How to Fix the iBook Graphics Chip Problem

iBooks of all models whether it be the G3 or the G4 configuration all seem to suffer from the notorious graphics chip problem. This problem results in the display being black. When you plug the iBook into an external monitor, the monitor will display blackness as well. This key to determining whether or not it is your graphics chip or your LCD that has failed.

Another way to tell if it is the graphics chip that has indeed failed or if it your LCD that has failed is to press down to the left of the touch pad fairly hard. If this allows your iBook to boot, then it is definitely your graphics chip that is the problem. Other symptoms of the iBook G3 or G4 graphics chip problem is frequent freezing as well as lines in the display or a blurry screen.

So just exactly is the problem with the graphics chip? Will the graphics or video chip is soldered to the motherboard. Over time this connection can become loose, which results in either a blank display or the iBook freezing frequently. Apple used to offer a free repair for all model iBooks, but that ended in 2007, so right now in 2009 you are out of luck. Many people are throwing away perfectly fine iBooks because of this little and fixable problem.

So how can we fix this problem? Well temporarily you can press to the left of the track pad hard and that will allow you to get files and things you need off the computer. This is a very temporary fix though. Another fix is to take off the bottom of the iBook and installing a shim or piece of cardboard to press on the iBook. This should make your iBook work for a time, but eventually the connection will get worse and worse.

Then what do you do? Well you look for people offering repair for this type of problem, which usually run around $100. Or you can grab a heat gun and re-flow the solder under the graphics chip. This isn't as hard as it seems and there are many videos and tutorials available on the web.

In conclusion, there are several fixes for the iBook G3 or G4 video chip problem. The shim fix is probably the best fix for the average user and will work for a while. Some users have reported over six months of use using the shim fix. If you are feeling brave, then grab a heat gun and try to re-flow the solder under the graphics chip.