Replacing an iPad/iPad2/iPad3 touchscreen
Replacing the touchscreen (or digitizer) on an iPad, iPad 2 or iPad3 can be rather complex and taxing. Oftentimes, a damaged iPad is sent back to Apple, leading to incredibly costly repairs. Though not the easiest of tasks, however, armed with the relevant knowledge (and the correct tools) you should be able to successfully repair the touchscreen on your iPad yourself.
How to replace an Apple iPad touchscreen
Step one
Before beginning the repair, you'll need to gather together some tools. To complete the repair you'll need a heat-gun, (or a hairdryer,) something to help prise the front of the iPad off, (such as a guitar plectrum, a razor or a debit card,) a Phillips #00 screwdriver and double sided tape or adhesive strips. Remember: it's always a good idea to back-up the data on your iPad, (and, indeed, on any machine you own,) before undertaking any form of repair.
Step two
Once you have done all of this, lay your iPad, iPad2 or iPad3, (ensuring it is turned off,) on a flat surface and apply heat, (using a heat-gun or hairdryer,) to the edges of the broken touchscreen. Applying heat should loosen the adhesive used, allowing you to gently work the broken iPad touchscreen off. To aid you in the removal of the broken digitizer, wait until the heat loosens the adhesive enough to allow you to insert a debit card or a guitar plectrum in the gap between it and the main body of the machine. Once you have separated one section of the front display from the body of the iPad, proceed to work your way around the front of the machine until you are in a position to remove the damaged touchscreen fully. Just a quick note: as you separate the touchscreen from the body of the iPad, you'll need to insert thin tools, (such as a plectrum or a thin blade,) in between the touchscreen and the iPad, as you go along, to stop the touchscreen sticking, anew, to the body of the machine.
Step three
Once you have worked your way around the front of the iPad, (loosening the front glass,) disconnect the cable that runs from the touchscreen to the iPad and, then, remove the damaged display, (taking care to release the small levers on the digitizer connector cable.)
Step four
Next, remove the button that operates the "Home" button on the old touchscreen using a Phillips screwdriver. Next, apply heat, (using a heat-gun or a hairdryer,) to remove both the iPad "Home" button and the camera.
Step five
Use either double sided tape or strips of adhesive to connect the "Home" button and the camera to the new iPad touchscreen (or digitizer.) Remember, also, to make the "Home" button operational on your new touchscreen by connecting the corresponding contact from the old digitizer using a Phillips screwdriver. Step six
Turn your iPad on, just to check that everything is working as it should. Once you are sure that your machine is operating correctly, make sure that the LCD screen, (and the surrounding panel,) are free from dust and other flecks. Then, lift up the new touchscreen, applying either double sided tape or adhesive strips to the back. Lastly, press the new digitizer in place, (applying gentle pressure to each edge to ensure it is secure.)
The iPad, iPad2 and iPad3 touchscreens, (or digitizers,) we stock
All the Apple iPad digitizers we stock
*Disclaimer: As with any repair you choose to undertake, Laptop-LCD-Screen.co.uk cannot be held responsible for any damage caused to your device during the replacement/repair process. If you feel anxious or unsure about completing this repair yourself, it is best to err on the side of caution.
