Dealing with camera issues on your Samsung S10 can be frustrating, especially when your device has been previously repaired by another shop. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of diagnosing and repairing a common camera failure issue on the Samsung S10. Whether you’re a professional technician or a DIY enthusiast, this guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to get your camera back in working order. Let’s dive into the repair process and resolve this issue once and for all.
Phone Details
Model: SAMSUNG S10
Announced: 2019, February 20
Defect Phenomenon
When opening the camera app, you receive a “Camera failed” error. After confirming with the customer, it was revealed that the phone had been repaired by another shop previously.
Troubleshooting
To properly diagnose the issue, the motherboard must be carefully examined.
Power off the phone to ensure safety.
Place the phone on a heating pad set to 120°C for 2 minutes. This will soften the adhesive securing the back cover.
Once the adhesive is soft, use a slim plastic card to gently separate the back cover from the phone. Applying a small amount of alcohol can help slide the card through gradually until the housing is separated.
After removing the back cover, disconnect the flex cables using an anti-static pry bar.
Disconnect the rear camera module to gain full access to the camera connectors.
Repair Process
Upon inspection, the camera connector appears undamaged. However, further testing is required:
Measure the diode value on the camera connector. Connect the red probe of a multimeter to the GND and the black probe to each pin of the connector. When measuring pin 58, an infinite diode value is observed, indicating an abnormality.
Check the schematic diagram to trace the issue. Pin 58 is connected to two small components and the power IC (U10002), suggesting that the power IC may be the cause of the defect.
Replace the power IC:
Remove the shielding cover using a hot air gun (set to 380°C, airflow 3).
Apply solder paste to the power IC and remove it with the hot air gun at 380°C and airflow 3.
Clean the bonding pads using solder wick and a PCB cleaner.
Prepare a new power IC by reballing the chip. Before reballing, remove the original bonding pads on the IC using solder paste flux and a soldering iron at 380°C. Clean with PCB cleaner.
Align the chip with a stencil and apply medium-temperature solder paste with a scraper knife. Heat to form solder balls with a hot air gun at 320°C. After removing the chip from the stencil, reheat to ensure smooth and round tin balls.
Apply solder paste to the PCB and align the re-balled chip to the correct location. Heat with a hot air gun at 320°C to secure the chip.
Re-measure the diode value on the camera connector after the motherboard has cooled. The diode value should now return to normal (around 500).
Reattach the shielding cover using a hot air gun.
Reassemble the phone, reconnecting the camera, screen, battery, and other components.
Power on the phone and test the camera function. The issue should be resolved.
Conclusion
Successfully repairing the camera on a Samsung S10 requires careful diagnosis and a precise repair process, particularly when dealing with components like the power IC. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can restore your phone’s camera functionality and avoid the hassle of additional repairs. For those interested in mastering phone repair techniques, consider enrolling in courses at REWA Academy to enhance your skills and knowledge.
