Raspberry Pi Zero Dead

If your Raspberry Pi Zero is dead, will not turn ON, nor show any LED lights, then chances are it is not working, and therefore it will neither boot nor power ON. This article is for when your Pi Zero has deceased, departed into the nether realms, and is lifeless. It has gone from a hero to a zero. In these types of situations, you usually have to get the multimeter out of the toolbox and start measuring voltages to diagnose the fault. All engineers fall back on this old-fashioned tried and trusted method, which involves working with your head, hands, and the logical side of your brain.

Currently, there are two versions, Raspberry Pi Zero v1.3, and Raspberry Pi Zero W v1.1. Both versions use the PAM2306AYPKE step-down DC-DC converter for the power supply circuitry. A DC-DC converter such as the PAM 2306 is far more efficient than a voltage regulator, and ideal for battery powered portable applications. This IC establishes two separate and independent voltage rails.

For both versions of the Raspberry Pi, the test points for socket J1, 3.3 V, and 1.8 V, voltage rails, have the same numbers and PCB locations. Therefore, this guide will help those with either version. As you can see in the header section of this page, the test points for both boards are located in the same place.

Diagnostic Sequence

This article is a multi-page guide that shows how to diagnose a dead Raspberry Pi Zero and all the pages are in a systematic link sequence.

This Article Continues...