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Introduction

Is your Zelotes C-18 mouse no longer tracking movement smoothly or failing to respond altogether? This guide will walk you through how to safely remove and replace the laser sensor in your mouse to restore proper performance.

The laser sensor is responsible for detecting surface movement and sending that data to your computer. Over time, it can fail due to dust buildup, internal wear, or electrical issues. Replacing it can help bring your mouse back to full accuracy and responsiveness.

Be careful when working inside the mouse, the internal components, including the circuit board and sensor connections, are delicate and can be easily damaged if handled roughly.

Before starting, unplug the mouse from your computer and make sure you’re working on a clean, static-free surface.

Estimated time would be around 30-35 minutes

What you need

Step 1 Case

Zelotes C-18 LED Replacement, Case: step 1, image 1 of 3

Zelotes C-18 LED Replacement, Case: step 1, image 2 of 3

Zelotes C-18 LED Replacement, Case: step 1, image 3 of 3

Use an opening pick to gently pry off the mouse feet and stickers on the bottom of the mouse to expose four hidden screws.
Keep the feet to reattach later, or replace them with new ones (spare pads are usually included).

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Step 2

Using a Phillips #0 screwdriver to remove the four 9 mm-long screws on the bottom of the mouse.

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Step 3

Zelotes C-18 LED Replacement: step 3, image 3 of 3

Carefully separate the top and bottom casing—DO NOT PULL QUICKLY, as ribbon cables connect both halves.
The ribbon cable connectors have small plastic locking tabs that hold them in place.
Using a spudger, carefully lift the locking tab by gently alternating pressure on each side until it’s in the unlocked position
Do not remove the tab completely, as it is attached to the connector.
Detach the ribbon cables by gently pulling them straight (perpendicularly) away from the motherboard.
You should not need much force — if you do, the tab may not be fully unlocked.
When reattaching, insert the cable back into its socket and press the locking tab down into place using the flat end of the spudger.

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Step 4 LED

Zelotes C-18 LED Replacement, LED: step 4, image 1 of 2

Zelotes C-18 LED Replacement, LED: step 4, image 2 of 2

Disconnect the 5-pin connector by slowly "walking" it out of its socket.
Be sure not to yank or force-pull the connector to ensure you won't damage the mouse.

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Step 5

Using a Phillips #0 screwdriver, remove all four screws securing the motherboard:
Three 5 mm-long screws
One 7 mm-long screw
You may have to use the opening tool to pry the motherboard from the case.

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Step 6

Zelotes C-18 LED Replacement: step 6, image 3 of 3

Flip the motherboard over to expose the solder joints holding the LED in place.
Use a soldering iron carefully desolder the LED.
Work slowly, heating only one pin at a time until the sensor is fully loosened.
Applying too much heat for too long can lift or damage copper pads on the PCB, be patient and work evenly across all pins.
Use the desoldering pump to suck up and remove the solder, gently push the old sensor out of the board.

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Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow the above steps in reverse order.
Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.
Repair didn’t go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting or ask our Answers community for help.