ok, i just put one of the stations together and although usable, the monitor is not quite as bright as i'd like and the brightness setting is maxed out. its an n4000a from dec 1991. the image is otherwise sharp and clear with straight edges. what is a realisitc expectation for brightness on these?
i have no idea what they looked like originally and i'm likely comparing it to what i've been used to with modern equipment. it looks as if there might be some brightness adjustments inside the case, but i haven't reserached that any further.
If you are comfortable working inside the case of monitors or TV's - it's usually relatively easy to increase the brightness on dim NeXT mono monitors. It's also possible [at the same time] if necessary - to adjust the focus [sharpness].
You have to realize that if the monitor is dim [after all - it is 15 years old or more] - it is ""technically" at the end of it's life. But ... it is very possible to give many of these monitors a "new life" by performing the following operation. In essence, you are "stretching" the monitor's life by using the "reserve tank". How long it will last [stay bright] - is anybody's guess. In my experience [which is not that long] - The newly adjusted monitors will stay bright for a time that I've never really determined.
I think that there is a paragrapgh or two about this in the old NeXT FAQ.
You need the proper TOOL for this. It basically looks a very slim [small diameter] 8" flat blade screwdriver [without the handle] that is completely covered in insulation - except for the tip. You can buy these at Radio Shak etc. Usually they come in a set of three different types [for different circumstances]. They won't cost more than $10 [US].
Basically - you just remove the four screws on the back cover of the monitor, and pull it [the cover] off. Then you hook up the monitor to the computer - and turn it on. Let it [the monitor] stay bright for about 1/2 hour [to stabilize it].
Afters it's properly warmed up - turn the brightness control [you can use the keyboard buttons] as low as it will go.
Take the correct monitor/TV adjustment tool and very carefully and very slowly turn the pot called "WHITE" a tiny bit [one way or the other] until the screen lights up a little [just enough to read the text or icons]. Then try to see if this level is correct by turning up the brightness with the keyboard buttons.
If this isn't acceptable - you can repeat the process - or take it up to the next "level" by turning the "CUTOFF" pot a VERY LITTLE [one way or the other]. Be careful with the amount that you turn this pot. You want to make sure that you have the monitor set to the lowest setting of brightness when you do either of these adjustments.
There is a focus adjustment pot there too. Make sure that you are confident to judge what represents focused. This can be difficult - because you have to watch the screen, while reaching around the monitor with the adjustment tool.
There are other adjustments for picture alignment [vert. horiz. etc] - I never mess with these.
WARNING: If you do this - I take NO responsiblity for anything ... destroying your monitor - or your health!
Quote from: "kenjay"WARNING: If you do this - I take NO responsiblity for anything ... destroying your monitor - or your health!
i will have your disclaimer taped to the monitor in the event something goes horribly wrong. :D
thanks for the details. i don't have the bladed tool they are talking about, but i do have a set of 1000V insulated wiha (a brand i consider reputable) screwdrivers though. i might give it a try tomorrow if things are slow enough here.
You might also try just leaving the monitor powered up for a while.
When I first got mine it was terribly dark, but I left it on for several hours and over time it brightened up and it's been pretty good ever since...
Just something to try before dinkng around with the cover off.
BTW, I eventually upped the brightness by adjusting the screw inside as well and I just used a jewler's screwdriver. They suggest using a plastic tool so you reduce the liklihood of shocking yourself or shorting something out, but it really isn't necessary if your'e careful and your'e sure that your screwdriver isn't magnetized...
I just followed this procedure - however, my monitor had "WHITE LEVEL" instead of brightness. Focus adjustment was also required.
Same excellent result, however, I still have some ghosting issues.
Also, what ever happened to Kenjay?