MacBook liquid damage data recovery can still be possible even when a MacBook Pro will not turn on after a spill and there is no backup.
This MacBook liquid damage data recovery case study documents recovery for Samantha after a liquid spill caused a logic board short circuit on a 2023 14-inch MacBook Pro.
Case Study Summary
- Client: Samantha (Australia)
- Device: 2023 14-inch MacBook Pro
- Failure type: Liquid damage with corrosion and a logic board short
- Recovery method: Diagnostic testing to locate the short, then component-level repair
- Outcome: Data recovered after the MacBook powered on
MacBook liquid damage data recovery case study overview
The MacBook Pro would not turn on after liquid exposure. Visual inspection showed corrosion around the HDMI port and nearby power-related areas, consistent with a spill reaching critical sections of the logic board.
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Diagnosis: finding the short circuit
To locate the fault, the logic board was removed and tested using controlled voltage on the power distribution lines. Readings were erratic, which often indicates a short circuit caused by corrosion.
A thermal imaging method was used to identify the area generating abnormal heat, helping narrow down the fault location. Freeze spray was then used to help isolate the specific component in the HDMI power section that was contributing to the short.
Component-level repair used to restore power
The identified capacitor was removed using micro-soldering tools under a microscope. Based on the case description, this capacitor was not required for basic startup, so removing it cleared the short circuit and allowed the MacBook to power on for data access.
MacBook liquid damage data recovery case study results
After the short was removed, the MacBook powered on and data could be copied in a controlled way. This MacBook liquid damage data recovery case study concluded with data being recovered successfully.
The original draft listed specific file counts and categories. Those details are not confirmed by the supplied transcript in this message, so they have not been repeated here.
MacBook data recovery workflow
MacBook and laptop recoveries follow our standard assessment and approval process:
- Free assessment and quote
- Quote provided within 1 to 2 business days
- Work begins only after customer approval
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About Payam Data Recovery
Payam Data Recovery works with individuals, students, families, small and medium businesses, IT companies, and organisations that need their data recovered safely and professionally. Some customers come to us with a single damaged device containing personal memories, while others rely on us for complex technical recoveries that require specialist tools and experience.
We are based in Australia and have been recovering data since 1998. Our clients also include governments, law enforcement agencies, corporations, and public figures. Every job is handled with 100 percent confidentiality and privacy.
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