computer on a sturdy, well-lighted surface and provide yourself with num-
bered or lettered containers for parts. Keep a notepad and pen nearby to
keep track of all of the steps you have taken. One excellent ad hoc container
for parts is an empty egg container; mark each of the dozen holes and track
which is which in your notes. Be sure to ground yourself before touching any
internal part of the machine.
Going shopping...................................................................................
If adjusting the cables does not fix the problem, you can choose to replace
the laptop’s keyboard with a new unit. Depending on the make and model,
and whether you buy from the original manufacturer or from a parts dealer,
a replacement keyboard will likely cost between $30–$100 for a do-it-yourself
job that will take about an hour of time and moderate to advanced mechani-
cal skills.
When shopping for a replacement keyboard you may find three types of
offerings:
An original equipment manufacturer (OEM)replacement, a new unit
exactly as used by the laptop manufacturer. Note that very few laptop
marketers — including Dell, IBM, Compaq, HP, and Gateway — actually
make their own models.A compatible replacement, a new unit that is promised to work in your
laptop although not specifically designed for that purpose. Be very care-
ful to ensure that the seller guarantees the replacement will fit in your
machine and work properly. Be very specific about the model number
and the serial number, and be sure you agree with the seller’s return
policy in case it turns out to be not quite so compatible as promised.
A refurbished replacement, which can be either a new unit removed
from a laptop where other components have failed or a used unit that
has been repaired by a competent technician. Be sure you understand
any warranty offered by the seller.Working around ..................................................................................
The third option to deal with a failed keyboard is to find a way to work
around the built-in unit. Unless the motherboard fails — which is a much
more serious issue than a mere keyboard — you should be able to attach an
external keyboard to a laptop. This is generally an acceptable workaround if
the laptop is going to be used on a desk, but probably not a great solution for
the seatback tray of an airliner.
Chapter 10: Tripping the Keyboard Fantastic 169