macnn
02/01/2008, 9:55am, EST
Friday, February 1st
MacBook Air teardown details, photos
A new teardown of the MacBook Air, as performed by repair specialist iFixit, reveals significant facts about the notebook. While Apple suggests that users cannot replace the battery themselves, it may actually be an easy matter for tech-savvy installers, dependent only on having a Phillips screwdriver. Conversely, people wanting to upgrade the PATA 1.8-inch hard drive may have a very difficult time, as there is only 5mm (0.2 inches) of vertical space. For sake of reference, iFixit notes that the 160GB drive in the iPod classic requires 8mm of space.
The company also observes that the controller chip used for the trackpad, a Broadcom BCM5974, is the exact same as that used in the iPhone and iPod touch. Aside from potentially saving money for Apple on parts, this means that any touch functionality changes on the iPhone could theoretically be promulgated through all three devices.
[Photos and details provided by iFixit (link), which provides how-to's as well as parts for sale on its website]
Filed under: computers
Other story tags: MacBook, MacBook Air, teardown
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Of course, they'll sell you replacement parts, too...
Swapping the battery is more involved than the other Mac laptops of course, but this looks entirely doable by the user —and avoiding the hassle of sending it off to Apple. It appears easier than it was replacing the hard drive of my old Powerbook. (which WAS considered user-replaceable)
Of course, there's still the question about voiding a warranty but I bet Apple changes the "non-user" classification.