Notebooks & Netbooks

[ScottyC]

While it does sound like the graphics adapter may be to blame, this particular model requires all files in the DOS folder to be copied to the USB, as well as to have the file renamed as a .fd

I would also advise that you use the older copy of the bios, which you can find by clicking ALL, under Newest next to the model name in the download section on the website. They both have the same # id on the file. If this fails you'll need a repair, or if you're technically inclined and you're into taking risks you can try a reflow on the mainboard, although it's far more advanced than I would normally suggest.

Best of luck and take care!
ScottyC

[JackE]

Thanks, Scotty. I just re-read what I wrote on copying, not renaming, the .bin to .fd  And, yes, it does look like I was suggesting copying just that one file onto the stick. That wasn't my intention. My intention was to keep both the .bin and .fd file on the stick as well as all the other files  as you described. Sorry for my poorly-worded instructions!

Jack E/NJ 

[cdestratis]

Okay, so I just re-tried it with all of the BIOS files while using the older BIOS version and still nothing.

What does a motherboard reflow involve? The owner of this laptop knows that's it's buggered anyway.

[JackE]

Not for the faint of heart. Here's one way

http://www.addictivetips.com/hardware/fix-your-graphics-card-by-baking-in-oven/

Google 'motherboard reflow' for a variety of techniques.

Jack E/NJ

[cdestratis]

How exactly will that help me? I don't want to go baking my friend's motherboard before I know for sure what the real issue at hand is.

[JackE]

Your graphics adapter, which is soldered to the motherboard, seems to have failed for some reason. One theory suggested by Scotty --- and it is a theory --- is that there may be a crack or poor conductance in one or more of its solder connections. Solder can crack or peel with age. Re-flowing or re-melting the solder connections on the motherboard will eliminate the crack. In theory. It also could do other damage. Like I said, re-flowing a motherboard is not for the faint of heart.  You did say that the owner knows that's it's buggered anyway.  So it's up to you guys on whether or not you want to give re-flowing a shot. No guarantees. But unless someone else on this forum can suggest a less invasive surgery given the symptoms, that may be your only reasonable hope of bringing the video output back to life.  

Jack E/NJ

[cdestratis]

As long as I know for sure that it is in fact the graphics adapter that has failed, then I have no problem explaining that to my friend and attempting repair.

[JackE]

You can't know for sure. All you can say is that it appears the graphics adapter has probably failed. Not a 100% certainty --- not even a 99 and 44/100% certainty. But a pretty good guess. A greater than 50% probability. No guarantees.

Jack E/NJ

[cdestratis]

Haha alright, are there any other small checks I can do before I whip out the flour and baking paper?

[JackE]

Make doubly-sure this laptop is beyond the warranty period.

Check this video for general instructions on removing an Acer MB.

http://www.laptopinventory.com/LaptopInventory.php/Acer/Aspire/5560G/Motherboard

If the re-flow patient succumbs, a google search suggests you can purchase a "5560G motherboard" for about $150 refurbished.

Good luck, Doc!

Jack E/NJ