Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen Motherboard Replacement

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The motherboard is a primary component of the Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen and integral to its function. It helps route data and communication between components of your device. Only replace if all other issues have been ruled out. Take a look at the troubleshooting pages linked on the device page.

When handling the motherboard, hold it by the edges and avoid touching the components or circuitry, as any damage can affect the device’s functionality. Replacing the motherboard will also reset your Kindle Paperwhite (12th Gen), requiring you to update the software and reinstall any downloaded e-books.

If you’re having trouble removing the battery or motherboard due to adhesive, apply an iOpener to the opposite side of the case—never directly on the components—to help soften the adhesive before removal.

Before you begin the repair, make sure to power off your Kindle and unplug the charger and any connected accessories.

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Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen Motherboard Replacement, Bottom Case: crwdns2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Use an opening tool or opening picks and insert the tip between the back case and screen.
Slide the opening tool around the edge of the tablet to release the clips holding them together and avoid damaging the connectors.
You can also place additional opening picks in the space between the top and bottom case to prevent the front and back cases from snapping back together.

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Flip the Kindle over and remove back casing from screen and device.
When reassembling, align the top and bottom case and press until they click into place.

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Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen Motherboard Replacement, Battery: crwdns2935265:03crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Place a spudger or an opening tool under the connector's edge and pry straight up to disconnect it.
Make sure to pry under the edge of the connector itself, and not under the socket on the board. Otherwise, you risk permanently damaging the socket.
Work carefully: don't pry on or accidentally scrape any small, surface-mounted components on the board.
To reconnect, align the connector carefully over its socket and press down with your fingertip—first on one of the short sides, then the other—until it clicks into place. Don't try to force the connector into place. If you're having trouble, reposition it and try again.

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The battery is attached to the case with an adhesive.
Use a black nylon spudger and slide it under the sides of the battery to create a gap between the battery and the housing.
Use a black nylon or plastic spudger when possible. Using a metal spudger can result in damage to the device.
Avoid prying along the top of the battery, as the base model lacks support on those sides. Take care not to bend or warp the battery during removal, as this could cause long-term damage.
Once the battery has loosened from the adhesive, use the black nylon spudger to gently lift and fully detach it while applying light upward pressure.

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Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen Motherboard Replacement: crwdns2935265:05crwdnd2935265:03crwdnd2935265:03crwdne2935265:0

Loosen the battery from the backing, then insert an opening pick on each side of the battery to help pry it off. Once the picks are in place, carefully peel the battery away and remove it from the device.

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Place a spudger or an opening tool under the press connector edge and pry straight up to disconnect it.
Make sure to pry under the edge of the connector itself, and not under the socket on the board. Otherwise, you risk permanently damaging the socket.
The ribbon cable in the bottom left is lightly glued in place so take care to remove the adhesive before disconnecting the cable.
To reconnect, align the connector carefully over its socket and press down with your fingertip—first on one of the short sides, then the other—until it clicks into place. Don't try to force the connector into place and don't push in the center of the connector. If you're having trouble, reposition it and try again.

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Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen Motherboard Replacement: crwdns2935265:07crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen Motherboard Replacement: crwdns2935265:07crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Use a 5IP Torx Plus screwdriver to remove the four 3.2 mm screws securing the motherboard in place.

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Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen Motherboard Replacement: crwdns2935265:08crwdnd2935265:03crwdnd2935265:03crwdne2935265:0

Slide opening picks under the edges of the motherboard to loosen the glue holding it in place.
Using a metal spudger or tool for prying can damage the internal components. Use a black nylon spudger or picks if possible.
Use an iOpener on the back of the case to help loosen the adhesive.

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Gently lift the motherboard piece from the frame, insuring to not damage the motherboard in the process.

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To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order. Apply new adhesive where necessary after cleaning the relevant areas with isopropyl alcohol (>90%).

Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.