Adrian C wrote:
In the past year I've exploded to bits my faulty ex-trusty IBM T22
laptop, ruined the original screen by attempting to change the $$ tube
(specifically mangled up the rubber isolation bits over the solder
joins), wasted $$ buying second hand inverter boards, wasted more buying
an LCD cable from china that was for a higher res screen, and finally
$$$ for a new screen and LCD cable.

It was the cable that had failed ;-(

OK, I'm interested. Where exactly does this filmwire cable fail?
Symptoms were lack of light but graphics can be seen faintly.

Picture here.
http://www.notebookoutlet.com.ar/prod_images/CABLE_TP_T20.jpg

All the failures I've had on other machines have been where it flexes
when you open the lid. If you look with a magnifying glass, you may be
able to see where the tracks have cracked.

Not much help though, as they're not repairable in my experience.

--
Tciao for Now!

John.