The summary of ‘This Steam Deck Shell Swap was HARD’

The video showcases the challenging process of performing a shell swap on a Steam Deck gaming device with recommendations for tools and careful disassembly processes. Key steps include removing components, transferring them to a new shell, and reassembling the device. The importance of caution, organization, and patience is emphasized throughout, with a focus on avoiding damage and scratches. The content creator successfully completes the shell swap, customizing the device with new components and expressing satisfaction with the finished product. Viewers are advised about the complexity of the process but encouraged to undertake similar projects.

00:00:00

In this segment of the video, the content creator discusses the challenging process of performing a shell swap on a Steam Deck gaming device. They highlight the modifications they have made to their personal device, including custom boot-ups, themes, and sounds. Ultimately, they proceed to showcase the unboxing of a shell swap kit from ExtremeRate, which includes various components like buttons, triggers, grills, and the shell itself. The importance of removing the SD card before disassembly is emphasized, as well as the recommendation of using a smaller, faster charger alternative for the Steam Deck.

00:03:00

In this segment of the video, the content creator recommends a Nexo Charger for the Steam Deck and suggests getting extra tools for the job. Some recommended tools include a tool kit with pry tools and guitar picks, a screen heating pad, and a heat gun or hair dryer for adhesive removal. The video then demonstrates the process of disassembling the Steam Deck, starting with removing screws, accessing the motherboard, unplugging the battery, and dismantling various controller internals like triggers, joysticks, and the main controller board. The importance of being careful with components and following labeled instructions during disassembly is emphasized.

00:06:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker advises taking pictures to keep track of parts. They demonstrate removing ribbon cables, touchpads, and bumpers, mentioning the red color due to a skin. The process is mirrored for the left side: trigger, joystick, bumper, motherboard, touchpads, bumper, and buttons are removed. The speaker emphasizes organization and careful handling, mentioning included spare springs. The heatsink and SSD are also removed, with a reminder to clean components and be cautious with thermal paste.

00:09:00

In this segment of the video, the narrator demonstrates the disassembly process of a handheld device. They show how to remove the motherboard, audio board, speakers, and the screen. The key points include being cautious while unplugging cables, using guitar picks and a heat gun to safely remove the screen, and being patient when slicing through adhesive. The narrator also emphasizes the importance of using plastic tools to avoid scratching the screen.

00:12:00

In this part of the video, the focus is on disassembling a Steam Deck. The giant magnesium frame is removed by unscrewing six screws in the front and four in the back. Following this, the daylight sensor is easily pulled out using a heat gun. The speaker assembly and other components are transferred to a new shell. Different colored buttons are available, but customization is up to the individual. The new shell is modified to add vents. The process involves some minor challenges but is ultimately successful in preparing the components for assembly in the new shell.

00:15:00

In this segment of the video, the narrator talks about the process of reassembling the Steam Deck after disassembling it. The narrator mentions the challenges of putting the screen back on due to the adhesive, needing to clear out the old adhesive and replace it with new adhesive. They also highlight the use of a heat gun to speed up the process, but caution against using metal tweezers to avoid scratching the screen. The narrator expresses nervousness about potentially damaging the screen during reassembly. They then proceed to install the soundboard, fan, and controller parts, highlighting the installation of replacement translucent touch pads as risky and difficult.

00:18:00

In this segment of the video, the narrator showcases the process of reassembling a Steam Deck after disassembling it. Key actions include installing the touchpad, controller board, joystick, trigger, and the motherboard. Despite some challenges, like the back buttons being fused into the original shell, the narrator uses a drill to successfully remove and transfer them to the new shell. The narrator ultimately completes the reassembly and admires the finished appearance of the device.

00:21:00

In this segment of the video, the content creator installs black buttons and a grill on the device, skips installing a film paper cover, closes up the device, and receives positive feedback on the modified steam deck. The creator reflects on the project, acknowledging the effort required but expressing satisfaction with the end result. They caution viewers about the complexity of the process but encourage them to pursue similar projects.