Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP Motherboard Replacement

Introduction

The motherboard is the central green circuit board that powers the device. Without it, the Game Boy Advance SP will not function. It is advised to handle the motherboard with care, as any accidental tug can damage the delicate ribbon cable connecting it to the screen.

Tools Required:

• Phillips #00 Screwdriver
• iFixit Opening Tool
• Tri-point Y1 Screwdriver

Step 1 - Battery Removal

Use a standard Phillips #00 screwdriver to loosen the 4 mm screw securing the battery cover.

Image Description: A Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP with its battery cover visible.

Step 2 - Battery Cover

Lift the battery cover upwards to remove it from the device.

ℹ️ Note: The screw will remain attached to the battery cover due to Nintendo's design.

Image Description: Hands carefully lifting the battery cover off the Game Boy Advance SP.

Step 3 - Battery Extraction

Use your fingers or a plastic opening tool to carefully remove the battery from its compartment.

⚠️ Caution: Handle the battery with extreme care. If it appears swollen or damaged, it poses a fire hazard.

Image Description: A hand using fingers to remove the battery from the Game Boy Advance SP.

Step 4 - Back Cover Removal

Remove four 6.5 mm screws from the corners of the back cover using a tri-point Y00 screwdriver.

Remove two 4.6 mm screws from the top-center and bottom-center of the device using a tri-point Y00 screwdriver.

Image Description: The rear of the Game Boy Advance SP showing the locations of the six screws to be removed for the back cover.

Step 5 - Back Cover Detachment

Lift the back cover off the device.

⚠️ Potential for device damage: Internal components are sensitive to static electricity. Exercise caution during this step to prevent damage.

ℹ️ Note: Be aware of the power switch, which may become loose or fall out when removing the back cover.

Image Description: The Game Boy Advance SP with the back cover removed, exposing the internal circuitry.

Step 6 - Motherboard Securing Screws

Using a Phillips #00 screwdriver, remove the three Phillips #00 4 mm screws that secure the motherboard to the button panel.

Image Description: The Game Boy Advance SP motherboard is shown attached to the front casing, with the three securing screws highlighted.

Step 7 - Motherboard Separation

⚠️ Be careful not to tear the ribbon cable connecting the motherboard to the screen. Damage to this cable will prevent games from displaying.

Gently flip the motherboard upwards and rest it on the other half of the device, ensuring the back of the buttons is visible.

Image Description: The Game Boy Advance SP motherboard is lifted and positioned on the lower half of the device, revealing the back of the button contacts.

Reassembly

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.