SideKey replacement for smart phone MobiWire STARXTREM 5 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / repair

author: maelh
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2023, 05:51:40 pm
content: Hi,I was looking for a replacement side key for an old smart phone MobiWire STARXTREM 5. Unfortunately there is very little to be found online.I bought one replacement side key which is for a Huawei phone, which has the right connector and plugs in alright. I was hoping it might have the right key assignment/proper assignment of the connector pins to the buttons, but apparently it doesn't, as it makes the phone think several keys are pressed or still held down, when that's not the case.For reference that's the replacement I tried (NOT the original from "my" phone, which is broken):https://www.amazon.de/dp/B081YVHWHLThe model number given on the flat flex cable of the original (now broken keys) was: WQ30 H556 SIDEKEYDoes somebody know a compatible sidekey by any chance? Or it not, a way to modify such a flat flex cable to correct the button assignment, or at least attach normal magnet/hookup wire? The connectors are tiny, but maybe someone has a trick up their sleeves.

author: maelh
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2023, 06:31:22 pm
content: It would already help to know the connector type shown in the pictures. Then I could maybe find a breakout board. Or if there is a method to expose the contacts on the flat flex cable.

author: BlownUpCapacitor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2023, 07:43:49 pm
content: If you still have the original flex cable for the phone, have you considered replacing the buttons on the flex cable?

author: maelh
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2023, 08:31:34 pm
content: The original flex cable is damaged, so that's not an option unfortunately.Does anyone know the exact name of the connector plug shown in the pictures?

author: BlownUpCapacitor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2023, 11:22:59 pm
content: The plug looks like the plugs apple uses in their products.Also fixing flex cable is very much possible, depending on the condition. Perhaps try posting a photo of the damaged part.Usually it's better to fix the broken component than go searching for it if it takes a long time to find a good replacement. I do this often.

author: DavidAlfa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2023, 12:49:21 am
content: Pretty sure it's Hirose, check them out.

author: maelh
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2023, 11:31:53 am
content: Quote from: BlownUpCapacitor on December 08, 2023, 11:22:59 pmThe connector broke off the cable, so I can't fix the cable. But I have another replacement one with wrong button assignment. Can you expose the traces of the flat flex without damaging the flat flex cable?

author: maelh
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2023, 11:35:08 am
content: Quote from: DavidAlfa on December 09, 2023, 12:49:21 amI did, but at least on the overview page for FFC/FPC they don't seem to have anything of that kind. There are over 600 alone for FFC/FPC connectors, so I hoped someone would know that type of connector. It seems quite popular for LCDs as well.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2023, 12:24:54 pm
content: Quote from: maelh on December 10, 2023, 11:35:08 amThat’s not a FFC/FPC connector at all, which is why you’re not finding anything. See my response in your other thread.