By Administrator Introduction
Ever spilled a drink on your laptop? Maybe a rogue crumb found its way into the keys, or perhaps years of dedicated typing have simply worn your keyboard down. Whatever the reason, a malfunctioning keyboard can be a major source of frustration. If you own an Asus laptop and are experiencing issues with your keyboard, you might be wondering if it’s time for a change. Fortunately, replacing the keyboard on an Asus laptop is often a manageable task, and this guide will provide you with a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough. Whether you’re a seasoned tech enthusiast or a complete beginner, we’ll help you understand the process involved in how to change keyboard Asus laptop and determine if it’s a task you can confidently tackle yourself, or if it’s best left to the professionals.
This article aims to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to successfully change keyboard Asus laptop. We will walk you through diagnosing the problem, sourcing the correct replacement, and performing the replacement procedure itself.
Identifying the Problem and Determining the Need for Replacement
Before diving into the replacement process, it’s crucial to accurately diagnose the keyboard issue and determine if a replacement is truly necessary. Not all keyboard problems require a full replacement.
Diagnosing Keyboard Issues
Several common problems can plague your Asus laptop keyboard. Sticky keys are a frequent culprit, often caused by spills or accumulated grime. Non-responsive keys, where pressing a key yields no action, can indicate a more serious internal issue. Sometimes, keys might type the wrong characters, pointing to a software glitch or hardware malfunction. Of course, physical damage, such as broken keys or the aftermath of a liquid spill, is an obvious sign of trouble. Each of these problems impacts the ease of use of your laptop and can decrease productivity.
When to Replace vs. Repair
Once you’ve identified the issue, consider whether a replacement is the best course of action. Minor damage, such as a single broken key, might be repairable by replacing just that key. You can find individual key replacements online. However, extensive damage or widespread malfunction usually necessitates a full keyboard replacement. This can involve multiple sticky keys, a whole row of keys not working, or damage from a liquid spill. A full replacement, while seemingly drastic, is sometimes more cost-effective and guarantees a more reliable fix in the long run, allowing you to once again freely use your laptop.
Checking Warranty Status
Before purchasing a replacement keyboard, it’s essential to check your Asus laptop’s warranty status. Your keyboard might be covered under warranty, especially if the issue arose due to a manufacturing defect. Contacting Asus Support with your laptop’s serial number can help you determine your warranty coverage. If the keyboard is covered, Asus may provide a free replacement or repair, saving you the cost and effort of doing it yourself. Replacing it yourself can void the warranty, so double-check before beginning.
Gathering Necessary Tools and Parts
Once you’ve decided to proceed with a keyboard replacement, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and parts. This is a critical step to ensure a smooth and successful replacement process.
Required Tools
You’ll need a few basic tools to perform the keyboard replacement. A small Phillips head screwdriver is essential for removing screws. A plastic pry tool or spudger is crucial for safely removing keyboard bezels without damaging the laptop’s plastic casing. An anti-static wrist strap is highly recommended to prevent electrostatic discharge, which can damage sensitive electronic components. Finally, having a small container to hold screws will prevent them from getting lost during the process. Having these tools at hand and ready to go will help you stay organized during the process.
Identifying the Correct Replacement Keyboard
Identifying the correct replacement keyboard is paramount. Start by finding your laptop’s model number, usually located on a sticker on the bottom of the laptop. With the model number in hand, you can search for the correct keyboard model online. You can often find the keyboard part number on the original keyboard itself, if accessible. Search engines, like Google, and online retailers, like Amazon or specialized electronics stores, are great for finding the correct replacement by searching for your laptop model.
