video problem?

Hardware techs: Tomk referred me to you. My laptop screen shows thin red, green and blue lines running north/south. they look similar to the lines in a Windows defrag. Can you help? regards, thanks paultpa

Well, some information besides it's a laptop would help us know what we are working with - such as brand and model and version of Windows. Also, before going further, you need to attach an external monitor to the notebook. If the lines appear there, you know it is not your notebook monitor, but something with it's graphics solution.

Digerati, Thx for the assist. Laptop is an IBM Thinkpad, standard for all IBMers, Model G41, running XP Pro V2002 SP3. Attached a plug n play monitor, set it as momnitor #2 (an extension) with the the proper display specs . . . no lines. paultpa

Then that indicates the computer and it's graphic solution are good, and the notebook monitor is failing. If lucky, it could be a cable connection, but considering the age, I would not hold my breath.

@paultpa just 2 things to add 1 The microswitch that shuts off the screen when the lid is closed can get stuck and create problems..its hard to find but worth cleaning ( physically remove debris), then use a tiny amount of switch cleaner ( make sure computer is off unplugged and with battery removed before you do this) Work the switch back and forth a few times, make sure the laptops screen hinges are correctly lubricated. 2 The cable twixt Motherboard and screen is subject to stress when the laptop is opened….. the design caters for this but after a few years of use, trouble with the cable can be expected…. it is sometimes possible to troubleshoot this by applying pressures to the case and screen covering areas in different areas until the critical point is reached so as to make the "contact"……. if you find it is the cable or its connector at fault they can be obtained from various repair shops or even Ebay…. They are simple to fit ( in a well equipped workshop with trained technicians!) Regards paws

Gentlemen: so Ole' Reliable is fading, eh? Thx for the ideas, it's worth a risk . . . . . and also some search time for a replacement. If that's the bottom line on clearing up the lines this then thanks and consider the thread closed. best, paultpa