How to replace keys on damaged laptop keyboard?

March 27, 2006 6:08 AM

Where/How can I replace keys that have fallen off my Dell Inspiron 6000? The actual metal pads are damaged.

My roommate (in a rage of childish stupidity) threw a book at my laptop which ripped off my comma and spacebar keys. This bent/ripped the small metal pieces in which the keys fit. What can I do to fix this? If you need more information please don't hesitate to ask.

Thanks.

posted by jne1813 to Technology (3 answers total)

You really need to just replace it. Go to www.parts-people.com and order online. If you want to call, ask for Nathan.
posted by titans13 at 7:05 AM on March 27, 2006

Yeah, replace the whole keyboard. And make your roommate pay for it, after punching them in the face a few times.
posted by antifuse at 7:07 AM on March 27, 2006

I have a Dell Inspiron 8200. I've had keys pop off several times, without damaging the metal thingys underneath, and I was able to just snap the keys back on. However, bigger problems -- like the time I spilled a glass of merlot on the keyboard! -- couldn't be fixed as easily.

So, I've had to replace the keyboard twice. Once from a laptop-repair place, another time by going to eBay and buying a salvage system with which we [partner, mostly -- I watched] replaced the keyboard ourselves. It's not hard to do, if you don't get queasy at the thought of laptop surgery.
posted by Robert Angelo at 11:10 AM on March 27, 2006