How do I replace my laptop keyboard?

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This is a great tutorial for replacing the keyboard on a Dell Latitude D610. Like Leo says though, procedures for removal/replacement of hardware components, including keyboards can be very different on different systems. --even different models in the same product line can be very different.

Besides User's Guides, many manufacturers also supply Hardware Maintenance Manuals via their web sites. Try to find the hardware manual that covers your specific model. They generally have a removals/replacements section that will provide complete step-by-step instructions including graphics almost as good as Leo's photos.

You lucked out doing it on a Dell. :) They're quite a bit easier than some other models I've had the misfortune of working with.

This isn't a task for the faint of heart. If you're very careful, it's a pretty safe procedure usually. It's a nightmare on some laptops though.

The one thing I really, really caution you on is the little ribbon cable that connects the keyboard to the motherboard. The cable and the connector on the motherboard are both very easy to break if you aren't careful.

I had the misfortune of working in laptop refurb in my teenage years, and it's something I avoid as much as possible now. Laptops are painful to work with, probably more so now than they were a decade ago (though the internals haven't changed as considerably as you would think in that time).

Does anyone know how to change a Sony Notebook keyboard? Sony want over £180 to do it. What does a replacement keyboard cost?

I am using a separate wireless keyboard now , but it does rather defeat the object of a laptop computer.

No one has mentioned so far, but getting grounded probably would not hurt. I have not actually had to do this, but have worked around some electronics. A grounded wrist strap is a fairly inexpensive item, and you can zap electronics without even knowing if if you are not completely draining any static that is around.

(RMB)

Hi Leo
Concerning "How to replace your laptop KEYBOARD"
I think you have done a great disservice to your readers by publishing the article even though it is technically correct, this procedure is not for the "faint of heart". The odds of ever reconstructing your laptop and having it still work is minimal at best. I would equate it to dismantling your Rolex watch, cleaning it . reassembling it (if you can) then expect it to ever work again. Remember computer manufacturers pay huge amounts of money to be able to pack in a whole bunch of of component in the least amount of space. Did you ever try to work on a Porsche, same principal.

To me the only 2 viable solution to a broken keyboard is; hook up a USB (wired or wireless)keyboard or if it is not possible to carry the "extra" keyboard around and you absolutely need a portable computer, Bye a new one. PS same solution for a broken monitor.

PS. I fully agree with Bradley. I've been working with computers for quite a few years. (1954) yes going on 55 years. Working on the biggest and the smallest.

With no infections ever. At present I run 3 laptop's and 2 desktops. all hooked up to the net. Like you said, the secret is watch what you are downloading. Be careful, it's a dangerous world out there.

Best Regards

Lou

Great share of information.
Of course taking apart anything, especially computers, comes with its risks. This helps to understand one possible disassembling scenario. Thanks for sharing.
I agree, using a grounded glove would be helpful.
Also, I would prefer a wireless keyboard(and mouse if I used it) as I could then position the monitor of the laptop to where I don't strain my neck, while placing the keyboard in my lap.
redefining the laptop needs to happen.
ergonomic needs must be met

I've had to do this job 3 times on my son's Dell (keep drinks away!!!).

Find yourself some pictures on how to take your model apart w/ a "disassemble Sony ----" in Google. Don't fall prey to downloading instructions from Ebay.. anything they're selling is available to you too with enough searching.

The trick is not to bust anything. Some laptops come apart harder than others, but when engineers design & put things together.. they also have to come apart.

As far as people here claiming the "sky is falling".. it certainly is not. Alarming people is the real disservice.

And adding a wireless keyboard indeed defeats the entire laptop concept.

For God's sake.. it's not the space shuttle.. it's a laptop keyboard replacement.. !!

Hey there Lou: in your message above you mentioned that Leo did a disservice to readers by describing this procedure.

You mentioned one of the viable solutions is to buy a new lap top.

But if you are going to buy a new lap top... then what have you got to lose by trying to fix the old one?

I don't think the odds of success are as low as you think. In all my years I know 2 people who changed their laptop keyboards and both operations were successful.

So I simply think the odds of success are not as bad as you implied.

However I do agree with you that it is dangerous. There is a high chance of failure. So it's risky.

But it's worth a shot if your only other real option is to buy a new lap top. In that case you may as well roll the dice and hope for the best!

Yo!
Your article sure is good. It will sure benefit my good friend who has a "thousand year-old" laptop. The pictures included will also be of good help!

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