Surface Pro 7+ for Business Component Disassembly and Reassembly

Prerequisite Steps

Steps outlined in this section should be conducted before starting any repair on a Surface device.

• Power off device – Ensure the device is powered off completely and the battery has been fully discharged. Refer to the Repair-specific precautions and warnings section for guidelines. Once discharged, the device should be disconnected from all power sources.

• ESD Prevention – Ensure ESD prevention steps and general guidelines are followed before opening the device. Refer to the ESD Prevention section for guidelines.

• Position Device – To prevent damage to the device, ensure the device is placed on a clean surface free of debris.

Kickstand Replacement Process

Preliminary Requirements

Required Tools and Components

• Tools:
• 3IP (Torx-Plus) driver
• Soft ESD safe mat
• Microfiber cloth
• Components:
  • Kickstand (Refer to Illustrated Service Parts List)

Prerequisite Steps

• Power off device – Ensure device is powered off and disconnected from a power supply.
• General Safety – Check to make sure that general guidelines and ESD compliance steps are followed before opening device. Refer to Prior to Device Disassembly section for details.

Procedure - Removal (Kickstand)

1. Place device screen-down on soft ESD safe mat. Ensure mat is clear of any abrasive material that might scratch the Touch Display Module (TDM) glass.

2. Extend the kickstand to approximately 90 degrees.

   

3. Remove hinge screws – Using the 3IP (Torx-Plus) driver, loosen all four hinge screws by 2-3 rotations. With the screws loose, use your finger to hold the back of the kickstand behind each hinge while fully removing the two hinge screws. Ensure screws don't fall into the hinge opening.

   

4. Lay Kickstand Down – Lay the kickstand flat against the IBC. Be careful not to jostle the kickstand in this position as it might cause abrasions on the IBC.

   

5. Angle hinges Down – Using your thumb or index finger, push both hinges down from 90 degrees to approximately 30 degrees. This requires a great deal of force. If necessary, place the microfiber cloth between your finger and the hinge for comfort. Be careful not to push the hinge all the way into the bucket as it is difficult to pull back out.

   

6. Remove Kickstand – Using the palm of your hand, firmly hold the device down from the center of the IBC. Simultaneously, grip the kickstand off-center between your thumb and index finger and firmly pull. Pull with a moderate amount of force until the foam inserts slide out of the device. If the kickstand is stuck, ensure it isn't caught on the hinges.

   

Procedure - Installation (Kickstand)

1. Insert Foam Tabs – With the hinges still at ~30 degrees start to slide the new kickstand’s foam tabs into the slots on the back of the IBC. Foam should slide in with minimal force—don't crumple the foam by using excess force.

2. Lay Kickstand Down – Lay the kickstand flat against the IBC. Be careful not to jostle the kickstand in this position as it might cause abrasions on the IBC.

   

3. Angle hinges Up – Using your thumb or index finger, push both hinges up from 30 degrees to approximately 90 degrees. This requires a great deal of force. If necessary, place the microfiber cloth between your finger and the hinge for comfort.

   

4. Install hinge screws – Flip the kickstand up to approximately 90 degrees such that the threaded holes of the kickstand align with the mounting holes of the hinge. Install the hinge screws in the order shown with the 3IP (Torx-Plus) driver. Ensure screws don't fall into the hinge opening. Use your finger to hold the back of the kickstand behind the hinge while installing the screws until they're fully seated. Verify the kickstand is properly aligned and seated in the hinges, then tighten the screws an more ~quarter turn (~90 degrees).

   

   

5. Final inspection Kickstand installation – Fold down the kickstand and peel off protective plastic from the kickstand and logo if present. Verify the side edges of the kickstand are aligned with the midframe walls and that there are no obvious steps/gaps between the kickstand and the IBC. Wipe the device thoroughly (including under the kickstand) with the microfiber cloth to remove all fingerprints.

rSSD Replacement Process

Preliminary Requirements

Required Tools and Components

• Tools:
  • 3IP (Torx-Plus) driver
  • Anti-static wrist strap (1M Ohm resistance)
  • Soft ESD safe mat
  • Microfiber / Lint free cloth
  • SIM eject tool (or equivalent 0.58 mm / 0.023 in diameter paperclip)
• Components:
  • rSSD (Refer to Illustrated Service Parts List)

Prerequisite Steps:

• Power off device - Ensure device is powered off and disconnected from a power supply.
• General Safety - Check to make sure that general guidelines and ESD compliance steps are followed before opening device. Refer to Prior to Device Disassembly section for details.

