MacBook graphical glitches

[aednichols]

Hello folks,

I've got a 12" MacBook here that draws some very pretty patterns on screen. Basically the same problem as here.

From my research, it's either a ribbon cable or a fried TCON chip ("Timing CONtroller"). Video on an external monitor is flawless. What do y'all think?

The machine has been retired in favor of my M1 MacBook Air and I want to fix it myself for fun, not a big deal if I screw it up.

Thanks,
Adam

 

[chscag]

If video is normal on an external monitor, then it's probably a bad LVDS cable or the display itself. I would try a new LVDS cable first as that is the least expensive.

 

[aednichols]

If video is normal on an external monitor, then it's probably a bad LVDS cable or the display itself. I would try a new LVDS cable first as that is the least expensive.

Looks like I can get one for $20 on iFixit.

 

[chscag]

The LVDS cable is a delicate cable and can easily be damaged. Hopefully, that's what is causing the video glitching. Let us know....

 

[aednichols]

The LVDS cable is a delicate cable and can easily be damaged. Hopefully, that's what is causing the video glitching. Let us know....

Yeah, I gingerly removed the bottom case today to have a look and the ribbon cables look tough to remove from their attachment points.

But I'd honestly rather try fixing it and risk breakage than have it sit in a drawer broken for the next decade until I recycle it