About replacement PowerBook G4 screens: Interchangeability

Recently a MacFixIt reader asked us about replacing an LCD screen on a PowerBook G4 550 MHz. He asked if it was possible to use a screen from a 400/500 mhz, since neither have to support the higher resolution of the DVI models.

We spoke with our friend Bradley at PowerBookMedic, who provided us with the following information:

"There isn't an easy answer. Technically, yes they are interchangeable. The problem however is that the sleep sensor is in a different location on the 2nd gen units (550mhz) So in order for the display to work properly you either have to rebuild the display and add the display and position the magnet in the new location or you can add an external magnet. If you are trying to do the repair yourself, I'd strongly recommend buying a display from the same series. Rebuilds are not fun."

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

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