Acer Aspire E3-111Acer Laptop
Acer Aspire E11 E3-111 Disassembly
In this guide, I’ll explain how to disassemble the Acer Aspire E11 E3-111 to remove and replace the battery, hard drive, WALN, RAM, heatsink, and motherboard.
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Step 1: Remove the bottom case.
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- Remove all screws from the bottom case.
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- Pry up and remove the bottom case.
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- Under the case, you can access the battery, hard drive, speakers, and wireless card.
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- The bottom case has been removed, but we did not find the cooling fan.
Step 2: Remove the battery.
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- The Aspire E11 uses an 11.4v, 2640mah, 30wh Li-ion battery. Acer part number: AC13C34.
- Disconnect the battery connector from the motherboard and remove two screws securing the battery.
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- The battery has been removed.
Step 3: Remove the hard drive.
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- Remove the hard drive.
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- Acer laptop with a Seagate 500GB 5400RPM Momentus thin hard drive.
Step 4: Remove the wireless card.
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- Disconnect two antenna cables and remove one screw securing the wireless card. You can remove the wireless card.
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- Qualcomm Atheros QCWB335 Wireless LAN
Step 5: Remove the motherboard.
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- Disconnect four cables from the motherboard and remove three screws securing the motherboard.
- LCD cable
- Keyboard cable
- Touchpad cable
- Speakers cable
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- Acer Aspire E11 E3-111’s palm rest, replacing the keyboard is not very easy; you must disassemble the whole laptop.
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- Motherboard
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- On the other side of the motherboard, you can find the RAM and heat sink but no cooling fan. The heat sink is very large.
Step 6: Remove the RAM.
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- The E3-111 comes with a Kingston 4GB DDR3L 1600MHz RAM.
Step 7: Remove the heat sink.
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- Remove three screws securing the heat sink.
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- Heatsink
For more guides, check out the Acer Aspire E3-111 device page.
I have an E3-111 and need a rubber safety skin for it. Is it possible to use this skin for a MacBook? (Rubberized Hard sleeve carry case bag box skin for MacBook Air 11″ 11.6″).Thanks for the help/answer.
Great! THX for this helpful job. This laptop needs SSD.
So can only one memory module be placed?
Only 1 on these models.
Is it DDR3 or DDR3L? I want to buy this netbook, which has a standard RAM of 2GB, and I want to buy a 4GB or 8GB RAM, but I need to know if DDR3 is normal or DDR3L (low voltage).
it’s DDR3L
Is RAM DDR3 compatible with the laptop or ONLY DDR3L? I have just purchased a sodium 4GB DDR3 RAM module. I am waiting for your answer before disassembling the laptop.
This is the exact one:
http://www.amazon.com/Kingston-Technology-1600MHz-PC3-12800-KVR16LS11/dp/B00CQ35HBQ
Kingston 4GB DDR3L 1600 SO-DIMM ACR16D3LS1KFG/4G LF+HF 512*8 30NM / F-DIE
Manufacturer: Kingston
Part Number: ACR16D3LS1KFG/4G
Range: Kingston System Specific Low Voltage Range
Type: 204 pin
Memory Type: DDR3 SODIMM / Laptop / Notebook
Capacity: 4GB
Configuration: Single 4GB Memory Module
Channel Configuration: Single Channel
Speed: 1600 MHz / PC3L-12800S
Timings: CL11 (11-11-11) @ 1600MHz
Buffering: None, Unbuffered
Error Detection: None, Non-ECC
Pin / Connector Material: Gold
Voltage: 1.35V (Low Voltage)
Thanks for this first great guide.
Do you think the laptop supports 8GB on a single DDR3 module?
I also think an SSD will be faster and have a longer battery life.
Yes, 8GB on single module is the max configuration.
I agree with the SSD upgrade. If someone has upgraded to SSD, I would like to know any details related to BIOS or other SW config changes. Thanks.
I’m looking to do that to mine. I just picked up an SSD. I’m having trouble finding the version of the OS and key this laptop comes with. I really don’t want to put a bootleg OS on it. It’s nice for being under 200 and not some whacked-out Android OS.
Awesome breakdown of the laptop! I just wonder if I am going to need to replace the HDD with an SSD. What dimensions do I need to look for? I know it needs to be 2.5″, but is the 9mm height necessary to keep as well? The only SSD drives I find are 7mm. Help!
