from 10 different industries and examined each chemical for its potential toxicity. When inhaled or ingested, these toxic chemicals can build up in the body over time with toxic effects, potentially causing digestive problems and other health issues.
-“These chemicals are semi-liquid and can get into the environment at any time during manufacturing and recycling, and they are vaporized during burning,” said University of Saskatchewan environmental toxicologist and lead author John Giesy in a press release. “Now we also know that these chemicals are being released by products just by using them.”
-The researchers found the specific monomers isolated from the smartphones were potentially hazardous to animals and the environment. In lab testing, the chemicals were found to have properties known to inhibit animals’ ability to digest nutrients and to disrupt the proper functioning of the gallbladder and thyroid–similar to dioxins and flame retardants which are known to cause toxic effects in humans and wildlife.
-To be clear, the researchers didn’t observe any adverse health effects from the accumulation of liquid crystals in the human body; they only found that these crystals do in fact leak from devices, and that they have the potential to be toxic. “We don’t know yet whether this a problem, but we do know that people are being exposed, and these chemicals have the potential to cause adverse effects,” said Giesy.
-Any artificial chemicals have potential hazard to human health. If you read the notes of your prescription drug, the statement is likely more alarming than above.
-If you crack LCD screens and find the liquid crystal leakage, don’t panic. Just remember that the liquid crystal materials might not be more toxic than your detergents for stove or washroom. Just wash your hands with soup throughout. Never try to play with it or even worse to taste it. The liquid of the cracked computer screen will not evaporate, no emissions worries.
-Any electronics has environment impact and can’t be used landfills. If you want to get rid of old LCD monitors or LCD TVs, give them to electronic collection stations. Let’s the professionals to handle them. They will extract some precious metals/parts and make them into something useful or at least not hazard. FYI, liquid crystal materials are retrievable.
However, if the digitizer or LCD is also damaged during a fall, that screen no longer carries value because it cannot be refurbished. Repair shops cannot sell broken LCDs to refurbishing companies; therefore, they cannot offset the cost of an LCD repair. That is why repair stores often charge a little extra if there is damage to the LCD or digitizer, to make up for that loss. Repair stores that don’t have an additional charge for an LCD repair typically inflate their glass repair price to make up for the loss from damaged LCDs. If they have one price, that means everyone is paying more to cover the cost of customers who have damaged LCDs and customers who only have cracked glass. This is why TCR separates the price of glass and LCD repairs for you! If you only have cracked glass, you only have to worry about paying to replace the cracked glass.
If your phone or tablet’s glass is shattered there will be cracks or chips on the screen itself. If it is just the glass that is damaged, the device may still function and you may be able to use it normally. If this is the case, it is likely that only the glass needs to be replaced. To prevent further damage to your device it is best to get it repaired quickly. For example, if liquids seep through the cracks it could cause permanent damage to the LCD.
Many people may continue to use their touchscreen with shattered glass and delay fixing the glass on their devices; however, if the touchscreen isn’t responsive, it could be a sign of more significant damage to the device’s digitizer which is integrated with the LCD screen.
A pixelated screen can indicate LCD damage. This would look like a patch of multicolored dots, a line or lines of discoloration, or a screen with rainbow colors. For many people, these colors are an easy way to know that their LCD is broken and that they should get it repaired.
Dropping your phone isn’t the only reason you’ll end up with a pixelated screen. Over time, your screen’s LCD may break down through regular use. This happens to other devices aside from your smartphone or tablet. Pixelation can happen to TVs and computers, too. People typically decide to buy a new device when this happens. Fortunately, with an LCD repair, you can fix the device without needing to replace it.
A black screen or black spots on your smartphone or tablet is an indication of a damaged LCD. Often with a bad LCD, a phone may still turn on and make noises, but there is no clear picture. This does not necessarily mean any other part of the phone is damaged and a simple screen replacement will get it functioning again. Sometimes it can mean a battery or other internal component is damaged. It is best to have a highly qualified phone repair technician diagnose what is wrong so the appropriate repair can be made.
Fortunately, your mobile device is fixable whether you cracked the glass or damaged the LCD. Stop by or call TCR: Triangle Cellular Repair at (919) 263-2699 for a free diagnostic and quick, affordable cell phone repair in Chapel Hill and surrounding areas. We’re always happy to help!
