Step-by-Step Instructions to Easily Upgrade Your Ableton Push 2 to a Standalone Instrument

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Prepare Your Workspace
• Open Up Your Push 2 Hardware
• Insert New Internal Hardware
• Reassemble the Device
• Complete the Upgrade and Enjoy

Introduction to Upgrading the Push 2 Hardware

Upgrading the internal hardware of the Push 2 music production controller can greatly enhance its capabilities by adding more processing power, memory, and battery life. This upgrade tutorial will walk you through the full process step-by-step, from preparing your workspace to opening up the hardware and swapping out components. We'll cover everything you need to know to safely and successfully upgrade your Push 2 yourself.

The key benefits of upgrading include being able to run more plugins and software instruments at once without performance issues, having more sample memory for longer recordings and playback, and gaining hours more battery time for portable use. Read on to learn how easy this upgrade can be!

Overview of the Push 2 Upgrade Process

The Push 2 upgrade procedure involves unscrewing and removing the backplate to access the internal hardware, swapping out the stock processor and memory card with upgraded versions, installing a higher capacity battery, and reassembling the unit. Expect the full upgrade to take around 30 minutes. All the required tools like screwdrivers and replacement parts come included in Ableton's Push 2 Upgrade Kit. As long as you follow each step closely and carefully, the upgrade process is designed to be straightforward enough for even first-time upgraders.

What You Will Need Before Starting

To complete the upgrade, you will need the Ableton Push 2, the dedicated Push 2 Upgrade Kit containing all hardware components and tools, a clean and spacious work area, and about 30 minutes of time. Make sure your Push 2 is powered off before beginning.

Preparing Your Workspace to Upgrade Push 2

Having an organized, uncluttered workspace is key for smoothly upgrading your Push 2. Here are some tips on getting set up:

Clear off a large, flat surface like a table or desk and lay down the anti-static mat from the upgrade kit. This surface area will give you space to efficiently remove and replace components while protecting them from static discharge.

Carefully unpack all parts of the upgrade kit and lay them out in order of use. Refer to the kit's instructions for details. Keep screws in their packaging until needed.

Have the powered-off Push 2 on hand along with a Phillips-head screwdriver for removal of the rear plate screws and backplate. Keep spare tools nearby in case you drop or misplace any during the process.

Choose a Clean Working Area

Look for an open, level space where you can easily manipulate tools and parts, such as a sturdy desk or table, and protect that surface with the anti-static mat. Make sure to clear off that area completely - upgrade components and tools should be the only items laid out once you begin removal and installation steps to avoid losing pieces.

Lay Out All Necessary Tools and Parts

Being organized from the start prevents headaches later. Unpack everything included in the upgrade kit and set it out in the order the instructions indicate. Keep screws inside packaging until needed for each respective step, and have a screwdriver on hand. Getting familiar with all pieces ahead of time makes the upgrade process smooth.

Opening Up the Push 2 Hardware

With your workspace prepped, it's time to crack open the Push 2 and access the internal components to be upgraded. Carefully follow these steps:

Turn the powered-off Push 2 upside down on the anti-static mat to access the rear plate. Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the 10 outer screws and 3 middle screws holding the plate in place per the upgrade guide.

Once all backplate screws are out, take off and set aside the plastic hole covers. Insert the included backplate removal tool and lever it upwards slowly to lift off the plate.

With back access now open, you'll see the stock processor, memory card, battery and other integrated parts ready for upgrading. Handle all compents gently to avoid any damage during the upgrade process.

Unscrew and Remove the Backplate

Using the supplied Phillips screwdriver, fully unscrew the 10 larger outer screws along with the 3 smaller middle screws securing the rear cover plate. Take care not to strip or overtighten any screws. Set them aside separately in labeled piles to simplify reassembly later.

Take Out Various Inner Components

Once the backplate is removed, set it gently off to the side along with the plastic hole covers inside it, which won't be reused. You'll now have access to carefully remove the stock processor, memory card, battery and other parts in preparation for the new upgraded hardware.