Thanks for the pictures and how to.
BTW, the motherboard is only held on by 3 screws (with the arrows), not 5.
you are right!
Again, awesome breakdown of the laptop. I just want to know if the CPU is upgradeable. I’m just curious about how powerful I can make this laptop become!
If it is replaceable, how would I know what is compatible with the computer? I know I have to update the BIOS too, so with the latest update, how would I know to find a compatible Intel CPU?
I have been thinking the same thing. The CPU is soldered. If ever one has to replace the whole motherboard from a similar model that has a different processor, such as Acer Aspire V3 111-P6VM (if compatible), my only concern here would be whether the heat spreader is compatible (stack-up height, etc.). Hopefully, all connectors and wireless cards are compatible. Besides that, I think one has to reinstall the OS.
My upgrade progression plan is Memory (as soon as possible), SSD, and CPU (after a year or so).
Forget the CPU; it isn’t possible in this design because it’s soldered to and integrated with the motherboard.
Can you get directly to the RAM just opening the case and removing only the mobo screws?
I think you need to remove connectors and probably some other screws for wireless card and HDD.
Does not seem complicated, but delicate work with the connectors.
More details on how to access RAM are on this link. See the video and extra pics.
http://liliputing.com/2014/07/acer-aspire-v11-fanless-bay-trail-laptop-upgradeable.html
I recently upgraded my E3-111 to 8G RAM, purchased from Crucial, I had no problem with installation, but now the USB ports don’t work, and uninstalling in the device manager doesn’t help. Do I need to install new drivers? If I do, which ones? The Acer site shows three different chipset drivers. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
What crucial memory did you use? Can you provide specs and stock numbers?
Your USB ports may not work, because of higher power draw of the new 8GB memory module, so you’ll have to plugin the power adapter while using USB ports.
Usually, DDR3 is not compatible with DDR3L, you should open your bottom case and check the RAM type.
The DDR3 module is not working. I have just checked.
I know it’s late, but maybe it will help someone.
First, it was a great help with this breakdown of yours.
That being said, not all 2.5-inch SSD drives fit in,
My series 330 Intel is a good 3mm fatter than needed.
That’s because this uses the new 7mm standard, NOT 9.5mm… your Intel drive is a 9.5mm, it won’t fit.
I need to buy the E3-111 mainboard because mine is out of order. Which model is it? Where can I find it?
You may need to contact Acer.
What frequency of RAM does Acer E3-111 have so I can buy a new one and upgrade it?
it’s DDR3L 1600MHz
It’s actually 1333MHz, Bay Trail does not support 1600MHz.
This is good 4Gb RAM memory ??? http://www.likeit.ro/memorii-laptop/kingston/kvr16ls11-4/?utm_source=price-ro — 1600Mh or 1333MHz ,what is the true ???
Did you use 1600 or 1333?
Thanks
its DDR3L 1600MHz
Does the heatsink need to be replaced when upgrading to memory? (more than 4GB)
You do not need to remove the heat sink when upgrading RAM.
Thank you for a good guide.
Thanks!
I upgraded a $199 E11 to 8 GB RAM and changed out the HD for an SSD. Very easy with this doc.
To get to the RAM, I unscrewed the 3 screws on the motherboard, disconnected the wifi, and only unplugged the LCD. I was able to rotate the MB over and access the SODIMM without unplugging anything else.
Sweet!
What is the RAM you installed?
On the CRUCIAL website, they show 8GB DDR3 PC3-12800 Unbuffered NON-ECC 1.35V 1024Meg x 64
to be compatible.
DDR3 PC3-12800 • CL=11 • Unbuffered • NON-ECC • DDR3-1600 • 1.35V • 1024Meg x 64 •
Someone mentioned that 1600 is not supported but only 1333.
Thanks
I used Crucial 8GB Single DDR3 1600 MT/s (PC3-12800) CL11 SODIMM 204-Pin 1.35V/1.5V Notebook Memory CT102464BF160B. It works fine.
Can I change the Celeron processor in my Acer Aspire E3-111 to other processors (i3, i5)?
It seems the CPU is soldered on the motherboard, you can not upgrade the CPU.