Accidental Damage is any damage due to an unintentional act that is not the direct result of a manufacturing defect or failure. Accidental damage is not covered under the standard warranty of the product. Such damage is often the result of a drop or an impact on the LCD screen or any other part of the product which may render the device non-functional. Such types of damage are only covered under an Accidental Damage service offering which is an optional add-on to the basic warranty of the product. Accidental Damage must not be confused with an occasional dead or stuck pixel on the LCD panel. For more information about dead or stuck pixels, see the Dell Display Pixel Guidelines.
No, accidental damage is covered for Dell computers or monitors which are covered under the Accidental Damage Service offering for that specific product.
For more information about Dell Limited Hardware Warranty and Dell"s Accidental Damage service offering, see the Dell Warranty & Support Services page.
NOTE: Other damages may be considered customer induced if determined by Dell Technical Support, an on-site field engineer, or at the mail-in repair center.
The LCD glass on the display is manufactured to rigorous specifications and standards and will not typically crack or break on its own under normal use. In general, cracked, or broken glass is considered accidental damage and is not covered under the standard warranty.
Internal cracks typically occur due to excessive force on the screen. This can be the result of some object hitting the screen, a drop, attempting to close the lid while an object is on the keypad area, or even holding the laptop by its screen.
Spots typically occur due to an external force hitting the screen causing damage to the LCD panel"s backlight assembly. While the top layer did not crack or break, the underlying area was compressed and damaged causing this effect.
If your Dell laptop LCD panel has any accidental damage but the laptop is not covered by the Accidental Damage service offering, contact Dell Technical Support for repair options.
Dell monitors cannot be repaired by an on-site field engineer or at the mail-in repair center. If you notice any damage to the monitor, you must purchase a new monitor.
Laptop users can strive to make the most of their laptops to maximize stability, longevity, and usability. Understanding and implementing a few best practices for the safe handling of their laptop will enable them to enjoy their laptop for many years to come. For more information, see the Dell knowledge base article Dell Laptop Best Practices for Care, Use, and Handling.
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The international research team, led by USask environmental toxicologist John Giesy, is sounding the alarm about liquid crystal monomers--the chemical building blocks of everything from flat screen TVs to solar panels--and the potential threat they pose to humans and the environment.
"These chemicals are semi-liquid and can get into the environment at any time during manufacturing and recycling, and they are vaporized during burning. Now we also know that these chemicals are being released by-products just by using them,"said Giesy, Canada Research Chair in Environmental Toxicology at USask.
"We don"t know yet whether this a problem, but we do know that people are being exposed, and these chemicals have the potential to cause adverse effects,"said Giesy.
In a first-of-its-kind paper published, Giesy"s research team assembled and analyzed a comprehensive list of 362 commonly used liquid crystal monomers gathered from 10 different industries and examined each chemical for its potential toxicity.
The researchers found the specific monomers isolated from the smartphones were potentially hazardous to animals and the environment. In lab testing, the chemicals were found to have properties known to inhibit animals" ability to digest nutrients and to disrupt the proper functioning of the gallbladder and thyroid--similar to dioxins and flame retardants which are known to cause toxic effects in humans and wildlife.
To understand how common these monomers are in the environment, researchers tested dust gathered from seven different buildings in China--a canteen, student dormitory, teaching building, hotel, personal residence, lab, and electronics repair facility. Nearly half of the 53 samples tested positive for the liquid crystal monomers.
"Ours is the first paper to list all of the liquid crystal monomers in use and assess their potential to be released and cause toxic effects,"said Giesy. "We looked at over 300 different chemicals and found that nearly 100 have significant potential to cause toxicity."
Ninety percent of the monomers tested had concerning chemical properties. They either accumulate in organisms, resist degradation in the environment, or are easily transported long distances in the atmosphere. Nearly one-quarter of the chemicals tested had all three troubling characteristics.
Researchers Huijun Su, Shaobo Shi, Ming Zhu, and Guanyong Su of China"s Nanjing University of Science and Technology, along with Doug Crump and Robert Letcher of Environment and Climate Change Canada, worked with Giesy to conduct the research. Guanyong Su, who leads the research effort in China, was a former student with Giesy at USask and then a post-doctoral fellow with Environment Canada.
LCD panels are almost exclusively produced in three Asian countries: China, Japan, and South Korea. It"s estimated that 198 million square metres of liquid crystal display were produced last year--enough to cover the entire Caribbean island of Aruba.
