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Apple Apple Inc. one of the world’s largest technology companies, Founded by Steve Jobs, Wayne and Wozniak. Mac computers and iOS related devices.

May 10, 2024September 27, 2024

M1 Touchbar

Glue And All

Teardown and Rebuild M1 Touchbar

M1 Update – Touch bar

Take your time! I can’t stress this enough. This process of building this feature article, the M1 Touchbar, will require time, patience and a steady hand. It is important to take your time and proceed with caution. The article includes over 50 steps, so proper case is essential. If needed, consider seeing a professional help. There are easier alternatives available, but they may be more expensive.

For example, you could purchase the correct make/model upper case where the touch bar does not need to be removed and replaced. However, finding the right parts may not be as simple as it seems, especially for a model that is just coming out of warranty. This challenge is common when repairing newer or cutting-edge electronics. In some cases, it may be easier to purchase a new computer, second-hand computer and replace only the parts from the existing machine.

Keep Your Work Area Clean, Clean As You Go

We clean up as we go, there were glass fragments before, during and after this process. Handle with caution and care. Glass and debris (dirt, hair, fuzz etc.) must be cleaned up as you go. The goal is to leave it better than the you found it! Ditto on Teardown. The same goes for the battery, battery cable, main screw, hinges, LCD cables, display, display hinge covers, cables (springs), antenna cables and assembly, LCD, remove antennae, main hinge screws, and remove LCD. First, perform an LCD check to ensure the new LCD works.

Disassemble Upper Cables

Board Cable(s)

Disconnect Board Cable(s)

Unplug Connectors

Disconnect all Cable(s)

Board Cable

Starting here with the upper disassembled, we have the main logic board, power brackets, cable brackets. We need to disconnect the trackpad, speakers, logic board flex screws and cables. This is where we can begin the touch bar assembly replacement. Everything is bundled up, with covers, varying screws, and electronics tape. It is important to have your replacement ready once you have removed the main board, speakers, and trackpad. This is where things get tricky!

Continue Disassembly & Board

LCD Removed

Board Screw(s)

Continue Disassembly

Motherboard Screw(s)

Board Cables

Additional Screw(s)

Clean Motherboard Space

Brush Debris

Vacuum Debris

It’s handy to have your tool kit out. If not, give Amazon a quick call or pull up iFixit and scroll. You’re going to need adhesive remover, gloves, and glasses you know, the essentials when working with glass, and chemicals on small electronics.

We will start with the flat pry bar on the front (assuming all touch bar parts have been dismantled or ‘torn down’). We will slowly pry and spray our adhesive remover down behind the touch bar glass and the metal upper. It’s more fun if you have more adhesive remover than what we had during the refurb process. Not much left after the mobile device teardowns a few months back.

Touchbar

Touch Assembly

Touch Cable(s)

Touchbar Cable(s)

Unfold Flex Cable(s)

Glue Remova

Glue Release

Touch Removed

Attach Touch Cable(s)

Unfold Flex Cable(s)

Ok, so first we remove the glue, glass, and finally the touch bar on the front by accessing it through the upper back. Then, it’s a simple process of replacing the touch bar. We need to be careful to remove the backing that will adhere the M1 Touchbar to the upper case, flex cable in hand through the upper or touch bar bracket and reassemble the touch bar cables and housing.

Throughout the rebuild process, we kept the screen protector film on to protect the screen. Below, you can find a number of images documenting each step of the process. Proceed with caution!

Touchbar Verification

Remove Cover

Cover Removed

Power On

Touch bar Test

OS Testing

Wrapping up, the M1 Touchbar has been installed, and all parts have been reassembled. Now let’s cover the conclusion. Once the machine is back together, a quick test is needed. We run the machine services mode, working with the drive, and checking what’s on it.

