Sinclair ZX Spectrum Service Manual 
Spectrum For Everyone  https://spectrumforeveryone.com/ 
16 
2 DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY 
 
 Disassembly 
 Assembly 
2.1 DISASSEMBLY 
Unplug all  input/output  leads  and  turn  the  computer upside-down  to  reveal five self-tapping  screws. 
Remove  the  screws.  Hold  the  two  halves  of  the  case  together  and  return  the  computer  to  the  keys 
uppermost position. The top half of the case can now be separated from the bottom half, although it 
remains connected to it by two flexible keyboard ribbon connectors. Care should be taken not to damage 
the ribbon connectors. As an aid to reassembly, the lie of the connectors within the case should be noted. 
To remove the board from the lower half of the case, remove one self-tapping screw (adjacent to IC22 
socket) and lift out the board. It may be advantageous to make up two short pluggable extensions for the 
keyboard connectors in order to improve accessibility to the board. 
To change either the keyboard membrane or the rubber keyboard mat it is first necessary to remove the 
escutcheon plate (template). This is attached to the case by double-sided adhesive tape around the edges. 
The template is removed by inserting a screwdriver at one end and levering it away from the case. It is 
not normally possible to remove the template without damage. 
2.2 ASSEMBLY 
Assembly  is  carried  out  using  the  reverse  procedure  to  that  of  disassembly.  Do  not  overtighten  self-
tapping fixing screws. 
When replacing a keyboard component, note that the membrane keys into projections on the case. Place 
the keypad over the membrane and ensure that it is positioned and seated properly. Faulty installation 
can result in depressed keys being trapped under the template during subsequent key operations. To 
install the template, place double-sided adhesive tape around all four edges, locate it in position on the 
case and apply firm pressure around the edges (12mm tape on sides and bottom, 6mm at top). 
When aligning the top half of the case with the bottom half ensure that the two keyboard ribbons are not 
trapped between projecting components within the case.  In their correct positions, there is sufficient 
room for the cables to take up a comfortably curved position inside the case. If a cable is trapped and bent 
double, an open circuit will sooner or later result.