The Macintosh USB-C Power Jack Mod is a custom upgrade designed for users looking to replace their original power jack with a USB-C port, providing a more convenient, modern power solution using the PICO-PSU.
This mod requires users to make internal modifications to the power board, so it’s not for the faint of heart. Prior experience with electronics and soldering is essential for a successful installation, as the power board needs to be reworked to accommodate the USB-C connector.
Why USB-C?
The decision to swap out the original power jack came from the failure of the transformer in the internal power board. While the rest of the system continued to function, the transformer was no longer working, making it an ideal opportunity to modernise the machine. USB-C is now the go-to standard for charging and power delivery, and this mod leverages that simplicity.
Benefits:
Compact and Convenient: No need to use the analogue board side of the Macintosh.
Reduced Heat: Say goodbye to the excess heat generated by large capacitors and transformers in the internal power supply. With this mod, those components are no longer required.
Future-Proofing: USB-C is the universal standard for power delivery, meaning you’ll have an easier time finding replacements or alternative power sources if needed.
USB-C Power Supply - Anker 100W USB-C Charger, I recommend, as it provides a stable and enough power for the Macintosh.
Advanced Knowledge: This mod requires soldering and making adjustments to the internal power board, so a solid background in electronics is a must.
Skillful Execution: Due to the complexity of the modifications, users should be confident in their ability to work with circuit boards and manage internal components.
Wires - Users must use the correct AWG wires when installing.
Installation Guide:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Remove the Original Power Jack and Ground Strap:
Begin by removing the original power jack and ground jack from the power board.
To do this, apply heat from the soldering iron to the pin holes located underneath the power jack. Once the plastic melts, carefully pull the power jack out of the board. Remove the the ground jack as well.
Remove the Listed Components: You will now need to desolder and remove the following components from the board:
C36
LF1
C38
C37
T3 (Transformer)
C30, C31, C32, C33 (100µF 200V capacitors)
Use a soldering iron and desoldering braid to carefully remove these components.
Prepare the USB-C Power Board:
Take the USB-C power board and place it inside the specially designed 3D-printed USB-C casing.
The casing is designed to hold the board securely in place, but you’ll need to glue it in for stability.
Secure the Power Board:
Use super glue or hot glue to attach the USB-C power board to the 3D-printed casing.
Be sure to apply enough glue to keep the board firmly in place, but avoid excess glue that could interfere with the electrical connections or components.
Connect the USB-C Power Board to the Power Board:
Cut two thick AWG cables for the ground and power connections. Use black for the ground and red for the power cable.
Solder the ground cable (black) to the ground pad on the USB-C power board and the other side to the ground pad on the opposite side of the power board.
Solder the red power cable to the pad where LF2 was located and solder the other side to the power pad on the USB-C board
For the Pico-PSU:
Solder the red or yellow wire from the Pico-PSU to the pin next to where LF2 was located.
Ground the Pico-PSU by connecting the ground wire to the ground pad on the backside of the analog board.
Reassemble and Check Connections:
Once you’ve soldered the ground and power cables, carefully assemble the board back into the original casing.
Plug in the Pico-PSU and ensure all components are properly connected.
Double-check all the connections, especially the ground and power cables, to ensure they are secure and correctly placed.
Test the System:
Plug in the USB-C cable to the new port and check if the system powers up as expected.
Important Notes:
Safety First: Always take precautions when working with electronics. Make sure to power down the machine and disconnect it from any power source before beginning work.
Skill Required: This mod is not for beginners. You will need experience in soldering and circuit modification to successfully complete the installation.
Check Connections: Double-check all connections before powering up the system. Improper connections can cause damage to the power board or other components.
Jake
