How to disassemble an industrial LCD monitor? What precautions should be taken?

Disassembling an industrial LCD monitor requires care and patience, as a single mistake can damage the screen or the equipment. Unlike ordinary monitors, industrial TFT LCD screens are typically integrated inside the equipment, resulting in a more complex structure. Proper methods not only protect the screen but also ensure the safety of your equipment.

Preparations Before Disassembly

Before starting disassembly, ensure thorough preparation to guarantee the safety of personnel and equipment.

Disconnect all power: This is the most important step. Disconnect the main power supply to the equipment, unplug all power cords, and ensure the equipment is completely powered off. If the equipment has a built-in battery, remove or disconnect it as well.

Wear anti-static equipment: Industrial LCD screens and their internal circuitry are highly sensitive to static electricity. Wear an anti-static wrist strap and clip it onto the metal parts of the equipment to discharge static electricity.

Prepare tools: Prepare a set of professional disassembly tools, including various sizes of screwdrivers (Phillips, flathead, Torx, etc.), pry bars, tweezers, anti-static mats, etc.

Record and Photographs: Record each step of the disassembly process with your phone. This will help you remember the screw locations, cable routing, and connection methods during reinstallation.

Detailed Disassembly Steps

The disassembly process typically proceeds from the outer casing to the interior, following a specific order.

Removing the Equipment Casing: Locate the screws on the equipment casing. Industrial equipment casings are usually secured with screws; you will need a suitable screwdriver to unscrew them all.

Carefully pry open the casing’s clips using a pry bar. Be gentle during the prying process to avoid damaging the casing.

Locate and Disconnect the Cables: After removing the casing, you will see the cable connecting the motherboard and the LCD screen. This is usually an LVDS, eDP, or TTL cable.

Locate the connectors at both ends of the cable. The connectors usually have clips or latches. You need to gently pull the latches upwards or outwards before you can pull out the cable. Never force the cable, as this will damage the connectors.

Remove the Equipment Casing: If there are other connecting cables, such as touchscreen cables or backlights, disconnect them as well. Again, carefully observe the connection method before disconnecting.

Remove the fixing screws

Industrial LCD screens are usually fixed inside the equipment with screws or metal brackets.

Locate the screws securing the screen and unscrew them all with a screwdriver.

Remove the LCD screen

After confirming that all connections are disconnected and all fixing screws have been removed, carefully remove the LCD screen from the equipment.

During this process, avoid touching the front of the screen to prevent leaving fingerprints or scratches.

Post-Disassembly Precautions

Proper Storage: Sort and store removed screws, cables, and other small parts separately to prevent loss.

Inspect the Screen: After disassembly, check the model label on the back of the screen for future repair or replacement.

Professional Operation: If you are unfamiliar with the disassembly process or the equipment structure is complex, it is recommended to seek assistance from professional repair personnel to avoid unnecessary losses.

Anti-static Discharge (ESD) Prevention: The LCD screen driver IC is highly susceptible to damage from static electricity. An anti-static wrist strap must be worn during operation.

Avoid Bending the Ribbon Cable: Bending or pulling the ribbon cable can cause permanent damage.

Handle with Care: The LCD panel is very thin; excessive force may shatter the glass.

Record Steps: It is recommended to take photos to record each step for easy reassembly later.

Prevent Dust Ingress: If dust gets between the LCD module and the touchscreen, it is almost impossible to clean later.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Can I disassemble it directly by hand?

It is not recommended. Direct contact with hands can easily cause fingerprints or static electricity damage. It is best to use anti-static gloves.

Can the removed LCD screen be directly replaced?

Replacement is only possible after confirming that the model, resolution, interface, and backlight voltage are consistent. Different models may be incompatible even if they are the same size.

Can the screen still be turned on independently after removal?

Yes, but a corresponding driver board or testing tools are required. Direct connection to a computer via HDMI/VGA generally won’t work; a dedicated adapter board is needed.

Are the touchscreen and LCD screen integrated?

Some are separate structures (touchscreen + LCD module), while others are fully laminated and integrated. It depends on the specific model.

The key points for disassembling an industrial LCD monitor are

Power off + anti-static

Remove screws and the frame in sequence

Carefully disconnect the ribbon cable

Handle the LCD module with care

By following the standard procedures, you can safely remove the TFT industrial LCD screen, preparing it for subsequent repair, replacement, or upgrades.

Hangzhou LEEHON Technology Co., Ltd., as a provider of LCD display driver solutions for the industrial field, has established in-depth cooperative relationships with many leading global LCD panel manufacturers such as BOE, TIANMA, IVO, AUO, Innolux, and Kyocera, and professionally supplies multi-brand, full-series industrial-grade LCD display products and customized solutions.