Procedure - Removal (rSSD)

1. Remove rSSD door – Use SIM eject tool.

   

2. Remove rSSD 3IP Screw – Use a 3IP (Torx-Plus) driver to remove the screw securing the rSSD.

   

3. Remove rSSD – The rSSD should lift upwards to ~15-degree tilt after screw is removed. Carefully grab sides of rSSD case and pull out of main board socket at same ~15-degree angle.

   

Procedure - Installation (rSSD)

1. Insert rSSD – Insert the connector end of the rSSD into the rSSD connector on Main board at ~15-degree angle.

   

2. Install new rSSD 3IP screw – Use a 3IP screwdriver to install a new rSSD screw until the screw is snug and seated, and then turned another 45 degrees (1/8 turn) or until screw is fully fastened.

   

3. Replace rSSD door.

   

4. Imaging – Image the new rSSD by using a BMR Imaging USB drive specific to the device model.

5. Run SDT – Run SDT to ensure all device features and functions operate as expected.

Swap rSSD to a new device process

Preliminary Requirements

Required Tools and Components

• Tools:
  • 3IP (Torx-Plus) driver
  • Anti-static wrist strap (1M Ohm resistance)
  • Soft ESD safe mat
  • Microfiber / Lint free cloth
  • SIM eject tool (or equivalent 0.58 mm / 0.023 in diameter paperclip)
  • USB Drive
  • Surface Dock
  • Wired Ethernet connection to the Internet
  • USB keyboard
• Components:
  • New SIM/rSSD door if necessary. (Refer to Illustrated Service Parts List)

Prerequisite Steps:

• Using an Internet connection, install all available updates: Navigate to Settings > Update & Security and check for Windows Update.
• Consumer using Windows Home:
  • The BitLocker recovery key is automatically generated for users with an MSA and can be found by the user by searching the web for “BitLocker recovery key” and logging into their MSA. If the user doesn't have an MSA based account, the disk won't be encrypted.
• Commercial using Windows Pro:
  • This is managed via commercial policy, and each business might have their own BitLocker policy / recovery method.
  • Confirm that the customer knows the Windows password to the device.
• General Safety – Check to make sure that general guidelines and ESD compliance steps are followed before opening device. Refer to Prior to Device Disassembly section for details.

Procedure - Swap (rSSD)

1. Manage BitLocker

   1. If rSSD remains encrypted during swap
      1. Navigate to BitLocker >Manage BitLocker >Generate BitLocker Recovery Key
      2. Plug in USB drive.
      3. Save the recovery key to USB storage.
      4. Remove the USB drive.
   2. If rSSD can be unencrypted before swap:
      1. Navigate to BitLocker >Manage BitLocker
      2. Select Turn Off BitLocker

2. Shut down customer’s old device and remove SIM/rSSD door remove SIM/rSSD door on new device – Use SIM eject tool.

   

3. Remove SIM (if present in customer’s old device).

   

4. Remove rSSD 3IP Screw from both devices – Use a 3IP (Torx-Plus) driver to remove the screw securing the rSSD. Take care not to damage the screw; it will be reused.

   

5. Remove rSSD from both devices – The rSSD should lift upwards to ~15-degree tilt after screw is removed. Carefully grab sides of rSSD case and pull out of main board socket at same ~15-degree angle.

   

6. Insert rSSD – Insert the connector end of the rSSD into the rSSD connector on Main board at ~15-degree angle. Place the rSSD removed from the new device into the customer’s original device. Place the customer’s original rSSD into the new device.

   

7. Install rSSD 3IP screw in both devices – Use a 3IP screwdriver to install the rSSD screw until it's snug and seated, and then turn another 45 degrees (1/8 turn) or until screw is fully fastened.

   

8. Install SIM (if present from the customer’s old device in the new device).

   

9. Replace rSSD door on both devices.

   

10. Plug new device into power and wired Internet connection.

11. Power on new device – The device might go through a firmware update during startup.

12. If the SSD remained encrypted during the swap:

    1. Plug in USB drive with BitLocker recovery key.
    2. Open the .txt file with the BitLocker recovery key.
    3. Manually enter the recovery key into the new device.

13. Connect a keyboard to the new device.

14. Navigate to Sign-In Options->Password (key icon on the left side).

15. Customer enters Windows password. Select “Sign In”.

16. Customer might need to go through two-factor authentication.

17. Once fully signed in, navigate to Start->Account->Sign Out

18. Customer signs in with Windows password again.

19. Customer prompted to set up Windows Hello and PIN.

    1. If the device was previously Bitlockered, navigate to BitLocker >Manage BitLocker >Resume BitLocker

20. Run SDT – Run SDT to ensure all device features and functions operate as expected.

21. Check Windows activation – Navigate to Settings >Activation. If there's any error message, select Troubleshoot.

22. Check Office Account – Open Office app and then navigate to File > Account and check for any error messages.

23. Check cellular (if SIM present) – Unplug device from wired network and disable Wi-Fi. Check that cellular network shows connected, and that the device can open a webpage.

