yashsingh1/xdaforums huggingface dataset:
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
Oh Crap!!!

People must be tired of this question but did you detach the battery? Could you tell exactly what you did? Up here, seems installing a new dig is an accident waiting to happen. Mine went bad when I dropped and smashed the screen, so it doesn't count. But a few have managed to fry it during. If we are to help others by putting together a comprehensive guide, we need to know what possibly trips us up. The fact that the sd card slot still works is just that. The TS circuitry is totally different. One can go down without affecting the other.

You need to inspect the cable first. Pay particular attention to the green part with the help of a magnifying glass or even a microscope because tiny tears cannot be detected with the naked eye. Make sure you do that with the cable connectors' (metal strips) ends too. Move onto the board's connectors. Look inside to see if any pin has been bent out of place. Look beneath the opposite black tabs used to lock the cable in place for any abnormality. From there, go to the silver flat cable. Do the same thing with the cable ends and the connectors on both MB and TS boards. If I seem meticulous, it's due to personal experience. I destroyed the cable and the TS board's connector when I first removed it, which damage could only be seen through a lens.

If no physical defect then of course either the dig or the board is bad. I highly suspect the latter though you might want to take issue with the vendor about the former and ask if they test before shipping (who is it anyway?). In my case, if everything is right, the device would start updating the firmware for the TS right after the splash screen. All the roms I've tried do work so it's definitely not software. Gotta run now, but let me know. TTYL.
[Transformer TF300T General] Stempanssi:
It is getting late over here so I am going to answer more tomorrow...

I did not detach battery ( I know I should´ve :( ). I just put everything together. I then after this tried to reseat the ribbon cable and try again, but no. I will check your tip tomorrow.

Thank you!

P.S. I am starting to wonder about this GO1 and GO3, there should also be a third one (which my original one was) it has no GO just a code with FPC-1 at the end. May there be certain ts boards for certain dig type?
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
Stempassi,

Now ur in the same boat I am.. I'm not going back in without a TS PCB. Its on order.. Look at the bright side - you just wrapped up the hard part (probably).

I kept a tight handle on which firmware that got updated as well after getting my keyboard. T/S firmware is one of the few items that did not update.

Android OS, Kernal, B/T, GPS, Camera, WiFi, Build all got updated.

Touchpanel, Pad EC Version and Mobile Dock Version did not.

As stated by GD, I am guessing Touchpanel will update after its working. But, will see for sure in due time.

Its not like me to dedicate so much time into the repair of a consumer grade product.. I don't know why I'm doing this.. But I am..

Can I see a show of hands from all who wish they'd optd for the Drop Insurance???
[Transformer TF300T General] Stempanssi:
Hey!

1. So the moment the tablet starts to update its touch firmware, it is the TS boards, right?

2. This means no difference in GO1, GO2 or the one without either.

3. In my case my ts is broken because it did not update anything after powering on?

4. Will I be able to just buy a new ts (the one I got says rev. 3) and after that I would work? I do NOT want to spend any more money to waste....

And mabretske, you have ordered a new ts, right? And what GO did you have?

Graphdarnell what does it say on your ts board and dig. Does it also say rev 3 on the ts backside? And on the dig ....?

Sorry but I am just trying to clear things up for me here :)
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
I don't know that your TS board is bad. I'd assume it is from what you described. The question is how we got there. Anyways, I'm not sure why numbers make so much difference for you but here we go: the original dig on mine has no version number printed. The current one is GO1. The current TS Board is version 1.3. If you order from the source I quoted above, they have a return policy if the item is defective. So you're safe. Just do not f.. up on your own and return as if it's their fault. These guys can't afford fudges, I don't think.
[Transformer TF300T General] Stempanssi:
Yea and you do have a working tablet now.
[Transformer TF300T General] tandynor:
ASUS owes us all new Spare TS Boards!
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
1. Dunno.. Sounds like it from GD's accounting.. Putting my money there.. Literally..

2) Dunno.. yet..

3) Maybe broken.. likely if you ask me.. From GD's investigation, possibly from the incident that shattered the digi in the first place OR, more likely, digi plugged in/unplugged with battery still connected. I'm just guessing mine will update because it hasn't been working since last May. It sat around broken for a long time until digi's were reasonably priced.

4) Pretty decent chance from what GD experienced.. Mine should be coming in the next couple days if you want to hold out and see how that goes..

5) I have never pulled out my TS board and have no idea if anything is printed on it or not.. But I'll sure let you know in the next couple days or so.. I ordered from the contact info that GD supplied - not sure if it's new - but the seller has a whole lot of positive feedback - so I took the chance..

Hope that helps..

Mike
[Transformer TF300T General] Stempanssi:
Yes. The one you bought from is the only one who sells atleast on ebay.

