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Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement

Introduction

Use this guide to replace or upgrade the Mainboard in your Framework 16 Laptop.

The Mainboard (aka motherboard) is responsible for the primary functions for your laptop. If you want to upgrade your processor, you'll need to replace the Mainboard.

Replacement Mainboards come with a pre-installed heatsink but don't come with pre-installed storage, memory, or Wi-Fi modules. This guide will show how to transfer them to your new Mainboard.

If you're running Windows:

  • Make sure you back up your data.
  • If you’re running a Pro version of Windows, follow these directions to suspend BitLocker.
  • If you're running a Home version of Windows and have enabled Windows Device Encryption, you'll want to disable it. To disable it, press Win + I to open Settings and select Privacy & Security. Then, click on Device Encryption on the right panel and toggle the setting to Off.
  • Find your product key or link your Windows license to a Microsoft account to make sure you can re‑activate Windows after the change.

If you're upgrading from AMD Ryzen™ 7040 Series to AMD Ryzen™ AI 300 Series, you'll need to update your Input Module firmware before swapping the Mainboard.

Some photos in this guide may contain slight visual discrepancies, but they won't affect the procedure.

What you need

  1. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Before you begin: step 1, image 1 of 1

    • Unplug all cables and fully shut down your laptop.

    Edit

  2. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the laptop: step 2, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the laptop: step 2, image 2 of 2

    • Close the laptop and flip it over.

    Edit

  3. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Expansion Cards: step 3, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Expansion Cards: step 3, image 2 of 2

    • Use your finger to flip the Expansion Card latches into the unlocked position.

    • The latch displays a red bar when it's unlocked.

    Edit

  4. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 4, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 4, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 4, image 3 of 3

    • Grip the lip of the Expansion Card with your fingers.

    • Pull the Expansion Card out of its slot and remove it.

    • This might take some initial force. If you're having trouble, make sure the locking tab is properly unlocked.

    • Repeat for all remaining Expansion Cards.

    Edit

  5. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Unlock the Input Modules: step 5, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Unlock the Input Modules: step 5, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Unlock the Input Modules: step 5, image 3 of 3

    • Flip your laptop over and open it.

    • Use your fingernail to pull out the two Input Module latches and unlock them.

    • The latch will show red if it's unlocked.

    Edit

  6. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Touchpad Spacers: step 6, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Touchpad Spacers: step 6, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Touchpad Spacers: step 6, image 3 of 3

    • Use your fingers to slide the Touchpad Spacer toward the bottom edge of the laptop and unclip it.

    • If you're having trouble, check if the corresponding Input Module latch is properly unlocked.

    • Lift the Touchpad Spacer off the laptop and remove it.

    Edit

  7. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 7, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 7, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 7, image 3 of 3

    • Repeat the same procedure for the other touchpad spacer.

    Edit

  8. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Touchpad Module: step 8, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Touchpad Module: step 8, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Touchpad Module: step 8, image 3 of 3

    • Use your fingers to slide the Touchpad Module toward the bottom edge of the laptop and disconnect it.

    • If you're having trouble, check if the Input Module latches are properly unlocked.

    • Lift the Touchpad Module and remove it.

    Edit

  9. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the keyboard: step 9, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the keyboard: step 9, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the keyboard: step 9, image 3 of 3

    • The keyboard is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the keyboard violently eject.

    • Grip the two pull tabs along the bottom of the keyboard and lift until its magnets release.

    • Remove the keyboard.

    Edit

  10. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Input Modules: step 10, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Input Modules: step 10, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Input Modules: step 10, image 3 of 3

    • Your Input Module(s) might be different, but the procedure to remove them is the same.

    • Grip the pull tab at the bottom of the Input Module and lift until its magnets release.

    • Remove the Input Module.

    • Repeat for any remaining Input Modules.

    Edit

  11. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the Mid Plate cable: step 11, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the Mid Plate cable: step 11, image 2 of 2

    • Grip the black pull tab on the Mid Plate cable press connector.

    • Lift up to disconnect the Mid Plate cable.

    Edit

  12. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the Mid Plate screws: step 12, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the Mid Plate screws: step 12, image 2 of 2

    • The Mid Plate screws are ordered from 2–17 (number 1 is the press connector). You don't have to follow the order, but you can use it to help keep track of the screws you've loosened.

