Inside the Latest iPod Touch: A Detailed Teardown by iFixit
Discover the intricate design and repair challenges of the newest iPod Touch through iFixit's comprehensive teardown.
iFixit has finally taken apart the newest generation of the iPod Touch, revealing a fascinating look inside Apple's latest portable media player. While the device's sleek new design is impressive, it also brings a more complex internal layout that poses challenges for repair professionals outside of Apple's official service centers.
The fifth-generation iPod Touch houses an Apple A5 processor, 512 MB of Hynix H9TKNNN4KDBRCR RAM, a 32 GB Toshiba THGBX2G8D4JLA01 flash memory chip, and an Apple 3381064 power controller. Connectivity is managed by the Murata 339S0171 Wi-Fi module, while the Broadcom BCM5976 controls the display. Additionally, there is an Apple 338S1116 chip with an as-yet undetermined function. The device also incorporates a power-efficient STMicroelectronics three-axis gyroscope and a Texas Instruments 27AZ5R1 single-chip touch panel controller.
The most notable finding from iFixit's analysis is the device's repairability score, which unfortunately falls short compared to previous models. The latest iPod Touch earned a 3 out of 10 on the repairability scale, whereas the iPhone 5 scored a 5. This lower score is primarily due to the difficulty of accessing internal components.
Opening the device requires heating it with a professional heat gun to soften the adhesive securing the display to the rear panel. Careful handling is necessary to avoid damaging the side clips and fragile internal parts. Repairs, while possible, are complex and can be costly. Another potential issue lies with the Home button's rubber membrane, which may wear out or fail relatively quickly.
Additional internal design quirks include cables routed over the motherboard and connections on the opposite side, increasing the risk of costly damage during disassembly. One wrong move can significantly raise repair expenses.
On the positive side, the device includes a retractable wrist strap attachment, which comes bundled with the player. This feature helps prevent accidental drops and adds a layer of durability against everyday wear and tear.
Overall, while the latest iPod Touch impresses with its compact and advanced hardware, its intricate design poses notable challenges for repairability, emphasizing the importance of professional servicing.
[Source: 9 to 5 Mac]
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