Acer a500 dropped half white screen

sutliffejx

My A500 got knocked out of my hand while in airport security and landed pretty hard.  Dismayed to see on plane that I had a half white screen.  No cracks in screen and touch seems to be alive.  Tried full power off and reset button - no difference.  Does anyone have an opinion on whether this is a simple screen replacement or if I should bite the bullet and buy a new unit?  Are there any troubleshooting techniques I should try to determine failure mode before buying a replacement screen.  Thanks in advance !!!

roadwarrior796

This is likely to be a hardware issue given that it happened after a definite event, I think that the screen ribbon/connector has come adrift inside the device. Not sure of any warranty situation with your device, how new it is or your level of knowledge but opening the device carefully to check the connection inside would be my preferred option. There are quite a few tutorials on YouTube relating to opening an android tablet without causing further damage.

billsey

There is a chance that the video cable is partially disconnected from the landing shock. Before buying a replacement I'd try to open it up and check. The drop has already moved you out of warranty so that shouldn't be a factor to consider any longer.

roadwarrior796

If you are minded to try it, this link may help :

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIvbWo_p3KI&app=desktop

 

 

sutliffejx

Will give it a shot tonight ... I've done electronics replacement before - usually robots.  Some PS3, GPS, etc.  What do I have to lose.  Thanks for the advice.

roadwarrior796

No worries, best of luck, as you say, you have nothing to lose.

sutliffejx

So there's an Atmel board that I found with a ribbon cable.  Pretty sure that's the video controller from another teardown site.  Appears fully seated on the PCB end.  Would the screen have a connection or would it be directly tied?  Looks complicated to tear down further.

 

That board is pretty well free floating - don't know how much damage I could do on a drop. I suppose I could possibly change out board and cable if possible.  

 

 

sutliffejx

Nevermind - I was digging in the wrong place.  I reseated the LCD monitor screen.  Watching a teardown video really helps.  I'm assuming I have a LCD monitor problem.  It's been a real education as to how these things work after dealing with relatively "low" tech industrial controls.  

roadwarrior796

The "tear downs" are invaluable and a big thank you to the people who go above and beyond in posting them to help others. I'm disappointed that it did not solve your problem but you know that you did all you could do. Possibly, if you contact Acer on their Facebook page, they will help, they have stepped up to help others, even outside of warranty and well done to them for doing so.