Swift SF314-41 Screen backlight not working

jn87
jn87 Member Posts: 2 New User
edited March 2022 in Swift and Spin Series
Hello,

I have an Acer Swift SF314-41 laptop, modelnumber N17W7. After a system restart some days ago, suddenly the backlight of the laptop screen has stopped working. When I shine a flashlight into the screen, I can see screen activity. I can also hookup an external monitor just fine.

I have tried re-installing windows, thinking that maybe some driver had gone corrupt and the re-installation would fix that. However that did not fix it.

I noticed that the F6 key has a pictogram on it that seems to be meant for switching the screen backlight on or off. But pressing this button, with or without FN key held down, doesnt do anything. All other FN keys are working properly. For example the increase/decrease screen brightness keys are working, same for volume functions, touchpad block, etc. Only the FN F6 key doesnt seem to work. I am wondering if this is maybe related to the problem.

Could you please help me diagnose this problem and take steps to have my laptop screen working properly again? Thank you.

{Thread was edited to add model name to the title}


Answers

  • AnhEZ28
    AnhEZ28 ACE, Member Posts: 4,589 Pathfinder
    @jn87 if you don't see the Acer logo after power on. The backlight is surely is not working. The issue can be from loose or damaged LCD cable, faulty LCD backlight, or motherboard problem.
    Please remember to include @AnhEZ28 when you want to reply back to my comment so that I can check your response.
    Thank you and have a nice day!
  • jn87
    jn87 Member Posts: 2 New User
    Any suggestions for how to fix it?
  • AnhEZ28
    AnhEZ28 ACE, Member Posts: 4,589 Pathfinder
    @jn87 it is best to take the laptop to a technician who is specialist in motherboard repair. But you can try to unplug and plug the LCD cable if you know how to disassemble the laptop (unplug battery first before doing this because a shortage can damage the whole motherboard).
    Please remember to include @AnhEZ28 when you want to reply back to my comment so that I can check your response.
    Thank you and have a nice day!
  • billsey
    billsey ACE Posts: 34,944 Trailblazer
    :Unlike laptops from 8-10 years ago, the backlight controller is integrated into the display assembly, rather than being a separate board. If the cable itself isn't the issue then the display has to be replaced. It's very difficult to test the cable function, other than to disconnect/reconnect it a few times to help clear any corrosion that might be building up. The Acer part number for the cable is: 50.GXKN1.006. If you can find one cheap enough it could be worthwhile to replace it on the assumption it has failed. They do fail over time due to the flexing they get as you open or close the laptop. If it's not the cable then the display part number is: KL.14005.039, KL.14008.017 or KL.1400D.027 (different vendors is the only difference I believe). Likely you will find the display cost is close to the replacement cost on the laptop. :(
    Click on "Like" if you find my answer useful or click on "Yes" if it answers your question.