Tutorial: How to change the FPC cable of the microphone of Reachy Mini?

Introduction

Your microphone may not work anymore because of a damaged FPC cable. This tutorial will guide you through the process of changing the FPC cable of the microphone of Reachy Mini.

Damaged FPC cable example

Here is an example of a damaged FPC cable of the microphone:

New FPC cable for the microphone

To change the FPC cable of the microphone, you will need to get a new FPC cable that matches the specifications of the original one.

The specifications of the microphone’s cable are as follows:

• FFC/FPC flat flexible cable
• 12 pins
• 0.5mm spacing
• Type A (connectors on the same side)
• 15mm length

Here are a few references if you are looking for a replacement for your microphone cable:

• Amazon
• Farnell

Steps to change the FPC cable of the microphone

1. Power off your Reachy Mini and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the head of Reachy Mini by following the instructions in the assembly guide.
3. Locate the microphone and the FPC cable connected to it.
4. Carefully disconnect the FPC cable from the head’s board.

Now you should have the microphone+top head assembly with the damaged FPC cable like on the picture below:

5. Gently open the rubber isolation case on one side first. No tool is required, just use your fingers to peel it off.
6. Do the same thing on the other side of the rubber isolation case. Be careful not to pull abruptly.
7. Remove the rubber isolation case and set it aside.
8. Now you can see the FPC cable and the microphone board. Gently remove the black tape and disconnect the FPC cable from the microphone board. Be careful not to damage the connectors.
9. Take the new FPC cable and connect it to the microphone board by doing the steps in reverse order. Make sure it is securely connected but do not apply too much force.
10. Place the rubber isolation case back on the microphone assembly and gently press it to secure it in place.

Now you can plug the new FPC cable back to the head’s board and reassemble the head of Reachy Mini by following the instructions in the assembly guide.

Update on GitHub