For many years, huge amounts of globally produced e-waste--including LCD displays--have been dismantled, disposed of, and introduced into the environment.
"Right now, there are no measurements of these monomers in surface waters. Our next steps are to understand the fate and effect of these chemicals in the environment,"said Giesy.
In his previous work, Giesy was also the first researcher to identify that toxic perfluorinated and polyfluorinated chemicals were widespread in contaminating the environment. His research ultimately resulted in the entire class of chemicals being banned globally.
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This article was co-authored by Linh Le and by wikiHow staff writer, Nicole Levine, MFA. Linh Le is a Certified Mobile Repair Specialist and the Owner of SC Mobile Repairs in San Clemente, California. With more than 12 years of experience, he specializes in smartphone, tablet, and smartwatch hardware repair. Linh has an iTech Mobile Device Repair Certification and an iOS Certification. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from The Franciscan University of Steubenville.
This is a question that many people have asked, and the answer is not clear. Some people say that toothpaste does help fix cracked screens, while others say it does not. There are a few things to consider when deciding if toothpaste can be used to fix a cracked screen.
If you don’t want to contact smartphone repair experts who will make this repair stress free, you may use toothpaste to mend a cracked smartphone screen.
The first thing to consider is what kind of toothpaste to use. Not all toothpaste are created equal, and some will work better than others when it comes to fixing screens. It is important to use toothpaste that contains baking soda or another abrasive ingredient. Baking soda is known for its ability to remove dirt and debris, so it makes sense that it could also be used to fix a cracked screen.
Another thing to consider is the method of application. Some people say that toothpaste should be applied directly to the crack, while others say it should be put on a cloth and then used to clean the screen. There is no right or wrong answer here; it just depends on what is more convenient for you.
The final thing to consider is how long the toothpaste needs to be left on the screen. Some people say that it only needs to be left on for a few minutes, while others recommend leaving it on overnight. Again, there is no correct answer, but it is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the toothpaste you are using.
The answer is No, and it is NOT worth trying if you have a cracked screen and no other way to fix it. Just be prepared for disappointment if you try it and it does not work.
When your phone is handled roughly, there are several ways it can be damaged. When your youngster at home is playing with your phone, for example, it’s possible that it will be mishandled. Your cell phone might fall out of your back pocket if you do a daily morning walk along the street. Furthermore, while hanging out with a buddy on a night out, you risk having your screen cracked.
If you aren’t prepared to put your device at risk, we wouldn’t recommend using toothpaste to repair your screen. Toothpaste can only help with minor scratches and make your screen smooth; it cannot entirely repair a broken phone screen.
You may not be aware of it. Toothpaste is made up of a fine abrasive that can only shine tiny cracks on phone screens. However, if not applied correctly, it has the ability to harm your screen severely.
Do you know that your phone’s screen has distinct components? The screen has several parts. The visible fractured area is only visible to a user, whereas the other elements can be viewed only after being disassembled. A tiny fracture on your phone’s display isn’t dangerous in and of itself, but applying the incorrect liquid substance may harm your LCD.
While patching your broken phone screen with toothpaste, your phone’s screen can also be exposed to various hazards. As a result, we strongly advise against using toothpaste to repair your own phone at home.
There are several disadvantages to using unapproved solutions to repair your phone screen. It’s not only dangerous, but it may also cause long-term damage to your gadget. Do you wish to learn how not to take the chance of using toothpaste on your cracked screen?
Your phone screen is not meant to be exposed to any liquid content except if it’s to be applied by a professional repairer or a tech-wise individual. Your phone screen has to be protected from fluids to avoid damage. Aside from the huge cost of repair, using toothpaste to fix a cracked phone screen can cause long damage to your screen and other parts such as the motherboard. Hence, ruling out the option of getting it repaired.
There is a warranty on each new item you buy. The manufacturer’s guarantee is an assurance that certain flaws will be repaired for a set period of time after purchase.
On the off chance that you clean your phone’s screen with toothpaste, you run the danger of losing your warranty if it is damaged in any manner. As a result of this, you are solely responsible for all repairs necessary due to your phone screen being harmed.
Due to toothpaste residue not being completely removed after repairing your phone with it, you may end up with a blurry screen. In addition, there may be spots on your screen that are difficult to wipe clean. If this happens, then you will have to send your phone away for further repairs at an authorized service center, and you will incur additional charges.
There is a big possibility that the techs at the service center will not be able to fix the problem if too much toothpaste was used in the repair attempt.
Attempting to fix a phone screen using toothpaste can lead to nothing but frustration and inconvenience if it does not work. You will have to spend time and effort finding the right toothpaste, and you may also need some other tools that you do not have at home. After all of this, if the screen is not repaired successfully, you will have to go through the entire process again- or find someone who can help you out.
You don’t have to go above and beyond with toothpaste as a remedy for cracked screens. Taking your phone’s damaged screen to an expert repair shop is the wisest decision you can make. Even better, there are various trustworthy alternatives available to mend your phone.
If your Apple, Samsung, or Motorola phone screen has been shattered, you should bring it to our store at Cracked Screens for a certified technician to review and repair your smartphone. Rather than fiddling with the hardware yourself, this would offer greater peace of mind and put you on the safe side.
We hope that this article has deterred you from using toothpaste as a means to fix your phone screen. As we stated earlier, it’s dangerous and may cause long-term damage to your device. If not done correctly, it can also lead to a voided warranty and other problems that are difficult to fix. Save yourself the trouble and take your device to our authorized service center for repair.
Repairing a broken screen glass can be very expensive project to do. Finding a dealer that will change the glass is not a problem, but the price they charge is just really too much for the work and the spare parts. Here is how to do that on your own and making it cost a fraction of the price AND mostly it can be done in under 15 minutes.
The phone used to demonstrate this is my wife"s Nokia Lumia 625. The screen in this one cracks very easily. My 3 year old son dropped it on the floor from about a 30 cm height and it just cracked. The main reason to this is that the glass goes over the phones plastic edge so nothing is protecting the glass.
Where do i get a replacement glass for the phone? Here in Finland the screen replacement(with work done) costs 144 euros and the price just for the glass is 44 euros. Well that"s not cheap in any way for compared to the price of the phone (was about 195 euros when bought).
I found it... The exact same glass sold in here for 44 euros costs in eBay 9 euros and that is cheap. Just make sure when ordering a replacement that it"s the exactly the same part.
There is not really much tools that you will need. You will need a screwdriver (the ordered glass had one for free inside!!) and a 100% plastic playing card or something that is as thin.
Yes, it happens. It was 2013 when I had a phone call from BenQ, a multinational manufacturer of LCD monitors. The project manager mentioned that one kind of LCD TV screen they were currently shipping damage. BenQ team looked for a solution from us to prevent broken TV monitors when shipped because defective products are not what any good business would want to do.
It was BenQ’s biggest embarrassment. They had a factory in mainland China and every time certain models of LCD screens were produced, they would be shipped to PChome Taiwan for sale. However, the recent damage rate of the goods had been abnormally high up to nearly 20%. Taking preventive measures, such as adjustment of packaging materials or structure, etc., there is no significant effect.
The situation became increasingly serious and it’s not just that it was BenQ who noticed this problem; customers’ feedback also showed that their LCD TVs were suffering from abnormal damages when delivered to them. Without any big accidents happening during the transportation or delivery process at all – one could only imagine what was going on inside those.
And now, with excessive losses and customers’ claims, BenQ had no idea how to do and kept seeking solutions from others, finally, they notice Impact Label through others’ introductions and heard that the label can reduce damage rates by 40-60%.
We had conducted a study on what type of shock can affect the LCD screen and how much damage it entails. We first put types of indicators labels in the box of the LCD panel in order to determine how much force damage would occur during regular shipment and transit.
According to the results of the test, the impact force on the cargo’s bottom is more than the acceleration of 50G, and this impact may damage the screen.
In addition, we observed that these impacts may cause a variety of different damages to screens: scratches on protective glass; or impairing light colors by undergoing color change from long-term use so that they become grayish black patches–which will affect a customer’s viewing experience.
In confirmation of the true cause, BenQ officially imported Impact Labels to adhere to each TV box, as well as to inform all handlers of the impact indicator monitor is in place.
Something wonderful happened. When the Impact Label indicator is in place, the damage rate of products was reduced to 0%. BenQ was enthusiastic and apprehensive, and would like to try a couple more batches.
After several weeks of discussion and debate, BenQ internally decided to adopt an impact monitor to decrease the risk of transportation damage, as the ratio of cargo damage reduced from 20% to 2%. In the next, all package is written “reminder before receipt” on outside the box. Customers can reject shipment if the Impact Label is RED upon arrival.
