After removing the screws and popping off the antenna, the mid-plane can be removed from the N8.

The design of the steel mid-plane is pretty genius. Nokia integrated a large EMI shield into the mid-plane to protect the main chips. In addition, thermal pads were placed on the inner face of the mid-plane to conduct heat away from the main chips.

As processor speeds increase and devices become more integrated, the need for thermal management becomes critical to ensure longevity and operability in many environments.