We wipe the main drive, rename it, rebuild it and reinstall it. Some quick terminal snippets and a reboot later, the process is complete. Once reinstalled, we remove any all all software (bloat) that we can, and we are off to the races. This laptop will be used at some point to run ham radio software, so I am hoping to install Linux on the main drive and use it as I have done with my previous machines. Well, that concludes the refurbish process/effort. If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email, Cheers

Series Complete, Review Previous Posts

Lastly, good luck with your own Self Service Repair, and the same goes for the Parts catalog -https://selfservicerepair.com/en-US/home. The build continues on the M1, so be sure to check out the subsequent articles (5 in total) M1 Refurb, Visual Inspection and Teardown, M1 Touchbar, and Screen & Keys. Enjoy! A friendly reminder, It’s vital in my opinion to use OEM parts. IMO (in my opinion), if you can’t, consider second -hand options via Amazon or eBay. Additionally, the parts list is very helpful for those familiar with the process. If you’re not, don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re in a pinch. I’m happy to help or help guide you to the right support method or service.

March 22, 2024September 27, 2024

M1 Screen & Keys

Teardown And Rebuild

M1 Teardown – Screen & Keys

M1 Arrow Key, LCD

LCD and keys, can be tedious, be careful and be aware of the process; ‘teardown’ process.

Visual Inspection, Keys

Starting with the easiest part of the refurbishment process – what is the easiest part of the build? The keys. Keys, Screen/LCD and then the touch bar. Please note, the refurbishment process required two teardowns, so to speak. First, let’s verify the working parts and inspect the touch bar on it’s own. The process, you could say, is a one-step job. However, I did this job in two parts for the sake of my own sanity.

The key here, is this: I know that if I could get the screen working, we would be in good shape. Cost aside, I was trying to avoid purchasing the M1 upper case which holds all parts associated with the computer. So, in other words, it’s a no-brainer, keys on the keyboard, LCD screen, then touch bar.

Teardown

Screws and Bottom Case

Apply Suction

Visual Inspection

Battery Cable

Remove Cable

Board Screw

A Closer Look

Screw Removed

Hinge Covers

Cover Screws

Left Main Hinge

Right Main Hinge

Internal Repair, Replace LCD

Start the teardown bell! We’ve completed our inspection and are beginning with the easiest of the three R/R (remove and replace) parts in this teardown. Keys can sometimes be tricky, so if you are familiar with them, please refer to the video below. If keys are a confusing concept to you, just focus on the left arrow key. There are several online resources available for reference, with Snazzy providing a helpful video walkthrough of the process. We breeze through the key change with ease.

For more detailed information, you can also check out Snazzy Labs, quick video on how to replace keys. It’s important to note – that there may be some differences between models, especially the M1. That’s why the video is so helpful! The key takeaway is that quick snap keys convenient but can tricky if you are not familiar with how scissor clips work. I recommend purchasing new keys (up, down, left and right) – make sure to get the ‘left arrow’ key) for a simple slide an click installation process. It’s as easy as pie.

Moving On To The Display

So, the cracked screen… We used a clamp tool and suction cups to get under the bottom case. A recommendation: iFixit has a variety of tools and parts for fixing things. We’ll talk more about them later, but we have bought a few items for them. You will also need adhesive remover, can you guess where we got ours? This is not a paid advertisement, but they have some great tools if you don’t have anything in your electric/technical toolbox.

We start by removing the bottom case when replacing the screen. Beginning with the batter cable for the M1 Screen & Key’s fix, it’s important to be carful as cables and parts are delicate and can easily break. So, remove the cable cover, battery cable, and screws. The most nerve-wracking part is dealing with the different sizes of screws, types of drivers, and prying tools required for the job (TORX, pryer(s), spudgers, tweezers etc). Once the battery cables and screws are removed, we can unscrew the hinge covers and move onto the antennas. It can be challenging to see the screws on the antennas, so good luck!

Teardown Upper, Goal LCD Removal

Locate Antennae Bay

Remove Cable(s)

Antennae Screw(s)

Remove Screw(s)

Antennae Screw(s)

LCD Removal and Replace

The antenna will need additional cables, screws and bars leading down to the antenna and LCD springs. After installing those items, we will once again remove the antenna wire cover and detach the wires. It is important to exercise caution and be mindful of leaving the piece in better condition than when we found it. When removing covers, do so gently to keep glued area clean and free of debris (we had to address some glass bits).

