Some keys not working after battery replacement

[Mastalock]

I replaced the battery on my mom's laptop that I bought her a few years ago, and after she said some keys didnt work.

I checked it out and sure enough the B, N, Caps lock keys do dont work, as well as the / and 7 on the numpad.

Could I have damaged it putting the battery in? She did not have the original screws for it (my brother tried to replace it before and did who knows what with the screws) so I used some M2 screws I had. I think they were too long. Not sure if the threads for the battery bottom out, or if the screw could have continued through?

I took the battery off and looked from that side, as well as under the keycaps and could not notice anything obvious.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Mastalock,
 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

When you replaced the battery in your HP Pavilion Notebook - 15-P114dx and encountered issues with specific keys not working afterward, there are a few possible explanations for what might have happened:

Screw Length and Damage: Using screws that are too long could potentially cause damage if they're tightened too much. If the screws you used were longer than the original screws, there's a possibility they could have pressed against internal components, including the keyboard's underlying circuitry or the motherboard. This pressure might have led to physical damage or a disruption in the connections that enable those specific keys to function.

Keyboard Connector Displacement: During the battery replacement process, there's a chance that the keyboard connector or a related cable was accidentally loosened or displaced. The keyboard in laptops is often connected to the motherboard via a thin ribbon cable. If this cable is not properly seated or if it was disturbed during the process, it could result in certain keys not working.

Accidental Damage: While working inside the laptop, there's always a risk of inadvertently damaging sensitive components, even if you're being careful. Static electricity, tools slipping, or applying too much force can harm the delicate circuits.

Given these possibilities, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue:

Check Internal Connections: Carefully open the laptop again and inspect all connections, especially those related to the keyboard. Make sure the ribbon cable connecting the keyboard to the motherboard is securely and properly seated. If there are any other connectors that were near where you worked, ensure they are also properly connected.

Inspect for Physical Damage: While you have the laptop open, look for any signs of physical damage where the screws may have been too long. This includes looking for any punctures, scratches, or disruptions on the motherboard or other components.

Replace with Correct Screws: If possible, obtain the correct screws for the laptop model to avoid potential pressure or damage from incorrect screw lengths.

Keyboard Testing Software: Use keyboard testing software to see if the issue is detected by the software. This could help determine if the problem is with the hardware (physical damage) or if it's a connection issue.

Remember Please make sure you perform the above steps under technical supervision. if not, you may check with the HP phone team and they can hep with the repair options.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Rachel571 

HP Support

[Mastalock]

How can I tell which is the keyboard cable?

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Mastalock,

Please do not worry, We try our best to provide the resolution. Looks like this issue requires advanced troubleshooting.

Due to limited support, I would request you contact our HP Support and our Support Engineers should be able to sort this out. HP Support can be reached by clicking on the following link.

https://www.hp.com/contacthp/

Please feel free to contact us here anytime you need any further assistance.

Have a great day!

Rachel571 

HP Support

[Mastalock]

I'd have to pay for that. Coverage is expired. Little nuts that even getting support via communication "expires" with that given how much we pay for this stuff.

If I have to take / send something in for repairs, sure. But just to talk to someone?

[Mastalock]

I just want to know which cable is the keyboard one.