Question : Problem: LCD Backlight Turns Off On Windows Startup

Okay folks, I've researched this a lot but haven't found a solution yet.  This laptop belongs to a client of ours and I'm just trying to get a good installation of Windows going.

The Problem:
When Windows starts booting the backlight turns off.  The LCD is still working though as I can see it faintly.  And I can go into the BIOS, use boot disk utilities like Acronis, Avast BART CD, Ultimate Boot CD without the backlight going off.  I have wiped the disk completely and started installing Windows XP but when the install gets to "Setup is starting Windows" the backlight turns off.

I have been trying various suggestions on the net for a few days now and have to think it's a firmware/software issue more than a hardware one.  Unfortunately I have not found and BIOS updates.

Also something that I find very strange is that the Fn keys do not work outside of Windows.  And then the notebook control drivers have to be installed so the Fn keys appear to be software based and not firmware based like I am used to on other laptops.  So trying to change the brightness / video output during boot up or while in the BIOS is not possible.

Thanks For Your Help,
David

Answer : Problem: LCD Backlight Turns Off On Windows Startup

Hi.  It could be that the lid switch is stuck down, or broken.  Something to rule out before looking at the software!

Best of luck.