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Model A1181: 1.83, 2, 2.1, 2.13, 2.16, 2.2, or 2.4 GHz Core 2 Duo processor

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Backlight randomly turns off on MacBook mid-2009

Hi, I have an issue with my Macbook (White, 13-inch, mid-2009, s/n 45921FT09GU) where the backlight on the LCD randomly turns off while I'm using the laptop.

I can tell the screen is still working because if I look closely in a certain light I can see the info on the screen and operate (just not very efficiently).

If I flex the screen, or move it up and down, it DOES NOT cause the backlight to flicker or come on or go off. It goes off randomly.

I've plugged in an external monitor for now, turning my laptop into a desktop.

I brought a new inverter but that has NOT solved the problem.

The next thing I think I will try is to replace the inverter cable.

Of note however: I find that if I unplug the inverter cable from the inverter, and then replug them, the backlight comes back on again for a while (a random amount of time from 1second to 5 hours or more!). Could this give me a clue as to what the problem is?

I'm hoping it is not the LCD or logic board.

Any help appreciated.

Regards

Shanon

Answer this question I have this problem too

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2.13 GHz Core 2 Duo (P7450)

Intro Date: May 27, 2009 Disc Date: October 20, 2009

Order No: MC240LL/A Model No: A1181 (EMC 2330)

Subfamily: Mid-2009 Model ID: MacBook5,2

Std RAM: 2 GB Std VRAM: 256 MB

Std Storage: 160 GB (5400 RPM) Std Optical: 8X DL "SuperDrive"

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Shanon, it is possible that this may be caused by your logic board, yet it is on the lower end of likelihood. I would replace the inverter cable next. If that does not get you the needed result, you may have CCFL's (light bulbs) within your LCD display that are going bad, replace the display. Lastly, I could be the logic board. But there should be work-arounds and to supply the inverter with needed continuous power. This would be some pretty advanced technique but it should be possible. Of course, this will depend on your comfort and skill level. Hope this helps, good luck.

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Thanks. I will replace the inverter cable and let you know the result.

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No improvement after replacing the inverter cable. You recommend I change the display next?

Of note; If I disconnect and then reconnect the inverter cable from/to the inverter, I can get the screen to light up for a half a second. Sometimes it will light up for minutes.

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Have you tried resetting PRAM? (Command Option P R at startup and then wait for multiple charm on sounds)

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Yes I initially tried that with no success.

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Anyone come up with a fix for this? I'm having EXACTLY the same problem. Replaced inverter and cable,

still random black screen, that lights up for a while when reconnected.

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Shanon will be eternally grateful.
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