Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown

Written By: Juan Gonzalez (and 2 other contributors)

Published: March 6, 2019

Comments: 0
Favorites: 2
Views: 15.6k

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown

Written By: Juan Gonzalez (and 2 other contributors)

Published: March 6, 2019

Comments: 0
Favorites: 2
Views: 15.6k

Teardown

Introduction

The Apple USB power adapter converts line power 100V-240V AC into a regulated 5V/1A DC supply. The 100V to 240V input voltage capability of the charger allows its use in different wall port supplies, making the charger adaptable.

What you need

This teardown is not a repair guide. To repair your Apple USB Power Adapter, use our service manual.

Step 1 Separating the input panel

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Separating the input panel: step 1, image 1 of 3

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Separating the input panel: step 1, image 2 of 3

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Separating the input panel: step 1, image 3 of 3

Use a hammer and a small chisel to carefully force the input panel open
Clamping the device helps prop the input panel open but, do not pull the panel away from the device forcefully, as there are small wires connected to the device components.
Be careful not to force the chisel into the device as you could damage internal components.

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Step 2 Removing plastic casing

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Removing plastic casing: step 2, image 1 of 2

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Removing plastic casing: step 2, image 2 of 2

Use dyke and pliers to cut outside casing to pry open the shell and remove the circuitry.
Recommend using hand saw to cut around the plastic.
Be careful not to cut forcefully as to prevent the internal components from getting damaged.

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Step 3 Isolating internal components

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Isolating internal components: step 3, image 1 of 3

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Isolating internal components: step 3, image 2 of 3

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Isolating internal components: step 3, image 3 of 3

Isolate the internal electrical components from the casing
Recommend unsoldering the wires from the input panel.
For help desoldering connections, follow this useful guide on How To Solder and Desolder Connections.
Use caution when soldering. The heated tip may cause damage to the board, the components, or burn you.

Edit

Step 4 Accessing individual components

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Accessing individual components: step 4, image 1 of 3

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Accessing individual components: step 4, image 2 of 3

Apple USB Power Adapter Teardown, Accessing individual components: step 4, image 3 of 3

Unsolder components that connect to the bottom and top circuit boards.
Detach the top and bottom circuit boards from the plastic separator.
For help desoldering connections, follow this useful guide on How To Solder and Desolder Connections.
Use caution when soldering. The heated tip may cause damage to the board, the components, or burn you.