TicWatch E3 Motherboard Replacement

Written By: Dominik Schnabelrauch
  • Comments: 0
TicWatch E3 Motherboard Replacement

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

15

Time Required

20 - 40 minutes

Introduction

Use this guide to replace the motherboard in your TicWatch E3.

You’ll need replacement adhesive when reassembling the device. Your device will function normally, but will lose its IP (Ingress Protection) rating.

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    • Before starting repairs, take your watch off the charger and power it down.

    • Remove the watch band.

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    • Apply a heated iOpener to the rear side of the watch for 5 minutes to loosen the adhesive underneath.

    • A hair dryer, heat gun, or hot plate may also be used, but be careful not to overheat the device.

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    • Insert an opening pick into the recess between the watch frame and the top edge of the back cover.

    • Push the opening pick to create a gap between the back cover and the watch frame.

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    • Twist the opening pick to widen the gap between the back cover assembly and the watch frame.

    • Pry upward to loosen the back cover assembly.

    • Don't try to remove the back cover assembly all the way yet. It's still connected to the motherboard.

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    • Carefully lift up the bottom edge of the back cover assembly to make sure it isn't adhered to the watch frame anymore.

    • Avoid straining or tearing the sensor or battery cables.

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    • Grab the back cover assembly and carefully bring it into an upright position next to the watch housing.

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    • Use a spudger to disconnect the battery cable by prying the connector straight up from its socket.

    • To re-attach press connectors like this one, carefully align and press down on one side until it clicks into place, then repeat on the other side. Do not press down on the middle. If the connector is misaligned, the pins can bend, causing permanent damage.

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    • Use a spudger to disconnect the sensor cable by prying the connector straight up from its socket.

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    • Remove the back cover assembly.

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    • Use a spudger to disconnect the right display cable by prying the connector straight up from its socket.

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    • Use a spudger to disconnect the left display cable by prying the connector straight up from its socket.

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    • Carefully slide an opening pick underneath the display cable to separate it from the motherboard.

    • Use your opening pick to fold the display cable in an upright position.

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    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the four 4.1 mm-long screws securing the motherboard.

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    • Insert a spudger underneath the edge of the motherboard opposite to the watch buttons.

    • Pry up to loosen the motherboard.

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    • Use a pair of tweezers to remove the motherboard.

Conclusion

Compare your new replacement part to the original part—you may need to transfer remaining components like the watch buttons or remove adhesive backings from the new part before you install it.

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

During reassembly, apply new adhesive where it's necessary after cleaning the relevant areas with isopropyl alcohol (>90%).

Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.

Repair didn’t go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting, or ask our TicWatch E3 answers community for help.

Author

Dominik Schnabelrauch

Member since: 23/11/16

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