Interchangeability of TV matrices
The most common cause of matrix failure is its physical damage and the appearance of cracks. Sometimes the matrix can fail without external influences. In this case, before deciding to replace it, you need to make sure that it is the parts of the TV circuit that are damaged and not the image-forming parts of the TV circuit.
One way or another, if the matrix needs to be replaced, difficulties arise in purchasing a new one - manufacturers are extremely reluctant to make spare parts publicly available, most often sending limited quantities to service centers. Therefore, there is an opinion that rather than changing the matrix at 80-90% of the cost of the TV, it’s easier to buy a new one. But that's not true.
REFERENCE! You can not limit your search to one model, but consider interchangeable ones - and the chances will increase, especially if you pay attention to used spare parts from the “disassembly” of TVs. Such interchangeability of matrices will be cheaper.
The content of the article
What is the matrix on a TV responsible for?
The matrix forms an image from an electrical signal. This is achieved due to the fact that there are vertical and horizontal conductor paths inside it. Behind them is a light source, in front of them is a film with colored dots.
In the normal state, the intersection of paths does not allow light to pass through. When voltage is applied to the vertical and horizontal tracks, at the place where they intersect, light transmission increases and the pixel begins to glow. The light is colored by the colors on the film.The viewer, from a distance, perceives pixel points separately, but as an average RGB value, thus, by combining three colors of different brightness, millions of shades can be obtained.
Are the matrices on a TV interchangeable?
Yes, replacement is possible. On a matrix of the same brand - absolutely no problem. But if you can’t find one, it is possible to use “alternatives” - also supplied for the same TV model (roughly speaking, made bypassing the official order of the manufacturer), or from another model.
If the matrix is the right size, has the same resolution as the failed one and the same technology (LED, LCD), then this is the first sign that it may be suitable for replacement.
REFERENCE! There are lists of brand interchangeability on the Internet; you should search by marking to see if the new matrix will work on old equipment. Don't just limit yourself to articles, look at discussions on forums - it's a good idea to register on one and ask a question yourself.
In some cases, it may be necessary to reflash (or replace with a flashable, universal) scaler. A scaler is a device that “knows” the parameters of the signal required by the matrix, and turns the video signal into components that are understandable to the screen: the horizontal and vertical coordinates of the pixel + its luminosity. The universal scaler is flashed using a computer, according to the instructions that come with it. The procedure is simple - write the firmware onto a flash drive, insert it into the scanner and supply power to the board. After blinking the diode, the scaler becomes ready for work. Firmware can also be found on the Internet, but, as a rule, the basic ones (resolution, power voltage, color depth are selected) are sufficient.
Modern TVs use LVDS standard cables (they connect the matrix to the scaler), which, as a rule, are standardized. Finding a suitable cable is not such a problem as a matrix, but in some cases, checking the datasheet, you will have to resolder the sequence of its cores.