Hey Folks,

I have an Viewsonic PF775 CRT monitor on an older computer. This is my
linux play box/secondary computer (ie, I don't want to spend a bunch
of money on). Went to fire it up and the monitor came up blank, though
the power light still comes on. I read SAM's repair FAQ at
http://www.repairfaq.org/sam/crtfaq.htm as well as this brief article
at http://www.pcsupportadvisor.com/Trou...lems_page2.htm.
Though I'm pretty comfortable with microelectronics (when I have a
schematic), I'm out of my league trying to debug a CRT cold. Couple of
questions though.
1) I have a 2 yr old son that may have managed to find the contrast/
brightness controls in the setup menu. I imagine though that the setup
menu would still be visible even if these controls were set way out.
Can somebody confirm this for me?
2) I've done a pretty close inspection of the main PCB looking for
cold solder joints or signs of overheating. Is there any other simple
steps I could take before I send this for recycling? I'm debating
trying to probe the transistors for shorts, but would kindof be going
after the problem blind. Any suggestions where to start?

The other clues I can provide a
a) Monitor was working fine last time I used it. The PC/Videocard
works fine with other monitors.
b) There is some sounds when I turn the monitor on as it powers up. It
may be the degaussing. I can try describe these better if they seem
relevant.
c) Sometimes when I turn it off, there is a flash of blue light in the
middle of the top 3rd of the screen.

Given that a 17" LCD is only $180, I don't think it would be worth the
money to pay for a repair, but I may get a quote anyways. I love to
both learn and tinker, so if I do get some insight I may really dig
in. Certainly any opinions are appreciated

Thanks in advance for any help.
TMFS