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| How To Program ROM Chip for iPads with CD3217 | |
|---|---|
| Device | |
| Affects part(s) | Logic Board |
| Needs equipment | Soldering Iron, Hot Air Station, Microscope |
| Difficulty | ◉◉◉◉ Specialist |
| Type | Soldering |
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Problem description
Some iPads using the CD3217 USB-C controller IC can develop a no charge, no boot, or low voltage negotiation issue. This typically happens after liquid damage or a power surge. Replacing the CD3217 alone doesn’t fix the issue, because the connected ROM IC is often corrupted or burned.
⚠️ Important: The CD3217 and ROM chip are not paired, but the ROM stores crucial firmware/data required for CD3217 functionality. If the CD3217 fails, it often damages the ROM, and a new CD3217 will not function unless the ROM is replaced or programmed.
Symptoms
- Symptom 1 (Figure 1)
- USB-C power meter shows only 5V — no voltage negotiation (should be 15–20V)
- Symptom 2
- New CD3217 IC installed but still no charge
Solution
- Replace both CD3217 and ROM IC
- Program a new ROM using JC V1S Pro (or dump from donor board)
- Install both chips
- Charging will be restored
Diagnostic Steps
- Visual Inspection
- Look for signs of corrosion around the CD3217 and ROM area (usually near USB-C port)
- Check for burnt ROM chips or CD3217
- Voltage Testing
- Use USB-C power meter or bench power supply
- Plug in USB-C and check if iPad negotiates proper voltage
- 5V = error (bad CD3217/ROM or negotiation issue)
Repair Steps
Step 1: Remove Damaged CD3217 & ROM
- Desolder both the faulty CD3217 and the adjacent ROM IC
- Clean area properly, ensure all pads are intact and usable
Step 2: Prepare New CD3217 + New ROM IC
- Use a fresh CD3217 IC from a trusted supplier
- Get a blank ACE SPI Flash chip — compatible size for your board
- Program the ROM using :
- JC V1S Pro with ACE SPI ROM Adapter
Step 3: Program the ROM Chip
Option A: JC V1S Pro Server
- Use JC V1S Pro with their SPI ROM adapter
- Select your iPad model and download the correct ROM dump from their server
- Program the ROM with one click
Option B: Donor Board ROM Dump
- Pull a working ROM chip from a donor board of the same model
- Use JC V1S Pro to read and save the dump
- Flash the dump onto your blank ROM IC
- Store dumps in a labeled folder (example: iPad Pro 11 2nd Gen CD3217 ROM.bin)
Step 4: Reball & Install CD3217
- Reball and solder new CD3217 in place
- Ensure all surrounding passives are intact
- Use thermal camera to confirm no hotspots or improper current draw
Step 5: Install Programmed ROM
- Solder the newly programmed ROM chip in original location
- Clean with IPA and inspect joints under microscope