But yes I will wait and see how it goes for you... please report your progress asap :)
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
Haha! Hold your horses cowboy! We're still investigating. If Mab could get his to work after replacing in accordance with the collective experience so far, this might show it's not Asus's fault, apart from the fact they did not tell us to cut off all currents. Then again, it's not their legal duty to inform us so, no obligation to support DIY adventures. I can't say I'm sympathetic to corporate maneuvers aimed at maximizing profits at the expense of the little guys, yet our best vindication is not to reciprocate, but to deal with them fairly (my personal opinion). Don't get me wrong, 'cause should it be proven otherwise, I'll be the first to thrust a spear.

Addi. PS: Apparently, these TS boards are far and few in between. Those who buy one from the source I gave and get their devices to work should know it's Tandynor who "discovered" this merchant and directed me there. I had searched Ebay before that and could find nothing. We have him to thank for, not me.
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
bupkiss

Received TS PCB today with cable already installed.

Ripped this thing apart, disconnected the battery, disconnected all ribbons, replaced pcb, reconnected all ribbons and reconnected battery; BUPKISS!!

Disconnected battery and pulled MB to TS replacement ribbon and inspected - looks good.. Pulled my original ribbon and inspected it - looks good also.. Re-installed mine, and reconnected battery - BUPKISS!!

Disconnected battery again, removed TS PCB and reinstalled my original TS PCB and reinspected my cable once again - still good. Reinstalled all original stuff and reconnected battery, reassembled and everything still works but the damned touchscreen.. Been making all of these responses with the unit ever since I got the keyboard...

This is getting pretty hard to believe.. Although, I feel like I am getting proficient at the whole ribbon cable removal and insertion thing now..

Well, lets see if they'll switch it out for another - just like the digitizer..

BTW Stempassi, original and replacement TS pcb's both read Rev.1.3..
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
When it rains, it pours. Did you try with the extra dig? I guess lightning always strikes twice with Mab. Check the MB connector; make sure it's the TS Board. It's a long trip back to the East Coast of the States. They tested them before shipping out, at least that's what they said. Darn it!
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
I did not try with the 1st digi.. Going to send this pcb back and see if it still works, Eugene from eBay restated the fact that it was indeed tested prior to being shipped but said he would still refund for the unit. Told him I only want a refund if it still works - gonna have to test it again anyway if they're gonna resell it.

As solid, again, as this unit has been, with all of the dang disassembly and reassembly, beginning to think that there is something basic that everyone is missing. There is a mesh grounding pad on one side of the SD card receiver, and an area of the digitizer that is right underneath where is mounts that perhaps is a crucial grounding point? Looking for anything at this point.. Getting curiouser and curiouser..

MB connector didn't appear damaged.. I had never disturbed it prior to this.
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
But you can't troubleshoot until you've isolated the bad component. There are so many inter-related parts guess work is almost futile. If the MB connector is not bad, then there are only two components left: the dig and the board. I'm almost sure the board is good because none of us has had a "bad" one until your turn.

That's why you should test it with the spare dig. You don't have to assemble it. Just be careful with the ribbon. The hard part is to guess your finger's position on the screen if you're gonna have the unit lie face down with the ribbon attached to the loose spare dig. I'd connect it to a tv because it's easier to map with the big screen in front of you. The 16:9 screen is exactly in proportion to the tablet's lcd. If the padlock symbol is in the middle of the big screen, that's where you hit on the small one and drag to the right to unlock. Don't ask. I wouldn't tell you to do anything I haven't tried myself. :laugh:
[Transformer TF300T General] Stempanssi:
Hey GD I saw your post on that other thread.

So do you think that Mabs new pcb is just broken or is something else wrong?
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
I have no idea except from talking with a technician here that between the glass screen and the PCB, the only way to find out is to begin with one component that you know for sure is working properly. In Mab's case, we assume that the board works cause it was tested before being shipped out. He had 2 screens and should have tested both but didn't. So at this point we're back at square one with the case. It's always possible, no matter how remote it may appear, that one of the screen, or both, are bad due to human mistakes (mishandling on anyone's part), but I guess we'll never find out now since Mab wanted a refund. Mab, if you're reading this, don't chicken out on us, mate (lol). Work the damn thing until it works again!
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
I ordered an HDMI micro cable and kept the TS pcb. neither of the digitizers or the TS pcbs have a working combination. I really didn't see the point in holding out for the 1st digitizer, but I did - and nothing is different; except I dropped yet another few bucks.

I agree that without some type of test jig, advanced system specific knowledge or a working system for process of elimination, I'm not going to get much traction. All of the connectors look good and still clamp positively and all of the ribbon cables look good as well.

Attempted to buy a new unit today with the intention of using it for testing and returning it.. Best Buy has discontinued selling them and Fry's charges a 15% restocking fee for returned opened items.. Not feeling like sinking that kinda change into it..

