Summary

10 IT Essentials: PC Harware and Software Companion Guide■■■■■RAM installation and upgradesKeyboard and fan replacementInternal laptop cleaningLCD screen repairLCD inverter and backlight repairMost repairs to LCD displays must be performed in a repair center. These repairs includereplacing the LCD screen, the backlight that shines through the screen to illuminate the display,and the inverter that produces the high voltage required by the backlight. If the backlighthas failed, the screen is visible only when you look at it from an angle.If no local services are available, you might be required to send the laptop to a regionalrepair center or to the manufacturer. If the laptop damage is severe or requires specializedsoftware and tools, the manufacturer can decide to replace the laptop instead of attemptinga repair.CautionBefore attempting to repair a laptop or portable device, check the warranty to see if repairs during thewarranty period must be done at an authorized service center to avoid invalidating the warranty. Ifyou repair a laptop yourself, you should always back up the data and disconnect the device from thepower source.Worksheet 13.2.0: Investigating Repair CentersFor this worksheet, you investigate the services provided by a computer repair center. Usethe Internet or a local phone directory to locate one. After you have found a repair center,use its website to obtain information, and answer the questions in the worksheet. If a websiteis not available, contact the local repair center. Refer to the worksheet in IT Essentials:PC Hardware and Software Labs and Study Guide, Third Edition. You may complete thisworksheet now or wait to do so until the end of the chapter.Select Laptop ComponentsLaptop components need to be replaced for a variety of reasons:■■■The original part might be worn, damaged, or faulty.You might want additional functionality, such as a wireless PC card that supports newstandards.You might want to improve performance by adding memory.