Replacing a ZIF Connector Locking Flap

Written By: Mipam

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Difficulty

Difficult

Steps

Time Required

5 minutes

Introduction

The purpose of this tutorial is to help you replace the keyboard connection cable connector locking flap on a MacBook Pro Retina. It is applicable to all types of ZIF connectors for flexible cables used by Apple. It requires a lot of dexterity and ideally fine tweezers.

Tools

New Item

Step 1

A Locking flap with the markings "DDF" and "30d" visible on the top is shown in the first photo. It is positioned in the right direction to be replaced.
If the locking flap is positioned the wrong way it is easy to turn it around.

Step 2

Lift the back of the locking flap to position it vertical to the ZIF connector.
Insert one side of the flap first. A slight resistance will be felt before it is positioned.
You have to be very gentle so as not to break it. The use of tweezers and a magnifying glass is recommended.
The gold pins of the connectors must fit inside the flap. The "grid" of the flap is therefore positioned between the gold pins and the silver pins.

Step 3

Gradually insert the flap from right to left.
Keep the flap in the vertical position so that it does not come out of its housing.

Step 4

Finish by inserting the left side in the same way as the right side.
This is a delicate operation. On occasion the flap comes out of the housing. If that happens, starting over is the best option.
Finish by pushing the flap as far as possible inside the connector.