How to Fix a Powerbook Keyboard
The area below the keyboard on your Apple Powerbook computer can get sticky after years of use. Sometimes the keys wear out or become damaged. Before you decide to purchase another keyboard for your Powerbook, try fixing the keys on the keyboard if they are sticky and not functioning properly. You may have to remove several keys to clean the scissor mechanisms, rubber boots and keycaps on the keyboard.
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Instructions
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Shut down your Apple Powerbook computer and disconnect the power adapter. Remove the battery from the expansion bay. Place your Powerbook on a clean flat surface in an static-free uncarpeted area before you begin disassembling the keyboard.
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Remove an old keycap from your Powerbook computer that you want to clean or replace. Use a small flat-head screwdriver to lift up one of the corners on the keycap. Gently pull up on the keycap until it pops off the keyboard. Turn over the keycap to inspect it. If the snaps and hooks are broken, deformed or bent, you need to replace the keycap on your keyboard.
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3
Use the small flat-head screwdriver again to release each prong that holds the scissor mechanism in place underneath the keycap that you removed from the keyboard. After you have successfully removed the scissor mechanism, you will see a small silver hook on the keyboard.
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Use a cotton swab dampened with rubbing alcohol to wipe away any dirt, grime and debris build up from the keycap area. Reassemble the scissor mechanisms when you're finished cleaning the keycap area on the keyboard.
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Slide the scissors underneath the small silver hook on the keyboard. After the scissors are under the hook, squeeze the key from the sides and slide the pegs into the holes. Position the keycap directly over the scissor mechanism. Press down on the keycap until it snaps into place on the keyboard.
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Test the keycap to make certain that it springs back up properly. If the keycap is not working correctly, you need to remove it from the keyboard. Check to make certain the rubber boot or nub underneath the keycap is sticking straight up and the scissor mechanism is properly seated under the hook.
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Tips & Warnings
If you need to replace the keycaps on your Apple Powerbook computer, purchase the exact same type of scissor mechanisms that are used on your computer. Even though the keycaps look the same, some versions of the Apple Powerbook computer use metal scissor mechanisms instead of plastic ones.
References
- Macworld Mac Upgrade and Repair Bible; Todd Stauffer
