The Nintendo DS
Over time, Nintendo DS touch screens may not respond accurately to touch or may become non-responsive. Sometimes this is repairable with simple cleaning or recalibration, which is explained in the first section. Cracks or more severe problems might require a replacement screen. The second section details disassemble the Nintendo DS and install a new screen. This is riskier--losing or damaging the smallest part can ruin the game system, so only those who have at least a moderate level of comfort with electronics repairs should attempt this. Otherwise, consult a professional.
Instructions
Troubleshooting, Cleaning and Calibration
1. Remove any unlicensed screen protectors. These affect the sensitivity of the screen.
2. Clean the screen with a damp soft cloth and wipe dry. Do this especially if you were using an unlicensed screen protector, as they can leave residue on the screen.
3. Check the edges of the touch screen for debris by holding the Nintendo DS at an angle. Remove any debris with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Press the screen gently with your thumb to separate it from the housing and hold the system so the side with the debris is at the top, letting gravity help with the cleaning. Do not let the hard part of the toothbrush touch the screen, as this could damage it.
4. Remove any game from the Nintendo DS and turn it on. Press the "A" button when prompted to touch the touch screen, accessing the settings screen.
5. Tap the settings menu panel icon, which resembles a file cabinet, with the stylus, or, if the icon does not respond to the stylus, use the control pad to move the cursor over the icon and press the "A" button.
6. Four colored icons will appear. Use the stylus or control pad to open the orange icon resembling crosshairs.
7. Tap the red square that appears on the screen with the stylus. Repeat as the square moves around the screen.
8. Follow onscreen instructions to exit, and the system will shut down automatically to save the new settings.
9. The screen might need expert repairs if the previous steps do not solve the problem. Repair requests can be submitted online through Nintendo customer service. The system's serial number will be needed to determine repair options.
Replacing the Touch Screen
10. Unscrew the screws on the bottom of the Nintendo DS with a tri-wing screwdriver. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw that holds the battery in place.
11. Remove the two screws under the battery with the tri-wing screwdriver. This allows the backing to be removed to reveal the motherboard.
12. Pull off the shoulder buttons at the corner of the motherboard, taking care not to lose the springs underneath them. Unscrew the four screws on the motherboard with the Phillips screwdriver.
13. Use your fingernails or a flathead screwdriver to loosen and pull back the black ribbon on the bottom left corner of the motherboard. Gently pull out the four black clips, two at a time, that connect the motherboard to the front of the Nintendo DS, which will allow the motherboard to be removed. Place the motherboard to the side, upside-down.
14. Pull out the touch screen with your fingers and gently detach it from its adhesive.
15. Peel the plastic cover off the new touch screen, making sure not to touch anywhere but the edges. Line up the new screen on the base and rub it to make it adhere.
16. Reassemble the Nintendo DS, following the above steps in reverse.
Tags: screen with, touch screen, corner motherboard, Phillips screwdriver, settings screen, stylus control, touch screen