How To Repair A Broken LCD

A Broken LCD screen is a very common issue. Fortunately its quite simple to fix on most standard PDA's. For only a few bucks, you can really save yourself hundreds by repairing instead of replacing an entire PDA. Here is my recent experience replacing the LCD screen on my HP iPAQ 4355. Read the entire how-to after the jump.


Please note this is a basic overview, I am not held responsible for any damages done to your hardware. Do not attempt unless you are willing to accept a total loss!

1. Obtain replacement LCD screen on Ebay (Mine was $50 shipped from HongKong):
   
   
   Tip: to find your LCD screen
   
   • search eBay for your PDA model number and the word "LCD" in the title.
   • Look through results for replacement screens.
   • Sometimes the descriptions in the auction also include the actual part number used for that screen, if so, grab that number and write it down.
   • Search eBay again using the part numbers you find from your previous search
   
   
2. Using a small Torx (T6) screwdriver, or whatever bit you need for your unit. Remove battery and all screws (There should only be 4 or 5 screws - see the red circles on the iPAQ below for screw locations)
   Tip:
   
   • A majority of electronics I have fixed use Torx T6 screws
     
   • I like to use foam (in this case the shipping material from the screen) to hold the screws in their approximate locations to make it easy to reassemble.
     
   • Some PDA's like the Palm V used a gasket seal and no screws, a Heatgun was required for these. Read several online tutorials before attempting.
     
   
   
3. Using a small flat-head screwdriver, or a special tool (sometimes provided with replacement screens on ebay) to CAREFULLY pry open the body
   Tip:
   
   • Try to do it as carefully as possible so not as to damage the plastic
     
   • I usually like to start around the data cable plug, it tends to be a little easier to pry open
     
   • As visible in the picture, the red circles show some of the clips holding the top to the bottom.
     
   • Once you have it most of the way off, there may be a screw or a clip in the middle of the PDA near the keyboard if your's has one. If you are pulling and the top does not want to come, check for another clip or screw that you may have missed! Do not force it too hard!
4. Remove the motherboard/LCD screen from the bottom case. Unplug the LCD/Digitizer screen (circled in red)
   Tip:
   
   • The motherboard may also be secured with screws, or in this case, several more clips
   • Be careful around any plug, or input into the device, they are usually snuggly fit into the case housing. You must pull up and out from the opposite side of the board.
     
5. Remove old screen (after unplugging from motherboard!). Install new screen.
   Tip:
   
   • The motherboard may also be secured with screws, or in this case, several more clips
   • Be careful around any plug, or input into the device, they are usually snuggly fit into the case housing. You must pull up and out from the opposite side of the board.
     



6. Reassemble PDA, Power on! If all goes well the screen should look/work perfectly.
   Tip:
   
   • Be sure to be careful when installing board and screen back into the back case housing. Make sure all plugs, and transmitters/antennas are seated properly before installing front case
     
   • Your screen should fit snugly. There should be no problem reassembling the unit. The only thing that *MAY* be different is a slightly looser seal between the top and bottom housings.
     

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