In-Ear Headphone Control and Mic Block Disassembly

Introduction

There are often times when a set of in-ear headphone swill suddenly lose sound in one of the earphones. Most times this issue is found at the 3.5mm jack.

However, this quide will assist when the issue is rather located at the control and mic box found on common in-headphones that come with Cellphones.

It will simply show one how to open the case, resolder the wire that has come loose (which is most likely the problem).

What you need

Step 1 The Control Unit

In-Ear Headphone Control and Mic Block Disassembly, The Control Unit: step 1, image 1 of 1

Find the edge of the control unit and get a very fine flathead screw driver (or a plastic pry tool which would do less damage)

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Step 2 Opening The Unit

In-Ear Headphone Control and Mic Block Disassembly, Opening The Unit: step 2, image 1 of 1

Wedge the tool in the corner and start sliding it to the left.
As you do this slowely twist the screw driver back and forth to release the clips.
Try not to let the tool slip into the control unit as this may damage the circuit board inside.

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Step 3 Removing The Cover

In-Ear Headphone Control and Mic Block Disassembly, Removing The Cover: step 3, image 1 of 2

In-Ear Headphone Control and Mic Block Disassembly, Removing The Cover: step 3, image 2 of 2

Repeat step 2 and the control unit should open as seen in the image.
Remove the plastic sleeves and you will be left with just the circuit board (see second image).

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Step 4 Identify Broken Wire

In-Ear Headphone Control and Mic Block Disassembly, Identify Broken Wire: step 4, image 1 of 1

It is quickly seen that one of the wires has broken away from the circuit board (see image)

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Step 5 Resolder the Broken Wire

In-Ear Headphone Control and Mic Block Disassembly, Resolder the Broken Wire: step 5, image 1 of 1

Once the wire is found a steady hand and a fine tipped soldering iron should be used to reattach the wire.
Ensure that you do not head to circuit board for too long as it may cause damage (be as quick as possible!)
After this, the circuit board and wires should be replaced as they were before. Press the plastic cover halves together and it should click back into place.
And they are fixed!