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Introduction

Use this guide to replace the directional pad (D-pad) in a Retroid Pocket Flip handheld gaming console. The D-pad is used for directional input during gameplay and menu navigation. If the D-pad becomes unresponsive, registers incorrect inputs, or feels uneven when pressed, it may need to be replaced.

This repair requires moderate technical experience because internal components must be removed to access the D-pad.

Before beginning, power off the device completely and remove the microSD card. Battery, joystick, and motherboard removal are required before accessing the D-pad. Follow Electrostatic Discharge when working inside the device to prevent damage to sensitive components.

What you need

Step 1 Back Plate Assembly

Retroid Pocket Flip D-Pad Replacement, Back Plate Assembly: step 1, image 1 of 2

Retroid Pocket Flip D-Pad Replacement, Back Plate Assembly: step 1, image 2 of 2

Remove the four 5.9 mm screws from the backplate of the device with a 1.3mm hex screwdriver.
Use a plastic opening pick to carefully separate the back cover from the device.

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Step 2

Use a plastic spudger to carefully lift and disconnect the battery connector.
Use tweezers to disconnect the connector from its socket.

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Step 3 Joystick

Retroid Pocket Flip D-Pad Replacement, Joystick: step 3, image 1 of 2

Retroid Pocket Flip D-Pad Replacement, Joystick: step 3, image 2 of 2

Remove the two 3.2 mm screws securing the top of the shield with a JIS #000 screwdriver.
Remove the five 3.2mm screws securing the plastic insulating shield to the motherboard.
Use tweezers to remove the "R" sticker to reveal the last screw.

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Step 4

Retroid Pocket Flip D-Pad Replacement: step 4, image 3 of 3

Carefully lift and unstick the fan module using a plastic spudger, then remove it.
Remove the sticky ribbon connectors on each side of the plate with a plastic spudger.
Use a plastic spudger to carefully separate the shield from the board.
Do not pull abruptly: the shield is partially bonded to the CPU with thermal paste. You can use a hair dryer on low heat to soften the paste slightly before lifting the shield.

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Step 5

Retroid Pocket Flip D-Pad Replacement: step 5, image 3 of 3

Use tweezers to unclip and remove the two ribbon cables on each joystick module.
Use a plastic spudger to lift and remove the joystick modules; they are secured with double sided tape.

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Step 6 Motherboard

Retroid Pocket Flip D-Pad Replacement, Motherboard: step 6, image 1 of 3

Retroid Pocket Flip D-Pad Replacement, Motherboard: step 6, image 2 of 3

Retroid Pocket Flip D-Pad Replacement, Motherboard: step 6, image 3 of 3

Use a plastic spudger to disconnect the sliding connector by pushing on the tab to slide it out of its socket.
Use tweezers to disconnect the ribbon cables from the board.
Disconnect the coaxial connector on the left of the motherboard by positioning tweezers under the metal neck of the connector to lift it straight up.
Always lift the coaxial connector straight up. Do not pry at an angle, as this can detach the socket from the motherboard.