[mcj660]

im about to purchase a broken ibook for 60 dollars from craigslist the person says its in great condition other than the screen wont come on because of a broken hinge. there is no warranty on it either

this is what he said in the email

"Well the joint where it opens and closes is broken which somehow caused screen to be black. So it opens but it doesn't open properly and it turns on but the screen is blank."

so i was wondering if this is fixable and if i can fix it myself or who do i get it fixed by and how much that would cost.

thanks

[JonoMarshall]

You could replace the screen, but iBooks aren't the easiest models to work on, check out a guide here.

[mcj660]

ya i dont really want to replace the screen because that sounds like it would cost a good amount of money and im on a budget im pretty sure that the screen would work the only problem is something in the hinge is messed up and the ibook thinks its always closed so it keeps the screen off

[Wiskedjak]

There's a good chance that the problem isn't even the screen. The main board of the iBook had a design flaw that caused the connection between the display and the main board to fail. Apple had a product recall for the iBook where they replaced the main board, even after the warranty expired.
Apple - Support - iBook - Expanded Logic Board Repair Extension Program - FAQ

Unfortunately, the program is now over and replacing the main board is almost as expensive as purchasing a new computer.

Just a warning before you go and replace the screen.

[mcj660]

thanks so much when i get the ibook and i check everything out ill report back and see what i can do but please keep giving ideas on how i can fix this cheap

[Cold Warrior]

Yes, the display ribbon from ibook to screen can become pinched and frayed over time.

Did you expect anything less for $60?

[chipchen]

tell you what... you buy it for $60, I'll give you $80. heh...

There are a number of reasons the screen go go black... especially if there's damage to the computer. Plus, remember, you probably need to buy a new hinge assembly also.

What are the specs of the computer?