Disassembling Airport Extreme A1143: Step-By-Step Guide

The Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1143 is a residential gateway product that combines the functionality of a router, network switch, wireless access point, and NAS. It is Wi-Fi certified for 802.11n draft 2.0 and uses two different frequency channels: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

To disassemble the Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1143, you will need to use a heat gun to warm up the adhesive attaching the rubber pad on the bottom of the device to the metal underside. Once the adhesive is warm enough, you can carefully peel off the rubber pad. Underneath the pad, you will find five Phillips #0 screws that need to be removed. After removing the screws, you can lift the perforated plastic cover and gently lift the internal components out of the casing.

It is important to note that disassembling your Apple AirPort Extreme may void the warranty, and you should proceed with caution. Always refer to official manuals or seek expert advice if you are unsure about any steps in the disassembly process.

Remove the rubber pad

To remove the rubber pad from your Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1143, you will need to proceed with caution as the back pad is held in place with adhesive glue. Start by slowly peeling off the rubber pad from the bottom of the device. Begin peeling from one corner and use your fingers to carefully lift the pad. If the pad is difficult to remove, you can apply low heat to soften the adhesive and help remove the pad. Be careful not to tear the pad during this process.

Once you have lifted one corner, continue peeling the pad slowly and gently until it is completely removed. Underneath the pad, you will find five Phillips #0 screws that need to be removed. These screws are located in the holes of the back cover. After removing the screws, you can proceed to lift the back case by gently prying it up from the perforated edge.

It is important to note that the device can be fragile, so patience and caution are recommended during this process. Additionally, make sure to follow appropriate safety measures when using heat to remove the rubber pad.

With the rubber pad removed, you can now access the internal components of the AirPort Extreme for further disassembly or repairs. Remember to follow a reliable guide or seek technical assistance if you are unfamiliar with the disassembly process to avoid any potential damage to the device.

Overall, removing the rubber pad from the Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1143 is a delicate process that requires careful attention to avoid tearing the pad or damaging the device. By slowly peeling the pad and using low heat if necessary, you can successfully remove it and access the underlying screws and internal components for further maintenance or repairs.

Unscrew the base

Unscrewing the base of the Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1143 is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some careful attention to detail. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Using a heat gun, gently warm the adhesive attaching the rubber pad on the bottom of the device to the metal underside. This will help soften the adhesive and make it easier to remove the pad. Be careful not to overheat the area, as you do not want to damage any internal components.
• Once the adhesive is sufficiently softened, carefully peel off the rubber pad. Take your time with this step to avoid tearing or damaging the pad, as it will need to be reattached later.
• Underneath the rubber pad, you will find five Phillips #0 screws. Remove these screws and set them aside in a safe place to avoid losing them.
• With the screws removed, you can now lift the perforated plastic cover out. This will give you access to the internal components of the base station.
• Proceed with caution as you lift the guts of the base station out of the casing. Be gentle and take note of any cables or connections that may still be attached.
• Once you have removed the internal components, you will have full access to the base of the device. You can now begin working on the specific component that requires maintenance or replacement.

Remember to keep track of the screws and any other small parts you remove during this process. It is also important to work on a static-free surface to avoid damaging any sensitive electronic components. When reassembling the device, make sure to follow these steps in reverse order and use new adhesive to secure the rubber pad.

Lift the plastic cover

To lift the plastic cover of your Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1143, you must first peel off the rubber pad on the bottom of the device. Start peeling from one corner and use your fingers to slowly lift the pad. If the pad is glued on, use a low heat to help remove it. Once the pad is completely removed, you will see five Phillips #00 screws in the holes of the back cover. Unscrew these and then lift up the back case from the perforated edge to remove it.

Now, you can lift the plastic cover out. To do this, remove the logic board and metal casing from the outer case by prying from one side using a spudger.

Be sure to take your time during this process, as the case can be fragile.

Remove the internal battery

To remove the internal battery from your Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1143, follow these steps:

First, you will need to gather the necessary tools. This includes a heat gun or another source of low heat, a spudger, and a new 3V CR2450HR battery.

Now, turn your attention to the back pad of your device. This is held in place with adhesive, so proceed with caution to avoid tearing. Apply low heat to the back pad to help loosen the adhesive. Once the adhesive is warm enough, slowly peel off the rubber pad from the bottom of the device, starting from one corner. If necessary, continue to apply heat until the pad is completely removed.

Underneath the rubber pad, you will find five 5mm Phillips #00 screws. Use a screwdriver to unscrew them. With the screws removed, carefully lift up the back case from the perforated edge to open it.

At this point, you should be able to access the internal components of the AirPort Extreme. Locate the logic board and the metal casing. Using a spudger, gently pry the logic board and metal casing out of the outer case. Be careful not to damage any of the components during this process.

Now, you need to detach the logic board from the metal casing. Use tweezers to unhook the wires connecting the two. Be gentle to avoid accidentally pulling out any wires or damaging the connections.

With the logic board detached, carefully push back the three metal tabs on the sides of the metal case. This will help loosen the case. Now, carefully pull the metal case away from the logic board.

Finally, use a spudger or a similar narrow tool to gently slide out the internal battery from its compartment. Replace it with the new 3V CR2450HR battery, ensuring it is securely seated in place.

To reassemble your device, simply follow these steps in reverse order. Make sure that all components are securely connected and fastened before turning on your Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1143.

Check Wi-Fi antennas

To check the Wi-Fi antennas of your Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1143, you will first need to open the device. There are three small panels spaced around the outside of the metal casing that house the antennas. Ensure that cables run from these three panels to the central system.

The three Wi-Fi antennas are fragile and sensitive, so be careful when handling them. To access the antennas, follow these steps:

• Peel off the rubber pad on the bottom of the device. Start from one corner and slowly peel with your fingers. Use low heat if necessary until the pad is completely removed.
• Unscrew the five 5mm Phillips #00 screws in the holes of the back cover.
• Lift up the back case from the perforated edge to remove it.
• Remove the logic board and metal casing from the outer case by prying from one side using a spudger.
• Unhook the wires connecting the logic board to the metal casing by grabbing and pulling up on each connection with tweezers.
• Carefully push back the three metal tabs with your fingers on the sides of the metal case.
• Pull the metal case away from the logic board.
• Unscrew the 5mm #00 screws from each of the three antennas located on the sides of the metal casing.
• Pull away the antennas from the metal case.

Once you have accessed the antennas, you can check their condition and connections. Make sure that the antennas are not bent or damaged. Check that the antenna cords are securely connected and held in place by silver and yellow tape.

Frequently asked questions