Replacing the touch digitizer (the touchscreen layer, not the LCD) on the iPad Pro 9.7 (2016 model: A1673, A1674, A1675) requires several steps, and it’s important to get the correct part and tools for the job. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the size of the touchscreen digitizer and the replacement process:
Touch Digitizer Size:
- Model: iPad Pro 9.7 (2016) A1673, A1674, A1675
- Screen Size: 9.7 inches (diagonal)
- Digitizer Size (Touchscreen): The digitizer is the outer layer that registers touch input, and its size is approximately 9.7 inches (same as the display size). However, you only need to replace the digitizer layer, which is the topmost part that interacts with your fingers or stylus, and not the entire display assembly (LCD + digitizer).
Tools Required:
- Plastic Pry Tools: To avoid damaging the internal components or the frame.
- Suction Cup Tool: Helps lift the screen without causing cracks.
- Heat Gun or Hairdryer: Used to soften the adhesive holding the digitizer in place.
- Tweezers: For removing small components like screws and cables.
- Small Screwdrivers (Pentalobe and Phillips): Required for removing screws, usually size Pentalobe #00.
- SIM Card Ejector Tool (if needed): To remove the SIM card tray.
- Adhesive Strips: New adhesive for resealing the device after the repair.
- ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) Wrist Strap: For safety, preventing damage to internal components due to static electricity.
Replacement Process:
1. Prepare Your Work Area:
- Make sure your workspace is clean, dry, and static-free.
- Power off the iPad completely before starting the repair.
2. Remove the Screen (Digitizer) from the Frame:
- Heat the Edges: Use a heat gun or hairdryer to warm the edges of the iPad’s screen. This softens the adhesive holding the screen to the device.
- Use the Suction Cup Tool: Attach the suction cup near the edge of the screen (preferably the bottom). Gently pull to create a gap between the screen and the iPad body.
- Pry Open the Screen: Insert a plastic pry tool into the gap, working around the edges to loosen the adhesive and gently separate the digitizer from the iPad frame. Be careful not to crack the screen.
3. Disconnect the Battery:
- Once the screen is lifted, you’ll need to disconnect the battery before proceeding further.
- Use a small screwdriver to remove screws securing the battery connector and disconnect it carefully.
4. Remove the Broken Digitizer:
- After disconnecting the battery, carefully disconnect the cables attached to the digitizer. The digitizer and LCD typically have separate connectors.
- Use tweezers to remove the old digitizer and avoid damaging other components.
5. Prepare the New Digitizer:
- Clean the screen assembly to remove any leftover adhesive or debris.
- Peel off the protective backing from the new digitizer and align it carefully with the iPad frame.
6. Reconnect the Digitizer:
- Reconnect the digitizer cables to the logic board, ensuring they are securely attached.
- Reconnect the battery.
7. Test the Touch Function:
- Before resealing the iPad, power it on and test the new digitizer to ensure the touch functionality works correctly.
8. Reassemble the iPad:
- If everything works as expected, carefully press the new digitizer into place, ensuring that it adheres securely to the frame.
- Reinstall any screws and close the device. Apply new adhesive strips around the edges to secure the screen permanently.
9. Final Check:
- After reassembling the iPad, perform a final check to ensure that the screen functions properly and there are no gaps or loose components.
Note on Safety:
If you’re not familiar with repairing electronic devices, or if you don’t have experience with iPad disassembly, it might be worth having a professional technician perform the repair, as it involves delicate steps and specific tools to avoid damaging the device.
By following these steps, you can replace the touchscreen digitizer of the iPad Pro 9.7 (2016) model.