How to Fix a Laptop Keypad
Laptop keyboards are rather fragile and notorious for popping keys, sticking or just breaking altogether. It may be necessary to replace a key or even the entire keyboard, but replacement parts are readily available for most models. This is a fairly common procedure, but it will require patience and concentration. Once you have repaired your laptop keypad, you can expect it to work like new.
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Instructions
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Replacing a Missing Key
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1
Borrow a key that you don't use often if the key you need is lost. A right "Alt" key works nicely. Pry up the spare key with a small flathead screwdriver. Be gentle, not forceful.
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2
Flip the key over and remove the small plastic clips on the bottom, taking note of their configuration.
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3
Use tweezers to situate the clips around the membrane where the key goes on the keyboard. There are small guides in the bed of the keypad that hold the clips in place.
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4
Place the key perpendicular to the keypad in the spot it goes, and click the clip into the hooks on the back of the key closest to the screen.
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5
Lay the key flat against the clips and membrane. Press with even pressure on the key until it pops into place. This may take several attempts.
Replacing a Laptop Keypad
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6
Power off your laptop. Remove the power adapter plug and battery from your laptop.
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7
Remove the keyboard bezel. Depending on the model of your laptop, the bezel will be attached in different ways: screws, plastic tabs or integrated into the hinges. Remove any visible screws holding the bezel. Use a flathead screwdriver or flat blade to lift an edge of the bezel and/or to pop up the screen hinges. Slide your fingers underneath to pop out the plastic tabs.
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8
Remove the screws holding the keypad in place. These are located under the now-removed bezel above the "Esc" and "Backspace" keys.
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9
Lift out the keyboard. Be mindful of the ribbon cable connecting the keyboard to the inside of the laptop.
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10
Release the ribbon cable, which may be held in by a small release clip. Pull the clip toward the space bar to release the cable. The keypad is now free of the laptop.
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11
Insert the ribbon cable of the replacement keyboard into the clip inside the laptop. Secure the clip release if applicable.
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12
Line the tabs along the bottom of the keypad with the slots in the palm rest, and lay it into position.
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13
Replace the screws that hold the keypad in place.
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Replace the keyboard bevel.
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Tips & Warnings
To avoid breaking the small plastic clips that hold the keys in place, never use force when replacing keys on your laptop.
Search the Internet for a breakdown of keypad replacement for your particular laptop model.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit keyboard image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com
