Open up an iPod

A problem with Apple's iPod is that it is not easily opened. Ever need to replace the battery? You're out of luck. The "only" ways are to buy another iPod or pay Apple to replace it for you. Or, you can open it up, save money, and learn more about electronics. You might even try building your own media player!

Steps

  1. Find out if the iPod is damaged or if it just needs a battery replacement. Also, find out how you are planning to open the iPod, and how you need to get to the problematic component.
  2. Disconnect and completely power down the iPod. Make sure the "Hold" switch is engaged.
  3. Lay your iPod face down on a soft but sturdy cloth.
  4. Know what kind of device you have, and what "method of attack" you will need to use. If you have a first generation, second generation, third generation, Click Wheel 4G, iPod photo, or Video iPod, you need to aim the hair dryer at the back seam. (The hair dryer will be used to melt the glue used to hold together the case.) If you have an iPod Mini, iPod Nano, or iPod Shuffle, you need to aim towards the top of the case.
  5. Set the hair dryer to "high."
  6. Slowly wave the hair dryer in front of your hand, and if you find that it is too hot, turn it down to medium, as this will damage your iPod.
  7. Use the appropriate "method of attack" to melt the glue. You should aim the dryer at the iPod for about one minute, and the dryer should be about one foot away from the iPod.
  8. Turn off the hair dryer after one minute. Grab a butter knife to open the case very carefully.
  9. Carefully pry the side of the iPod, be careful as well in handling the butter knife to prevent injury to your hand.
  10. Marvel at the iPod's neat circuitry. Everything seems to fit together, and the location of everything makes sense. This is clearly an example of "beautiful circuitry."
  11. Remove the battery, even if it is not your main concern. The battery won't shock you but handle it with care.
  12. Find the problem and fix it, or replace the battery.
  13. Put the case parts back together, and neatly glue them with strong glue.
  14. Connect and turn on your iPod. Enjoy!
  15. Finished.



Warnings

  • Your iPod may break if you are not careful.
  • If you are not careful, the butter knife might damage the circuitry.
  • Do not leave the hair dryer on for more than a minute. Do not aim the dryer at the circuitry either.
  • This action voids the warranty. If your iPod is out of warranty, you have nothing to lose. You are, however, responsible for any damage that occurs.

Things You'll Need

  • An iPod
  • A butter knife
  • A hair dryer
  • glue
  • A mat to work on

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Sources and Citations

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