Hey, the dreaded broken monitor. It is one of those situations that we all dread. Whether it is a broken laptop screen or a cracked desktop monitor, it can be a real headache to deal with.
According to a 2021 study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency, computer monitors are one the most commonly discarded electronic device, making up 13% of all e-waste in the United States.
What To Do With A Broken Monitor – Ultimate Guide
1. Identify the Type of Monitor
It’s no secret that broken monitors can be both annoying and frustrating. But before you throw it out or try to fix it yourself, it’s important to first identify the type of monitor you have.
There are three main types of monitors: LCD, LED, and OLED. Each has its unique characteristics and is built for different purposes. Understanding the differences between them can help you determine what to do with a broken monitor.
LCD Monitors:
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) monitors are the most common type of monitor on the market. They’re typically found in laptops and desktop computers, as well as some HDTVs. LCD monitors are known for their crisp image quality and wide viewing angles.
You may be able to fix your LCD monitor yourself if it is broken. Common LCD monitor problems include cracked or dead pixels, backlight failure, and power issues. Some of these issues can be fixed with a simple DIY repair.
LED Monitors:
LED (Light Emitting Diode) monitors are the most recent type of monitor on the market. They’re thinner, lighter, and offer better image quality than their LCD counterparts. LED monitors are often used in gaming, photography, and video editing.
If your LED monitor is broken, it may be more difficult to repair than an LCD monitor. LED monitors are more complex and require special tools and components for repair. You may need to contact a professional if you lack the necessary skills and tools.
OLED Monitors:
OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) monitors are the latest type of monitor on the market. They’re thinner, lighter, and offer better image quality than both LCD and LED monitors. They’re often used in photography, gaming, and video editing.
The repair of an OLED monitor may not be possible if it has been damaged. OLED monitors are complex and require special tools and components for repair. It’s best to contact a professional for repair if you don’t have the necessary skills and tools.
No matter the type of monitor you have, understanding the differences between them can help you determine what to do with a broken monitor. Whether you try to repair it yourself or contact a professional, it’s important to identify the type of monitor first.
2. Determine if Repair Is Possible
Before repairing the monitor, it is imperative to determine if it can be repaired. To do this, you’ll need to examine the monitor for any visible physical damage. If the monitor has been dropped, it could have shattered components inside that need to be replaced. If there’s no physical damage, then the issue could be with the connection between the monitor and the computer or the monitor may be on the fritz.
Once you have determined that the monitor can be repaired, you’ll need to research potential solutions for the type of monitor you’re using. For example, if you’re using an LCD monitor, you’ll need to find a replacement LCD panel or a repair kit. If you are using a CRT monitor, you may need to replace the entire monitor or look for parts to repair it.
You may need to replace the monitor if it can’t be repaired or if the repair costs are too high. For those who are looking to buy a new monitor, there are many options to choose from. Check out the latest models with upgraded features or get a great deal on a used one.
According to a survey conducted by Statista, 31% of respondents said they had broken a monitor in the past five years. The same survey found that 82% of respondents said they would replace a broken monitor, while 18% said they would attempt to repair it.
3. Choose a Repair Option
When it comes to our computers, monitors can be some of the most delicate components. Whether it’s a broken screen or a faulty connection, a damaged monitor can be a major setback for any computer user.
Identify the extent of the damage first. The screen needs to be repaired if it’s broken or cracked, or the connection needs to be repaired if it’s faulty. There are two ways to fix it: by attempting a DIY repair or by contacting a professional repair company.
Try fixing the monitor yourself if you are a do-it-yourselfer. This is especially true if the damage is relatively minor and the repair is relatively simple. Identifying the cause of the problem and locating the necessary parts will be necessary in this case. You can then find step-by-step instructions online or in a repair manual. Keep in mind, however, that if the problem is more serious, attempting a DIY repair may not be a wise idea.
If the damage is too severe and a DIY repair is out of the question, you will need to contact a professional repair service. This is often the right choice for more serious problems, as the repair technician will have the tools and experience to get the job done right. They will also be able to diagnose the issue and order any necessary parts quickly and efficiently.
