Introduction: Replacing a Broken USB Connector on a Microsoft Autoroute GPS Receiver

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About: I've always been interested in what makes things work and stops them too! Having spent some time working in various fields of Engineering including Production Engineering I love taking inspiration from other p…

To carry out the steps in this Instructable you will need the items in the picture above;

1. Soldering Iron

2. Desoldering Pump

3. Solder

4. Small Screwdriver

5. Pair of Sidecutters

6. Replacement USB Type A Plug.

7. The GPS Unit.

Apologies for the poor quality of many of the photos in this instructable sadly I was photographing as I went along and not checking the focus of the shots! Hopefully you can get the idea though.

Step 1: Remove the Receiver Unit From the Adaptor

Remove the GPS Receiver Unit from the Adaptor.

Both these photos but particularly the second one shows that the USB connector is at an odd angle due to the break inside the unit.

Step 2: Remove Case Securing Screws

Remove the case securing screws which are concealed beneath the label. I located them by feeling for the screw holes through the label and the pushing the screwdriver tip through the label to release and remove the screws.

Step 3: Remove the Case Cover.

Remove the Case Half to reveal the Printed Circuit Board.

Step 4: Unsolder the Broken Connector

Unsolder any remaining connections using the soldering iron and desoldering pump.

Also remove any excess old solder and broken contact legs from the contact pads on the PCB.

Step 5: Trim Securing Legs

Trim away un-needed metal securing tabs/legs from the new USB Connector using the Side Cutters.

Step 6: Solder New USB Connector

Solder the new USB Connector in place.

Step 7: Reassemble and Test

Reassemble the case using the screws removed earlier and the screwdriver.

Re-connect the Receiver unit to the Adaptor.

VOILA! Your Repair is Complete.

Now plug it in and test it.