Fix Dell laptop keyboard with Scotch tape
Jan 28, 2010 Technology, Work
Since I work with so many laptops on a daily basis something is always broken around my desk. Either re-loading the operating systems, software issues, screws loose or broken keyboards, it never ends! Many of our laptops are reaching the end of their warranty or we need to get the laptop back out into the field in a pinch so we get creative. One recent issue is that the laptop with a problem was out of warranty and the keyboard would just start typing random characters when you push down on the case between the touchpad and the keyboard. If the laptop was still under warranty I would call Dell and get a replacement keyboard and the problem would be solved. Below is a quick/dirty/temporary fix to this issue if you have no way to replace the keyboard entirely.
Step 1: Remove the keyboard from the computer. Usually there is a cover that goes over the top of the hinges and has the power button on it. You will need to remove the 2 screws that are under this cover along with removing the ribbon cable connecting the keyboard to the motherboard. (I am showing a Dell Latitude D520 below)
Step 2: Look at the ribbon cable on the keyboard and look for a small wear mark near the keys.
Step 3: Place a small piece of clear Scotch tape or other rather thin tape over this wear mark. This tape acts just like the plastic covering the wires on this inside of this cable and keeps the case from making contact to these wires.
Now just put the laptop back together and try it out. When placing your wrists on the palm rest while typing it should no longer randomly type characters until this tape gets a wear mark in and needs to be replaced.
