In this article, we will demonstrate how to replace a key on a laptop without having to replace the entire keyboard. If you have accidentally spilled liquid on your laptop, you can also replace a key in a notebook. Before you begin, make sure you have the appropriate tools and ground yourself before beginning any work. We will also cover some safety tips.
Table of Contents
Replace a Key on a Laptop without Replacing the Whole Keyboard
Whether you’re using a desktop or laptop computer, a loose or broken key on your laptop may require some simple repair. The key’s pad and carriage need to be inserted in the key slot in the same orientation as the previous key. Make sure the key is inserted at a 45-degree angle, so it snaps into place. The keyhooks should catch on the new key.
First, clean the area around the key using a q-tip or a toothpick. If the key is stuck, use isopropyl alcohol to clean it. You can also use a toothpick or a Q-tip to clean the key’s grooves. If the key is loose, you can use tweezers to pull it out. If you’re unable to remove the key carriage, use a paperclip to press the key. Contact keyboard keys Company if you want to replace your keyboard keys.
Replace a Key after Spilling Liquid
If a key on your laptop or keyboard becomes stuck after a spill, you should try cleaning it. You can do this by using a damp lint-free cloth. Sticky liquids should be cleaned as thoroughly as possible before replacing the key. If the key is not stuck, you should try pressing down on it and releasing it quickly. It will snap back on once it dries.
To clean the key, first remove the top layer and slide it out. If the top layer is made of a membrane, you can use isopropyl alcohol. Once the top layer has been removed, you can clean the keyboard keys with the alcohol swab or warm water. Once the keycaps are clean, replace them back to their original positions. If the keyboard has become sticky, you can use a toothpick to clean the grooves beneath the keys.
Ensure you Have the Proper Tools
Most laptop warranties cover replacement of the entire keyboard, but if your laptop isn’t covered, you can easily replace the individual keyboard keys of the keyboard yourself. Replacing the individual keys isn’t difficult and is usually a quick fix for people with basic hardware skills. To remove a key, slide a pry tool under the keycap, and use it as a wedge to pry it off. Make sure you don’t damage the keycap, though.
Ensure you have the right tools for the job. The keyboard keys of your laptop are typically held in place by a spring apparatus. Using a pry tool, you can loosen the spring apparatus underneath the keycap. Place the pry tool under the keycap and gently pull up. When you have released the spring, you can pull off the keycap piece. You’ll find a round piece of plastic or metal that matches the base plate. You may also need long-nosed pliers to help hold the inner piece in place.
Ground Yourself before Attempting Repairs
If you are trying to perform repairs on your keyboard or laptop keys, make sure to ground yourself first. You should disconnect all power sources, replace all cover panels, and periodically touch an unpainted metal surface. Electrostatic discharge can damage the internal components of the computer. Also, make sure the work surface is clean and flat. If this is not an option, buy a DIY wrist strap made of metal.
When removing the key assembly, start by ensuring that you have a clean work area and that the computer is turned off. Remove the battery if necessary. Next, clean the actuation hinge. Use alcohol to clean it. Before you begin the repairs, make sure that the key is in the correct orientation. You may want to do a quick test of your keyboard to make sure the key is seated correctly.
Replace a key with a Q-tip
A q-tip can be a handy tool for cleaning and replacing keys. All you need is some cotton swabs or Q-tips and some isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). You can purchase isopropyl alcohol at your local grocery store or pharmacy. If you don’t have any of these tools on hand, you can also use a toothbrush.
To clean the space around the key, use a q-tip. Make sure to move the q-tip in a square pattern, so that the alcohol does not get inside the keyboard. Also, remember not to use too much alcohol if you do a thorough cleaning. You may need to hard scrub the key if it is particularly scummy. But you can always use a cotton ball instead.
