The iPhone 8 Plus, launched in September 2017, has long been praised for its impressive dual-camera setup, allowing users to capture stunning photos with both 1x and 2x options. However, many owners have faced frustrating issues with the iPhone 8 Plus 2x camera not working, while the rest of the phone functions smoothly. If you’re among those experiencing this problem, don’t worry — you’re not alone! In this article, we’ll explore the common causes behind the malfunction of the 2x camera on your iPhone 8 Plus and provide step-by-step guidance on how to troubleshoot and repair the issue effectively.
Phone Details
Model: iPhone 8 Plus
Announced: 2017, September 12
Defect Phenomenon
The phone boots up normally, but the 2x camera does not function. Upon further testing, the 2x camera works after replacing the rear camera module, but switching to the 1x camera mode causes the camera to stop working. The 1x camera fails to turn on, indicating a potential issue with the motherboard.
Troubleshooting
1: Initial Steps
- Disassemble the phone and remove the rear camera module.
- Replace the module with a new one and test the camera functions.
- The 2x camera works correctly, but the 1x camera still fails to turn on, suggesting a motherboard-related issue.
2: Motherboard Inspection
- Remove the motherboard and examine it carefully under a microscope.
- Notice that some small resistors have been previously replaced, but the shielding cover remains intact, indicating the chips under the cover have not been repaired.
3: Identify Potential Causes
- The iPhone 8 Plus features dual rear cameras: the left is the 2x camera, and the right is the 1x camera.
- Since the 1x camera is not functioning, focus on checking the diode values on the right connector using a multimeter.
Measure the diode values on the coupling capacitor to the CPU, finding that all values are within normal range, suggesting the CPU is not the issue.
Repair Process
1: Power Supply Testing
- Measure the power supplies for the camera by connecting the motherboard to a DC power supply.
- Trigger the motherboard to boot using tweezers, and measure the voltages using a multimeter.
Confirm that all three required voltages (2.8V, 1.1V, 1.8V) for the 1x camera are present, indicating the camera power supply IC is likely functioning correctly.
2: Replace the Coupling Capacitors
- Remove the seven coupling capacitors responsible for the camera’s function.
- Solder back seven new coupling capacitors with identical specifications.
During the soldering process, carefully control the hot air gun’s heating temperature and time to avoid damaging nearby components like the Wi-Fi chip.
3: Reassemble and Test
- Reassemble the phone and reinstall the rear camera module.
- Test the camera functions again, confirming that both the 1x and 2x cameras now work perfectly.
Conclusion
The issue with the 1x camera not functioning was resolved by replacing the coupling capacitors on the motherboard. Careful attention to the power supply and proper soldering techniques ensured that the iPhone 8 Plus 2x camera not working issue were fully restored.