24. Return customer’s original device per established procedures.

TDM Replacement Process

Preliminary Requirements

Required Tools and Components

• Tools:
  • 3IP (Torx-Plus) driver
  • Anti-static wrist strap (1M Ohm resistance)
  • Soft ESD safe mat
  • Microfiber / lint free cloth
  • SIM eject tool (or equivalent 0.58 mm / 0.023 in diameter paperclip)
  • Isopropyl alcohol dispenser bottle (use 91% or greater IPA)
  • Cotton swab
  • USB drive with Surface Diagnostic Toolkit
  • Spudger
  • iFixit pick
  • Metric ruler
  • TDM PSA bonding frame
  • Foam Pad (Material: EVA Foam, Thickness: 9.5 mm, Density: 0.03 g/cm3, Minimum 229 mm x 305 mm) (Recommended McMaster PN: 86095K43)
  • TDM bonding weights minimum 32 kg (70 lb) / maximum 35 kg (77 lb) (Recommended using three Ruck weights two 9 kg, one 14 kg) (Alternate Steel Shot Bags two 9 kg, one 14 kg)
• Components:
  • TDM (Refer to Illustrated Service Parts List)

Prerequisite Steps:

• Prep Device – Device must be set in TDM Replacement Mode prior to removing TDM.

1. Connect software tools USB drive with SDT to USB connector on device under repair.

2. Connect power supply to device.

3. Power on device – Depress the power button on the side of the device.

4. Run software tool – At the device OS, use Windows Explorer, navigate to USB drive and run:

   SDT – Select Repair setup and validation. Run the Touch Display Setup. At the end of the tool process device will power down.

• Power off device – Ensure device is powered off and disconnected from a power supply. Remove all attached cables and drives.
• General Safety – Check to make sure that general guidelines and ESD compliance steps are followed before opening device. Refer to Prior to Device Disassembly section for details.
• Remove rSSD – Remove the rSSD as detailed in the Procedure – Removal (rSSD).

Procedure - Removal (TDM)

1. Debonding TDM Marking Pick Depth – Using a metric ruler draw an 8-mm mark on the iFixit pick.

   

2. Debonding TDM – Place the device face up on a Soft ESD safe mat. Replace the iFixit pick if all the tips look scratched or deformed. Securing the device with one hand insert one of the iFixit pick tips into the right speaker area. Carefully cut the PSA applying a steady force along all edges of the TDM. Limit the pick depth to 8 mm. Run the pick 2 times around all edges of the TDM.

   

3. Separate TDM From IBC – Gently pull up vertically on the top edge of the glass while pushing down on the IBC with your thumbs to separate the glass. Lift the edges of the TDM and inspect for any remaining PSA. Slice or remove (with an iFixit Pick) any strands still connecting the TDM to the IBC.

   

4. Disconnect TDM FPCs – While supporting the TDM with one hand, remove the shield lid on the TDM FPC by inserting pointed end of a spudger underneath the inner edge the of the shield. Then gently pull upwards and the shield will come off. Disconnect the TDM FPCs using the pointed end of a spudger. Don't pull on the FPCs to disconnect.

   

5. Remove Residual IBC PSA – Using flat side of a spudger, IPA, and cotton swabs, clean residual PSA off the IBC. Use only IPA and cotton swabs to clean the top edge. Ensure area around the Camera and IR Sensor is clean and free of any dust or other contamination. Wipe the area around the camera with a lint free cloth.

   

6. Speaker Mesh – Inspect speaker mesh for any signs of damage. Remove damaged speaker mesh from the IBC. Insert a pick between the Speaker mesh and the enclosure. Remove any residual adhesive using IPA and cotton swabs.

   

7. Inspect for Antenna Deck (LTE Only) – After removing the TDM on LTE devices, inspect the antenna deck gold traces. The passing criterion is shown. Devices with damaged traces require whole unit exchange.

   

Procedure - Installation (TDM)

1. Pre-installation Device Inspection

2. Speaker Mesh Application (as required) – Wipe down the outer edges of the speaker mesh region on the bucket with a cloth to remove any residue or debris before application of new mesh. Remove the protective liner from the speaker mesh. Align the speaker mesh into the corresponding bucket opening. Press onto the mesh for 10 seconds to activate the adhesive. Carefully remove the clear handle. Repeat this process for the other side of the bucket.