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the 16 captive T5 Torx screws securing the Mid Plate.

    Edit

  13. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Mid Plate: step 13, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Mid Plate: step 13, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Mid Plate: step 13, image 3 of 3

    • Use your fingers to lift the Mid Plate off the laptop and remove it.

    Edit

  14. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the battery screws: step 14, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the battery screws: step 14, image 2 of 2

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the three captive T5 Torx screws securing the battery.

    Edit

  15. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the battery: step 15, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the battery: step 15, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the battery: step 15, image 3 of 3

    • Grip the black pull tab at the top of the battery and lift to disconnect the battery connector.

    • Remove the battery.

    Edit

  16. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the primary SSD screw: step 16, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the primary SSD screw: step 16, image 2 of 2

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to remove the 2 mm‑long T5 Torx screw securing the SSD.

    • The SSD might pop up at a shallow angle when you remove the screw.

    Edit

  17. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the primary SSD: step 17, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the primary SSD: step 17, image 2 of 2

    • Grip the end of the SSD with the screw hole and slide it out of its socket.

    • Remove the SSD.

    Edit

  18. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the secondary SSD screw: step 18, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the secondary SSD screw: step 18, image 2 of 2

    • If you have a secondary SSD installed, follow the next two steps. Otherwise, skip here.

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to remove the 2 mm‑long T5 Torx screw securing the secondary SSD.

    Edit

  19. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the secondary SSD: step 19, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the secondary SSD: step 19, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the secondary SSD: step 19, image 3 of 3

    • While pulling up on the black tab underneath the SSD, use your finger to slide the SSD out of its socket.

    • Avoid touching the gold contacts. Only press on the top label or the edges of the SSD.

    • The thermal pad under the SSD can vary in color—yours may be gray, orange, or pink.

    Edit

  20. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the memory: step 20, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the memory: step 20, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the memory: step 20, image 3 of 3

    • Push the two metal arms on each side of the RAM stick outward until they disengage and the stick pops up at a shallow angle.

    • Repeat for the other RAM stick.

    Edit

  21. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 21, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 21, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 21, image 3 of 3

    • Slide the RAM stick out of its socket and remove it.

    • Repeat for the other RAM stick.

    Edit

  22. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the Wi-Fi module screw: step 22, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the Wi-Fi module screw: step 22, image 2 of 2

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the captive T5 Torx screw securing Wi-Fi module.

    • The module might pop up at a shallow angle when you loosen the screw.

    Edit

  23. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the Wi-Fi module: step 23, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the Wi-Fi module: step 23, image 2 of 2

    • Grip the end of the Wi-Fi module with the screw hole and slide it out of its socket.

    • Don't pull the module too far from its socket, as it's still connected by two cables.

    Edit

  24. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the Wi-Fi module: step 24, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the Wi-Fi module: step 24, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the Wi-Fi module: step 24, image 3 of 3

    • Rotate the Wi-Fi module towards the top of the laptop to keep it out of the way of the Mainboard.

    • If the antenna cables disconnect, follow these steps to reconnect them.

    Edit

  25. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Lift the interposer door: step 25, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Lift the interposer door: step 25, image 2 of 2

    • Lift the interposer door by its black pull tab and let it rest upright.

    Edit

  26. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the interposer screws: step 26, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the interposer screws: step 26, image 2 of 2

    • If you have the Graphics Module installed, your interposer will have four screws. If you have the Expansion Bay Shell installed, you'll have three screws instead.

    • If you have the Graphics Module, use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the four captive T5 Torx screws securing the interposer.

    • If you have the Expansion Bay Shell, use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the three captive T5 Torx screws securing the interposer.

    Edit

  28. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the interposer: step 27, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the interposer: step 27, image 2 of 2

    • Lift the interposer by its pull tab and remove it.

    Edit

  29. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the Expansion Bay Module screws: step 28, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the Expansion Bay Module screws: step 28, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Loosen the Expansion Bay Module screws: step 28, image 3 of 3

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the two captive T5 Torx screws securing the module in the Expansion Bay.

    • Close the interposer door before continuing.

    Edit

  30. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Expansion Bay Module: step 29, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Expansion Bay Module: step 29, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Expansion Bay Module: step 29, image 3 of 3

    • Close your laptop and flip it over.