For reference, the following were tested and worked:
Crucial BLS8G3N18AES4CEU 8GB DDR3L (1.35v) 1866MHz CL10 2 ranks, 16 chips.
Automatic configured as 1333MHz 8-8-8-23-1T
Samsung SSD 850 PRO (limited to 300MB/s by SATA II)
Ok, bear with me for a moment. This might seem like a silly question, but how do you get Windows OS back on the blank SSD?
You can ghost the original Windows from your old hard drive to the new SSD or install new Windows to your SSD.
I bought this laptop for less than $200. As soon as I got it, I opened it up and upgraded the memory to 8GB and the HDD to a 512GB SSD from Crucial. Of course, I installed Linux on it. Let me tell you that now this machine is a little beast. It’s really fast, and I can do almost everything I do with my desktop. Great product!!
Hello, jalcom,
Can you tell me how you upgraded the hard disk to an SSD? I have created a backup of the factory OS Windows 8.1 that the laptop came with. I created the backup on an external hard drive with several other personal files and folders (movies, music, documents, etc.). Now I want to upgrade the 500 HDD to an SSD, and I have no idea how to get the OS back on the black SSD and what to do once I fix the SSD physically and turn on the laptop. Can you briefly advise what is the procedure for this?
Hi, jalcom! Would you be able to please explain how to install Linux on this laptop because I can’t get it working? Thanks
I opened up my laptop to replace the memory with 4GB and now it won’t boot up. Everything is plugged in as it should be and I can hear the hard drive working. Any clue what could be wrong?
Can you sell the motherboard to me?
Varun, you could try replacing the original HDD and using a SATA USB bridge and Samsung Data Migration Software to properly transfer the OS to the new disk before switching again. Or perhaps a friend could make a bootable Windows install USB drive.
Lacy, is the memory 1.35V compatible? Could you reply with the full model number? If in doubt use one of the posted tested memory models.
Hi. Can you tell me the size of the screws from the bottom? Thanks
Sorry if this is a dumb question. But is this model of Acer known by a more common name? I’m looking for replacement parts and can’t find any.
Please go to our parts shop, the parts for E3-111 are available in our shop!
David
How easy is it to replace the keyboard on one of these? One of my keys has been damaged, and Acer support wants to charge me 70 GBP to do it. I plan to do it myself, but I want to understand what I am taking on!
Hi, I lost some screws, what’s the size of the screws?
Hello,
I appreciate your guide. Can you please provide the exact model this guide is for? I know it states Acer Aspire E3-111, but that does not provide an accurate model. (what comes after E3-111)
A layman’s interpretation of this guide would assume that any Acer Aspire E3-111 has an upgradable hard drive. Unfortunately, this is not the case. It is dependent on the specific model. Some E3-111 have 32GB eMMcs and do not have a SATA header, so installing an SSD is not an option.
Thank you
I would venture to guess that a storage size of 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB would be eMMC more likely or not. I upgraded the C0WA, which came with a 320GB drive. Those wanting to install Linux, make sure to turn off Legacy booting in the BIOS and hold F12 when you reboot to select the USB stick/drive you are installing from. Xubuntu is lovely on this machine.
Hello Guys,
Greetings!
If you are trying to upgrade the HDD to SSD and RAM Upgrades, Make sure you are aware of the following,
1. Windows 8 to 8.1 OS migration, Everything works well except Synaptec Touchpad drivers were not available, and I had to install Windows 7.
2. While removing the screws, please be very, very careful, as one screw will definitely go wrong with his head getting stripped. This is not always the case, but most of the time.
3. SSD Cloning: I recommend installing the OS freshly, as this will give you an option to get rid of pre-installed apps(some are useful).
This is my Old Config:
HDD:500GB
RAM: 2GB
OS: Windows 8.0(Pre-installed)
Boot time: 3-4 minutes
This is my New Config:
SSD: 128GB
RAM: 8GB
OS: Windows 7 Enterprise(custom fresh install because I had issues with getting touchpad to work on 8.1)
Boot Time: 1.5 minutes even though it is Windows 7.
Performance: Exceptional Performance. Lightning Speed!!”
Hello Ravi,
Thanks for the steps involved in the process. I do have a quick question though.
