How to Replace an IBM Thinkpad Keyboard

Replacing a faulty, damaged or broken keyboard in IBM/Lenovo laptop models T20, T21, T22 can be accomplished with minimal effort in approximately 20 to 30 minutes. You need the correct replacement part, a few small hand tools and some basic technical know how to get the job done.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Replacement keyboard
• Small screwdriver

1. Disconnect the power supply and take the battery out of the laptop. Remove 2 small Phillips head screws on the underside of the laptop. They are identified by a small symbol or marker next to each screw.
2. Open the laptop's cover through the small hole inside the battery compartment. Use your thumb to press the keyboard out. Your thumb presses on the underside of the keyboard's mouse or track button section.
3. Slip a finger underneath the keyboard's mouse button section that you pushed out in the Step 2. Pulling up and away from the computer, maintain pulling pressure in the middle of the keyboard. Don't pull from its left and right edges. Continue pulling upward until it's released from the tabs. Then pull outward by the edges to free it from these tabs.
4. Pop the keyboard free from all its edges. Pull it towards you in an upward angle, releasing the rear of the keyboard.
5. Remove the volume and power button plastic cover by pushing each corner slightly towards the space bar. Each corner of the cover is released and can be lifted up slightly. Pop the panel center free by lifting from the rear, swinging the cover toward the front and lifting it free.
6. Replace the switch cover if it was removed earlier and install the keyboard by slightly flexing it again and slightly pulling outward on the keyboard bezel. The bezel is the thin plastic upper frame that surrounds and holds the keyboard in place. Make sure the keyboard locks in place by pressing down on the keyboard's center. This ensures the keyboard's connector is seated properly.
7. Replace the two screws from the underside, install the battery and connect the power supply.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not eat or drink anywhere near your laptop while performing any repairs. The accidental introduction of liquids and foreign matter could render your laptop inoperable.
• Extremely delicate and sensitive components are exposed. Take care not to touch these components. Doing so could lead to irreparable damage.
• Before replacing the screws, make sure the keyboard sits firmly in its socket with all edges locked in their tabs. An improperly seated keyboard can impair functioning.

Who Can Help:

• Find Computer, Electrical and Telephone Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Electrical Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.