    • Slide the Expansion Bay Module out of the laptop and remove it.

    • The module should slide out easily. If you feel any resistance, check if the screws holding it in place are fully loosened.

    • Flip your laptop and reopen it.

    Edit

  31. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the fingerprint reader: step 30, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the fingerprint reader: step 30, image 2 of 2

    • Use the flat end of your Framework Screwdriver, or a clean fingernail, to lift up the locking tab on the fingerprint reader ZIF connector next to the memory.

    Edit

  32. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 31, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 31, image 2 of 2

    • Use your fingers to grip the blue pull tab and slide the fingerprint reader cable straight out of its socket.

    Edit

  33. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 32, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 32, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 32, image 3 of 3

    • The fingerprint reader cable is lightly adhered to the laptop's frame.

    • Use your fingers to peel the fingerprint reader cable away from the frame and separate the adhesive.

    Edit

  34. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the ventilation plate: step 33, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the ventilation plate: step 33, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the ventilation plate: step 33, image 3 of 3

    • The ventilation plate is held in place with magnets.

    • Lift the bottom of the ventilation plate and pull it away from the laptop until the magnets release.

    • Remove the ventilation plate.

    Edit

  35. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the speaker: step 34, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the speaker: step 34, image 2 of 2

    • Lift the speaker cable connector by its black pull tab and disconnect it.

    Edit

  36. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the display: step 35, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the display: step 35, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disconnect the display: step 35, image 3 of 3

    • Grip the webcam cable connector to the right of the Wi-Fi module slot by its pull tab and lift up to disconnect it.

    • Repeat for the display cable connector next to it.

    Edit

  37. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reroute the cables: step 36, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reroute the cables: step 36, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reroute the cables: step 36, image 3 of 3

    • Lift the display, webcam, and Wi-Fi module cables out of their slot in the frame enough to give room for the Mainboard to lift straight up.

    • Optionally, you can tuck the cables underneath the frame.

    Edit

  38. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Mainboard screws: step 37, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Mainboard screws: step 37, image 2 of 2

    • Lift up the interposer door to reveal the screw underneath.

    • The Mainboard screws are ordered from 1–6. You don't have to follow the order, but you can use it to help keep track of the screws you've removed.

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to remove the six 2.0 mm‑long T5 Torx screws securing the Mainboard.

    Edit

  39. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Mainboard: step 38, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Mainboard: step 38, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Remove the Mainboard: step 38, image 3 of 3

    • Use your fingers to lift the bottom edge of the Mainboard enough to grip its edges.

    • Lift the Mainboard off its alignment pegs and remove it.

    Edit

  40. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Disassembly complete: step 39, image 1 of 1

    • Congratulations on completing disassembly! The remaining steps will show how to reassemble your Framework Laptop.

    Edit

  41. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Place the Mainboard: step 40, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Place the Mainboard: step 40, image 2 of 2

    • Grab the Mainboard by the curving pipes of its heatsink.

    • Place the Mainboard into the laptop and onto its alignment pegs.

    • Make sure all of the cables are above the Mainboard before continuing.

    Edit

  42. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Mainboard screws: step 41, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Mainboard screws: step 41, image 2 of 2

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to install the six 2.0 mm‑long T5 Torx screws securing the Mainboard.

    Edit

  43. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reroute the cables: step 42, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reroute the cables: step 42, image 2 of 2

    • Route the display, webcam, and Wi-Fi module cables into their slots in the frame.

    Edit

  44. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Connect the display: step 43, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Connect the display: step 43, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Connect the display: step 43, image 3 of 3

    • Press the two display connectors straight down into their sockets to connect them.

    Edit

  45. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Connect the speaker: step 44, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Connect the speaker: step 44, image 2 of 2

    • Press the speaker cable connector straight down into its socket to connect it.

    Edit

  46. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Place the ventilation plate: step 45, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Place the ventilation plate: step 45, image 2 of 2

    • Lay the ventilation plate along the top edge of the laptop and let its magnets pull into place.

    Edit

  47. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Connect the fingerprint reader: step 46, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Connect the fingerprint reader: step 46, image 2 of 2

    • Use your fingers to grip the blue pull tab and slide the fingerprint reader cable straight into its socket.

    Edit

  48. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 47, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 47, image 2 of 2

    • Use the flat end of your Framework Screwdriver, or a clean fingernail, to press down the locking tab on the fingerprint reader ZIF connector.

