TV matrix cable repair

Matrix cable is a set of wires connecting the imaging board to the screen matrix. In general, this is a sensitive component of the TV, responsible for the normal operation of the matrix. Repair of the cable is carried out when it is damaged, which is accompanied by a number of defects. The main ones are: periodic or constant flickering, distorted image, ripples, stripes or spots.

How to repair the matrix cable

The breakdown may be accompanied by one of these defects or all of them at the same time.
There are two ways to restore normal operation: repair the matrix cable or replace it with a new one. The second method is simpler, but implementing it in practice can sometimes be difficult. This is due to the fact that the line of televisions produced by each manufacturer is constantly updated.

At the same time, old models and components for them are being discontinued. Repair is a more complex method that requires care and precision.

Physical damage

This type includes damage to the cable in the form of a break, oxidation of its contacts or surface-mounted elements. To determine damage, service centers perform loop diagnostics by testing all cores with a tester, multimeter, transformer or other device. This determines the integrity of the wires and their insulation.

Physical damage can occur due to chafing of wires due to bending, heat due to poor contact, or chafing over long periods of operation. A track with a damaged contact can be repaired by puncturing it in several places with a needle and filling the hole with conductive varnish. After the varnish has dried, seal the damaged area with tape.

In case of more serious damage, the broken track is disconnected, the old insulation is washed off with acetone, and the contacts are cleaned with a scalpel. Rosin is applied to the break points, the track is returned to its place and the contacts are soldered. You can use an infrared soldering iron for soldering. In this case, the damaged area is cut out with scissors, the tracks are aligned with each other and soldered. High heating temperature ensures tight soldering.

Important! When performing soldering, you must ensure that jumpers do not form between the individual cores.

The cable connector can oxidize, which leads to failure of the entire device. Oxidation of contacts occurs for various reasons, for example, due to contact with liquid. It is difficult to clean the connectors mechanically due to the thinness of the cable tracks. Contacts can be safely cleaned using any solvent applied to plain paper. After thoroughly rubbing the contacts on soaked paper, they are washed with solvent and carefully cleaned with a brush.

Attention! In case of replacement or repair of the matrix, it is recommended to secure the cable near the connector with tape.

Picture distortion

Picture distortion occurs for several reasons: a malfunction of the matrix itself, damage to the cable, or a malfunction of the video card.If the cable is damaged, a large number of multi-colored vertical stripes appear on the screen, randomly changing each other. When the TV is tilted slightly or when the cable is plugged in again, the color gamut changes. White stripes become predominant, which is why this breakdown is called the “northern lights.” Horizontal stripes appear in the middle of the screen, which are a sign of a malfunction of this particular device.

Reference! If stripes appear on the screen, it is recommended to check the operation of the antenna. It can distort the incoming signal, causing a variety of interference.

Stains on the image

If the cable is faulty, large color spots may appear on the screen. They are distributed in one part of the screen or over its entire area. The spots periodically change color or maintain it. They may disappear or become deformed when the TV is tilted or the cable is plugged in again.

Light and dark spots appear when the operating conditions of the TV are violated. When using wet wipes or aerosols to care for the screen, moisture can get on the cable, which leads to oxidation of the contacts.

Stains may be due to a manufacturing defect. For example, if the matrix is ​​installed unevenly, white highlights appear in the corners.

How to properly disassemble the device

It is impossible to repair the matrix itself if the screen is cracked or broken. The cost of a new matrix is ​​slightly lower than the cost of a new TV. You can replace a failed device yourself, provided you strictly follow the step-by-step instructions.

Reference! To carry out repairs, you will need a strong magnifying device (microscope, magnifying glass or glasses with a magnifying lens).

Loop repair consists of several stages:

Step 1.Disassembling the case.

Step 2. Inspect the damaged cable.

Step 3. Disconnecting it from the matrix and carefully removing it.

Step 4. Cleaning and degreasing damaged contacts.

Step 5. Restoring contacts by soldering.

Step 6. Installing the cable and connecting to the matrix.

Step 7. Assembling the case.

Repair work requires precision and maximum attention to avoid damaging the remaining thin paths. The original shape of the train must be preserved in its original form. Even a slight bend can cause the conductors to break.

When disconnecting from the matrix, do not lean on it; you can damage the motherboard. If possible, it is more advisable to replace it with a new one due to the painstaking work of repairing it.