Response from Jonathan: Jason,

> As for CRT monitors that are 25-30 years old, is it cheaper to rebuild the CRT monitor or retro fit a flat screen TV in place of the CRT monitor? If so, do I need an adapter? IS it plug and play?

It is typically cheaper (and less work) to repair a CRT monitor than it is to retro fit a LCD TV or monitor in it’s place. With most LCDs, you will need a video converter in order to convert the original video signal coming from the board to something a LCD TV can use. The most popular arcade video converter for this purpose is the Gonbes GBS-8200 series. Here’s a link to one on JAMMA Boards website: http://www.jammaboards.com/store/cga-ega-yuv-to-vga-arcade-hd-converter-pcb-gbs-8220-gbs-8220.html. Of course, this means that this is not a plug and play solution and will require some work on your part to install.

> Is there a direct replacement LCD monitor or some type of newer monitor that can be used?

Wells Gardner makes LCD monitors that are direct replacements for the older CRT monitors they used to make. These LCD monitors are commercial quality, come with mounting brackets and do not require the video converter board I spoke of earlier. Unfortunately they are also quite expensive (around $400-$500) so you get what you pay for.

> What is most economical strategy for replacing a CRT monitor?

When it comes to 25″ monitors, the most economical strategy is to repair them. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this type of repair yourself, check out the Monitor Repair Services & Information section on our resources page for some people we recommend for these types of repairs. Keep in mind you will need to remove your monitor chassis in order to ship it off to them for repair. Check out our post on Removing And Installing A Monitor Chassis for more information.

> What are the chances that a CRT monitor is failed after sitting for 25-30 years?

Very good. The capacitors easily could have dried out and other parts could have failed during that time. Even if it is working, it will probably need a cap kit installed at the very minimum to keep in running for any significant amount of time.

Hope that helps. Thank you for your question and good luck with your repairs.