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If you're looking to purchase parts to repair your iPod mini, it's important to know whether you own a 1st or 2nd generation iPod mini. Most components are interchangeable between the two models, but notably, the LCD isn't interchangeable. This guide will identify several external and internal differences that distinguish between the two different models.
First off, you should understand the nomenclature sellers use to indicate which model iPod mini parts they are selling. For the most part, sellers use the following abbreviations: Gen1, Gen2, 1G or 2G.There are two external features that distinguish Gen2 iPod minis from Gen1s. Gen2 iPod minis have the disk size etched on the case back and the click wheel symbols are the same color as the case (click wheel color doesn't help if you own a silver iPod mini). Gen1 iPod mini's don't have the disk size etched on the case back and the click wheel symbols are silver (or grey) regardless of the color of the iPod case.
Below are pictures of the external case of both a 1st and 2nd generation iPod mini. The 2nd generation iPod mini is the unit on the left that has the two iPod case backs; the case on the right is a 1st generation iPod mini. Looking at the iPod mini front, the pink case is a 2nd generation model, and the silver one is a 1st generation unit.
If you purchased your iPod used, it's possible that the previous owner replaced the case, so you should also know how to distinguish Gen1 from Gen2 iPod internal components. Below are several internal differences between the 1G and 2G iPod mini's.
LCD Ribbon Cable Width
- Gen1= 21 mm
- Gen2= 16mm
- Gen1: 820-1626-A
- Gen2: 820-1648-A
The pictures below are images of the back side of the iPod mini logic board. The unit on the right, is a 1st generation logic board it can be distinguished by the small black circle (2mm dia) with a white (or silver) center below the battery input connector. Also note the locations of the two small round components.
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Guide created: 04/16/07 (updated 10/15/09)
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