A study shows the damage rate typically drops by 50% or more when a monitor is in place. The TV screens are rarely damaged in this case, which proves the statement.
From customers’ point of view, the indicator label provides simple reminders of a concealed damage, and the time it takes to process the damaged product after purchase.
As for sellers, the Impact Label reduces the rate of damaged goods and makes business better. More importantly, the cost derived from customer complaints is lower and provides indisputable evidence of mishandling for freight claims.
Managing damage in the supply chain has many options, redesign the package is always the first impression comes to mind, however, it’s more expensive.
In fact, change the handling environment is the fastest and most effective way to solve damaged LCD TV screens, and where Impact Label comes to play! BenQ is not the first user of impact indicators in LCD TV manufacturers. To comply with your LCD TV, our free consultant and free samples for testing are waiting for you.
Cracked or broken mobile device screens can be costly to fix, but a few inexpensive do-it-yourself strategies can eliminate a repair shop visit and salvage your tablet or phone.
Third-party repair shops typically replace glass on a tablet for about US$100-$200, depending on the model. Replacing the tablet’s touchscreen can cost $50-$75 extra.
Replacing the cracked glass with a functioning touchscreen is much cheaper. You usually can find suppliers online for $6 to $20 for a phone. A tablet replacement digitizer can cost about $50 or more if you perform the work.
It is relatively easy and cheap to replace the glass on a phone once you get the hang of it. Tablets are a bit more involved because of the larger size and added components.
Tools might require an additional monetary outlay if you do not have a well-functioning workbench. Depending on the device involved, you need a phone opener pry tool, little tweezers to deal with small cables inside, a Torx screwdriver, flat-head screwdriver and a precision screwdriver kit.
Add to that list either a variable hair dryer or a heat gun to soften glued phone parts. Also add scissors, double-sided adhesive tape, canned air and work gloves.
It is first things first when it comes to fixing cracks on a smartphone’s screen. Often, the actual screen is not cracked at all. You may have installed a glass screen protector when you purchased the phone.
The film covers can become cloudy or scratched. They usually help absorb shock from items dropping on the tablet to lessen risk of cracking the touchscreen glass under it.
When the culprit really is a damaged screen, choosing one of the next three approaches can help you solve the problem. You might be able to repair the damage rather than replace it.
For instance, is the screen clouded or otherwise damaged from your mistaken use of harsh cleaning fluids or coarse paper towels to clean the screen? If so, there is a fix for that.
Is the screen merely cracked or full-out broken — as in massive spider cracks from being smashed? You can cure a cracked screen on a phone or tablet more easily with Sugru, a commercial product. A fully cracked screen on either type of device is a solid candidate for a screen replacement.
If your phone or tablet screen shows signs of cleaning abuse or wear from heavy handling, return its condition to nearly new with an oleophobic coating kit. This is an oil-repellent coating that protects the screen, along with adding smoothness and reducing fingerprints.
The coating, a thin layer of fluoropolymer-based solids, is similar to Teflon and is bonded to the glass. You can buy the coating kit from a variety of electronic supply stores and online outlets.
Prepare a wiping finger. The oleophobic coating’s liquid solvent evaporates very quickly when applied, so once you start, work quickly. Wrap one finger with plastic wrap or a sandwich bag. Use this finger to rub the coating liquid onto the screen.
Apply 10-15 drops of the coating to the screen’s surface. If the phone or tablet screen has a large surface, apply 10 drops to a portion of the screen, working on one portion at a time.
Wipe the screen dry with a clean microfiber cloth. Then give the coating time to dry. Do not touch the screen for 8-12 hours to allow the coating to bond to the surface.
If your only complaint involves tiny scratches and cracks on a smartphone screen or a tablet glass, there are remedies that work with varying degrees of reliability. You can use a household eraser pad or an actual pencil eraser.
Pencil erasers also work reasonably well in making scratches disappear. Simply rub the scratch left and right with the eraser for about 60 seconds. Then rub it up and down for 60 seconds.
Does using toothpaste to fill in the cracks really work? I put that fix in the category of more “mythful” thinking, but I know people who swear that this method is a cheap fix that works.
Sugru is a moldable glue kit for repairing rather than replacing cracked screens. Actually, the product was not created with phone and tablet repairs in mind. Its intended purpose is more in the line of general repairs where bonding surfaces together and filling surfaces are needed.
