How-to: Mac mini Take-Apart
Removing the Modem
Prerequisites
Tools you will need
- #1 Phillips Screwdriver
- Non-Conductive Nylon or Plastic Stick
Disassembly
This isn’t the kind of task most people will need to do, but there are resons for removing the modem. If you need to replace your modem, you cannibalize an old mini, or get a modem off eBay. We don’t need the modem at all, so it represents precious port space that we intend to use for other things.
The modem board is remarkably tiny and held to the logic board with two screws. A small connector on the modem board holds the RJ-11 cable and the RJ-11 port can be simply slid off of the logic board. To remove the modem board, the internal frame needs to be removed but the logic board need not. To remove the RJ-11 port, the logic board will need to be removed as well.
The modem board is attached to the logic board with two screws. Removing these allows the board to be gently lifted off of the connector to the logic board beneath. On the end of the modem board is a small connector for the RJ-11 cable. Gently remove the cable using your non-conductive stick to help work the connector free. Be sure not to tug on the cable to remove it. The modem board can now be replaced.
Removing the RJ-11 port requires having the logic board free from the base. The port is simply held in place with friction—use your non-conductive stick or your fingers to push the port free. It will require a considerable amount of force to remove. Be careful when doing this, you’ll need to hold the board securely with your hands and we can say from experience that you’ll probably need a small bandage after this operation.
Once removed, the mini can be reassembled without the RJ-11 port allowing new access to the internals of the mini. If you plan to go modemless, find a safe place to store the modem and screws in case you need them later.
Reassembly
If you removed the RJ-11 port, you need to reinsert it to the slot on the logic board. Again, just slide it into place with your fingers. (Have your bandage ready.) Check the orientation of the RJ-11 connector and gently insert it back into the modem board. Gently secure the modem board back onto the logic board—make sure you don’t put it on backward. Replace the two securing screws and you’re done.