Thursday, May 7, 2015

How to replace a broken front panel on your iPad

How to replace a broken front panel on your iPad
Once you've created a small gap in one area, work your way around the edge--heating and prying as you go. You'll need to leave spaceholders (like a plastic spudger or guitar pick) in the separated sections, to prevent the panel and case from sticking back together.You'll also need to be very careful when working to the right of the home button. The Wi-Fi antenna is attached to the panel here, and you'll need to gently pry it loose without damaging it.Bill Detwiler/CNETThen disconnect the LCD connector from the main board and set the display somewhere safe.You can now disconnect the broken panel. First, carefully flip up the two locking levers on the digitizer cable connector. As you remove the ribbon cable from the connector, you'll also need to gently peel it away from the main board's metal shielding.Bill Detwiler/CNET3. Remove the home button and camera plateWith the broken panel completely detached, you can remove the home button contact using the Phillips screwdriver. Then using the hair dryer again, heat and remove the bracket and button. Likewise, heat the metal camera plate and pry it loose with a thin blade.Bill Detwiler/CNET4. Install the home button and camera plate on the new front panelUsing the pre-cut adhesive strips or double-sided tape, attach the camera plate to the new panel. Do the same for the home button and the button bracket. Then reattach the home button contact with the screwdriver.Bill Detwiler/CNETAt this point, we're just testing the panel's fit and functionality, so we've haven't applied any of the adhesive strips. Turn the iPad on and verify everything works. If it does, turn the unit off, lift open the panel and apply the adhesive strips.Before closing the panel for the last time, carefully inspect the LCD and inside of the panel for dust. If you see any, gently remove it using a microfiber cloth or puff of air. Avoid touching the inside of the panel's viewing area or the LCD with your fingers or anything else that might damage these surfaces. Once you're sure both surfaces are clean, fold the front panel back onto the metal case and press firmly, but gently along the edges. After removing the panel's protective film (if it has one), your fix is complete.Bill Detwiler/CNETThis is a tough fix. But when done successfully, it can breathe new life into a broken iPad.For more teardown photos of the iPad and other tech, check out my Cracking Open blog on TechRepublic.


No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.