iPhone 4 Verizon Teardown

The Verizon-compatible iPhone 4, identified by the model number A1349 (previously A1322), functions for making and receiving calls, according to reports. Unlike earlier models, this version lacks the visual warning against disposal as waste, a feature typically found on iPhones sold in regions adhering to directives like the European WEEE Directive. Consequently, these recycling symbols are absent because the CDMA variant isn't distributed in those markets. Notably, the device doesn't feature the "Verizon" branding commonly seen on carrier-specific phones.

The new CDMA iPhone exhibits slight external variations due to its distinct antenna architecture. CDMA, an abbreviation for Code-Division Multiple Access, represents a channel access method; commonly, however, it refers to CDMA2000, a suite of 3G communication protocols built upon the CDMA airwave utilization technique. This technical nuance is generally irrelevant for non-RF engineers. In the United States, Sprint and Verizon operate on CDMA networks, while T-Mobile and AT&T utilize GSM. Globally, GSM, or Global System for Mobile Communication, dominates, though CDMA remains active in 40 countries, notably throughout Asia, with China Telecom serving as the second-largest CDMA carrier, supporting over 90 million subscribers.

Apple initially classified only the SIM card and tray as components intended for user servicing within the AT&T iPhone 4, but has since stated that no internal parts are user-serviceable. We maintain the right to repair your device and are preparing a detailed repair guide. The break observed in the antenna enclosure on the right side likely stems from the transition from GSM to CDMA, a change necessitated by the direct correlation between antenna operating frequency and its physical dimensions, requiring a complete antenna redesign. The AT&T GSM iPhone utilizes three distinct antenna shapes to support UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA frequencies (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz) and GSM/EDGE frequencies (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz). Conversely, the CDMA iPhone incorporates four antenna segments—two U-shaped pieces at the top and bottom, and two straight bars along the edge—optimized for CDMA EV-DO Rev. A operation at 800 and 1900 MHz. Both models share common frequency usage, employing 2400 MHz for Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz for WiFi, and 1.575 GHz for A-GPS. The effectiveness of this antenna redesign in addressing reported reception issues with the AT&T GSM iPhone 4 remains uncertain, as these problems are not consistently observed on GSM iPhone 4 devices operating on other GSM networks globally.

Due to the iPhone's design, it includes small Pentalobe screws; to address these, you can either substitute them with standard Phillips screws using the provided Liberation Kit, or utilize the included, high-quality Pentalobe screwdriver shown in the image.

Once the screws securing the back cover have been removed, it should detach with minimal resistance.

Despite a superficial resemblance, these components are distinct; to differentiate them, the Verizon iPhone is located on the left side.
The phone no longer uses the corner-mounted, counterbalanced vibrator motor; instead, a redesigned vibrator is now located closer to the battery connector.
Refer to the second image to identify the antenna's new position, marked by a notch.

Although the rear housings share a similar appearance, they are distinct components and cannot be used as replacements for one another.
To help you select the ideal mobile device for extensive international travel, consider the following factors.
According to Wikipedia data, approximately 40 countries host 58 CDMA carriers, while nearly 300 GSM/UMTS carriers operate globally.
Selecting the GSM model is advisable when space is limited. However, for improved US coverage, Verizon offers a complimentary temporary replacement phone, specifically designed for broader compatibility, available for a period of three weeks.

Replacement of the battery is straightforward after accessing the internal components; it maintains the original 5.25 Watt-hour capacity, though it is identified by a revised model number, 616-0520.
The battery's weight has been reduced, decreasing from 26.9 grams to 25.6 grams.

Carefully detach the Wi-Fi antenna connector from its socket, ensuring no undue force is applied to prevent damage to the connector or socket.
To allow access for disconnecting the Wi-Fi antenna, detach the ground finger—previously located under the battery connector by Apple to simplify battery replacements.
Despite other updates, the phone's Wi-Fi antenna and chip remain unchanged, employing a Broadcom BCM4329, which is the same model used in the GSM iPhone 4; the antenna itself is almost a direct copy of the one used in that earlier GSM iPhone 4.
Careful removal of the speaker chamber and cellular antenna assembly is straightforward.

Upon removing the metal shield, numerous connectors will be exposed.
Disassembly presents minimal difficulty because the components separate easily; consulting a repair manual is recommended to maintain organization of screws and small parts.

Carefully detach the logic board from the iPhone's internal components.

The logic board for a Verizon iPhone 4 is located at the uppermost position.
Despite maintaining the identical physical dimensions, the circuit board has significant differences; notably, the SIM card slot has been omitted, creating additional area for other components.
The electromagnetic interference shields will be removed shortly.
To minimize electromagnetic interference affecting the sensitive analog and digital circuits, Apple incorporated specifically shaped rubber bumpers positioned between the chips and their EMI shields.