    Edit

  49. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 48, image 1 of 1

    • Press the fingerprint reader cable to the frame to re-adhere it.

    Edit

  50. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Lift the interposer door: step 49, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Lift the interposer door: step 49, image 2 of 2

    • Close the interposer door.

    Edit

  51. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the interposer screws: step 50, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the interposer screws: step 50, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the interposer screws: step 50, image 3 of 3

    • If you have the Graphics Module installed, your interposer will have four screws. If you have the Expansion Bay Shell installed, you'll have three screws instead.

    • If you have the Graphics Module, use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the four captive T5 Torx screws securing the interposer.

    • If you have the Expansion Bay Shell, use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the three captive T5 Torx screws securing the interposer.

    • Close the interposer door.

    Edit

  52. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Place the interposer: step 51, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Place the interposer: step 51, image 2 of 2

    • Place the interposer over its spot between the Mainboard and the module.

    • Depending on if you're installing a Graphics Module or the Expansion Bay Shell, the interposer should be oriented so either rubber grommets or metal tabs cover the Expansion Bay screws.

    Edit

  53. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the Expansion Bay Module screws: step 52, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the Expansion Bay Module screws: step 52, image 2 of 2

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the two captive T5 Torx screws securing the Expansion Bay Module.

    Edit

  54. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Insert the Expansion Bay Module: step 53, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Insert the Expansion Bay Module: step 53, image 2 of 2
    Edit

  55. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the Wi-Fi module: step 54, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the Wi-Fi module: step 54, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the Wi-Fi module: step 54, image 3 of 3

    • Rotate the Wi-Fi Module back into place, making sure the antenna cables wrap around their silver peg on the Mainboard and tuck underneath the heat sink.

    Edit

  56. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Wi-Fi module: step 55, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Wi-Fi module: step 55, image 2 of 2

    • Hold the Wi-Fi module by its edges. Don't touch the gold contacts with your fingers. If you do, wipe the contacts with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any finger oils.

    • Align the Wi-Fi module's gold contacts and notch with the socket on the Mainboard.

    • Insert the Wi-Fi module into the socket at a shallow angle. The gold contacts should mostly be covered by the socket.

    • The Wi-Fi module fits into the socket in one orientation. If it doesn't fit, try flipping the module.

    Edit

  57. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 56, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 56, image 2 of 2

    • Slide the clear Wi-Fi module cover on the module and align its screw with the screw hole cutout.

    Edit

  58. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the Wi-Fi module screw: step 57, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the Wi-Fi module screw: step 57, image 2 of 2

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the captive T5 Torx screw securing Wi-Fi module.

    Edit

  59. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the memory: step 58, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the memory: step 58, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the memory: step 58, image 3 of 3

    • Hold the memory module by its edges. Don't touch the gold contacts with your fingers. If you do, wipe the contacts with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any finger oils.

    • Orient the module with its label facing down and align the gold contacts with the left socket labeled DDR5 Channel 0.

    • Insert the contact edge into the socket at a shallow angle. The gold contacts should mostly be covered by the socket.

    • Press the edges of the memory module down until the side clips lock it in place.

    Edit

  60. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 59, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 59, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 59, image 3 of 3

    • Repeat the previous step for the other socket labeled DDR5 Channel 1, except orient the module so its label is facing upward.

    Edit

  61. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the secondary SSD: step 60, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the secondary SSD: step 60, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the secondary SSD: step 60, image 3 of 3

    • Hold the SSD by its edges. Don't touch the gold contacts with your fingers. If you do, wipe the contacts with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any finger oils.

    • Align the SSD's gold contacts with its socket.

    • Insert the SSD partially into the socket at a shallow angle. You should still be able to see most of the gold contacts.

    • Press the SSD flat to the Mainboard.

    Edit

  62. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 61, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 61, image 2 of 2

    • While keeping the SSD flat to the Mainboard, push it into its socket until its golden contacts are completely covered.

    Edit

  63. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 62, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 62, image 2 of 2

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to install the 2 mm‑long T5 Torx screw securing the SSD.

    Edit

  64. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the primary SSD: step 63, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the primary SSD: step 63, image 2 of 2

    • Hold the SSD by its edges. Don't touch the gold contacts with your fingers. If you do, wipe the contacts with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any finger oils.

