We disassembled Amazon’s Kindle 2 e-reader!
Here’s what we found:
- The Kindle 2 sports a 532 MHz processor, clocking in faster than an iPhone 3G. Amazon used a 90nm ARM11-based Freescale MCIMX31L multimedia processor.
- The interior of the Kindle 2 is very functional, but not as aesthetically balanced as some of the devices we’ve disassembled.
- As expected, the E-Ink display uses no power to maintain an existing image. We completely disconnected the screen from the battery, and the content on the screen remained crystal clear even though there was no power to it.
- Pound for pound, it’s more expensive than the MacBook Pro 17″ Unibody we took apart last week, since the Kindle 2 weighs only 10.2 ounces.
- As many have reported, the text-to-speech was remarkably clear and surprisingly listenable.
- The Kindle 2 is thinner than the iPhone 3G, but a hair thicker than an iPod Touch.
- Completely disassembling the Kindle 2 is simple once the case is opened — we removed only 26 screws and disconnected four connectors.
Interesting photos:
Overview
Logic board
Kindle compared to a MacBook Pro 17″ display
Let us know if you have questions or would like to see anything else. We plan on putting our Kindle 2 back together and using it after satisfying everyone’s curiosity.
One Comment
I spent 40 plus years rescuing abandoned classic cars and taught myself how to do everything and I mean total teardown repairing every component sourcing reusable parts all finished off with. Original cellulose paintwork .The finished vehicles sold fast. One a month working all hours provided a very lucrative good for the planet and lots of smiling faces, with can you do one for me from referrals.
Now I have gone electronic and I have. Bought a generic laptop with an Intel. Processer for 66 pounds to learn. I will let you know what happens..
Oh! by the way I am nearly 80 but feel 30,so another chapter in my life fixing every thing.
Terence.
Terence John Ennis - Reply