Keyboard and laptop power problem

[LexaCheyenne94]

It's a HP 15-DB1973CL laptop. My bf spilled pop on my laptops keyboard. I managed to clean it off in time for the laptop to still turn on, but the keyboard no longer worked. So I got a new keyboard for my laptop. My bf and I did all of the transferring of the parts to the new keyboard and connected back to the rest of the laptop. But when we went to try it out, it wouldn't turn on and still won't turn on. There's this little black wire that was inside of the old keyboard that isn't in the new keyboard. Could that be important? And does that mean I may have the wrong keyboard although it looks identical to my old keyboard and fits? 

 

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @LexaCheyenne94 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for sharing all those details—this situation sounds incredibly frustrating, especially after putting in the effort to replace the keyboard so carefully. 

Let’s break it down and get you some clarity.

 

From the image and your description, the small black wire could be one of the following:

• Grounding wire: Some keyboards include a grounding wire to prevent static discharge. If the replacement keyboard lacks this, it might affect functionality or cause boot issues.
• Power or sensor connector: In rare cases, it could be tied to a power circuit or a sensor that helps the system detect the keyboard’s presence.

If the original keyboard had this wire and the new one doesn’t, it’s possible the replacement isn’t fully compatible—even if it fits physically.

 

What to check next

Verify Keyboard Compatibility

• Double-check the part number of the original keyboard and compare it with the new one.
• You can refer to HP’s official keyboard replacement guide for your model to confirm exact part compatibility.

Inspect the Connection

• Make sure the ribbon cable is fully seated and locked into the connector.
• Look for any bent pins or debris in the connector socket.

Try Booting Without the Keyboard

• Disconnect the new keyboard and try powering on the laptop.
• If it turns on without the keyboard, the issue may be with the replacement part itself.

Check for Residual Damage

• Even though the laptop initially powered on after the spill, corrosion can develop over time.
• Inspect the motherboard near the keyboard connector for any sticky residue or discoloration.

Consider a Compatible Replacement

• If the black wire was essential, you may need a keyboard that includes it.
• You can find verified compatible replacements through HP’s parts store by entering your product number.

If you'd like help identifying the correct part number or locating a keyboard that includes the missing wire, I can assist with that too. 

You're clearly doing everything you can to fix this—let’s get it working again.

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye