How to Replace a Broke LCD Screen in a Canon Powershot A590 is Digital Camera

Canon has had an unofficial (meaning that Canon hasn't acknowledged the problem) issue with the LCD screens on their compact digital cameras cracking for no apparent reason. The warranties for the cameras won't be useful for this problem, as a cracked LCD screen is considered to be due to user malfunction or abuse.

If your Powershot's LCD screen is cracked, you'll need to replace it yourself. This isn't a hard project for someone who has experience with electronics, but may be a little intimidating for an inexperienced individual.

Step 1

Use appropriately-sized screws to remove all of the small screws from the case of the A590's body. There is a screw inside the flap for the batteries-be sure to remove that one also.

Step 2

Using a thin plastic separator (available from electronic stores like Radio Shack), wedge the plastic apart carefully.

Step 3

Lift the LCD from the A590's metal case. Trace the wire to the plug and carefully pull it apart-don't strip the plug, or it will be very difficult to repair. If the backlight is still functioning, don't discard it, you will need it for the new LCD.

Step 4

Place the backlight under the new LCD (unless your new LCD has a functioning backlight). Plug the wire into the plastic plug. Don't touch the screen to avoid leaving dirt or fingerprints on the glass. If you get dirt or skin oil on the LCD, use a Q-Tip and rubbing alcohol to clean it.

Step 5

Press the A590's LCD into the metal frame and tighten the screws. Press the two pieces of the plastic body together. Carefully put the screws back in and tighten them (don't over tighten them or the plastic will crack).

Step 6

Replace the batteries and turn the camera on. If the screen is black, then the backlight is faulty or the screen wasn't plugged in correctly (or is damaged). If the screen works correctly, adjust the brightness and contrast before shooting.

Troubleshooting

If the new screen cracks, then you need to make sure that you're not over tightening the screws. If you aren't but the screen cracks again, carefully look over the plastic body and make sure that it doesn't have any structural problems that stress the LCD.