I have a 12-inch MacBook with a broken screen and a battery issue that keeps it from running unless plugged in, making it impossible to use Target Disk Mode. My main objective is to recover files from the drive. I recently purchased a used 12-inch MacBook to switch out the logic board, but I'm concerned that $400 for a repair might be too high. I had a tough experience trying to replace the screen before, and the recommended tools were incorrect. I'm hoping swapping the logic board is easier. Any advice or guidance would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
5 Answers
If your MacBook can still start up, consider getting a dongle to connect power and have an extra USB-C port. This allows you to use Target Disk Mode for file transfer.
Check out iFixit for some helpful guides. If your drive is detachable, you could connect it to another Mac. If it's a HDD, use a SATA to USB cable, but keep in mind that newer SSDs are often soldered to the logic board.
Honestly, if you're asking if it's difficult, it might be a sign that it is. Replacing a logic board is no small feat, especially if you've had trouble with repairs before.
None taken, thank you for your input.
If recovering files is your main goal, you can just connect your MacBook to a USB-C display that supports power delivery and then plug in a USB stick or drive to transfer the files. No need to swap out the logic board unless you absolutely have to!
I don’t get why they suggest that instead of engaging directly.
If the HDD is soldered, replacing the logic board won’t help you get those files back. Just go with the external monitor method that the other user suggested, it’ll work either with USB-C or DisplayPort.
It’s soldered, unfortunately.