Repair Tips
Crush your next repair!
Intro
Unfortunately we live in a throw away society where most products are made cheaply or made not to be repaired at all, so these devices just end up being just being thrown way.
While fixing something might sound like a daunting task at first, with a bit of practise it can become a manageable and fun task. Its time we take a stand against e-waste, pick up some tools and get fixing.
The First Steps
A perfect place to start is by taking apart something of less value then your flagship phone or expensive device, maybe find an older model or a device someone is throwing away and attempt a repair on that first to gain skill. Further you could find something to completely disassemble and try and reassemble it like a jigsaw puzzle to get the understanding on how devices work.
As they say practice makes perfect.
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Just make sure to follow the correct safety precautions to ensure your safety when working with electricity and tools.
Being Prepared
Once you feel confident in proceeding with a repair you need to have the correct equipment and parts for the job. (check out the Tools & Equipment Page
for more.) Don't open the device before ordering replacement parts unless needed to diagnose or determine the parts required for the job. Many make the mistake of completely dissembling the device before the parts arrive leaving lose parts and screws everywhere which end up lost by the time they go to complete the repair.
Also allow plenty of time to complete the repair incase you run into any problems along the way.
Keep Things Organised
Avoid disaster and confusion when reassembling by organising parts, components and screws. I recommend using a magnetic mat which will hold screws in place.
Alternatively you could just lay them out on a table but you run the risk of screws rolling around and getting misplaced.
Maintain Good Repair Practices
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Wherever possible properly disconnect all power including the battery to ensure no power remains. While a phone battery may only supply around 3 volts, it still has the ability to damage and short out components.
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Don't always go for the cheapest generic parts possible. Use reputable brands to make sure your device preforms like it did originally. However be careful of fake "OEM" parts which could be a knock-off or a used part. If the manufacture doesn't sell parts to the public its unlikely you will be able to get access to real brand new OEM parts.​
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Remain patient and don't rush, if things aren't going to plan take a step back and rethink how to approach the situation. ​
Completion
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After completing the repair fully test the device with iTest before completely sealing the phone together, as many phones are held together with adhesive you don't want to have to try and reopen the device, wasting time and running the risk of damaging the back panel or display.
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If all goes well you should have a working device, congratulations!
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