Depending on how badly the screen is damaged, it can be a good solution for cracks that spread from the phone or tablet screen’s edges. However, for massive cracks that spread over the entire screen — as spider cracks tend to do over time — it will be a short-term fix at best.
If your phone or tablet screen has suffered more serious damage, full scale surgery is the only option other than getting a new device. Repairing the device’s LCD screen is a complicated procedure due to the compact internal design.
The repair process involves completely dismantling the phone or tablet’s outer casing. It is particularly easy if the replacement screen comes with a top frame.
Otherwise, you may have to seal the layers to avoid loss of structural strength and moisture/dust protection. You can use either sealing pads for the size of the particular device at hand or double-sided sticky tape. A simpler solution for phone screen replacement is to use B-7000/T-7000 glue.
Before you roll up your sleeves to get started, take one huge safety step. Buy and use a static wristband and a static guard mat. This will ensure against accidentally frying any electronic components while disassembling and reassembling the devices. Disconnecting the battery is not always a guarantee that static discharge will not happen.
The first step is to tear down the device so you can assess the extent of the damage and determine what screen parts to order. Locate the model number for the LCD screen. Use this number in an Internet search to find a replacement screen.
The part or model number usually is printed on a label adhered to the sensor cable attached to the screen. You can access this cable after you separate the screen from the rest of the unit. Carefully disconnect the cable connector from the backside of the screen along the edge.
Step 2: Loosen any stuck-on cabling that is now exposed, like the camera cable. Then remove cables if the clasps are exposed. These cables simply slide out of any exposed sockets after clasps are released. The tape-style cables are often held onto the frame and parts by adhesive, so tug gently to release.
Step 3: Unscrew the Phillips or Torx screws that hold the motherboard-containing back frame to the LCD-containing chassis and place the screws in a bowl for safe-keeping. Then separate the back frame from the chassis by gently and carefully pulling the two apart.
Step 4: Remove any further cable assemblies that have become exposed by the separation of parts. Maintain visual cues as to which cable to reattach where. For example, place them on the work surface face-up in the order of removal. Or take photos with a digital camera or smartphone.
Step 5: Remove the LCD-containing chassis from the front frame or bezel and glass assembly by unscrewing a second batch of screws. Store the second set of screws in a second bowl. Remove any further parts such as the camera.
Step 6: Don’t touch the LCD face. Separate the existing, damaged glass from the bezel or front frame by waving the heat gun over the adhesive join and pulling apart. Wear gloves here because the process involves further breaking the glass.
Tip: Be patient while the heat gun loosens the adhesive and be careful not to break the bezel or front frame while removing the glass. You need the bezel intact.
Step 1: Attach fresh two-sided tape to areas of the bezel that have lost their stickiness. Use the existing adhesive where possible. Do not allow tape to overlap the visual part of the glass.
Step 2: Look for any foam padding or seals and reattach. Do not touch the inside of the glass. You won’t be able to get rid of the fingerprints after assembly.
Step 3: Thread the digitizer cable and remount the new digitizer glass to the bezel by firmly pressing it into place. Then remove any dust from the LCD and glass with canned air.
You may have to assemble and disassemble a few times. The two sets of screws use similar holes. It is easy to insert the initial set of screws into the wrong holes. You will realize that only when the second set does not fit because you already used the hole.
Replacing damaged touchscreens and digitizer panels is not rocket science, but the process does require careful attention to details. Following visual guides and screenshots can make the difference between initial success and having to make second or third efforts.
You should also be aware of products that contain mercury and are not safe for use. Some skin lightening creams, for example, contain mercury and should not be used.
EPA encourages consumers to consider alternatives to products that contain mercury. For example, digital non-mercury thermometers are a safer alternative to mercury thermometers.
The following products may contain mercury. Unless otherwise noted these products need to be properly disposed at household hazardous waste collection centers if they contain mercury. Consult your local or state collection program.
Older model electric appliances including chest freezers, space heaters, clothes dryers, clothes irons and washing machines may contain mercury switches that turn the device on or off, or turn a light on or off. When disposing of larger appliances, either contact your state or local household hazardous waste collection center for advice on recycling or disposal, or contact a local appliance recycler.
Gas-fired appliances, including ovens, water heaters, furnaces, poll heaters, and appliances in some recreational vehicles, may contain mercury. Older models may have pilot light sensors containing mercury. If you do not know if an appliance contains mercury, contact the manufacturer.