4. Take Necessary Precautions
Unplug the monitor from any power source first. You should take this safety precaution. Make sure you unplug the monitor from the wall or power strip and then disconnect any cables connected to it.
Next, wear protective gear when handling the monitor. This includes gloves, safety glasses or goggles, and long-sleeved clothing. You should protect your hands and eyes from sharp edges and glass shards during the repair process.
Once you’ve taken these steps, you can begin to assess the damage and figure out what’s wrong with the monitor. In the case of a cracked screen, you will need to replace the screen or the monitor as a whole. There may be a problem with the cables or the power supply if it’s not cracked.
You may be able to fix the problem yourself if you are familiar with electronics. A professional repair shop is probably the preferred option, however. After they pinpoint the problem, a solution will be offered.
Some monitors can’t be repaired and will need to be replaced. Research the different types of monitors that are available and select the one that best fits your needs if this is the case.
5. Gather Necessary Supplies for the Repair
To begin your repair, you will need to gather the appropriate parts for your broken monitor. This includes the actual monitor itself, the power cord, and any other necessary cables and components. You’ll also need to find the appropriate repair tools, such as a screwdriver, soldering iron, and other electronic tools.
Once you have the necessary supplies and tools, you can start the repair process. Depending on the type of broken monitor you have, the repair process can vary. Some repairs may require replacing the entire monitor, while others may only need a few small parts replaced.
A new monitor that is compatible with your system will be necessary if your monitor needs to be replaced completely. Make sure your new monitor is compatible with all of your existing components, such as your graphics card, power supply, and motherboard.
The appropriate replacement for a broken cable or power cord will need to be found if you’re dealing with a smaller repair. Depending on the model of your monitor, you may be able to purchase the replacement part from the manufacturer, or you may have to find it from a third-party supplier.
Once you have the necessary supplies and tools, you can start the repair process. Depending on the type of broken monitor you have, the repair process can vary. Some repairs may require replacing the entire monitor, while others may only need a few small parts replaced.
For more complicated repairs, such as replacing the entire monitor or replacing components inside the monitor, you’ll need to find a qualified technician to help you with the repair. This is especially important if you’re dealing with a newer model of monitor, as the parts may be more difficult to replace.
6. Execute the Repair
When attempting to repair your monitor, you should always follow the instructions carefully. A lot of monitors come with detailed instructions that explain how to disassemble and repair them. Make sure to read the instructions thoroughly before attempting a repair.
For reference, there are also plenty of repair videos available online if you cannot find instructions for your monitor. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and pay attention to all of the details.
Test your monitor once you’ve repaired it before using it. You must ensure that the monitor works properly after the repair. You can do this by connecting the monitor to your computer and running a few tests.
Consider replacing your monitor if you can’t repair it. The cost of replacing a monitor can be high, so you should purchase a monitor that meets your needs and budget. You can do this by researching different options and comparing prices.
7. Dispose of the Monitor If Unrepairable:
When disposing of a broken monitor, make sure you do it safely and responsibly. Since monitors can’t always be repaired, eco-friendly recycling options are essential. You can dispose of a broken monitor in the following way.
Over 75 percent of broken monitors are not recycled or disposed of properly, causing environmental pollution, according to a United Nations Environment Program survey in 2020.
Identify a local electronics recycling facility first. In order to ensure your recycling needs are met, you need to find a reliable source for electronic waste, or e-waste. Check with your local government to see if there are any regulations on where you can take your broken monitor. If not, you can search online for the nearest recycling facility.
Once you’ve found a recycling facility, make sure to follow all of their instructions. Most facilities will require you to sign a waiver when dropping off your monitor. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them to the letter. Some facilities may also require a fee for recycling, so be sure to ask about that as well.
When it comes to disposing of broken monitors, safety should always come first. Be sure to double-check that the recycling facility you’re using is reliable and follows all local regulations. Otherwise, you could be putting your home and the environment at risk.
Karan is a professional computer writer who has worked in the technology industry for over 10 years. I have a degree in computer science from the University of California, Berkeley, and have written several articles on technology products. Meet our team