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Chapter 2 - PCG-V505 Series Disassembly
Preparation
Disassembling a notebook computer requires certain precautions be taken to avoid damage to components.
Many screws of varying sizes are used. If the wrong screw is installed, damage to a circuit board or the mounting
components can occur. This section of the manual will cover disassembly by identifying each screw removed
with a number. The number used for each screw is extracted from the parts list in the service manual.
NOTE: The disassembly procedures outlined in this chapter uses the Model PCGV505DX. Variations of this model
occur in the US market and, especially, in units manufactured for other countries. Fortunately, the differences are
minor, usually involving more or less screws, differences in screw sizes, or screw location variances. Pay close
attention to the screw sizes and location when a unit differs slightly from the model being presented.
Keeping Track of the Screws
Once method that works quite well is to utilize a small parts storage tray to place each screw into as the unit is
disassembled. By numbering each of the bins, starting with the number “1”, each screw size can be organized.
It is best to use a tray with at least 24 bins. If a screw identified as B9 is removed, place it into the number 9 bin.
An ice cube tray can also be used since there are never more than 8 different screw sizes during a disassembly.
You will have to keep numerical track since most ice cube trays have a maximum of 16 bins. As an example: A
unit may have 8 different screw sizes but they are labeled as B1, B2, B3, B4, B6, B9, B18, and B22. Keep the
order of the screws by installing B1 into the upper left bin and putting the rest into sequential order.
The Workbench Area
A workbench with a surface pad should be utilized to prevent scratching of the cabinet assemblies. There will
be a lot of flipping the unit over to remove components and loosening screws. This will cause movement of the
unit on the work surface area and possibly scratch the cabinet. A size 000 Phillips screwdriver (preferably with a
magnetized head), 3 and 4mm nut drivers, tweezers, long-nose pliers, and a small plastic, flat blade screw driver
should suffice for the disassembly procedures.
ESD Protection
Although many technicians have been fortunate to have successfully serviced other electronic devices without
utilizing safeguards for Electrostatic Discharge, it should not be ignored when working on computers. They utilize
millions of CMOS transistors and are extremely susceptible to ESD damage.
Always wear an approved and
properly grounded ESD wristband when servicing computer products.
Bottom Cover and Palm Rest Disassembly
Bottom Cover
In Figure 2-1, the removal of the bottom cover is shown. Release the battery latches and remove it. Remove
