Missing a Laptop Key? You can Replace it One Key at a Time
28th Jan 2015
Just as the computer software needs to be maintained for optimal performance, computer hardware also requires adequate amount of care to keep it working properly. Taking care of the monitor and the CPU is relatively easier than tackling keyboard problems. It’s because cleaning the numerous keypads is very tedious and painstaking that it wear someone’s patience a little too fast. But still, this doesn’t mean that it should be excluded during computer maintenance and inspection. There are many problems associated with the keyboard. The most common are: the keyboard is not detected, the keys on the keyboard do not work, wrong characters are typed, keyboard shortcuts do not work and laptop keys that are missing.
For most of these problems, troubleshooting the computer or changing the settings can be a solution. A big headache is a missing keypad. Without the keypad, there is no physical way to key in letters and other instructions to the computer. That is why it is very critical to have the keyboard regularly maintained. There are many reasons why a keyboard loses a keypad. This can be due to improper and frequent usage, intentional removal or manufacturer issues. When this happens, a replacement is necessary. A laptop key may also need replacement if it is damaged or worn out due to constant usage. Unfortunately, in almost all situations it's necessary to replace the keyboard since most manufacturers do not have single keys available for purchase. However, in the case of a laptop, many companies do offer laptop keys, which contain many of the parts necessary to fix the keyboard. There is no universal repair guide because keyboards are different but there are some steps that can be followed. To replace a laptop key simply remove the key cap from any other working key so that the key retainer stays connected to the keyboard. The key retainer is connected to the keyboard at four different points. Assemble the disconnected retainer the same way as the one on the keyboard and put it back in place. Put the key cap on the retainer and simply snap the cap back in place.