I am using a Nec LCD1700 1280x1024. Works fine.
The big cavet is what Shawn mentioned below. First decide on what resolution you would like then get a monitor to match. For example I wanted at least 1280x1024 but not all 17" LCDs supported it. Running it at a different resolutions is usually not pleasant.
As far as repairing your Viewsonic I would agree that if it is out of warranty then it may not be worth fixing. I have taken monitors into The Videon Re-fit store. They will give you an estimate for a small fee. If you do not go ahead with it you do not get the estimate fee back but it can be applied to another estimate.
-- Bill
Shawn Wallbridge wrote:
Since LCD's are pretty much a fixed resolution (they can run smaller generally, but they just stretch things), getting the exact config for XFree can sometimes be a pain, but once you do that, it should just work.