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How to Disassemble a Fat PS3

When the PlayStation 3 game console was first introduced, the system came in only one style, which is commonly known as the "Fat" PS3. Since then a slimmer version of the console has been released and it is known as the "PS3 Slim." There are still many fat PS3s around so if you have one that is experiencing problems you don't have to throw the console out and buy a PS3 Slim. You can disassemble the unit and replace components.

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug all cables from the back of the PS3 consoles.
- 2
  Unplug all controllers and peripheral devices from the USB ports on the front of the console.
- 3
  Locate the rubber pad on the left side of the console near the top. This pad covers a screw. Use the tip of your screwdriver to pop the pad off.
- 4
  Remove the screw from the side of the PS3.
- 5
  Slide the top plastic cover of the console to the left and lift it up to remove it. A metal panel will now be exposed underneath.
- 6
  Remove the seven screws on the sides of the metal panel and remove the metal panel to expose the insides of the console
- 7
  Remove the screws from the large metal disc driver and lift the drive up. Unplug the ribbon cable from its port at the back of the drive and remove the drive from the unit.
- 8
  Remove all screws on the top of the motherboard and lift the motherboard out of the unit.
- 9
  Turn the motherboard over to expose the metal fan assembly. Remove the screws on the fan assembly and pop the four clips on the back panel of the fan to release it. Set the fan aside.

PlayStation 3