Display Power Off utility allows to power off desktop or notebook display and optionally lock workstation. It is useful for keeping display's USB hub active while display is in power save mode. Features include turns off monitor to save power or launches screensaver, optionally locks workstation, small and does not require installation or any additional frameworks, x64 build is available, and highly configurable.
Exactly what I was looking for! Simple & efficient.
Pat_053
Pros
Shuts display off instead of displaying a blank screen.
Cons
No GUI? Its that simple as soon as you open the program/utility the display shuts off.
Summary
This is exactly what i have been looking for to leave my laptop on with the lid open and the screen off. My newer VAIO has a hardware button that does this for me but my older VAIO only has the "Blank Screen" screen saver which is less efficient and though the screen is blank still has light leaks(lcd display). I like to leave the lid open for 2 reasons, it keeps wifi on & connected(though i could change this deep in the power control settings) and also because when i return the lid is up and the computer is ready to go.