How To Program ROM Chip for iPads with CD3217

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.

Symptom 1 (Figure 1) -- iPad Not charging and stuck at 5.00V and 0.744A

Symptoms

Symptom 1 (Figure 1)
- USB-C power meter shows only 5V — no voltage negotiation (should be 15)
Symptom 2
- New CD3217 IC installed but still no charge

Solution

Replace both CD3217 and ROM IC (Figure 2)
Program a new ROM using JC V1S Pro (or dump from donor board)
Install both chips
Charging will be restored

Diagnostic Steps

Figure 2 -- The CD3217 IC and the Ace ROM IC
Visual Inspection
- Look for signs of corrosion/Look for shorts 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

Step 5: Install Programmed ROM

Solder the newly programmed ROM chip in original location
Clean with IPA and inspect joints under microscope