The iFixit iPad mini Teardown Is Here - The Good And The Bad
November 1, 2012
One of the most anticipated releases before a new iOS device launches is the famous iFixit teardown. And as if right on cue, the iPad mini teardown is finally here.
- The tablet does indeed include stereo speakers - the first for an iPad.
- Model Number: A1432.
- The touchscreen still functions with the glass separated from the LCD.
- Pulling up the display reveals a large metal plate, held in with no fewer than 16 screws.
- Bad news: due to the placement of connectors, you'll need to remove the LCD prior to removing the digitizer. Great news: the LCD and front glass are two separate components. This contrasts the fused glass-LCD assemblies in both the Kindle Fire HD and Nexus 7.
- Whatever the capacity, it's decidedly mini when compared to the massive 43 Whr battery in the iPad 3. Even the venerable iPad 2 sports a 25 Whr package, 50% more than the iPad Mini.
- Unlike the iPad 3's dock connector, the Mini's lightning port is permanently soldered to the logic board. That design decision will make certain repairs very expensive.
- The A5 processor has 512 MB RAM, just like the processor in the latest iPod Touch.
For iFixit's entire teardown, click here. The iPad mini and iPad with Retina display debut in stores Nov. 2.
- Copious amounts of adhesive hold many components in place -- front glass, logic board, battery, front camera, back camera, ribbon cables -- making repair extremely difficult.
- The Lightning connector is soldered to the logic board, so don't bend its pins.
- Hidden screws mean you'll need to be very diligent when trying to remove internal components.