Inserting the New Internal Push 2 Hardware

With the previous components removed, it's time to upgrade the guts of your Push 2. Follow these key steps:

First, insert the new processor by angling it in then guiding the attached WiFi wires into place. Screw in the processor mounting screws till snug.

Next, tilt the fresh memory card into the slot till it clicks and locks. Remove protective film from processor heat pad.

Finally, take out the battery spacer, pop in the high-capacity replacement battery, and secure with included battery screw.

Add the New Processor and Memory Card

To install the new processor, hold it at an angle and gently slide it into the vacant processor slot, taking care with the attached WiFi antennas. Press the memory card in at an angle as well until it snaps securely into place. Remove any protective plastic film from processor heat pads.

Install the Battery and Screws

The battery spacer frame is no longer needed, so remove and recycle it. Insert the fresh battery text-side up and fasten down with the dedicated battery screw. Visually confirm all new components are properly seated before moving onto reassembly steps.

Reassembling the Push 2 Device

With all new internal components installed, it's time to seal your Push 2 back up by reversing earlier steps:

Carefully lower the backplate back into place, lightly screwing the outer screws halfway before adding the 3 middle screws.

Fully tighten down all outer screws once centered, then stick on the included heat sink pad by removing its protective film.

Bolt on the metal heat sink above the processor using its dedicated screws till firmly affixed.

Reattach the Backplate

Prior to fully resealing the unit, visually confirm all components are still securely in place within proper alignment. Set the backplate gently into the open Push 2 and get outer screws halfway started. Add middle screws last before fully tightening outer ones.

Secure the Heat Sink

With backplate re-secured, finish by mounting the included heat sink above the processor location using its 5 designated screws. This will prevent the high-performance processor from excessive heat buildup during extended usage sessions.

Completing the Push 2 Upgrade

With new components installed and Push 2 reassembled, take the final steps to complete hardware upgrade process:

Plug power back in and turn device right-side up to begin startup sequence. Initial boot may take 2-3 extra minutes.

Follow onscreen calibration prompts to discharge and recharge battery for maximum life, then rock on!

Final Startup and Configuration Steps

After reassembly, connect the power adaptor and flip Push 2 upright to turn back on for the first time post-upgrade. The first boot sequence will take slightly longer as components initialize fully. Complete battery calibration when powered up.

Calibrating the Battery

To maximize battery efficiency after hardware upgrades, let the Push 2 fully charge up once powered on. Then unplug and leave on until complete discharge cycles the battery electronically.

FAQ

Q: How long does the upgrade process take?
A: The entire upgrade should take a maximum of 30 minutes if you follow all the video instructions closely.

Q: What tools do I need for the upgrade?
A: The main tool you need is the included screwdriver. You also need a clean, flat workspace with the upgrade kit contents laid out.

Q: Do I need any technical experience?
A: No, the video is designed for anyone to follow along even if you have no experience with hardware upgrades.

Q: What happens if I get stuck during the upgrade?
A: Check our troubleshooting article for tips if you encounter any issues, or contact our support team for further assistance.

Q: Why upgrade my Push 2 to standalone?
A: The upgrade lets you use your Push 2 without a computer connected for a more portable production and performance workflow.

Q: What's included in the upgrade kit?
A: The kit contains all necessary parts - processor, WiFi antennas, memory card, battery, screws, plastic parts, etc.

Q: How do I activate the battery?
A: Plug in the power supply when first turning on your upgraded Push 2 to activate the battery. Then calibrate it by fully charging, discharging, and recharging.

Q: Do I need to re-configure settings after upgrading?
A: Yes, follow the on-screen prompts when powering on to re-configure your Push 2 and recalibrate the battery.

Q: Can I still use my Push 2 with Ableton Live?
A: Yes, the upgrade simply adds standalone functionality for when you want to produce music without a computer.

Q: What troubleshooting help is available if needed?
A: We have a detailed troubleshooting article online to help diagnose and fix any issues you may encounter during the upgrade.