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How to Disassemble a Nintendo Game Boy Advance

Whether you're looking for parts or just want to see what goes on inside, the Game Boy Advance system can be fairly easily taken apart using basic tools in just a few minutes. The hand-held console was the third Game Boy released from Nintendo and featured 16-bit graphics on par with the Super Nintendo Entertainment system in 2001. It has since been replaced by newer models, but you can still find used ones at virtually any video game retailer.

Things You'll Need

Phillips-head jeweler's screwdriver
Triwing screwdriver
Cup

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the batteries and battery case from the Game Boy Advance. Flip it upside down on a level work table.
- 2
  Remove the six screws around the outer edge of the Game Boy's back plate using the triwing screwdriver. Be careful not to press down to hard or you may strip the screws. Place all of the loose screws in the cup to prevent losing them.
- 3
  Remove the screw at the bottom of the battery case using the Phillips-head jeweler's screwdriver. Place this screw in the cup with the others. Lift the entire back plate off the Game Boy.
- 4
  Remove the two screws holding down the primary circuit board using the Phillips-head screwdriver. These screws are gold and are located on opposite edges of the main board, one on one side of the LCD screen, the other on the other side.
- 5
  Locate the gold ribbon (which is actually a cable from the LCD screen to the motherboard) at the top of the device. Push the two gray pins on either side to the "Up" position.
- 6
  Squeeze the gold ribbon gently between your thumb and index finger and pull it up, which should lift the CPU out of the device's plastic casing.
  
  The buttons can now be safely lifted out of their sockets and set to the side for cleaning, storage, or whatever else you wish.

Game Boy