Customer:
I’ve been unsuccessful in repairing my Inkplate. I’d like to try replacing a spare part, but if that doesn’t work, can I safely remove the display and buy a new PCB without the display?
Originally submitted via the contact form on soldered.com on 2 March 2025. Migrated to the forum for community visibility.
Soldered Support:
You might be able to separate the PCB from the display, but it’s very difficult without damaging the display. Disconnect the flat cable connector and apply heat to the front and rear of the board—this will loosen the strong adhesive tape holding the display to the PCB. The display must be unstuck from the front of the PCB; there’s no other way. If you do this, the display might crack, as they are fairly delicate. This is less of a problem if the panel is faulty and needs replacement (the more common case), but it is a problem if the PCB is faulty and you want to keep the panel. Our design prioritizes the more common case.
Customer:
You mentioned using heat, but how much heat can the display withstand? Are we talking about 40°C, 80°C, or higher?
Soldered Support:
According to the e-paper datasheet, the storage temperature allowed is 70°C, which is quite high. I’d say you’re safe heating it to 70°C for a shorter period of time.
Customer:
You warned me, but I broke it anyway. I’ll need to buy a new display now. How much voltage can I put on the VIN pins? I can’t find it in the documentation and don’t want to damage the display a second time.
Soldered Support:
VIN can go up to 5V. The current requirement is 0.5A for maximum, and 1A should be more than enough.