any body else have there backlight go out , and also not a new one got it when they 1st came out.

So your SP is past it's one year warranty. Ouch! Did you know about the button that turns the light on and off? Its below the hinge in the center. I never heard of the bulb burning out but I suppose it's going to happen sooner or later.

I was thinking about taking the cover off and seeing if maybe I could get a bulb at radioshack

good timing, just upgrade to the ds

Nintendo, unlike Sony, isn't in a position to screw their customers.

They are also historically pretty good with customer service, in any case.

I would call them first. They will either fix it free, or they may send you the part and directions, if it isn't a risky procedure.

Good Luck

they said I would have to send it to them for $ 55.00 and they would send me a ref. one in return.

I got a Ds but you can't use the ereader on it.

that sucks...might as well buy a new one.

If I recall correctly the front lighting system is LED based, so the chances of the bulb going out are monumentally slim. Most likely what happened is a loose wire. If that's the case it would probably be pretty simple to fix if you had even modest soldering skill.. the major problem is that I'm sure the insides of the machine are probably pretty delicate and cramped due to the slim and compact design.. but again if it's a case of nothing to lose you might want to check it out.. as long as you have the proper bit to open the thing.