LCD replacement for Sharp EL-5100

Name: LCD replacement for Sharp EL-5100
SKU: 28072
Price: 20.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.00 (4 reviews)

(4 Reviews)

LCD replacement for Sharp EL-5100 pocket computer

Designed by The Half-Baked Maker in United States of America

2022-09-26T17:45:49.524Z-PXL_20220926_181311671.jpg

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I batch orders approximately once a week. Packages normally go out on Monday mornings, unless it's a US Post Office holiday in which case the next business day.

LCD replacement for Sharp EL-5100 pocket computer

What is it? This is a pin-for-pin compatible nearly exact replacement for the LCD module in the Sharp EL-5100 pocket computer released in 1979. I am not certain at this time whether this LCD will als…

What is it?

This is a pin-for-pin compatible nearly exact replacement for the LCD module in the Sharp EL-5100 pocket computer released in 1979. I am not certain at this time whether this LCD will also fit the EL-5100S.

Why did you make it?

Many EL-5100 pocket computers suffer from LCD degradation to the point where they are no longer useful. Apparently the seal around the LCD was of poor quality, and over the years moisture gets in and ruins the liquid crystal. The result is a display ranging from a few splotches to complete failure.

I decided that it was important to bring all these dead EL-5100 computers back to life by reverse-engineering the LCD and remanufacturing them.

What makes it special?

These LCDs were custom manufactured by Sharp for the EL-5100. Replacement LCDs were never available, and finding a working LCD is problematic, given the systematic failure of the seal.

I tried as much as possible to make the fonts and positions used for the indicators as identical to the original as possible.

Instructions for replacement

The instructions are the same as for the Sharp PC-1211. I've made a video showing how to replace one of those LCDs. There are a few crucial things you have to be aware of:

Be sure to remove the plastic protective sheet on the top before installation.
After removing the bezel+LCD assembly from the original computer, you'll need to soak the assembly in acetone for 2 to 3 hours to get the old LCD unstuck from the bezel. Alternatively, I've heard about successes by putting the assembly on a hotplate set to 100C for about three minutes -- be very careful that you don't burn yourself!
Wipe the contacts on the new LCD and clean the elastomeric strips from your existing computer with isopropyl alcohol -- preferably the 99.9% purity kind.
You should not have to adjust the contrast or remove any potentiometer.
Replacing the LCD will not guarantee a working computer! There could be other faults.
Getting the positioning right is crucial. You should be okay by pushing the end of the LCD without the bump against the side of the bezel.

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Review Breakdown

Average Ratings

Product: (5.00)

Documentation: (5.00)

Shipping: (5.00)

Communication: (5.00)

Michael | Jan. 8, 2024

Works like advertised

I just finished repairing an EL-5100 and an EL-5100S. Both worked on the first try.

I soaked the metal frame in acetone for 3 hours and the old LCD came out easily. Left the adhesive in place, and used it to hold the new LCD.

I aligned the left edge of the LCD (the side without the bump) to the left edge of the frame (the side with the hole). Cleaned everything with isopropyl, blew off the dust, installed the zebra strips, crimped the frame in place and it worked!

Thanks for your dedication, making parts to repair a calculator I bought 45 years ago!

Robert | Dec. 17, 2023

Works great to replace failing EL-5100S LCDs

I have two EL-5100S with slowly deteriorating silver LCDs. When I saw that new LCDs are available to fix them, I couldn't be more happy to try it out. Oh man! These new LCDs are perfect! Installation was not as difficult after viewing the videos. I made sure the zebra strips are perfectly clean and have no dust particles sticking. Worked for me on the first try. So, instead of acetone or heating, I soaked the old LCD frame for a day in alcohol. Once some part of the glue detaches in one of the corners with a little bit of pushing (being careful not to break the glass), I then pushed some thin plastic wedge between the frame and LCD to let the alcohol do its job. Easy to clean up. The glue didn't dissolve and holds the new LCD nicely in place. I also have a pristine and beautiful EL-5100 with the yellow LCD. That machine shows no deterioration yet (knock on wood).

Guy | Oct. 5, 2023

Sharp EL-5100S LCD Replacement

Hi Robert,

Like others, I thought my Sharp EL-5100S was destined for the the trash bin. I found your product and am very pleased with it. Following your tips , I replaced the LCD and it works perfectly. Rather than using acetone to remove the bezel from the old display, I used a heat gun. I was able to re-use the adhesive to hold the new one in place. The contrast is a bit high though. Luckily, there was no pot paint on the trimmer on my device, but adjusting it made no difference. It is fine as is, I was just being nitpicky. Thank you so much for undertaking this project, and kudos for a job well done!

Don | April 30, 2023

Great product to fix vintage calculators.

Received the LCD for the sharp 5100 and replaced the LCD in my 5100s and it now works perfectly. Great product will defently buy again for other calculators in my collection when the old LCD's start to fail.
Update 5-25-23 purchased another LCD for a Sharp 1500 this time and fixed this calculator also. This calculator had a total black screen from LCD bleed and now it is like brand new.