Replacing m15x LCD screen

Im one of the so called "new batch" chassis m15x owners. Recieved my m15x Aug. 2008 and havent experience any major problems with the built of the laptop. I've been thinking of replacing my LCD screen matte (1920x1200) with the glossy (1440x900). I already tried calling AW and found out that I have to pay around $400 for this change compared to $200 if I will buy the LCD out there and will do the changing myself. My questions are as follows:

1. Will changing the LCD screen void my warranty?
2. Can opening the screen cause me "hinge breaking" problem in the long run?
3. Has anyone tried opening the screen? If so can you please give me a step by step how to?

Thank you

 

Hello,

Unfortunately, If during the installation of the new LCD damages the system, it will void the warranty. Third party hardware is not supported by the warranty and in the event the system needs repairs, it must be sent in with original configuration.

Thank you.

 

also, remember that the m15x's WXGA+ screen has been widely hailed as outstanding. i don't think you'll be able to find a screen of the same quality on the aftermarket.

 

AW doesnt make LCD for their laptops. They order it from a manufacturer. Here is the model info of what they have been putting in the m15x for the 1440x900 resolution.

* Manufacturer: LG Philips
* Model Name: LP154WP1
* Surface Treatment: Hard coating(2H) Anti-glare treatment of the front polarizer,
* Outline Dimension [mm]: 344.0 (H) × 222.0 (V) × 6.4(D, max) mm
* Resolution: 1440 horiz. by 900 vert. Pixels RGB strip arrangement
* Contrast Ratio: 600:1
* Clearview Technology: Yes
* Pixel Pitch[mm]: 0.2301 mm × 0.2301 mm
* Number of Colors: 6-bit, 262,144 colors
* Luminance[cd/m2]: 250 cd/m2(Typ.), 5 point
* Weight[g]: 515 g (Max.) without inverter & bracket
* Power Consumption: Total 5.77 Watt(Typ.) @ LCM circuit 1.35 Watt(Typ.), B/L input 4.42 Watt(Typ.)
* Viewing Angle
Up: 60°
Down: 60°
Left: 80°
Right: 80°
* Response Time[ms]: 25 (Max.)

So maybe I can find this on the aftermarket or?

 

let me rephrase: "the screen used in the m15x has been widely hailed as outstanding".

actually, i might be able to get you in contact with a guy i know who has upgraded the screen on his m15x as well (though i think he put in the 1650x1080 panel from an m1530). PM me if you're interested.

 

Just wondering if LCDs lose their brightness after a while and if they do then what is the general timeframe. For some reason, I set brightness to one level below max so that I can increase it later if the screen starts dimming. Am I being overtly paranoid ?