Switches are products or devices that open or close an electrical circuit, or a liquid or gas valve. They are used in trunks and hoods, heated car rear windows, acceleration sensors for air bags and seatbelts and anti-lock braking systems. Automotive relays are products or devices that open or close electrical contacts to control the operation of other devices in the same or another electrical circuit.
Wheel balancers on trucks, motorhomes and motorcycles installed behind the vehicles" wheel assemblies may also contain mercury. Send discarded items to the manufacturer for recycling.
Mercury is used in LCD screens and monitors. It is also used in laptop screen shutoffs. Televisions manufactured before 1991 may also contain mercury switches. These products need to be properly disposed at household hazardous waste collection centers.
Includes fluorescent bulbs, compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), high intensity discharge (HID) lamps, ultraviolet lamps, neon lights. See the CFL light bulbs website.
Mercury is used -- usually in very small amounts as a preservative or antibacterial agent -- in a number of over-the-counter and prescription pharmaceutical products. These include: antibiotics; blood pressure cuffs; contact lens solution; dental amalgam; diuretics; ear and eye drops; eye ointment; hemorrhoid relief ointment; Mercurochrome; nasal spray; and thermometers.
Most of these can be put in the regular trash and require no special handling. For prescription medications, follow the U.S. Food and Drug Administration"s guidance on disposal of unused medicines.
Most skin creams do not contain mercury compounds. Those that do are generally imported from outside the U.S. and are sold as skin lightening or freckle creams. Do not use of skin cream that contains mercury as this can lead to skin rashes or poisoning because mercury can be absorbed through the skin.
The recoil suppressor unit of rifles may contain mercury to absorb and dampen shock. Mercury is also used in stabilizers in archery bows, and in switches in fishing tip-up lights.
Mercury thermostats are unlikely to break or leak mercury while is use, but they need to be properly disposed of when being replaced. Old thermostats should be taken to a state or local household hazardous waste collection center for recycling. Non-mercury thermostats are commercially available.
Please recycle mercury-containing products rather than disposing of them in regular household trash. Recycling mercury-containing products is one of the best ways to help prevent mercury releases to the environment by keeping these products out of landfills and incinerators. Once landfilled, mercury from the products may end up in groundwater, and potentially in sources of drinking water. Once incinerated, mercury may end up in the air.
Many states and local agencies have developed collection/exchange programs for mercury-containing devices such as thermometers, manometers, and thermostats. Some counties and cities also have household hazardous waste collection programs. For information about these programs, contact your local officials to find out when and where a collection will be held in your area.
Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, some widely generated hazardous wastes, including mercury-containing wastes like mercury-containing light bulbs, certain spent batteries, thermostats, barometers, manometers, temperature and pressure gauges, and certain switches, are designated as "universal wastes." Businesses and industries that qualify as universal waste handlers must follow specific requirements for storing, transporting and disposing of these wastes. Households are exempt from these regulations.
Note that some states and local jurisdictions have elected to pass regulations that are more stringent than the federal hazardous waste regulations. Several states and municipalities do not recognize the exemption for households; others regulate all fluorescent bulbs as hazardous, regardless of their mercury content. For example, Vermont bans all mercury-containing waste from landfills, including mercury-containing waste generated by households.
Computer monitors are fairly simple, in use if not in actual construction: plug ’em in, turn ’em on, look at your computer stuff on the brighter part. But misleadingly easy as they might seem, there’s a lot of stuff going on inside that blank plastic case…and a lot of stuff that can go wrong.
Unfortunately, most of that stuff requires either a certified repair or a complete replacement to fix. Unless you’re especially handy with electronics and you just happen to have access to cheap replacement parts, it’s usually better to either return a monitor to the manufacturer (if it’s under warranty) or simply buy a new one. Even so, here are the most common ailments for modern LCD monitors, and what can be done to fix them…or not.
If your monitor’s screen is often flashing or stuttering, there are a few different problems that you could be facing. It might be something as simple as a loose or faulty video cable. So first, tighten down the cable on both the monitor and the computer end (making sure to completely tighten any retention screws, if your cable has them) or simply replace the cable. The same thing goes for the power cable: make sure it’s secure at both ends, and if the problem persists, replace it if possible.
