Removing Crt Monitor Stands: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you want to remove the stand from a CRT monitor, it's important to proceed with caution and follow the correct steps to avoid any damage. The process can be tricky, and you may need to refer to the user manual for specific instructions. Before beginning, ensure you have the necessary tools, such as a screwdriver, and gather information about your monitor's model and type. Disconnect all cables from the monitor, including the power source and PC connections. Then, follow these general steps: locate and remove the screw that holds the base in place, either by rotating it anti-clockwise or using a hook; gently detach the base plate; identify the connection point of the vertical stand and refer to the user manual if needed; and finally, remove the vertical stand by locating and unscrewing any screws or by pressing a dedicated button, if available.

Unplug all cables

Unplugging your CRT monitor is a good idea if you're not using it for a while. This is especially true if you're worried about lightning strikes or power surges. While it's not necessary to unplug the monitor after each use, doing so can help extend its lifespan.

If you want to avoid the hassle of physically plugging and unplugging the cable each time, consider getting a power strip with individual switches or, alternatively, install a whole-house surge protector at your electrical box. This will protect your equipment from power surges and reduce the wear and tear on your plug.

However, keep in mind that some TVs need to be constantly plugged in to maintain their settings, and unplugging them will result in a loss of those settings. Additionally, frequent plugging and unplugging can cause wear and tear on the plug, so using a power strip with switches might be a more convenient option.

In any case, always make sure to follow safety procedures when dealing with CRT monitors, as they can contain lethal charges even after being unplugged for extended periods.

Remove the screws

Removing the screws from a CRT monitor stand is a delicate process that requires careful attention to detail. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:

Before beginning, ensure that you have the necessary tools, which include a screwdriver, preferably with an insulated handle. It is also recommended to wear safety gear such as rubber gloves and goggles to protect yourself from any potential hazards. Additionally, refer to the user manual of your CRT monitor to familiarise yourself with the specific model and its components.

Now, let's begin the process of removing the screws:

• Place the monitor face down on a stable surface to protect the screen from any accidental damage. This will provide a safer and more accessible position to work on the stand.
• Identify the screws that hold the monitor stand in place. These screws are typically located where the stand connects to the monitor. There may be multiple screws, so make sure to locate all of them.
• Using your screwdriver, carefully begin to unscrew each screw in a counter-clockwise direction. Take your time with this step to avoid stripping the screws or damaging the surrounding plastic or metal components.
• As you remove each screw, keep them organised and separate from the rest of the monitor. This will ensure that you don't lose them and can easily reassemble the stand if needed.
• Once all the screws are removed, gently try to separate the stand from the monitor. Be cautious, as there may be additional connectors or hooks that hold the stand in place.
• If the stand does not come off easily, carefully inspect the connection between the stand and the monitor. There may be hidden screws or plastic tabs that require gentle prying with a flat-head screwdriver.
• In some cases, the stand may have a dedicated button for removal, as seen in some Dell and Acer monitors. Press the button and gently pull the stand outwards.
• If the stand still seems stuck, a small amount of mechanical oil can be applied to the joints to help loosen it. Be careful not to use too much oil, as it may drip onto other components.
• Once the stand is removed, set it aside and proceed to the next step of disassembling the monitor, if that is your intention.

Remember, always handle your CRT monitor with care, especially when dealing with older models that may still retain high voltage. If you are unsure about any part of the process, it is best to consult a professional or seek guidance from a detailed disassembly guide specific to your monitor model.

Disconnect the base

Disconnecting the base of a CRT monitor can be a tricky job. Before beginning, ensure you have the monitor's user manual to hand, which will contain model-specific instructions. If you do not have the user manual, you can download it from the internet using the monitor's model name and number. This information is usually written on the front or back of the monitor, but if not, you can find it by pressing the Windows + I key to open Settings, then navigating to System > Display > Advanced Display > Display Information.

Once you have the manual, the first step is to remove all cables connected to the monitor, including the power cable and all cables from the PC. Next, invert the monitor and search for a screw that holds the base in place. Most monitors have a hook that you can rotate in an anti-clockwise direction to remove the screw. Take out the screw and gently remove the base plate from the monitor.

