iHome iBT16 Motherboard Replacement

Introduction

This guide will assist you in removing and replacing the main circuit board in the iBT16. This component houses all of the functional pieces of the device, and problems may arise if individual insignificant components or electrical connections between components on the board fail. Replacing the motherboard is often more practical than doing an in depth diagnosis and replacing the problem component.

What you need

Step 1 Base Plate

iHome iBT16 Motherboard Replacement, Base Plate: step 1, image 1 of 2

iHome iBT16 Motherboard Replacement, Base Plate: step 1, image 2 of 2

Make sure to flip the device over to get into the correct orientation
Using the Philips #00 Screwdriver, unscrew and remove the four 9mm black screws on the base plate of the device.
Make sure to keep these screws in a safe location so you don't lose them

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Step 2

Using the plastic opening tool, insert into the crack between the base plate and the main body of the device
Using a lever like motion, push the opening tool down thus lifting the plate
You will need to use your fingers to lift the base plate off the main body of the device
The motherboard is directly underneath the base plate

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Step 3 Motherboard

iHome iBT16 Motherboard Replacement, Motherboard: step 3, image 1 of 3

iHome iBT16 Motherboard Replacement, Motherboard: step 3, image 2 of 3

iHome iBT16 Motherboard Replacement, Motherboard: step 3, image 3 of 3

Connect the ground strap to earth ground and put it around your wrist.
Unscrew the two 10mm silver phillips screws holding the motherboard in place on the inside of the device.
Use the plastic opening tool to pry the motherboard out of the device housing.

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Step 4

If you are unfamiliar with soldering and unsoldering components, see the Soldering Skills Guide.
Unsolder the red and black wires connecting the speaker to the motherboard.
Flip the motherboard over.
Unsolder the red and black wires connecting the battery to the motherboard.
When reassembling your device, be sure to connect the speaker and battery with correct polarity.