There are four, what look to be common, solder joints on the front side of the TS pcb behind the SD slot that threaten to touch the LCD frame. Probably do with pressure. Without system specific knowledge/schematics, no way of knowing if they are ground or not. Maybe the problem.

Haven't decided what, if any, the next step would be,, other than send the TS pcb back and see if it's still good. If it is, I would have to assume that digitizer failure rate rumour is true.

Stay tuned.
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
Hmm. Interesting. I've enclosed two thumbnails of the TS board. I can't seem to find the 4 solder joints you mentioned. TS1 is the side facing the digitizer (downside). One can see the padding piece on top of the sd card receptacle which supposedly would keep the back of the digitizer from contacting any soldered part of the board. The board is raised by the thickness of either the magnesium frame or the sd card slot with the padding. Where would the contact points be? I'm at a loss.
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
Don't be at a loss

Don't be at a loss. Let me help you understand. The 1st image you have there, TS1, the image on the left as it's posted would be the image in question. Behind the SD card slot as shown is a white sticker. Just left of that sticker are the solder joints I am referring to; skirting the edge of the pcb.

Because the SD card slot/reader mounts in a divet (this is where you lose all of that clearance you were pointing out) these joints are precariously close to, if not pressing against, the foil of the LCD edge/frame. As stated in my last post, there is no way of knowing if they are supposed to make contact or not. I think not, else there would be a more positive means of providing the contact. If you removed this pcb from your system, you will see what I mean when you attempt to reinstall it.

Perhaps the TS boards are indeed shorting out - and perhaps this is the reason. This would explain why others have had units that they have never so much as disassembled where their digitizers went wacky and/or died completely without experiencing any trauma; simple pressure could make this happen in time.. In fact, this would explain everything.. If it were the case.

I see you have what appears to be two small foam pads straddling either side of the SD card reader.. I don't remember seeing that - I will have to look again. Those pads, not being in the divet, would possibly provide adequate spacing to keep the contacts from touching the LCD - maybe. Depending on the particular joint height and how tight the pcb was screwed in.

The solder joints in question have the appearance of being common, but so do the joints for the digitizer ribbon cable connectors on the right side of the pcb.

You wrote "One can see the padding piece on top of the sd card receptacle which supposedly would keep the back of the digitizer from contacting any soldered part of the board". Don't confuse my most recent post with one I made earlier regarding that padding piece maybe being a crucial ground to the digitizer. After greater in-depth exploratory surgery, this is evidently not possible.

Sent the TS pcb back today.. Any bets on whether or not it's going to test bad?
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
Going to test good

My bet is that it is going to test good... Here is why..

Recall, Stempassi and GD, that way earlier when I replaced the 1st digitizer I mentioned that it worked once, briefly, while suspended from the system..

I was just beating on this thing - I have gotten quite comfortable with treating it in a rather cavalier fashion, out of frustration I imagine - when lo and behold, it began responding partially in the unlock area of the startup screen. Go f*cking figure..

Downloaded the KOI FREE LIVE WALLPAPER app; it shows touching anywhere on the screen with a ripple effect.. Popped the back off and believe I have established a correlation between applying pressure where the SD card slot is and a reaction from the digitizer.. No time for further investigation tonight - but things are suddenly looking up..

I'm telling you, there is something simple and common that everyone is missing.. And, apparently firmware won't be the issue..

BTW - when I last reinstalled my original TS pcb, I put a sliver of electric tape over those solder joints. Maybe co-incidence, maybe not - but likely so since they're insulated and the problem is still sporadic.

Stay tuned..
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
Don't get this part. You're using the original board and it works intermittently? What is sporadic? You mean to say that with the new board, a shorting at those joints would knock it out, but as soon as you separate them from the dig, it would spring back to life? Uncanny, since I tried two separate boards hanging (unscrewed) with no joy. But I'd be damned if it turns out differently in your case.

UPDATE: Likely a false alarm Mab my man. All four are GND points. Contact between them and the tin rim of the lcd display should do nothing unless the rim is energized somehow, which I don't believe it is. Since the board doesn't touch the dig at any point, screwing one entails screwing the other is due to some internal workings. At the moment, I maintain the cause of failure lies elsewhere, though I willingly stand corrected.
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
Uh,,, what is sporadic?? Its touch-function has a correlation with pressure on the SD card module on the TS pcb..

And, no, I'm not saying anything about those joints.. In fact, I'm ruling them out because I have them insulated and it still doesn't work - unless I apply the aforementioned pressure, which is disassociated with those joints at the moment because they are insulated.

What I AM saying, is that I believe that there is something common and simple that everyone is missing relating to some type of contact with the TS pcb to some other surface as evidenced by the above behavior. The fact that you tried two hanging pcb's with no joy simply serves to support the assertion.

