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How to replace the LCD on a Compaq CQ57

· 2 min read

What you need

  •  Flat Head Screw-Driver

  • Razor Blade

    1. Using a flathead screwdriver or razor blade gently lift the little plastic covers on the lower right and left of the panel casing (covering screws).
    2. Once removed, unscrew the 2 screws – one on either side.
    3. Using a slim flathead slide the flathead/razor underneath the area where the screws was and slide up slowly work you your way around the edge of the panel undoing clips on all side until you get to the webcam.
    4. Then start again from the other side slowly releasing each clip as you go, once you get to the webcam it simply comes off.
    5. Now gently slide your finger or the flathead screwdriver on the lower part of the panel casing to release it.
    6. Next remove the x2 copper screws on either side on the bottom of the panel “holder” to loosen it.
    7. Now remove the silver screws on either side (should be 3 on each side) of the “holder” which is holding the panel in place.
    8. Gently rest the panel down so it is resting on the keyboard
    9. Unplug the data/video cable from the LCD panel and swap your new one in.
  1. Reverse the process above to put it back together, remember to give the panel a test before you go through all the work to put it all back.

Note: Always best to have the laptop resting on a soft surface (ie towel) to avoid scratches.

Note: Make sure laptop battery has been removed and the laptop is unplugged from AC power to prevent any chance of turning laptop on.

Note: I have found the webcam area has more resistance (due to the fact there is a webcam there) starting from either end and making your way to the webcam decreases the chance of cracking the plastic casing.

How to access a HP DV7 Hard drive

· One min read
  1. Turn the laptop over so you have the bottom of the laptop facing up (I recommend placing on a soft surface such as a towel to avoid any scratches to the chassis.
  2. Move the battery latch right – to unlock the bottom panel.
  3. Now on the top of the panel (bottom cover) gently lift up.
  4. You should now have access to the 2.5” HDD.

How to import your account settings into Windows Live Mail

· One min read
  1. Open Windows Live Mail
  2. Open Windows Live Mail Options tab (top left)
  3. Click Options
  4. Click Email Accounts
  5. Click Import
  6. Browse to the location of the backup IAF file and click Open to import your account settings.

Note: To export your mail account settings follow steps 1-4 and click Export instead of Import.

How to repair the Windows XP boot loader

· One min read

What you need.

  • Windows XP CD (doesn’t matter whether Home or Professional)

    1.  Boot the computer from the Windows XP disk at start-up
    2. Once greeted with the Welcome to Windows XP setup screen select Recovery Console.
    3. Select your Windows installation (if prompted).
    4. Type:  fixboot
    5. Press Enter
    6. Press Y
    7. Type: fdisk /mbr
    8. Press Enter
    9. Restart the computer and remove the Windows XP CD.