1. Which SSD did you purchase? I mean, what do I look for when purchasing an SSD so that it fits perfectly for this specific laptop?
2. How do I get my existing Windows 8.1 HDD onto an SSD? Should I back it up on a 32GB flash drive from SanDisk, and once I replace the HDD with SSD, plug the USB and go from there? I am a total novice with OS installation. So, you have to bear with me and explain the steps. I would be grateful for this.
Thanks
Touchpad not working on 8.1
I had the same problem. The fix was updating the BIOS to the latest version, which specifically fixes this bug. All the drivers are available on the ACER website; it may be important in which order they are reinstalled. Also, there is a BIOS setting for touchpad features.
Does anybody know what the Bios battery is?
I lost the battery in a vent. and I can’t ID the coin battery.
On the picture “palm rest” you can see the rear side of the touchpad. There are two stickers left and right obviously to remove static. On my E112 there was only one sticker on the left side. I have glued a piece of aluminium tape to the right side and rubbed a little on the existing tape to improve contact. After that I have no more problems with the jumping cursor that was very annoying. There are more reports of people having this issue.
Hey Jurgen,
did you have any freezes while you were working with the touchpad before you did this?
I have heard many saying that the touchpad freezes occasionally, some suggested bios upgrade and a guy here suggested your solution:
http://www.iq-tm.de/TP%20freeze.htm
I’m specifically interested in knowing if there was a freezing problem which this trick solved.
Thanks
Sometimes the cursor didn’t follow the finger 100% but I never had a complete freeze. I have upgraded the bios twice but I can’t remember having this issue even with the original bios.
Thanks mate. So after you attached the new sticker, all these problems with the touchpad were gone?
I had the same issue with a jumpy cursor in my E3-111. After reading your post and applying your fix, I no longer have a jumpy cursor.
Where can I buy an 8GB RAM for upgrade? I’m in the UK.
You can buy it from newegg.com.
Good evening. Where can I download the drivers for Acer E3-111-c0wa? Awaiting your reply. Thanks.
Please visit acer.com and go to the support area to download drivers.
Hi, please help me. My E3-111 died after I replaced its keyboard with a new one. Now, there is no LED signal even when I plug in the charger, and no LED signal after I push the power button. Was that my mistake when I disconnected the battery without pushing the switch on the board?
You should mention that the battery disconnect button should be pressed and held while disconnecting the battery. Some of the “dead” issues after repair/upgrade may be caused by shorting when disconnecting the battery.
Hi,
I have an Acer Aspire E11
I have a problem because the power light is blinking and the computer won’t start. What can I do to fix it? I’m trying to change the RAM to another and start it on charger only, and this thing doesn’t work.
Thank you very much for the pictures. I was having problems with the touchpad arrow freezing. I cleaned the connectors of the Synaptics touchpad on the motherboard, and it now works.
Hi, can anyone help me track down the Aspire E-11 motherboard? I’m fixing it for a friend, and his USB ports are broken.
I need the motherboard. Please any help.
The motherboard is available on eBay. Before buying it, you need to open your laptop and check the part number of your motherboard.
I need a fairly used motherboard for an Aspire E11 or a whole malfunctioning system at an affordable rate so that I can take the board. I don’t have the money for a new one. Does anyone want to sell?
Great! It works in my Aspire E3 112 series to replace the 2GB RAM with 8GB RAM. Good.
Hi, after upgrading my RAM to 8 GB, I’ve been wondering if you could upgrade the keyboard as well, maybe from a V5-112p, which has the exact same layout in a backlit keyboard. However, I believe that a specific connection on the motherboard is required, which the E3 lacks. Do you have any ideas on this?
Thanks
Hey there,
It has a nice guide and a nice little laptop. I only dislike one thing: there is no HDD LED.
Does anyone have an idea how to add an LED to the mainboard? I have soldering experience, but I can’t find any header on the mainboard where I could solder an LED for the hard disk. Maybe one of you has done a mod like that.
Hi. Is it possible to change the Touchpad to another Touchpad (different hardware)?
I ordered a replacement motherboard for my Acer ES1-111, but the board does not have a CMOS coin cell battery and slot. Instead, there is a two-pin connector for the battery, where a CMOS battery slot has to be connected with two wires. What do I have to do?