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GRiD 1680C Disassembly/Troubleshooting

Joined
May 5, 2022
Messages
41
I recently picked up a broken 1680C off of eBay in the hopes of repairing it.
Does anyone have a guide for disassembly? I was able to pry the bottom partway open after taking out the screws beneath the battery compartment but beyond that haven't had much luck and I don't want to be forcing something that I think is just "sticky" when it actually comes off/apart a different way.
The screen appears to be completely toasted sadly, like someone had left it on a car dash although I can't thoroughly test it if I can't even get the PC to POST.
When it is just plugged-in charging/with battery inserted the battery light is flashing red but when I attempt to turn it on, the battery light indicator briefly flashes yellow then goes back to flashing red. Without the battery inserted the same thing happens without the yellow battery light going on at all.
I would appreciate any guidance on how to disassemble it without destruction.
Thanks
 
Ah, I'm sorry I missed this thread before, I've taken apart several of these... I even wrote instructions years ago that I happened to find, not sure if it's still useful to you:

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As to the original problem, these model of laptops tend to have the DC-DC converter board in them die. It's possible to fix but a bit challenging. I can try to help you with that or, I'm a collector specifically of GRiD 1660s and GRiD 1680s and would pay you at least $100 for your unit as is, if you'd like!
 
Thank you for the reply,
I might take you up on it as I am busy rebuilding a Tektronix 7704 scope atm.
I will take a look though, prob some faulty caps.
 
I have officially decided that I have taken on too many projects.
The 1680c is yours if you want for 100$ plus a shipping label if you are still interested.
Be aware that the screen is melted and would needs to be replaced. I haven't gotten around to recapping the dc-dc board or opening up the laptop at all as per previously mentioned.
I can post additional photos if you want.
Additionally, the laptop includes a working power supply and cables, an original case (in very good condition, made in the USA). It also includes all docs that were sealed in plastic when I bought it (even the feedback forms).
It is something that I would if I had time repair and perhaps add a different type of screen to it anyway (over those pretty poor early lcds)
It would look amazing with an EL display dropped in.

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Thanks @joshuaparkour1 ! I received the laptop today and it's a great addition to the collection! I hope to be able to repair it soon.
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The manual is really cool to have, I don't have that for any of the others. Now I have two 1660, a 1660C, and the 1680C, I just need a 1680 and the GRiD portion of the collection will be complete!
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