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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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can I use any cold cathode inverter to power LCD backlight?

Hey,

I have a white macbook and the lcd's backlight won't turn on. Video is fine so I'm wondering how I can test if the backlight on the LCD is still working. I think the inverter cable leading to the motherboard is broken but I have no way of testing it out.

I did find an old PC cold cathode inverter for pc case lighting and I'm wondering if I can use its inverter to power the backlight (same plug). No, I don't have any specs on it, its just something I pulled out from my hardware pile.

Would the frequencies need to match for the backlight to work? What kind of risks would I be taking? Obviously, I don't want too much risk, the machine works fine and it would be nice to get the backlight working again.

Thanks guys.

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Don't try it you could blow the backlight tube and that means replacing the LCD screen. You should replace the inverter cable cause most of the times it is the culprit if the computer has not been dropped. If your external video is fine then begin replacing the inverter cable. You may also test the inverter board with a multimeter to check if there's voltage at the output but I don't know the specs.

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I highly doubt it'd be possible, however for more details on the dangers of working with cathode ray tubes, check this thread.

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