Laptop Disassembly Processes

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• Laptops have specialized hardware designed especially for use in a portable chassis
• can run on battery or AC power
• typically have some upgradeable or replaceable components

Hand Tools and Parts

• use smaller screws than are found on desktops
• useful to obtain a set of precision screwdrivers and other appropriate hand tools.
• document
  • location of screws of a specific size
  • the location and orientation of ribbon cables and other connectors

Tip

• take a photo of the underside of the laptop and print it out
• As you remove screws, tape them to the relevant point in your picture
• ensures you will not lose any and will know which screw goes where
• Photograph each stage of disassembly so you know where to re-fit cables and connectors

• organize parts that you remove or have ready for installation carefully
• Keep the parts away from your main work area
• Keep static-sensitive parts, such as the SSDs, memory modules, and adapter cards, in antistatic packaging

Form Factors and Plastics/Frames

• laptop chassis incorporates the motherboard, power supply, display screen, keyboard, and touchpad
• plastics or aluminum frames are the hard surfaces that cover the internal components of the laptop
  • secured using either small screws or pressure tabs
  • screws may be covered by rubber or plastic tabs
• obtain the manufacturer’s service documentation before commencing any upgrade or replacement work
  • should explain how to disassemble the chassis and remove tricky items
  • only perform this work if a warranty option is not available