Considerations for Buying a Replacement
When purchasing a replacement keyboard, consider a few factors. Original keyboards, sourced directly from Asus, are generally more expensive but offer the best compatibility and quality. Aftermarket keyboards, produced by third-party manufacturers, are often more affordable but may not be of the same quality as original keyboards. If your original keyboard was backlit, you’ll need to purchase a replacement that also supports backlighting. Compare prices from different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Read reviews to see the experiences other buyers have had with each individual keyboard.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Keyboard
Now, let’s get to the core of the matter: the actual keyboard replacement procedure. Follow these steps carefully and take your time to avoid damaging your laptop.
Preparation
Before you begin, power off your Asus laptop completely and disconnect the power adapter. Removing the battery, if possible and easily accessible, is an important safety precaution. Work in a well-lit and clean workspace to ensure you can see what you’re doing and avoid contamination. Wear an anti-static wrist strap to protect against electrostatic discharge. Being fully prepared will contribute to a smooth and safe procedure.
Removing the Old Keyboard
The method for removing the old keyboard can vary depending on the Asus laptop model. Some keyboards are held in place by a top bezel, while others are screwed in from the bottom of the laptop.
Keyboard held in by top bezel
Use the pry tool to gently release the clips holding the bezel in place. Work your way around the bezel, gently prying each clip until the bezel is free. Lift the bezel to expose the keyboard screws.
Keyboard screwed in from the bottom of the laptop
Turn the laptop over and remove the screws securing the keyboard. Carefully flip the laptop back over and lift the keyboard.
General Steps After Bezel/Screws are Removed
Carefully lift the keyboard, remembering that it will still be connected by a ribbon cable. Locate the keyboard ribbon cable connector on the motherboard. Gently release the locking mechanism on the connector, usually a small flap. Carefully pull the ribbon cable out of the connector. Taking photos of each step can be incredibly helpful for remembering how things connect during reassembly.
Installing the New Keyboard
With the old keyboard removed, it’s time to install the new one. Carefully insert the new keyboard’s ribbon cable into the connector on the motherboard. Ensure the ribbon cable is fully seated and the locking mechanism is securely fastened. Position the keyboard correctly in the laptop. Reattach the bezel, if applicable, or screw the keyboard in from the bottom. Replace the battery, if removed.
Testing the New Keyboard
After installing the new keyboard, it’s crucial to test it thoroughly. Power on your laptop and test all the keys to ensure they are working correctly. Check the backlight if applicable. If any keys aren’t working, double-check the ribbon cable connection. Consider the possibility of driver issues, although this is usually not the case.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful execution, you might encounter some issues during or after the keyboard replacement. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Keys Not Working
Recheck the ribbon cable connection, ensuring it’s fully seated and the locking mechanism is secured. It’s possible that a faulty replacement part was sent. Contact the vendor about sending you a non-faulty product.
Keyboard Not Recognized
Restart your laptop and check Device Manager for errors. Consider updating drivers, although this is typically unnecessary.
Bezel Not Fitting Properly
Ensure all clips are aligned correctly and apply gentle pressure to snap the bezel into place.
Screws Stripped
To deal with screws that may have lost their treads, you can place a rubber band on the stripped area, or try to repair with a toothpick and glue.
When to Seek Professional Help
While changing a keyboard on an Asus laptop is often a DIY project, there are times when seeking professional help is the best course of action. If you’re uncomfortable performing the repair yourself, or if you’ve damaged other components during the process, it’s best to consult a professional. If you’re unable to troubleshoot the issues, a professional technician can diagnose and resolve the problem. Finding a reputable laptop repair shop will help ensure the longevity of your device.
Conclusion
Changing a keyboard on an Asus laptop can seem daunting, but with the right tools, knowledge, and a bit of patience, it’s a manageable task. Replacing a faulty keyboard can breathe new life into your laptop, allowing you to work and play comfortably again. Remember to take your time, follow the steps carefully, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Now that you know how to change keyboard Asus laptop, you can confidently restore your laptop to its full functionality. This guide has armed you with the information to decide whether you should tackle the job yourself or seek the advice of an experienced technician. You can be proud of yourself for expanding your technical knowledge!
