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Apple's seventh-generation smartwatch, with optional cellular connectivity, released October 15, 2021.

Terminal locations for key functionality, and suggested repair steps

Hey All!
I'm new to personal device repair, but I worked as a repair technician in the medical device field for a few years. As such, I wanted to test the waters with my Apple Watch. I have intermittent battery and screen issues, with some small signs of life. Is there a guide, not on how to fix the device, but on what terminals and wires should be tested to determine which sections of the device are functional?

I have issues with the screen being black 95% of the time, and the charger not charging an equal amount, but occasional signs of life, such as the alarm going off once, and occasional haptic feedback when the watch accepts a charge. I believe this would require at least a battery replacement, and possibly a screen replacement, but I would appreciate information on how to test these failure points before buying replacement parts.

Thank you!

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With regards for where to test at, it's hard to say because i'm not aware of any specific testing points given such a small board. What may be a good idea is to get a multimeter & probe some pins on the screen connector. If you do see a voltage, try holding it there & see if the voltage drops out of the screen or if it stays consistent. If it drops out you have a power issue most likely. If however the screen turns blank but the screen fully functions then most likely that SoC is somehow stuffed up & needs a new board .-.

The charging issue would lead to battery but if the watch powers to the home screen ever, and the screen looks like all the pixels work correctly but it just glitches out, then this sounds like a deeper problem.

In summary:

  • If screen powers on then off AND it drops in voltage, you have an issue with the power being supplied
  • If screen powers on then off AND it does NOT drop in voltage, that is more likely than not an SoC issue
  • Battery could be causing either but the test of the screen voltage may be the best way to go
  • Also try probing the battery connector to see if the voltage is consistent

Hope this helps let me know how it goes or if you have anything else :)

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