Teardown Continues With the Antennae and Cables

Prep Antennae

Antennae Screw(s)

Remove Cable Connectors

Antennae Cable(s) Removed

Hinge(s)

Antennae Cleared

Once, the antenna bar is clear, the LCD hinge screws will need to be removed, along with the springs and mounting hardware. Voila, the LCD has been detached.

Antennae, Hinges and Test LCD

Remove Display

LCD Hinges

Reattach LCD

M1 Screen & Keys Wrap Up

This concludes the M1 Screen & Keys section of the refurbishment process. As mentioned earlier, we will now proceed to the touch bar. We went back, replaced all screws and cables to confirm that the LCD swap and key are working as expected, and we found that the touch bar was not working. We verified all parts (sans the touch bar) continued with wiping and cleaning in the following post. If you missed the first three articles, you can find those here: 1. Self Repair, 2. Refurb, and 3. Visual Inspection, Teardown. Cheers.

March 13, 2024September 27, 2024

M1 Refurb

Refurb Update – Keys, Touchbar and Screen – Images being prepped

M1 Mid 2020 Refurb process – Keys, Touchbar and Screen

Not recommended, but if you’re in a pinch, there is a way to continue with the M1 Refurb without purchasing a new M1 upper and/or M1 full assembly. A reminder, I should mention the Apple Self Repair help and Parts/Catalog. All links are handy to have in a pinch.

Blocker and Resolution

An all in one post was supposed to be the next article in this series. However, it will be split into two separated articles as continuation of the M1 Refurb process. One will focus on the screen and keys, while the other will cover the touch bar repair. Since the touch bar repair is quite invasive, it makes more sense to address the screen and keys separately and then tackle the touch bar in another post. The will result in a lengthy post, as you can imagine.

Where are the future posts, today? Funny you asked, as I’ve got most, if not all 25 plus images ‘in-process’ – size, color, lighting etc. For all intents and purposes, the story line is complete. The pre-post work is also complete at this point. I think there were around 50 steps to remove, replace, and install the touch bar, so we will make it as streamlined as we can. More to come, check back in a few days, as we should have the post ready to go.

Jump Ahead

Okay, let’s fast forward, now that the series has come to it’s conclusion. With that we got that out of the way, you can continue the journey from start to finish here with some helpful links: 1. Self Repair, 2. Visual Inspection & Teardown, 3. Screen & Keys and 4. Touchbar.

March 2, 2024September 27, 2024

M1 Self Service Repair

Repair, and Fix Tech

M1 Self Service Repair – Apple Documentation

M1 Repair – Self Repair Documentation, Websites etc

Those of you who are not certified, no worries. We use the links below to fix various Apple products, iPhones, iPads, MBP’s (Macbook Pro’s) and this M1 Self Service Repair as noted. No longer certified? It’s a breeze! Never certified, there are challenges, but this article will help. Two very important links, Self Service Repair https://support.apple.com/self-service-repair and Parts https://selfservicerepair.com/en-US/home. So, this article will focus more on the later, when your warranty has expired. Remember, there are options, tried and true, Apple’s Self Service Repair options.

Apple Self Service Repair Options

First, keep in mind, there are always options. We’ve got warranty, approved services providers, and self repair options. Second hand as well, don’t forgot others have gone through similar experiences; a loss of a drive, broken/cracked screen and worse, failed motherboard.

Bare in mind there are options available, specific for the M1 build, or article title, M1 Self Service Repair, even when Apple Care+ warranty has expired. Learn to fix Apple tech yourself. Be sure to do your research, of course. Perhaps, you might want to start here… I’ll let Apple explain the ‘other repair options’ independent repair providers and self service repair. Avenues become limited as the warranty expires or those who can perform the fix on the go.

Next, let’s assume our options are limited for the M1 MBP… the Apple Self Service Repair (resource website) will help with your repair; this assumes you know what you’re doing. Parts can be purchased as well, … also, there is chat support available, where it makes sense. Do your due diligence. Can’t stress this enough, especially those who are just getting into electronics as a hobby, or starting those who can fix friends and family electronics.

