iMac 17" - how to disable internal screen

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gzt

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#101487 2-May-2012 21:32

I bought an iMac 17" core-2-duo x1600 with a bad display because I was too cheap to get a mini at the time.

This was a bargain. The performance is great, and it even manages to run Star Trek Online <to some extent>. I use it with an external 1900x1200 monitor - the built in monitor is redundant.

I use Shades to reduce the brightness of the built in monitor. This helps, but. The nature of the fault is random bands of light on the screen, so I'm looking for ideas about how to disable the internal screen completely. I realise this is not possible with software.

I'm experienced with a screwdriver and soldering iron - technical suggestions are welcome. I've been avoiding opening the thing and have not yet seen a manual or diagram.

Is it a good idea to just disconnect the internal screen connector (if there is one?) or is there a fundamental screen power source/module I could try to disconnect at the component level instead?

josephhinvest

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#618627 2-May-2012 22:01

Hi again :)
Physically disconnecting the internal screen is not that difficult. Off the top of my head, I think the iMac would continue to work as normal. It's possible it would freak out a bit, but you can always plug it back in.
If it's a white 17 inch, then it's fairly easy to get into. If you like to post or PM me the serial number, I can probably just find the appropriate pages of the take aparts. Easier than explaining it all!

Cheers,
Joseph

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#618636 2-May-2012 22:31

Thanks for the offer! Details sent via email.

The other thing I may try and solve is getting the recovery environment and installer to boot to the external screen by default. IIRC there is a configuration mod I can make to achieve that, but it is a while since I looked into it. Worst case is a blind step through if that fails. Not sure if VNC will work during install/recovery? not yet tried it.

Firewire boot is also a possible solution to that, but. I tried to firewire boot this iMac using my Macbook, and I could not get them to make a connection. It is possible the firewire port on one of the machines is not happy for some reason. I'll have to try them both with some other external firewire device as a control.

TeWharau

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#619133 3-May-2012 23:52

I use one as home theatre machine (drive a projecter & digital audio out). Same screen problem but then developed overheating problem. Removed screen & overheating problem went away!

gzt

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#619297 4-May-2012 09:23

Haha nice one. I noticed mine was running a bit hot as well. Did you replace the remaining hole with anything? Is the internal mOnitor still detected at all or will it just boot to the external even in the recovery environment / option boot ?