Replace TN panel with IPS screen on a Vaio SB

Hello. I just purchased an old Vaio SB on ebay and I would like to do some modding with it.

I know that some users have replaced their 1280x768 TN panels with 1600x900 IPS displays. But I'm a bit clueless about the conectors. Are laptop screen conectors universal?, I mean can I buy any IPS screen and hack it into my Vaio or are the conectors manufacturer specific ?

I'm asking because I've spotted some cheap 13.3" IPS displays on taobao for about USD 50-60 that I would like to use for my experiment.

Any info is welcome. Thanks!

 

Connectors are not manufacturer-specific, but there are different connectors. Typically if you don't know the specific connector used on your model, you'll need to get another screen offered for that model to ensure compatability. Screen retailers wil typically have lists of which screens are compatable with which systems.

 

Thanks a lot djembe!

Guess I'll look for screen replacements for my laptop on eBay to know what's my connector without opening it yet. Then i'll look for IPS screens with the same conector

Thanks!

 

ok. This is the TN screen of Vaio VPCSB:

and this is an IPS screen i found on taobao

both are flat 40pin connectors and seems to be on the same side. So in theory it should work

now I'm wondering if a laptop designed for 1280x768 can output 1600x900

Ideas?

 

If the screen has a compatible size & connector, it then depends on the system graphics regarding whether it can handle a higher resolution. For recent systems, even integrated graphics can handle up to 1920x1080, so you should not have any problems on that front.

 

There's still one BUT...

LCD Cable meant only for hd resolutions may not support higher ones. To reduce costs not all pins are connected and of course hd+/fhd need all 40 pins. Your laptop might already have fully connected cable, or not. If that same model was offered with high resolution panels, then at least a compatible spare part cable exists.

 

Thanks guys!; I'lll order the IPS panel and will update with my progress

 

IIRC the SA/SB models used LVDS signaling so that should be the correct screen. Again IIRC there are switches that may have to be set to get the right resolution unless the old screen had the same resolution.
Also: make sure you disconnect power, batteries and properly earth yourself before switching screen, Sony machines are notorious for literally blowing a fuse if one isn't careful with the video connector!