How-to: Mac mini Take-Apart
Removing the Logic Board
Prerequisites
Tools you will need
- #1 Phillips Screwdriver
- Non-Conductive Nylon or Plastic Stick
Disassembly
The power switch and LED power indicator are each connected to the logic board by small friction connectors. Use the non-conductive stick to carefully pry each connector free from its socket on the logic board. Do not pull on the wires.
Remove the remaining screw that attaches the logic board to the case bottom; it is located at the front of the mini, next to the DIMM slot. (For tracking screws, it’s similar to the three that secured the internal frame, but a bit shorter.) At this point the logic board is no longer secured, but it is caught between the front LED and I/O panel at the rear of the case. Carefully bend the front LED away from the logic board such that the logic board can be lifted up and slid out of the rear case. The LED is very delicate, so handle it with care.
Once removed, place the logic board on a surface where it will be reasonably well protected from electricity, dirt, and so on. (A spare anti-static bag would be a good idea.) Handle the board by the edges—there’s no need to touch any of the board’s chips or components. Do not place it on fabric as the solders and components may be sharp and collect threads from the fabric.
With the logic board removed, you’ll notice a small pink patch on the base. This patch is the thermal pad for the GPU; keep it free of debris.
Reassembly
Slide the logic board into the rear case, aligning the ports. Be careful not to catch either of the loose wires or trap them under the board. Gently bend the front LED clear of the logic board, and slide the board back down onto the base. Gently bend the LED back into place, so it will sit clear of the case when reassembled. Secure the logic board with the single (shorter) screw, into the socket at the front of the mini, near the DIMM slot.
Reattach the front LED connector using your fingers or non-conductive stick. Reattach the power button the same way. Note the orientation of the connector so you don’t insert it backwards. These shouldn’t require much force to secure properly.
You can now reinstall the memory, internal frame and secure the case.