Laptop Keyboard Problems?

li'l_p

I have a Dell Latitude L400 which I use on a wireless connection to browse web, etc. It has an error that on start-up it beeps and comes up with "Error: Stuck Key at 0210". I can by-pass it and the laptop boots up ok, however first it was as if the shift key was stuck and I would gte pop-ups telling me that pressing the shift key causes sticky keys to be activated (or something to that effect).

Then, it stopped doing that and instead it will now type 33333333333's consecutively into the web address bar, if I try to open the web. It also does it in other boxes, like if I try to type a username into the box on screen. I have had the IT guy from my workplace look at it as he thought that the keys might need a clean and gave them a good blast, but the problem is still there. I have uploaded Anti-virus software and Malware checkers, but nothing has been found.

Does anyone have any ideas and would a new keyboard be worth trying? I can get one for £10 from ebay (inc postage) but don't want to waste money if this won't help. Also, how easy would it be to replace the keyboard - could I do this myself?

PZH

li'l_p wrote: »

Also, how easy would it be to replace the keyboard - could I do this myself?

We had Dell laptops at work - albeit a couple of years back now. On the underside, there were small screws marked with "K". Undoing these would allow the keyboard to be lifted off - but was attached to the mainboard by two ribbon connectors - one for the keyboard and a smaller on for the mouse mover button.

The cable was a bit fiddly to insert - but not too hard if you have nimble fingers.

If the machine is out of warranty - it may be worth trying to lift the keyboard off and making sure it is clean and plugged in correctly.

ebayemail

li'l_p wrote: »

I have a Dell Latitude L400 which I use on a wireless connection to browse web, etc. It has an error that on start-up it beeps and comes up with "Error: Stuck Key at 0210". I can by-pass it and the laptop boots up ok, however first it was as if the shift key was stuck and I would gte pop-ups telling me that pressing the shift key causes sticky keys to be activated (or something to that effect).

Then, it stopped doing that and instead it will now type 33333333333's consecutively into the web address bar, if I try to open the web. It also does it in other boxes, like if I try to type a username into the box on screen. I have had the IT guy from my workplace look at it as he thought that the keys might need a clean and gave them a good blast, but the problem is still there. I have uploaded Anti-virus software and Malware checkers, but nothing has been found.

Does anyone have any ideas and would a new keyboard be worth trying? I can get one for £10 from ebay (inc postage) but don't want to waste money if this won't help. Also, how easy would it be to replace the keyboard - could I do this myself?

Hi,

Any keybord will do, but first get a small Pozzi screwdriver, turn laptop over and unscrew ALL screws marked 'k' this will release the keyboard you can then take a closer look at the problem usually dirt, use air duster to clean. The keys can be popped off, tricky to get back on but usually easy enough to get working after problems, clean the membrain on the back of keyboard as well.

Hope this helps.

li'l_p

Thanks guys. Yeah definately out of warranty. I bought the laptop 2nd-hand and it's a cracking little laptop for what I want it for (access to the web remotely). It is just annoying me that the laptop is fine but just seems to have this glitch so I'd prefer to at least have a go at repairing than call it a day with it just yet!

li'l_p

Update:

Bit the bullet and bought a replacement keyboard off ebay for £7.50 (£4.00, £3.50 postage). Also uploaded the manual for my laptop on the web, with instructions on how to remove and replace the keyboard. The keyboard arrived today and I quickly and easily managed to remove the old and replace with the new... was a doddle!

I'm please to say it seems to have resolved the problem. No 3333333333's to be seen and I had a good old play around for quite a while. Really pleased I can now use my laptop...! Have definately saved myself some money as I was contemplating taking it to a 'professional' which probably would have cost me a small fortune.

basill

ebayemail wrote: »

Hi,

The keys can be popped off, tricky to get back on but usually easy enough to get working after problems,
Hope this helps.

For anyone else with this type of problem. If they are not already off dont pop any more keys off, they might go back but the white plastic bit is rather easily damaged and very fiddy to replace
If you need to change one of these keyboards there is a handy blanking piece where there is no key usefull for lifting up the keyboard without accidentally popping a keycap off.


B