Replacing the screen of an iPad 7th generation can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and careful steps, it’s achievable. This guide will walk you through the process in detail. Remember, if you’re not confident in your ability to perform these steps, it’s always safer to seek professional help.
Before you start, it’s crucial to understand the complexity of this task. The most challenging part is usually removing the original damaged glass without causing further damage.
What You Need
Prepare all necessary tools: a heat pad or hairdryer, pry tools, PH000 screwdriver, plastic picks, a clean workspace, and of course, the replacement glass digitizer.
Step-By-Step Procedure
1. Apply Heat to Weaken Adhesive
Start by applying heat along the edges of the screen. This will help soften the adhesive that holds the screen in place. Be careful not to overheat the device.
2. Pry Around the Edges
Gently pry around the edges of the screen, taking extra care around the bottom and under the screen where sensitive parts like the home button, WiFi attachments, and GPS antennas are located. Also, be mindful of the ribbon cable connected to the screen.
3. Open the Screen
Lift and jiggle the digitizer from the top left. The screen will swing open like a hinge on the right side. Be gentle to avoid damaging the ribbon cable.
4. Remove the LCD Screen
Prop up the glass digitizer and remove the four screws from the corners of the LCD screen. Carefully lift the LCD from the top.
5. Disconnect the Battery and Screen Cables
Unscrew the screw from the battery connection, slide a plastic pick under the connection, and unscrew the screws from the display cable bracket. This step is crucial to avoid short-circuiting the device.
6. Disconnect Ribbon Cables
Disconnect the LCD ribbon cable, the digitizer’s ribbon cables, and the home button ribbon cable. Be very gentle to avoid damaging these delicate components.
7. Remove the Old Digitizer
Now you can safely remove the old digitizer. Keep the rubber covering over the home button cable.
8. Pry Out the Home Button
Heat the area around the home button and gently lift it, taking care not to damage the ribbon cable. Then, pry off the metal home button bracket.
9. Apply Liquid Adhesive for the New Digitizer
With the home button and bracket removed, apply liquid adhesive around the new glass digitizer’s home buttonhole.
10. Place the Home Button and Reconnect Cables
Place the home button first, then the metal bracket. Reconnect the home button and glass digitizer’s ribbon cables as they were originally. Ensure the cables are properly seated and secure.
11. Test the New Digitizer
Before sealing everything, power on the iPad and check if the device and new screen are working properly. This step is crucial to ensure that all connections are correctly made.
12. Seal the Digitizer
Once tested, run a small bead of glue along the edge of the digitizer groove on the iPad housing. Lay the new digitizer into its groove and clamp it gently until the glue sets.
Conclusion
After completing these steps, your iPad should function as it did before the damage. Remember, patience and precision are key in this process. If you encounter any issues or feel unsure at any point, consider consulting a professional technician.
FAQs
Q: Can I replace the iPad 7th generation screen myself? A: Yes, but it requires specific tools and careful handling. If you’re not comfortable with the process, it’s best to seek professional help.
Q: Do I need to replace the whole display if only the glass is cracked? A: No, for the iPad 7th generation, the glass digitizer and LCD are separate, so you can replace only the cracked part.
Q: How long does it take to replace an iPad screen? A: It varies, but set aside at least a couple of hours to carefully complete the process.
Q: Is it expensive to replace an iPad screen? A: The cost depends on whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, and whether you need to replace the glass digitizer, the LCD, or both.
Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com. You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.
When I’m not writing about tech I’m playing with my dog or hanging out with my girlfriend.
Shoot me a message at ericchan@gadgetmates.com if you want to see a topic discussed or have a correction on something I’ve written.
