From cracked screens to swollen batteries, there are various hardware problems that can occur with electronics, posing a challenge for even the most tech-savvy individuals. For instance, replacing a smartphone battery used to be as simple as removing the old one and inserting a new one. However, nowadays, specialized tools like heat guns and plastic pry tools are required just to access the battery, and mishandling can lead to a punctured battery, posing safety risks. Despite the difficulties involved, smartphone repair technician Kingson Low Chun Hien claims that DIY repairs are not uncommon, and suggests that those interested in fixing Android devices can enroll in courses or gain experience as apprentices.
Common repair requests include screen issues, battery problems, water damage, and severe physical damage. Water damage can be more challenging to repair once rust or corrosion sets in, while physical damage can impact key components like the motherboard or processor, making repairs impossible. While some opt to do their own repairs to save costs, there are risks involved such as accidentally damaging cables during disassembly or not properly connecting the power, resulting in the phone not turning on. Foldable devices and newer Apple devices are particularly difficult to repair due to their complex design and adhesives used to hold the components together.
Jerome Teh, the co-founder and CEO of Secondlifeasia, agrees that newer Apple devices pose challenges for DIY repairs, particularly due to the risk of damaging ribbon cables during disassembly. He mentions that screen and battery replacements, along with water-damaged devices, are common repairs requested at Secondlifeasia. While he recommends using genuine parts whenever possible, he acknowledges that there are situations where opting for non-genuine parts may be more practical, especially with older generation devices where the cost of genuine parts may exceed the device’s value.
Repairing newer Apple devices like iMacs and MacBooks has also become more complicated due to components being soldered to the motherboard. Teh advises against DIY repairs in such cases to avoid the risk of damaging the entire motherboard. If certain components need to be replaced or upgraded, it may be necessary to transplant a new motherboard, which can be costly. Therefore, Teh suggests having a clear idea of the desired specifications before purchasing a device to avoid unnecessary expenses.
For those interested in learning how to repair Android devices, Low recommends enrolling in repair courses or starting as an apprentice in a repair shop. Finding parts should not be an issue unless dealing with niche brands. Siddhattha Chong Carl Chun, a tech enthusiast and tinkerer, emphasizes the importance of soldering skills for DIY electronics repairs at home. Soldering skills allow individuals to fix common devices like computer mice, headphones, and smartwatches, potentially extending their lifespan and saving money. Even in the gaming console space, there are simple repairs that regular users can handle, such as replacing components on controllers.
Chong notes that the tools required for simpler repairs are not overly expensive, and investing in a basic soldering kit and additional tools can prove cost-effective compared to buying new replacements for damaged devices. For example, replacing a broken mouse switch would only cost around RM10 for the new part and could be done within 30 minutes to an hour. Ultimately, DIY repairs can be a viable option for certain hardware issues, but users should be aware of the risks involved, especially with newer and more complex devices.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
