Broken computer screen

[Zac495]

My DD did it again (well, she said it was the cat). She broke her computer. She sleeps with it... or puts it on the floor. She cracked it 6 months ago - now the screen is cracked. Interesting colors when it cracks....

We tried plugging it into a desk top to see if the monitor would work, but no luck. Any thoughts? It's a 600 dollar Dell so it's not worth a lot.

 

[Passepartout]

I had the backlight go out in a previous laptop. Was told by the Geeks at Best Buy that it would cost about he same to fix as a new 'puter. So it can happen- even without cats.

Jim

 

[tschwa2]

I use SquareTrade Warranties with my semi portable or portable electronic device that my children touch/play with. A $600 computer with a 3 year warranty with accident protection (a must) runs about $150. They frequently have deals that get you about $30 off. I was afraid they wouldn't do much when my ipod touch accidentally fell in the toilet but I got a credit for the full amount within 2 weeks of sending it in. I have the prepaid label printed and ready to go for my current one with a cracked screen. I have one for my laptop too but hopefully won't have to use that one.

 

[LUVourMarriotts]

If using it with a monitor is OK, you may not have had the video output set correctly when you tested it. With Dell's, its usually Fn + F8 to scroll through the 3 available video output options. So you could try plugging it back in again and then try to run through the output options. It takes up to 5 seconds to switch between each output.

You could probably get replacement monitor for $50-75 if you search around. You then may need to pay someone to put it in, if you are not familiar with taking apart the laptop. Its pretty easy, but you need to know what you are doing. For most Dell's, I'd say its 8-10 screws, pulling a piece of plastic and unplugging the cable from the board, then reverse.

 

[bogey21]

This is why I buy near bottom of the line laptops and trash them at the appropriate time. My first one cost about $250; my most recent $375. Average life has been 3+ years. Naturally I don't buy insurance (extended warranty).

George

 

[AnnaS]

My son also places his laptop on his bed and then falls asleep. Well, his Mac fell on the floor and the screen broke. Apple wanted some crazy prize - $800 = maybe more. He finally found someone on-line, they mailed him a label and he shipped it out. I think it cost him about $250. Just left for work so can't ask him. Will try to ask him tomorrow in the morning when he gets home.

 

[Twinkstarr]

When a new computer is required DH and I use the new one and move the older model to the kids.

Plus we have the no laptops upstairs rule, so no problem with them falling off the beds. Though waiting for one to fall off eldest's lap while he lounges with it on the sofa.

 

[Talent312]

May I suggest a 7-10" tablet for bedtime use.
They're light+small enuff that falling from bed-height may be okay.
... And they're fairly cheap to replace... next time.
But there should be a price to pay, like 1-hr of work per $10.