Can I use my laptop if the screen backlight is broken?
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MellowPine7
My laptop's display backlight stopped working, so the screen stays dark. I was quoted about $4,500 for a screen replacement, which seems extremely expensive, and I'll be waiting a while before I can use my sister's laptop. Is there a practical way to keep using this laptop in the meantime?
Answers
An inexpensive portable monitor can also work if you need something more mobile. Before paying that much for a replacement, get a second repair quote—the price may be a mistake or may include more than just the display panel.
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Connect the laptop to an external monitor or TV using HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, or whatever video output your laptop supports. You may need to press the display-switch shortcut on the keyboard, such as Fn plus one of the function keys, to enable the external screen.
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MellowPine7: I completely forgot I could do that. Thanks!