iFixit

The back side of the daughterboard contains only a few prominent ICs:

• Atmel MXT1386 touchscreen controller
• TI MSP430G2402 Microcontroller
• 1600P E284A Crystal Oscillator

We tried to remove the keyboard connector, but were disappointed to find it's wedged firmly under the LCD. Replacing the connector will require either bending the magnesium frame or separating the display.

We were on a teardown roll, so we pressed on and pulled the display from the VaporMG frame, which required a heat gun, some guitar picks, and plenty of patience.

The display's LTL106AL01-002 label indicates Samsung as the manufacturer. Its sister panel, the LTL106AL01-001, appears to be 1280 x 800 resolution. We didn't test the Surface's display before taking it apart, and we trust Microsoft not to lie…

• But maybe someone can do a quicky double-check on the display resolution, just for giggles?

Microsoft Surface Repairability: 4 out of 10 (10 is easiest to repair).

• Several components are modular and replaceable without requiring desoldering.
• You can remove the battery pretty easily—once you've suffered through the opening procedure.
• It's pretty difficult to remove the rear panel and gain access to the device.
• It is impossible to remove the keyboard connector without first removing the display from the frame.
• LCD and glass are fused together and strongly adhered to the case, increasing cost of replacement.
• You'll have to use a heat gun and lots of patience to gain access to the glass and LCD.