Microsoft Surface computers have it all: power, style, portability and functionality. However, as with most portable devices, there’s a huge risk of damaging the screen. Most often, such damage is the result of crushing or dropping the Surface while transporting it, and repairing it is inconvenient and expensive.
Fortunately, it’s possible to buy a Microsoft Surface screen replacement assembly to repair the device at home, or just have professionals do it for you, even though it’s the more expensive option. Microsoft Surface screen replacement process requires great care and a lot of patience if you want to avoid causing even more damage, so it’d be best to leave these matters in the hands of experienced professionals.
The screens for the Microsoft Surface comprises of a touchscreen digitizer for receiving input from the consumer, and an LCD for display. These components are both part of the single screen assembly and the easiest way to replace a broken screen is to purchase a new assembly rather than attempting to separate the LCD and digitizer and replace them individually.
Doing the replacement yourself requires a few tools like tweezers, a heat gun, pry tools and a 3M double-sided adhersive tape. A good alternative to the heat gun is a hair dryer, and the necessity of the heat gun or hair dryer is to warm the adhesive that joins the screen assembly to the other parts of the device. If you’ve decided to take the DIY approach, here’s how it goes.
It’s important that you do the repair on a flat working surface and lay down soft patches of clothing to prevent scratches. Work near large windows where plenty of natural light will come through. Place the tablet on the soft cloth with the screen facing you. Heat the edge of the device with the heat gun to loosen the adhesive which secures the screen assembly. Avoid overheating by moving the heat gun around. As soon as the assembly starts loosening in one spot, use a plastic pry tool to start separating the two pieces.
As you lift the screen assembly, pivot the screen outwards on the bottom edge, where several cables are attached to the logic board. Use another pry tool or tweezers to release the three connectors at the bottom. Doing this allows you to remove the screen completely. Carefully remove adhesive residue from the back casing so that the surface is smooth and clean. Then, position the 3M adhesive tape to prepare for the new assembly. Connect the cables back to the logic board and ensure each connection clips securely in place and then press the screen onto the adhesive 3M tape.
