iPhone Battery Replacement

iPod Mini - Technical Whitepaper
Description:  The iPod Mini was the midrage model that spanned 2 generations.  It came in two capacity sizes which were 4GB and 6GB.  The mini used the touch-sensitive click wheel for navigation. The advent of the click wheel design allowed the removal of the four buttons that is commonly recognized on the iPod 3rd Generation.  The Mini was discontinued on September of 2005 and was replaced by the iPod Nano.

Battery Installation Difficulty
We would rate this installation 3 out of 5 screw drivers (Moderate) in terms of difficulty. 


Physical Attributes 

        Battery Type: Lithium-ion
        Battery Connector: Plastic Interconnect
        Battery Voltage: 3.7v

        Casing Type: Metal Jacket
        Screen Size: Monochrome 1.67" (138x110 LCD)
        Scrolling Type:  Click Wheel
        Connectivity:  USB 2.0, FireWire, Dock Connector      

Device Information

        Manufacture:  Apple™
        Operating System:  Proprietary

        Capacity Options:  4GB & 6GB

        Year Introduced: 2004


iPod Mini Disassembly Procedure  

Disclaimer: Opening the case will void the manufacture warranty.  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. 

Required Tools: Micro flat head & phillips screwdrivers

Step #1 - Open the Case
    a. Use the tip of the flat head scresdriver to carefully pry the white plastic cover from the top of the iPod.  The cover should be attached to the case by a small amount of glue.

    b.  You will require a phillips head micro-screwdriver to remove the two screws at the top of the iPod.  Remove these screws and set them aside.

    c. Use the tip of a flat head screwdriver to carefully pry the white plastic cover from the bottom of the iPod.  The cover should be attached to the case by a small amount of glue.

    d.  Beneath the bottom case covers is a small metal clip.  Remove this clip by placing the tip of a screwdriver in each of the four corners of the clip, prying each side loose.  The metal clip should come free from the iPod. 

Step #2 - Remove System Board
    a. Before we can slide out the system board, we need to disconnect the connector at the bottom of the iPod.  Use the tip of the screwdriver to gently pop the connector out of it's socket.

    b. Push from the bottom and slide the system board out of the top of the iPod case.  The system board will slide free from the case and will provide access to the battery.

Step #3 - Remove Battery
The battery can be removed from it's spot on the system board by gently lifting it.  We can now remove the power connector from the socket.  Set the old battery aside and remember to properly dispose of it.


Battery Installation Procedure  

Step #1 - Insert Battery
Insert the new battery in place and push the battery connector into the socket.

Step #2 - Reassemble Case
Slide the system board and battery back into the case.  Put back the two screws on the top and bottom.  Install the case overs back.  They should stick to their original glue spots.

Step #3 - 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 Mini.