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Zelotes C-18 Optical Sensor Replacement

Kate Rodriguez and 2 other contributors

Last updated on Dec 22, 2025

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30 minutes

Difficult

Introduction

Go to step 1 ↓

Having trouble using your mouse sensor? This guide will teach you how to replace your optical sensor on the Zeltoes Vertical Mouse C-18.

The sensor could not detect anything due to grime or the surface being used on, be sure to test these possibilities before replacing the part completely.

Before beginning, ensure you have a clear workspace, secure any loose parts, and handle parts with care. This guide will require soldering, so feel free to read over iFixit's soldering guide.

What you need

Parts

Optical Sensor

Tools

1. Step 1 Case
  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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2. 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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3. Step 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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1. Step 4 Optical Sensor
  Unattach the 5-pin connector by slowly moving it side to side and using a tool to help pull it out safely.
  
  Be sure not to yank or force-pull the connector to ensure you won't damage the mouse.
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2. Step 5
  Use a Phillips #0 screwdriver to 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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3. Step 6
  Unsolder the pins by heating up the solder with the soldering iron to make it melt.
  
  The tip of the soldering iron is extremely hot, and keep in mind not to breathe in any fumes.
  
  Keep in mind the soldering iron should be set to around 700 °F, high heat could damage parts so be sure to take your time and take breaks.
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4. Step 7
  Use the desoldering pump to remove the melted solder and detach the optical sensor.
  
  When adding the new part, you melt solder on the wire as shown before it was desoldered.
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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.

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