iRobot Roomba 650 Bumper Sensor IR Transmitter Replacement
Follow this guide to fix and replace your bumper sensor if it is not functioning.
Written By: Alex Schnorr
Introduction
This guide details the process of replacing the IR transmitter on the iRobot Roomba 650. This involves accessing the Roomba's internal components, including the motherboard. The IR transmitter is a small blue device located in a black plastic casing at the front of the Roomba, responsible for helping the robot navigate and detect its surroundings.
Tools Required
- Phillips #0 Screwdriver
- Soldering Iron
- iFixit Opening Tools
- Phillips #1 Screwdriver
- Spudger
- Metal Spudger
Repair Steps
Step 1: Removing the Side Brush
With the Roomba upside down and powered off, use a Phillips #0 screwdriver to remove the single 3.5 mm screw located in the center of the side brush. Set the screw aside and then pull the side brush off.
Step 2: Bottom Panel Removal
Unscrew the four screws securing the bottom panel using a Phillips #0 screwdriver. Note: These screws are designed to loosen but not detach completely, preventing loss. Once all screws are loosened, carefully lift the bottom panel away from the Roomba.
Step 3: Battery Removal
With the side brush and bottom panel removed, grasp the battery by its two green tabs and pull it out. Caution: In the event of battery leakage, avoid contact with the acid and affected surfaces. Wear protective gloves, clean residue with a paper towel, and dispose of the battery properly. If battery acid contacts skin or eyes, flush immediately with water and seek medical attention.
Step 4: Front Bumper Removal
Remove the front bumper. This may require some effort and can be done by hand or with a tool. The bumper should snap off and will remain attached by a few wires.
Step 5: Dust Bin Removal
Pull out the dust bin while pressing down on its release button. Set the dust bin aside.
Step 6: Top Plastic Cover Removal
Use a plastic opening tool or metal spudger to carefully pry around the edges of the top plastic cover. Once loosened, gently lift the cover upwards from the back.
Step 7: Panel Removal
Use a Phillips #1 screwdriver to remove ten 5 mm screws. Then, use a Phillips #2 screwdriver to remove two 5.5 mm screws. Finally, use a Phillips #1 screwdriver to remove one 7.5 mm screw. Lift the panel off and set it aside.
Step 8: Yellow Ring and Control Panel Covers Removal
Remove the yellow ring and the two plastic control panel covers.
Step 9: Control Panel and Motherboard Sheet Removal
Use a Phillips #1 screwdriver to remove four 7.5 mm screws holding the control panel to the motherboard. Lift the control panel off, then lift the clear plastic motherboard protecting sheet and set both aside.
Step 10: Motherboard Removal
Use a Phillips #1 screwdriver to remove five 5.5 mm motherboard screws. Gently lift the motherboard up from the Roomba approximately half an inch.
Step 11: Cliff Sensor Belt Removal
Remove the round cliff sensor belt by pulling it upwards off the front edge of the Roomba.
Step 12: Cable Disconnection and Component Lift
Disconnect the three cables connecting the motherboard to the front of the Roomba. Lift the motherboard, cliff sensor belt, and front bumper assembly up and out of the way.
Step 13: Bumper Sensor Rubber Cover Removal
Remove the rubber cover from the bumper sensor.
Step 14: Bumper Sensor Module Opening
Use a Phillips #1 screwdriver to remove two 7.5 mm screws from the bumper sensor module. Pry open the module clips using a spudger or your finger. Open the sensor module.
Step 15: IR Chip Removal
Once the bumper sensor module is open, remove the small IR chip. Pull off the black protector surrounding the chip.
Step 16: Desoldering and Soldering the IR Receiver
For this step, having an assistant may be helpful. Use a soldering iron to desolder the pins on the blue IR receiver. Warm each pin repeatedly and gently tug on the receiver until it slides out. Solder a new IR receiver into the exact same position where the old one was removed.
Reassembly
To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.