Chip identification data was generously supplied by UBM Techinsights.
On the uppermost surface of the Verizon logic board, you will find the following components.

• The system's central processing unit is an Apple A4.
• The power management system utilizes a Qualcomm PM8028 integrated circuit.
• Apple's 338S087 component incorporates a Dialog D1815A Power Management IC.
• The iPhone 3GS touchscreen controller, identified as part number 343S0499 or #F761586G, is a Texas Instruments/Apple component; it represents a revised version of the earlier touchscreen controller, part number F761586C.
• The SKY77711-4 is a power amplifier module manufactured by Skyworks, designed for CDMA/PCS applications.
• This dual-mode CDMA/AMPS power amplifier module is a SKY77710-4 component from Skyworks.

The rear surface of the Verizon logic board, specifically the upper portion, features:

• Qualcomm MDM6600
• The NAND flash memory chip is a 16 GB Toshiba TH58NVG7D2FLA89 component.
• Toshiba model Y890A111222KA.
• This Murata-labeled package, designated RS KMOD16104, likely houses a Broadcom BCM4329 chip, which is known to deliver Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functionality.
  Evidence supporting this assertion includes the discovery of a similar chip within a GSM iPhone 4 during June, alongside the established history of collaborative RF development between Murata and Broadcom.

This component, the logic board, houses the iPhone's central processing unit and associated circuitry.
Located prominently on the A4 component, you’ll find the identification labels N31BNPZ5, APL0398, and 339S0123.
The accelerometer, identified as ST Micro's part number 2052 33DH 0BGDL, measures motion in three axes.
The 3D gyroscope, model L3G4200D, originates from ST Micro and is designated AGD8.
Component 10C0, part number 047A0315, is required.
Apple-branded Cirrus Logic 338S0589 CLI1495B0 audio codec.

Similar to the Apple TV, the logic board features a collection of unused solder points located along its perimeter, presumably intended for testing purposes during the development phase.
Wireless data connectivity for the phone is enabled by the collaborative function of the Qualcomm MDM6600 and the Qualcomm PM8028 chip.
The Apple-labeled package, identified by the marking 338S0876, contains the Dialog D1815A power management IC.
Avago A2FIO46
Power amplifiers include Skyworks SKY77711 and SKY77710 models.
Due to the extremely small size of these components, a high-quality camera lens and magnifying loupe are essential for proper visual inspection.

The MDM6600 Qualcomm chip enables data transmission speeds reaching a maximum of 14.4 Mbps using HSPA+ technology, and also supports CDMA2000® 1xEV-DO Revision A and Revision B.
Detailed specifications and technical information regarding the chip are available in its datasheet.
The device utilizes a chipset identical to that found in the Droid Pro world phone, enabling compatibility with both GSM and CDMA cellular networks, a capability that suggests Apple had the option to incorporate GSM functionality.
The design process might have favored CDMA-only antennas because this phone accommodates two cellular frequency bands, a smaller number compared to the five bands supported by Apple's GSM model.
The device incorporates a SIM card slot, essential for cellular network connectivity.

The iPhone 4's vibrator motor has been fully replaced.
Instead of a conventional electric motor and counterweight system, the iPhone manufactured by Verizon employs a linear oscillating vibrator to produce call and message notifications, potentially a component sourced from Samsung, as suggested by related patent documentation.
Evaluation revealed the redesigned vibrator produces less noise, a gentler tactile sensation, and a more pleasing acoustic output when placed on a flat surface.

Initial visual inspection suggests the iPhone 4 display assembly shares the same design as the GSM variant.
Because the mounting tab positions vary significantly between the two display assemblies, they are not compatible replacements for each other; the Verizon display is identifiable as the left-hand unit in the second image.
Expect a comprehensive repair manual and substitute components to become available shortly.

Based on a scale where 10 represents the simplest repair process, the Verizon iPhone 4 achieves a repairability score of 6.
The iPhone 4's assembly relies heavily on numerous screws, with minimal adhesive and no retaining tabs.
With the appropriate screwdriver, accessing and swapping the battery and rear panel is straightforward.
To prevent unauthorized access, Apple employs Pentalobe screws for securing the device's rear enclosure.
Due to the integrated construction of the LCD and glass components, replacing a damaged front panel necessitates a more complex and expensive repair procedure.
To prevent contamination of the iPhone 4’s radio frequency grounding contact points by natural skin oils during the repair process, use gloves.