An incorrect refresh rate setting can also cause flickering. The refresh rate is the number of times the computer sends an image to the monitor per second, expressed in hertz. Most LCD monitors use either 59 or 60 hertz, though 75Hz, 120Hz, and 144Hz are also found on premium monitors. Go into your operating system’s display settings (right-click desktop and head to Display settings > Display adapter properties > Monitor in Windows 10) to make sure the right hertz setting is applied—you may need to update your video drivers as well.
Unfortunately, most other flickering symptoms are caused by a power deficiency somewhere in the monitor itself. It’s possible you could be drawing too much power from one of your home’s electrical circuits or overloading your surge protector—just move the power adapter to another plug to test this. But it’s more likely that there’s a loose or malfunctioning component in the screen assembly itself. If that’s the case, repair or replacement are the answers.
Black or single-colored lines on LCD screens are caused by a lot of different issues, but if the standard fixes outlined in the flickering section above don’t fix them (check your video and power cables for problems, install new drivers), it’s probably a physical defect in the screen itself. Try your monitor on another computer or laptop to see if the problem persists; if it does, you’re probably looking at a replacement, since the error is almost certainly in the LCD panel (the most expensive component of the monitor).
A “dead” pixel is a single dot on your LCD screen that doesn’t illuminate, showing up as one or more black squares. “Stuck” pixels are similar, but instead of showing black they’re stuck on a single color that doesn’t match the computer screen’s image, typically either red, green, or blue.
There isn’t much you can do for a dead pixel—it’s a physical malfunction of the screen panel. Luckily one or two dead pixels usually doesn’t mean you have to throw the whole monitor away; it’s certainly possible to work around it or ignore it. You can also look into a warranty replacement, though many monitor manufacturers won’t replace a screen until multiple pixels have gone out.
A stuck pixel may be a different matter. Depending on exactly how the problem is manifesting, it might be possible to get the pixel back into working order. There are various techniques for this, ranging from physically “massaging” the screen panel itself to running programs that rapidly cycle a portion of the screen through the color spectrum. You can try out some of these solutions as outlined in our guide to stuck pixels, but be warned, in my personal experience, it’s exceedingly rare to find a lasting solution to a stuck pixel.
If your monitor has a visible crack, a large discolored area, or a black/multicolored spot that doesn’t align with the pixel grid, it’s been subjected to physical trauma and the LCD panel is damaged. There’s nothing you can do here: even if your monitor is within its warranty period, it almost certainly won’t cover physical damage. You could try to replace the LCD panel itself, but since the replacement part will be almost as expensive as a new monitor anyway, you might as well start shopping.
The most common problem that can cause a buzz or whine noise in a monitor is an issue with the backlight, usually with the compact florescent tubes used for lighting in older models. (This design has been largely superseded by LED backlighting, but there are still plenty of CFL-equipped monitors in use.) Buzzing can occur due to problems in power regulation to one or more bulbs. Try adjusting the brightness of your screen up or down to see if the noise dissipates; of course, this can be a less than optimal solution if you need your screen brightness at a specific setting.
Fortunately, a faulty CFL bulb is a fairly standard issue, as is a malfunctioning power regulator in various other components that can cause similar problems. If your monitor is out of its warranty period, take it to a local electronics shop—they can probably swap out the part for considerably less than the cost of a new screen.
If your screen is suddenly showing the wrong resolution for your desktop—which is indeed a pretty big deal for any PC user—the most likely culprit is your graphics card. It’s probable that either the software component (the graphics driver) or the graphics card itself is where the problem is located. Updating the driver usually fixes this problem, though a new graphics card might be in order.
If the problem persists even when you’re testing the monitor on another machine, there might be something wrong with the internal electronics. Try an alternative input (HDMI/DisplayPort/DVI) if possible.
A monitor that periodically turns itself off might not be getting sufficient power from the outlet or surge protector—again, check your home’s circuit breaker and make sure the power cable is correctly plugged in. It’s also possible that the internal or external power converter (the latter will be a box or “wall wart” on the power cable) is overheating. Carefully check the casing of the monitor itself or the power adapter; if either is too hot to touch for more than a few seconds, they need to be replaced.
Most of the above problems can happen to the LCD screens used in laptop PCs and tablets, too…but because of the compact build, they’re much harder to repair. That being said, the extra expense of a laptop versus a monitor might make it a much better candidate for a repair rather than a replacement. At the very least (assuming you’re out of the warranty period), it’s probably worth a diagnosis and quote at a repair shop, if you’re not comfortable replacing the screen assembly yourself.