Some bases may have additional connection points, so be sure to refer to the user manual to understand how your stand connects to the monitor. If there are screws holding the vertical stand in place, remove them, then gently pull the stand away from the monitor. Be careful not to hold the monitor by its screen—hold it firmly by the sides instead.

If your monitor stand has buttons near or on the vertical stand, these may need to be pressed to remove the stand. Some monitors, like Dell and Acer, have a dedicated button for this. If the stand is stuck, a small amount of mechanical oil can be applied to the joints to help it budge.

If your monitor stand has no visible screws or buttons, you may need to remove the back panel to access the holder that connects the vertical stand to the monitor. This will require removing all screws on the back panel, gently taking out the back panel, and then unscrewing any screws connecting the vertical stand holder.

Discharge the CRT

Discharging a CRT monitor is a critical step before working on it, as it can carry a lethal charge of up to 25,000 volts. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to discharge a CRT safely:

Wear Protective Gear: Put on safety goggles and rubber gloves. It is also recommended to wear rubber-soled shoes to insulate yourself from the ground. Remove all jewellery, especially metal items like watches and rings, as these can create a path for electricity to flow through you.

Prepare the Tools: You will need a screwdriver with a plastic or rubber-coated handle and a heavy-gauge wire with alligator clips on both ends. If using a metal screwdriver, insulate the handle with heat-shrink tubing or similar.

Unplug the Monitor: Ensure the CRT monitor is unplugged from the power source to prevent any further build-up of charge. If possible, turn on the power switch for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or hold the power button down, to help discharge the monitor.

Attach the Wire: Connect one alligator clip to an unpainted portion of the monitor's metal frame, which serves as the ground. Attach the other alligator clip to the metal shaft of the screwdriver. Ensure that neither the screwdriver nor yourself are in contact with anything metal besides the ground.

It is important to follow these steps carefully to avoid the risk of electrical shock or other injuries. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it is best to seek professional assistance.

Remove the PCB

To remove the PCB (printed circuit board) from a CRT monitor, you'll need to take a few important safety precautions and follow a careful step-by-step process. Here's a detailed guide:

Prepare the Necessary Tools and Safety Gear:

Before beginning, ensure you have the right tools and safety equipment. This includes items such as rubber gloves, insulated gloves, safety goggles, a Phillips screwdriver, a flat-head screwdriver, cutting pliers, a piece of wire, and a nail.

Discharge the CRT:

This is a critical safety step. CRT monitors contain high voltages, even after being unplugged for extended periods. To discharge the CRT, connect a wire to the earth terminal of the power input on the PCB. Then, attach the other end of the wire to an insulated screwdriver. Ensure that electricity can flow from the screwdriver to the ground wire. Gently insert the screwdriver under the suction cup on the side of the tube. You may hear a loud crack or zap, indicating the presence of a charge. Repeat this process a few times to ensure the CRT is fully discharged.

The PCB is typically secured to the neck of the monitor with zip ties or glue. To remove it, carefully cut the zip ties or break through the glue. Exercise caution during this step to avoid accidental damage.

Unplug Electrical Connectors:

Once the PCB is accessible, proceed to unplug any electrical connectors attached to it. Be thorough in this step to ensure all connections are disconnected.

Cut Remaining Wires:

After unplugging the connectors, cut any remaining soldered wires close to the circuit board. Be mindful not to damage the PCB, as you may want to salvage onboard components for future projects.

Salvage Onboard Components (Optional):

If you plan to reuse components such as transistors, heatsinks, resistors, capacitors, or the flyback transformer, carefully desolder them from the PCB. This step requires precision to avoid damaging the components.

Dispose of the CRT and Recycle Components:

Finally, properly dispose of the CRT and recycle any salvaged components. CRTs contain toxic substances like lead and phosphor, so it's important to keep them out of landfills. Take the CRT to a designated recycling facility to ensure it is handled safely and responsibly.

Removing the PCB from a CRT monitor requires careful attention to safety and a methodical approach. Always prioritize your well-being when working with potentially hazardous equipment, and don't hesitate to seek additional guidance if needed.

Frequently asked questions