   

3. TDM PSA Application – Thoroughly clean the IBC along the TDM PSA bonding surface using IPA and a cotton swab. Wait at least 30 seconds before applying new PSA. Apply the 4 strips of PSA to the IBC. Align the PSA following the outline on the IBC. Leave the blue liner on the PSA, it is removed at a later step. Refer to the illustration for PSA locations.

   

4. Connect TDM FPCs – While supporting the TDM with one hand, connect the TDM FPCs by pressing them into the mainboard. Install a new shield over the TDM FPCs. Ensure all edges of the shield are snapped into place.

   

5. Apply TDM to Bucket – Hover the TDM and remove the PSA Liners to expose adhesive. Align the TDM along the bottom edge first (Toe-in) and lower after alignment is found. Ensure that the glass sits flush in the IBC and doesn't rest anywhere on top of the IBC lip.

   

6. Bonding PSA – Bonding is a two-step process. Refer to the illustrations.

7. After Bonding Inspection – Remove the weights, foam pad, and the frame. Lift carefully to avoid damaging the device. Inspect the TDM for scratches, cracks, large gaps, and its flushness with respect to the IBC.

8. Install rSSD – Install the rSSD as detailed in the Procedure – Installation (rSSD).

9. TDM Calibration – Device final calibration relies on the successful completion of the TDM Replacement Mode.

   1. Connect software tools USB drive with SDT to USB connector on device under repair.
   2. Power on device – Depress the power button on the side of the device.
   3. Run software tool – At the device OS, use Windows Explorer, navigate to USB drive and run:

   SDT – Select Repair setup and validation. Run the Touch Display Calibration. Accept the restart prompt at the end of the tool process.

10. Run SDT – Run all SDT tests to ensure all device features and functions operate as expected.
11. Final inspection TDM installation – Remove protective cling from the TDM. Verify the side edges of the TDM are flush, and that there are no obvious steps/gaps between the TDM and the IBC. Wipe the device thoroughly (including under the kickstand) with the microfiber cloth to remove all fingerprints.

Procedure - Alternate Installation (TDM)

1. Preinstallation Device Inspection

2. Speaker Mesh Application (as required) – Wipe down the outer edges of the speaker mesh region on the bucket with a cloth to remove any residue or debris before application of new mesh. Remove the protective liner from the speaker mesh. Align the speaker mesh into the corresponding bucket opening. Press onto the mesh for 10 seconds to activate the adhesive. Carefully remove the clear handle. Repeat this process for the other side of the bucket.

   

3. TDM PSA Application – Thoroughly clean the IBC along the TDM PSA bonding surface using IPA and a cotton swab. Wait at least 30 seconds before applying new PSA. Apply the 4 strips of PSA to the IBC. Align the PSA following the outline on the IBC. Leave the blue liner on the PSA, it is removed at a later step. Refer to the illustration for PSA locations.

   

4. Connect TDM FPCs – While supporting the TDM with one hand, connect the TDM FPCs by pressing them into the mainboard. Install a new shield over the TDM FPCs. Ensure all edges of the shield are snapped into place.

   

5. Apply TDM to Bucket – Hover the TDM and remove the PSA Liners to expose adhesive. Align the TDM along the bottom edge first (Toe-in) and lower after alignment is found. Ensure that the glass sits flush in the IBC and doesn't rest anywhere on top of the IBC lip. Lightly press on the edges of the TDM to create an initial bond.

   

6. Alternate Bonding PSA – Bonding is a multi-step process. Refer to the illustrations.

Continued on next page.

7. After Bonding Inspection – Remove the steel shot bags and lift device out of the frame. Lift carefully to avoid damaging the device. Inspect the TDM for scratches, cracks, large gaps, and its flushness with respect to the IBC.
8. Install rSSD – Install the rSSD as detailed in the Procedure – Installation (rSSD)
9. TDM Calibration – Device final calibration relies on the successful completion of the TDM Replacement Mode.

   1. Connect software tools USB drive with SDT to USB connector on device under repair.

   2. Power on device – Depress the power button on the side of the device.

   3. Run software tool – At the device OS, use Windows Explorer, navigate to USB drive and run:

      SDT – Select Repair setup and validation. Run the Touch Display Calibration. Accept the restart prompt at the end of the tool process.

10. Run SDT – Run all SDT tests to ensure all device features and functions operate as expected.
11. Final inspection TDM installation – Remove protective cling from the TDM. Verify the side edges of the TDM are flush, and that there are no obvious steps/gaps between the TDM and the IBC. Wipe the device thoroughly (including under the kickstand) with the microfiber cloth to remove all fingerprints.