Series Continues

Lastly, good luck with your own Self Service Repair, same for the Parts catalog. The build continues on the M1, check out the subsequent articles (5 in total) M1 Refurb, Visual Inspection and Teardown, M1 Touch bar, and Screen & Keys. Enjoy! Friendly reminder, It’s vital to use OEM parts IMO (in my opinion), if you can, second hand via Amazon or eBay. Moreover, the parts list is very helpful for those familiar with the process. If not, don’t be afraid to reach out if you’re in a pinch. Happy to help or help guide you to the right support method/service.

December 3, 2022September 24, 2024

AppleTV 4K & MagSafe Battery Pack

Apple Accessories and More

4K View & Battery Life On The Go

Gear – Apple Safe Mag Pack & TV 4K

Update: AppleTV 4k & Apple Magsafe Battery Backup Review

Apple Accessories

AppleTV 4k

MagSafe Battery Pack

Let’s check out the AppleTV 4K & MagSafe Battery Pack… starting with the AppleTV. I’ve been using an older AppleTV 4K to complement the 4k monitors; but its time for an upgrade. Today is the day. I’ve decided to update the office AppleTV to AppleTV 4K to match resolutions, colors, etc. via dual screens used as separate displays. The purpose, MacBook Pro (MBP) has some shortcomings such as limitation of dual monitors or multi-monitors that are not NOT Apple branded. This seems to be a new limitation, and I’m not sure why this might be the case. I’ll leave that to your imagination to figure out. The goal is to use the new 4K version so that I’m not required to adjust resolutions to 3840 x 2160 over multiple monitors while reducing resolution/reducing pixel space via MBP settings for desktop views, apps, windows, etc.

That said, the new MBP still needs some work, I will be frank. I’m not a fan of the limited HDMI connections without Apple specific dongles or Apple monitors. I need to do address this at the hardware level while desiring to run dual screens without Apple-branded screens, monitors, or TV’s. This is a self-imposed limitation without dongles. Unfortunately, I’ve tried multiple dongles or HDMI extender hardware/software without success. iCreate products have their own limitations, and screen observations, meaning Apple OS updates create software problems by iCreate device for months… The idea is simple: run multiple screens as separate screens with the same resolution. More on the AppleTV 4K to come.

MagSafe Battery Pack

In the meantime, let’s cover the MagSafe Battery Pack. Are trips or travel in your near future? Tired of short-term battery usage, removing apps and settings to preserve battery life? Consider adding a Apple Mag Safe Battery Pack. I(we) added the Apple Mag Safe for long-term battery needs, away from the office, traveling, or going to the stores. Are you looking for a battery pack? The latest from Apple, is the MagSafe Battery Pack, also try the – Belkin BOOST Charge, Pro Magnetic Power Bank.

Honestly, these battery packs do the job and more. They are great for those who are always on the run, constantly using apps, and watching videos on their phones. If you are running multiple apps at once, playing games, watching videos, and more wirelessly, these battery packs are for you. You are not tethered to a wall or a power station. Start by buying one, and I’ll provide my final verdict in a couple of weeks. Check back soon.

Before we continue, here are a few other articles on Apple iOS, other devices and updates that you might be interested in. For example, the MagSafe Battery Pack, for finding more power on the go, using Dual SIMs and eSIMs. Apple mouse, a ‘pass’ in our book, trackpad in a pinch or some more affordable Logitech mouse will do. Alternatively, you may want to explore a more minimalist approach with LightPhone products.

Let’s conclude this article on AppleTV 4K & MagSafe Battery Packs shall we? As usual leave a comment below. Have feedback on the MagSafe Batter Pack? Apple TV 4K, MBP? Let us know what you’re thinking?

