Nintendo 3DS Cartridge Reader Replacement

Escrito Por: Abraham Zapata
  • Comentários: 1
Nintendo 3DS Cartridge Reader Replacement

Dificuldade

Difficult

Passos

5

Tempo necessário

40 minutes - 1 hour

Introdução

If your cartridge reader is not working on your original Nintendo 3DS model, use this guide to replace the cartridge reader (also known as a Game reader).

The cartridge reader, when working, sends the game info from the reader to the main system, which allows gameplay by the user on the 3DS.

Before attempting to use this guide to repair the 3DS, inspect the inside of the cartridge reader or the outside of the game cartridge for any built-up debris that may cause reading problems. Dust buildup can cause issues, but it can be resolved by using a dust blower or a small brush to clear it out.

Before beginning, ensure that your device is powered off and disconnected from all external power sources.

Recommended skills: should have a good understanding of soldering, as the cartridge reader needs to be soldered to the motherboard.

Once completed, you will be able to get back to enjoying playing your games on the go!

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    • Use a JIS #00 screwdriver to loosen the four screws along the top of the back cover.

    • These screws are captive and should remain in the cover after loosing them.

    • JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) screws are not the same as Phillips. To avoid stripping these screws, make sure you are using a JIS #00 screwdriver and not a PHILLIPS #00 screwdriver. You can use a PHILLIPS #00 with a lot of downwards force but be warned this will deform the screw head and you risk stripping it.

    • iFixit's Phillips head screwdriver is designed to reduce damage on JIS head screws so it should be fine to use, still apply more force. Make sure it's iFixit's official Phillips screwdriver as we are unaware of any other manufacturer who does this.

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    • Use a JIS #00 screwdriver to remove all 10 screws to access the third layer and the motherboard of the 3DS.

    • Don't forget the one near the game card slot, it is silver, not black.

    • Exercise caution when opening the device. There are delicate ribbon cables at the top of the device that you risk ripping, so open slowly and gently.

    • Make sure to keep the screws, as you will need them for reassembly. Don't lose them!

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    • To remove the cartridge reader look for 4 solder joints, 2 on each side of the reader (see image).

    • Apply heat to them with a soldering iron to melt the solder and take out the reader.

    • Use a spudger to lift the reader out of the board as you apply heat.

    • You can apply some solder flux or even some new solder wire to form an alloy between the old and new metals, this would ease the task.

    • The soldering iron can cause severe burns if not used properly. Proceed with caution and have an adult in the room with you if underage.

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    • Align the new reader with the solder points

    • Use a soldering iron to connect it to the motherboard.

    • Be careful when soldering and work in a well-ventilated area.

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    • Before reassembling the device use isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab and clean the surrounding area, removing all of the remaining flux residue.

Conclusão

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order. Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.

Autor(a)

Abraham Zapata

Membro desde: 05/03/24

145 Reputação

Um comentário

It might help to utilize a prerequisite guide up until the actual replacement of the cartridge slot. The IR board replacement is short and similar in step number in this regard.

Russ9876 -