iPod Nano 3rd Generation Teardown

Duration: 45 minutes

Steps: 14 Steps

We cracked open this iPod for a teardown on September 7, 2007. Let’s see what makes it tick!

Step 1

– Here it is, nestled in the same style box as the last Nano, but this one’s a bit shorter and wider—like a compact upgrade. Follow along step by step to get your device back in shape. If you need extra help at any point, you can always schedule a repair.

Step 2

– Here’s what’s inside the box:

– A compact manual, small enough to fit right next to your device.

– The classic, and often criticized, pair of headphones.

– A USB cable to connect your device.

– A dock insert, just in case you need it.

– A brand new device, ready to rock your world!

Step 3

The new Nano may look a bit shorter and a bit wider than the older models, but it still covers about the same amount of space—36 square centimeters.

– Here’s a quick look at the expanding lineup of iPod Nano models. Remember, if you need help along the way, you can always schedule a repair.

Step 4

– Apple seems to be stuck in a shiny loop. Anodized aluminum here, shiny surface there… It’s like they’re in love with the sparkle. But, as always, it’s what’s inside that really counts!

Step 5

– Let’s take a quick peek inside this latest Nano design.

– The case features eight locking tabs:

– Three evenly spaced on the left side.

– Three along the top edge.

– And two on the right side, positioned near the bottom to clear the display circuitry at the upper right.

Step 6

– Six Phillips screws down! The logic board is now loose, but don’t yank it just yet.

– Gently lift the logic board, keeping an eye out for the click wheel cable that’s easy to spot, and the display cable that’s hiding underneath.

Step 7

– We’ve unplugged the click wheel cable and flipped the board over to disconnect the display cable. Keep it steady and take your time—you’re making great progress!

Step 8

The first-gen Nano’s display is held in place the same way. Just be extra careful when lifting it up—it’s a delicate process, and one wrong move could leave it cracked.

– Grab a spudger and gently pry up the display, which is held in place along the case edge by a strip of adhesive. Take your time and work carefully to avoid any damage.

Tools Used

Spudger

Step 9

– Adhesive is definitely the star of this iPod teardown—it’s everywhere.

– The click wheel is sticking around thanks to some seriously tough adhesive, so getting it off (and keeping it on later) might take a little patience. You’ll want it to be as solid as Apple’s original, so take your time lining it up right!

Step 10

The battery is secured to the logic board with three through-hole solder points, just like the second-generation Nano. Unfortunately, there are no easy swaps here, so you’ll need to put in a bit more effort. But hey, you’ve got this!

– The battery is now free from its metal enclosure, which is stuck to the logic board with—you guessed it—sticky adhesive.

Step 11

– Here’s everything laid out again, but separated for clarity. This step-by-step guide keeps things straightforward and friendly, making your repair journey easy and stress-free. Follow along, and if you hit a snag, remember you can always schedule a repair with Salvation Repair for expert help.

Step 12

Just like with the first generation Nano, the headphone jack here is soldered right onto the logic board. Unlike the second generation, you’re not getting an easy snap-out part—so get ready for a bit of precision work!

– Get a good look at the logic board’s top – you’ve got an eight gigabyte Samsung flash memory chip and headphone jack up in here.