October 12, 2022September 3, 2024

iPhone 12

Apple iPhone 12, Work Phone Upgrade

Gear – iPhone 12

Need an upgrade? Make the jump, follow along with our own iPhone8/iPhone11 upgrade – iPhone 12

Let’s start with this, no, the need didn’t exactly meet the demand for an ‘upgrade’… This was more about staying on part with the other Apple products in the office. Want and need ended up being more of a test than anything else. Don’t judge the messenger here, it was a simple cost/benefit analysis over want versus need. So, the decision was made to go with the newer iPhone 12, not the latest model, but newer than the iPhone 11. Here’s the main point: with a recent switch to the SG215g for our personal use, it was time for a work update. With that in mind, the decision was made, and the Apple iPhone 12 was acquired just before the hurricane.

Iphone And Case

Case And Phone

Office Phone

Not ideal, but I’ll keep it brief. I needed to upgrade my work phone, so I went from an iPhone 11 to a 12. It was a quick upgrade, but it came with its own set of problems. My goal was to buy a more durable, newer device, while keeping it simple no fancy features like health or home IoT software. The iPhone 8, in my opinion, might be the best phone Apple has made. I’ve been using it for work and travel since it was released, and it has never let me down. That’s why I gave it a ‘buy it’ rating.

Moving from the iPhone 8 to the 11 was a good decision, as it didn’t come with unnecessary Apply Bloatware like Health, Homekit, and Siri. I find bloatware unnecessary, annoying and a waste of space and money. The 11 provided better processing power, screen time, hotspot support, and what seems like more manageable privacy and security settings for the user. However, it feels like this device is constantly sharing data, which I see as a huge negative. More power is good, but what is it really for, and does it benefit the user. This iPhone 12 now my work phones, as I couldn’t justify upgrading to the 13 or 14.

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

July 27, 2022September 23, 2024

Apple Mouse

The So, So-Magical Mouse

Gear – Apple & Logitech Mice

Work mouse; and more on it’s back up/EDC Logitech M525, cause the Apple Mouse has been all but useless at times

Now, let’s talk about the Apple Magic Mouse…

First and foremost, I appreciate the design always a life-long Apple user. I tend to favor their aesthetics, its slimline shape, and gestures. Secondly, it has a nice weight to it, not too light or heavy. The issue arises after after a few hours of work when we have to stop everything to charge the device and latest, it needs charging more frequently. As someone who has always used Apple products, this mouse seems to be less useful than an 80’s mouse. I’m not sure if there are bugs or battery issues, but it’s a hassle to charge. A BIG HASSLE.

The problem here is that the mouse has become unusable.

Apple & Logitech Mice

Apple Charge

Logi Mouse

SO, while we are currently charging the Apple Mouse (seriously, I’ve got the Logitech mouse on), clicking away… Thirdly, we got the Magic Mouse – Multi-Touch Surface a few months back and are increasingly learning to find something else to use. Love the gestures, but can’t use the mouse. Makes no sense. Again, love the gesturing, touch surface options, but every 8 hours I’ve got to plug this thing in. What about the next 4 to 6 hours? We are left with a paperweight for a good 1.5 hours while the device charges up.

Moving on to the M525, no gestures, just a Plain-Jane type of mouse… Bluetooth/USB if need be, heavier I’m assuming because of the batteries and a handy little internal storage area for the USB dongle when not in use. It has a a wheel, laser for tracking and it works. It’s a reliable mouse and remains in my everyday carry bag/desk for work.

Final Thought, in conclusion, if you want to over spend on an Apple mouse, get the trackpad, skip the mouse… always carry a secondary pointer device in case of emergencies. We do, and that is the Logitech M525. Buy one today…

Now Dec. 2022 – We traded up to the Logitech M720, check one out… we will post an update shortly

June 3, 2021September 27, 2024

iPad Mini4 – Screen Swap

iPad Mini4, Let’s Replace the Screen and Digitizer

Digitizer Screen Swap

Lab Work – Digitizer Replaced

iPad 4 Mini – Digitizer Swap

Take a peek under the hood and check out the iPad Mini4 – Screen Swap timeline. From start to finish, it only takes a quick 20-30 minutes to complete. Just remember to remove the power flex connector before the screen/digitizer flex connections. We have included a followup picture in the timeline that demonstrates the recommended tools and method for removing those flex connections. Additionally, when dealing with the button assembly housing and home button, be sure to handle them with precision and care. Taking care of the button and its connections will make a significant difference in the long run.

