How to Calibrate a Kobo eReader Display

ID: 170983

Description: Use this guide to calibrate a Kobo eReader E...

Steps:

  1. Check the display cable for the three digit VCOM number.
  2. For example: -2.81
  3. If your screen doesn't have a printed VCOM number, scan the QR code with a dedicated QR scanner app to generate the number. Your smartphone's built-in camera app might not work.
  4. The VCOM number registered on your eReader will be this three digit number multiplied by 1000.
  5. For example: -2.81 x 1000 = -2810
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  6. From the home screen, select More at the bottom right corner.
  7. Select Settings.
  8. Select Device information.
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  9. Find the row titled Firmware information and select View.
  10. The VCOM number will be listed on the popup. Compare it to the VCOM number for your screen.
  11. If your VCOM numbers match, your screen is already calibrated—you're done! If the numbers don't match, follow the next three steps to change the VCOM number.
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  12. Plug your eReader into a computer.
  13. You'll be prompted on the eReader that a computer is detected. Select Connect.
  14. While the eReader is connected, you can't use it.
  15. If you're having trouble connecting to your computer, click here for troubleshooting information.
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  16. On your computer, use a text editor to create a .txt file named vcom with only the desired VCOM number (including the negative symbol and the x1000 multiplication).
  17. For example, if the VCOM number on the replacement screen is -2.89, the file should say exactly -2890.
  18. Find the drive called KOBOeReader and open it.
  19. Move the vcom file into the drive.
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  20. On your computer, eject the eReader.
  21. Once the device successfully ejects, you'll be prompted to update the VCOM number. Select OK to update the number and restart the eReader.
  22. If you don't get prompted, repeat the previous step to ensure your file was formatted and named properly.
  23. Navigate back to the Firmware information page and check if your VCOM number has updated.
  24. If your VCOM number is updated, you're done! If not, double check each step in this guide to confirm the procedure was done properly.
  25. The updated VCOM value might not match the number you entered to the exact digit. As long as it's close, it's fine!
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