Screen stays black when I turn on the MacBook Pro

[Fovean Fellow]

Hello! I have a 2008 MacBook Pro 17' screen, I kept it up to date I think until iOS 8.2 (it's a computer I don't use as my primary since two years ago). It's always been reliable, but now when I turn it on, I can hear it coming to life, I can see the LED light, but the screen stays black. What to do?

 

[Cory Cooper]

Hello and welcome.

Unfortunately that is usually a sign of the backlight burning out or the video cable/display failing. If you have an external display that you can connect, see if it gets video. If not, it will require diagnosis at the Apple Store or an Authorized Apple Service Center.

C

 

[Fovean Fellow]

Thank you so much. I reserved a Genius bar appointment and will hope for the best. Thanks for your help!