Linksys WRT54G Teardown
Duration: 45 minutes
Steps: 6 Steps
Get ready to take apart this device. Start by modifying it to access internal components.
Step 1
– The Linksys WRT54G series represents a lineup of Wi-Fi gateways crafted by Linksys, which is part of the Cisco Systems family. Let’s get connected!
Step 2
– Let’s kick off with the teardown! First up, unscrew those antennas from the back of the router and set them aside—easy does it.
Step 3
Heads up! Getting that panel off might take a little elbow grease. Just make sure to keep your focus and avoid any mishaps with the motherboard—learn from my mistake!
Just a heads up, this might cancel any warranty you had from way back in 2002. Now you know!
– Alright, let’s dive in! First, flip the device over and grab a small flat-head screwdriver. Slide it gently between the warranty sticker and the front panel, then carefully pry it open. Take it slow and steady—this part’s easy, just don’t rush!
Step 4
– Gently slide the top plastic panel off and set it aside — now you’ve got a clear look at the motherboard. Next up, identify the Intel TE28F320 Flash Memory chip, followed by the Broadcom BCM4712KPB (probably a modem chip), and the Admtek ADM6996L Ethernet Controller. Check out the activity LEDs to see what’s going on. Take note of the ISSI 42S16400-6T RAM; we’re not 100% sure how much it is, but it’s definitely there. Lastly, there’s a collection of other chips that I couldn’t quite pin down. If you need help, you can always schedule a repair.
Step 5
– Ready to free the motherboard? Grab your Phillips screwdriver, remove that lone screw, then gently slide the board and lift it out. Smooth moves!
– Look for the single Phillips screw holding things down.
– Watch out for the plastic tabs keeping the motherboard in place—just ease them aside as you go.
Step 6
– Congratulations, you’ve made it to the finish line! I appreciate you sticking around for this first teardown!
– Ready to put it all back together? Just follow these steps in reverse! (But hey, no pressure if things got a little wild along the way!)