Not digging into it this weekend - heading to Mexico.
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
Where did you get information that they are ground points?
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
Easy enough. There's continuity between those points and other ground spaces including that around the mounting screws holes. A simple voltmeter testing will confirm that. You on a bounty hunt down in Me-Hi-Co? Seems the most wanted guy in Chicago is a very bad man. So do be careful.:laugh::laugh:
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
To Whom It May Concern

FYI (anyone who may be interested) - just received information from the outfit where I bought and returned the TS pcb.. check out the following email trail when sending the TS pcb back..

------------------------------------------------------

Dear techno_force,

Eugene,

The item is in transit.

I know that this is not a forum for questions, but I thought that you might be so kind as to let me pick your brain for a moment since you have tested so many of these pcb's.. Shortly after I shipped back your pcb I discovered that I could get some sporadic response from mine if I press on the area of the SD card slot on the pcb.. Evidently mine still works - and I imagine the one I sent back to you still should as well. Is there a ground or some other contact I should be paying special attention to? Any insight you could provide would be truly appreciated.

- mabretske

----------------------------------------------------------

Dear mabretske,

Hello, Mike.

It looks like your replacement digitizer may not be compatible with your tablet. Could you, please, provide us with the part number of that digitizer (located on the flex cable).

Thank you.

Best Regards,

Eugene

- techno_force

----------------------------------------------------------------

Dear techno_force,

Thank you for taking the time.. I tried a 69.10I21.G01 with no luck, then a 69.10I21.G03 (currently installed) with no luck - this is when I found you.. Original shattered digitizer is long gone, so I cannot say what it's p/n was - but I do understand that there is a third type, however, it is unclear from what I have learned whether or not there is incompatibility among the assemblies. Sounds like you might have different information? If you have testing information/knowledge you could pass along, boy I'd sure be interested...

Much Appreciated.

- mabretske

----------------------------------------------------------------

Dear mabretske,

Hello, Mike.

Your original digitizer has a part number 5158N FPC-1 and you need exact replacement part.

The problem is in firmware for your PCB. Go to Settings->About tablet->Touch Panel Version

There should be a # 3011-4822 that compatible only with 5158N FPC-1 digitizer.

On the latest TF300T tablets touchscreen firmware updates automatically.

But in your case, there is no known way to change PCB firmware and you will need 5158N FPC-1 digitizer to fix the tablet.

Thank you

- techno_force

---------------------------------------------------------------

Take it for what it's worth... BTW - he was spot on regarding my firmware version.. I suppose this could account for the behavior I am seeing..
[Transformer TF300T General] Stempanssi:
I have now succesfully got a refund from my dig.

Does anyone btw know what the message from ebay regarding a cancellation of the refund means? I already got my refund into paypal...

But as for the email you showed it looks interesting. My orig. Dig. Was that FPC1 and the firmware applies to me aswell so I quess he knows... :)

Sent from my LG-P990
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
well, if they are canceling your refund, that doesn't sound good.

Are you pursuing a replacement 5158n digi?
[Transformer TF300T General] mabretske:
Who were you talking about here?

Who were you talking about here?
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
When they refund into your paypal account, there's always that option where I guess you would dispute the amount of refund or something. If you don't do anything, then it will go back to your account after a few days.

---------- Post added at 07:03 AM ---------- Previous post was at 06:52 AM ----------

Question: Mine was not a "latest TF300T." The automatic updating it went through you already know about. Otherwise, when you flash the latest stock ROM, it apparently would update all the incident firmwares for all parts inside. This has been recounted earlier. But according to this account, the firmware on your original PCB cannot be updated! I don't know there's a PCB version that prevents that. Further, if the PCB they sent you was up to date firmware-wise, why didn't it work with either the GO1 or GO3 in your possession?

I tried to extract the firmwares from the stock ROM blob or package but couldn't do it. So I decided to flash the whole package to see what it has to say. Sure enough, it says all firmwares "up-to-date" in Settings/about tablets after completion.

---------- Post added at 07:05 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:03 AM ----------

I was bantering of course. There's this druglord in Mexico who's wanted in Chicago for distributing narcotics whose reputation has surpassed that of Al Capone. "Extremely violent criminal" was the description.
[Transformer TF300T General] Stempanssi:
This is how the message looks...

I already transferred the amount from my paypal to my bank account.

Is this thing there because if I would like to complain about the amount of money refunded?

I did get 10 dollars less refund, guess paypal "steals" something, or?

I guess I don`t have to do anything...

Sent from my LG-P990
[Transformer TF300T General] graphdarnell:
That is to cancel a purchase you made earlier. In your case, You need to contact the seller so as to have a mutual cancellation. It's Ebay, not Paypal.
[Transformer TF300T General] Stempanssi:
If I press the respond now button, I get two options: to decline or accept this cancellation. Which one must I choose?

Sent from my LG-P990