Instructions on How to Change a Dell Laptop Keyboard
If you want to change the keyboard on a Dell laptop, first search the Internet for a reputable computer parts retailer. Choose a keyboard for the Dell laptop model that you're using. Once you're ready to replace or change the old keyboard, make certain you carefully handle the new keyboard while installing it on the Dell laptop. The keycaps on the laptop's keyboard are fragile and can easily pop off or become dislodged.
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Things You'll Need
- Dell laptop keyboard (replacement)
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flat-head screwdriver
Instructions
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Disconnect the Dell laptop's AC power cord from the electrical outlet. If you were using the laptop for any length of time, wait at least 15 minutes before opening the case to allow the components to cool down. Wear a protective anti-ESD static wrist strap to help keep yourself and the laptop's components from an electrical static discharge.
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Turn the Dell laptop over to remove the battery. Release the hinge on the battery and pull it out of the laptop. Flip the laptop back over and open it. Adjust or move the display, so that it is able to rest on a flat surface.
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Use a small flat-head screwdriver to remove the hinge cover on the Dell laptop. Insert the screwdriver under both ends of the hinges and pry it loose. Carefully lift and remove the hinge cover off of the laptop.
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Remove the two screws on top of the keyboard. Use a small Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws. Set the screws in a small container, so that you won't lose them.
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Lift the keyboard up and slide it out of the grooves on the keyboard assembly. You should see a cable or pull tab that's connected to the motherboard and near the bottom of the keyboard. Pull up on it and then remove it from the motherboard.
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Take the new keyboard and lay it on the Dell laptop where you removed the old keyboard. Plug the keyboard's cable into the motherboard.
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Push the new keyboard down into the grooves. Make certain the tabs on the keyboard line up with the grooves on the keyboard assembly. Gently press the keyboard into place until it lays flat on the Dell laptop.
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Replace the two screws on the keyboard that you previously removed. Use the Phillips screwdriver to re-tighten the screws into place.
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Replace the hinge cover on the Dell laptop. Press down on the hinge cover, until it snaps back into place on the laptop.
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Flip the Dell laptop over and replace the battery. Plug the laptop's AC power cord into an electrical outlet.
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Press the "Power on" button on your Dell laptop. Test the keyboard. Press several keys to find out if the new keyboard is working properly.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit laptop keyboard detail image by KtD from Fotolia.com