    • Insert the SSD into the socket at a shallow angle. The gold contacts should mostly be covered by the socket.

    • The SSD fits into the socket in one orientation. If it doesn't feel like it fits, try flipping the module.

    Edit

  65. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 64, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 64, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 64, image 3 of 3

    • While holding the SSD flat to the Mainboard, use your Framework Screwdriver to install the 2 mm‑long T5 Torx screw securing the SSD.

    Edit

  66. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the battery: step 65, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the battery: step 65, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the battery: step 65, image 3 of 3

    • Align the battery connector over its socket and lay the battery into its well.

    • Lightly press the battery down to connect it.

    Edit

  67. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the battery screws: step 66, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the battery screws: step 66, image 2 of 2

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the three captive T5 Torx screws securing the battery.

    Edit

  68. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Place the Mid Plate: step 67, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Place the Mid Plate: step 67, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Place the Mid Plate: step 67, image 3 of 3

    • Place the Mid Plate on the laptop, making sure it sits evenly on its alignment pegs.

    Edit

  69. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the Mid Plate screws: step 68, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Tighten the Mid Plate screws: step 68, image 2 of 2

    • Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the 16 captive T5 Torx screws in order (starting with 2) to secure the Mid Plate evenly.

    Edit

  70. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Connect the Mid Plate cable: step 69, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Connect the Mid Plate cable: step 69, image 2 of 2

    • Align the Mid Plate cable press connector over its socket and press down to connect it.

    Edit

  71. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Input Modules: step 70, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Input Modules: step 70, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Input Modules: step 70, image 3 of 3

    • Your Input Module(s) might be different, but the procedure to remove them is the same.

    • Align the top edge of the Input Module with the top edge of the laptop.

    • Lay the Input Module on the laptop and let the magnets pull the keyboard into place

    • Make sure the Input Module is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits flush with the edges of the laptop.

    • Repeat for any remaining Input Modules.

    Edit

  72. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the keyboard: step 71, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the keyboard: step 71, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the keyboard: step 71, image 3 of 3

    • Align the top edge of the keyboard with the top edge of the laptop.

    • Lay the keyboard on the laptop and let the magnets pull the keyboard into place

    • Make sure the keyboard is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits flush with the edges of the laptop.

    Edit

  73. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Touchpad Module: step 72, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Touchpad Module: step 72, image 2 of 2

    • Place the Touchpad Module flat on its cutout so its clips are properly aligned.

    • Press the Touchpad Module down and slide it into place so it lines up evenly with the bottom edge of the laptop.

    Edit

  74. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Touchpad Spacers: step 73, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Touchpad Spacers: step 73, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the Touchpad Spacers: step 73, image 3 of 3

    • Place the Touchpad Spacer over its spot on the laptop with the bottom edge overhanging slightly.

    • Slide the Touchpad Spacer towards the top of the laptop to secure it.

    • Repeat the same procedure for the other Touchpad Spacer.

    Edit

  75. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Lock the Input Modules: step 74, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Lock the Input Modules: step 74, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Lock the Input Modules: step 74, image 3 of 3

    • Push the Input Module latches back into place to lock them.

    Edit

  76. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the laptop: step 75, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Reposition the laptop: step 75, image 2 of 2

    • Close the laptop and flip it over.

    Edit

  77. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install an Expansion Card: step 76, image 1 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install an Expansion Card: step 76, image 2 of 3 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install an Expansion Card: step 76, image 3 of 3

    • Slide an Expansion Card into an Expansion Card slot.

    • You don't need to unlock the latch to install the Expansion Cards—only when you want to remove them.

    • The Expansion Cards should click into place, and the front edge should be flush with the laptop.

    • Repeat for all remaining Expansion Cards.

    Edit

  78. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 77, image 1 of 2 Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement: step 77, image 2 of 2

    • Use your finger to flip both latches and lock the row of Expansion Cards above them.

    Edit

  79. Framework Laptop 16 Mainboard Replacement, Install the driver bundle: step 78, image 1 of 1

    • If you're installing a new Graphics Module, check out this page to install the associated driver bundle.

    Edit
Conclusion

You finished fixing your Framework Laptop!

Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.

If you need help, contact Framework support.

Author

Alex Diaz-Kokaisl

Member since: 01/16/22

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