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iPod Classic (6th Gen) - Technical Whitepaper
Description:  The iPod Classic was released in September of 2007.


Battery Installation Difficulty
We would rate this installation 4 out of 5 screw drivers (Hard) in terms of difficulty.  The hard rating is due to the difficulty in opening the case.


Physical Attributes

        Battery Type: Li-Polymer
        Battery Connector: Ribbon Cable        
        Battery Voltage: 3.7v

        Casing Type: Aluminimum Backing        
        Screen Size: 2.5" Color LCD - 320x240 Resolution
        Scrolling Type: Click Wheel 
        Connection Type:  32-pin Dock Connector w/ USB 2
        Data Storage Type: Hard Disk Drive
   
 


Device
Information

        Manufacture:  Apple™
        Operating System:  Proprietary - 1.1.2

        Capacity Options:  80GB & 160GB  

        Year Introduced: 2007


iPod Classic Disassembly Procedure  


Disclaimer: Opening the case will void the manufacture warranty if any remains.  TopTechies is not responsible for damage or problems that may result from following the disassembly and replacement procedures.  Please observe all static safe precautions while working inside your iPod.  These instructions require a moderate level of technical ability and proficiency in the use of hand tools as well as a general understanding of electronic components.  Buyer assumes full responsibility for the installation of this replacement battery.

Preperation:
Start with a clean, open table that has good light.  Take the two opening tools out of the battery blister package and set them aside.  Don't forget to shutdown the iPod prior to working on it.

The back case of the iPod Classic 6th Generation is locked into the faceplate differently than previous versions.  This does make it more difficult to remove the back casing to access the battery bay.  Don't be surprised if there is some level of damage done to the back case in order to open the iPod.

Required Tools: Case opening tools, micro phillips and flathead screwdrivers

Step #1 - Power Off iPod
Make sure the power is off on the iPod.  Holding down the play button for 6 seconds should shut it down.  Put the Classic in the Hold state with the slider on the top.


Step #2 - Open the Case
     a. The case opening process does take a lot of patience to complete it successfully.  There are clips on all sides of the back case and tabs on the faceplate that the clips lock into.  Starting on the headphone jack side, leverage a the flathead screwdriver between the back case the the faceplace. Work around all the side and leverage up while pressing an additonal tool down the side (unlock the clips).  You may need to use a variety of tools and techniques and this process takes patience.



Images of faceplate tabs:






Image of back case clips:

   
Step #3 - Disconnect Ribbon Cable
     a. Once the faceplate is release from the back side, you will notice 2 ribbon cables connecting the battery and audio jack to the faceplate.  Disconnect the battery ribbon cable from the system board on the faceplate side.  This is done by leveraging the brown connector up with a micro flat head screwdriver to release the cable.


     b. Set the back case next to the faceplate side in preperation for the battery removal.

 
Step #4 - Remove Battery
The battery is held in place with double-sided tape.  Leverage the plastic case opening tool under the battery and lift up.  Careful, because there is another ribbon cable near the underside of the battery.  Do not damage this ribbon cable.  Slowly lift up and use your fingers for the final removal.


Battery Installation Procedure  

Step #1 - Install Battery
Put the new battery in the seated opening.  Note the postition of the old battery in relation to the new one.  Verify the ribbon cable end connector is in the same postion as the old one.  You may have to use some additional double-sided tape if there is not enough residue from the old tape to hold the battery in place.  Press firmly for 10 seconds to ensure solid adhesion. 


Step #2 - Connect Ribbon Cable
Reconnect the battery ribbon cable back into the system board.  Press down on the brown conenctor with a flat head screwdriver to lock it into place.


Step #3 - Reassemble Case
Reinstall the back case shell onto the faceplace.  Press the 2 firmly together ensuring the clip and tab mechanisms are able to lock together.  Also, make note of the front and back clips and make sure they are in proper position as the case comes together.

Step #4 - Power On & Charge
Make sure that you charge the battery for a minimum of 3 hours of uninterrupted time.  Overnight is better once it's plugged into it's power adapter.

Congratulations!  You've completed the battery installation procedure for the iPod Classic.


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