Packing Tape
Heating Element – Water Based, or Heat Gun
Pryor triangles
Suction Cup/Pry Clamps
Tech Screwdriver set
Curved Tweezers
Pressurized Air
Anti-static Wipes

iPad Screen Repair

Tap Screen

Heating Glue

Start Removal

Shim Screen

Unscrew Shield

Gain Access

Digitizer Connector

Digitizer Cracked

Let us know your thoughts on the moderate difficulty of The iPad Mini4 – Screen Swap if you are knowledgeable in this area. More Apple tear downs and repairs, like this Late ’18 MBP Battery Swap or M1 Chip Touchbar swap. There are more, like this Mini 4 digitizer repair, which takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. If you encounter any problems, Apple Self Services options are available, as well as Apple Parts – https://selfservicerepair.com/en-US/home – case you encounter any difficulties or obstacles. Feel free to reach out to us, as we are more than happy to assist you!

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

May 6, 2021September 27, 2024

Late MBP Battery Swap

Check out the Late MBP Battery Swap and Repair

MBP 15″ Swap

Lab Work – Late MBP Battery Swap

The teardown and do the Late MBP Battery Swap Repair

Let’s get it! Before we begin, below are photos of the repair process. We are working on a 2013 MacBook Pro “15 Retina laptop with a new battery. Please ensure that you have selected the correct replacement parts, preferably OEM battery parts.

Find The Right OEM Parts, Find Primary and Secondary Parts

First, it is recommended to use OEM Parts, and even a second-hand OEM battery may be a better choice than non-OEM part in this case. OEM parts can be purchased from various websites such as eBay, Apple Parts, Apple Self Service Website, and iFixIt. When performing the repair, it is important to be cautious and take your time. Power and grounding are crucial, so be careful not to energize parts once the case has been unscrewed and removed. Additionally, it is helpful to have a few other items on hand for the repair.

Tools and Repair Kit for the Late MBP Battery Swap

Some other tools to have around the shop might include the Jakemy screwdriver kit, which contains Torx, hex and star bits. These are key for newer technology bolts and screws used in the assembly process or to hold hardware to the board. Additionally, it’s important to have glue tech adhesives and glue release, gloves, safety glasses, and a welding/soldering mat. These are all useful bare minimum tools to have, including glue release, a tech screwdriver set, and glue adhesive.

Jakemy – Tool Kit 99 Tool Kit
IFixit Tool Kit – www.ifixit.com/Store/Tools/Repair-Business-Toolkit/IF145-278?o=14
Tech Tool – Cutting Mat
Ground Wristband
Electronic glue, glue adhesive release
Focal Fossa – 20.04 – Ubuntu
MacOS Snow Leopard

MBP Swap

Late MBP Battery Swap - Macbook Pro Battery Replacement Unscrew, Pull-back battery cover, Pop-off Battery Connection

MBP Unscrew

Battery

Remove Glue

Macbook Pro Battery Replacement - Un-glue Battery process clean up

Glue Remover

Late MBP Battery Swap - Macbook Pro Battery Replacement

Remove Battery

Swap, Replace Battery

Ubuntu

Apple Certification, Apple MacBook and Robot Repairs

At this point, I’ll assume you are interested in repairs and may want to learn more? Equally as important are the OEM parts as the knowledge to do the repair yourself, intelligibly. Are you searching for parts for your own device? For more detailed information on the Late MBP Battery Swap and the power on and boot process. Check out IOS certification Apple Certs. Lastly, have a look at this particular MacBook Pro “15 Retina tear-down via IFixit MacBook Pro “15 Retina Late ’13 Tear Down.

In conclusion, more tear-downs and repairs, check out the iPad Mini Fix, Roomba 900 Series Fix or some of our latest MBP Screen & Keys and MBP Touch bar fix. Enjoy! As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?