Removing Zte Z981's Back Camera: A Step-By-Step Guide

The ZTE ZMax Pro (Z981) is a large-screen Android phone with a 13MP rear camera. While the back cover of the phone can be removed, it is not recommended as it may void the warranty and damage the phone. However, if you still wish to proceed, you can find general disassembly instructions for the ZTE ZMax Pro (Z981) online. Keep in mind that attempting to open the phone and remove the back camera may be dangerous and could result in damage to the phone or its components.

Pry off the rear cover

To pry off the rear cover of your ZTE Z981, follow these steps:

First, make sure you have the right tools. You will need a prying tool, such as a flathead screwdriver, a credit card, or a plastic electronics repair prying tool. You may also want a soft towel or pillowcase to place your phone on, to protect the screen from scratches or damage if the phone slips from your grip.

Next, turn off your phone and place it face down on the soft surface. Starting at the corner, gently insert your prying tool between the rear cover and the phone. Continue down the side of the phone, prying gently to separate the cover. You may need to wiggle your tool back and forth to get the cover to start coming away from the phone. Be careful not to bend or damage the cover.

Once you have pried away one corner, move to the bottom corner of the same side and gently pry the cover away from the phone. Pull the cover down and outwards, being careful not to bend it. Then, pull the top corner of that side out and downward. This should release the whole side of the cover.

Finally, pop the remaining side of the cover off by sliding your thumb down the side of the phone. The cover should come away easily, but be ready to catch your phone in case it slips out of the cover.

Now that the rear cover is off, you can proceed to the next steps of the disassembly process, such as disconnecting the fingerprint sensor and removing the midframe screws. Remember to be very cautious when working with electronic devices, as improper disassembly can result in permanent damage to your phone.

Disconnect the fingerprint sensor

To disconnect the fingerprint sensor of the ZTE ZMax Pro (Z981), follow these steps:

Step 1: Remove the rear cover by prying it off, starting at the corner and continuing down the side.

Step 2: Disconnect the fingerprint sensor by removing the Kapton tape covering the fingerprint scanner cover. Unscrew the two screws holding the fingerprint scanner flex cover in place. Disconnect the fingerprint sensor flex cable and set the rear cover aside.

Be cautious when performing this step as, along with the upper screw, your warranty will be voided.

Step 3: Remove the 15 Phillips 00 screws securing the midframe to the phone. Carefully insert a pry tool on the side of the phone between the LCD and frame, and continue down the side and around the edges until the frame and LCD assembly are separated.

At this point, you will have successfully disconnected the fingerprint sensor.

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Remove the midframe screws

To remove the midframe screws from your ZTE ZMax Pro (Z981), follow these steps:

Start by removing the rear cover of the phone. Use a tool to carefully pry off the cover, starting at one corner and working your way down the side.

Once the rear cover is removed, you will need to disconnect the fingerprint sensor. Remove the Kapton tape covering the fingerprint scanner, and then unscrew the two screws holding the fingerprint scanner flex cover in place.

Now, you can move on to the midframe screws. There are 15 Phillips 00 screws securing the midframe to the phone. Remove all of these screws carefully, making sure not to strip or damage them, as this will make reassembly more difficult.

After removing the screws, carefully insert a pry tool between the LCD and the frame of the phone. Work your way down the side and around the edges until the frame and LCD assembly are separated.

Be cautious when prying, as the components inside your phone are delicate and prone to damage if too much force is applied. It is recommended to use a heat-resistant tool for this process to avoid any accidental damage.

Once the frame and LCD assembly are separated, you can continue with the rest of the disassembly process, such as removing the battery, charging port, and other internal components. Remember to keep track of all the screws and parts you remove to facilitate a smooth reassembly process.

Disconnect the camera flex cable

To disconnect the camera flex cable of the ZTE ZMax Pro (Z981), follow these steps:

Start by prying off the rear cover of the phone, beginning at one corner and working your way down the side. Set the rear cover aside.

Next, you will need to disconnect the fingerprint sensor flex cable. To do this, first, remove the Kapton tape covering the fingerprint scanner cover. Then, unscrew the two screws holding the fingerprint scanner flex cover in place.

Now, carefully disconnect the camera flex cable. It is important to be gentle during this step to avoid damaging the cable.

Once the camera flex cable is disconnected, you can move on to the next step in the disassembly process. Remember to work carefully and follow a detailed guide to ensure you do not accidentally damage any other components.

It is also important to note that opening your phone may void your warranty, so proceed with caution and ensure you have a good reason for doing so.

Lift out the logic board

To lift out the logic board of a ZTE Z981, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure you have the correct tools for the job. You will need a heat-resistant prying tool, such as a metal ruler, and a Phillips #00 screwdriver.

Now, let's assume you have already completed the previous steps for disassembling the ZTE Z981, as outlined in the iFixit guide. By this point, you will have removed the rear cover, disconnected the fingerprint sensor, and unscrewed the midframe screws.

Carefully insert your prying tool on the side of the phone between the LCD and the frame. Gently work your way down the side and around the edges until the frame and LCD assembly are separated. Be cautious, as the ZTE Z981 is known to have fragile components.

Next, remove the Kapton tape over the battery plug and disconnect the flex cable above the battery, as well as the camera cable. Unscrew the motherboard screw and disconnect the LCD flex cable.

Finally, you can lift out the logic board. Be mindful of the delicate flex cables still attached to the logic board, as you will need to detach these carefully to complete the removal.

To reassemble your device, simply follow these instructions in reverse order.

Frequently asked questions