LCD went blank (not backlight or computer)

[RhettAllen]

My 5-year old 24" widescreen dell monitor (2405FPW) all of a sudden made a fairly quiet but distinct click noise and the image disappeared.

Internal monitor menus and functions do not display.

I would assume the backlight is still working since it has a noticeable glow when turned on but is blank (as it normally looks without a signal and when not in sleep mode).

Hooked up to a decent surge protector. Didn't notice any light flicker when I heard the click. Computer and laptop are fine. (Had to turn my computer off by memory of the shutdown menu)

Wasn't particularly hot (it has run hotter before).

Maybe a bit dusty but not overly so.

Survived an airplane ride 9 months ago.

Moved to Japan so it's running on different power specs than it has been but obviously within its listed range.

Anyone know if this could be a self fix, a cheap fix, or even a worthwhile repair to get? I realize it's quite old; however, I wouldn't mind it lasting another few years.

 

[buwish]

With the clicking noise, it sounds like it blew a capacitor or perhaps a transistor out. It can be fixed by taking the board out of it and seeing if you can identify the culprit and replacing it.

 

[RhettAllen]

Thanks for the reply.

I suppose my next step is to take it to somewhere that repairs electronics. Is it rare to find a place that will only charge upon diagnosis or repair? Cause I hate the thought of someone charging me $50 to tell me they don't know what's wrong or can't fix it. I just want to know what to expect since my japanese is intermediate at best, so it may be difficult for me to shop around for a place that might supply this service.

As far as results of opening my monitor:

I opened it up but didn't see anything burnt, crusty/leaking, bulging capacitors, or any broken off solder.

Got my volt meter out and made sure all of the transistors had a connection.

A handful of resistors showed connectivity (via OHM setting on my volt meter); though I imagine doesn't mean anything (I don't know enough about circuits).

 

[buwish]

I'm not sure about Japan in regard to finding a reasonable place that does repairs like that. I suppose though that there are plenty around. It may be worth while to take a look around for a new monitor, as there is no doubt plenty of LCD, LED, etc... manufacturers that call Japan their home.