Install an IPS screen in the Game Boy Color
The Game Boy Color has no backlight. In a dark room, on the train, in bed — you hold the GBC at an angle towards the light to see anything. An IPS screen fixes that completely. And the bonus: colour reproduction improves dramatically too.
What you need {#what-you-need}
- IPS screen kit for Game Boy Color — search specifically for “GBC IPS screen kit”; multiple variants available
- Tri-wing screwdriver (2.4mm) — for the Nintendo screws
- Phillips screwdriver (PH1) — for the internal screws
- Spudger or plectrum — for opening
- Isopropyl alcohol + lint-free cloth — for a dust-free installation
Some GBC IPS kits are larger than the original screen. A "drop-in" kit fits without modification; a "high brightness" kit sometimes requires trimming or filing a small tab. Check the product description before ordering.
Step by step
1. Open the GBC
On the back there are six tri-wing screws. Remove them all. Only place the screwdriver on a screw when you’re certain it’s sitting in the groove — otherwise you’ll damage the head.
Carefully slide off the back panel.
2. Remove the motherboard
Disconnect the ribbon cable of the screen from the circuit board. Note the orientation.
Remove the screws holding the motherboard in place (usually one or two small Phillips screws). Lift out the motherboard.
3. Remove the original screen
The original LCD panel sits in the front housing, sometimes held in place with a piece of foam or tape. Carefully lift the panel out.
4. Prepare the housing (if needed)
If the kit requires trimming a tab: carefully remove it with a sharp blade or snips. Don’t be too enthusiastic — you don’t want to remove too much material.
5. Install the IPS panel
Place the IPS panel in the recess. Note the position of the ribbon cable.
Clean the inside of the clear lens (the plastic in front of the screen) and the IPS panel itself with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth before closing everything up. Dust particles are always visible afterwards.
6. Connect the ribbon cable
Connect the ribbon cable of the IPS screen to the connector on the motherboard.
7. Test before closing
Replace the motherboard, connect the batteries and turn the GBC on. Check that the screen works and is evenly lit.
8. Close the housing
Replace the back and screw everything together.