high-frequency noise problem when turn on backlit keyboard on my HP spectre x360 13" (late 2017)

[CCspectre]

Hi,

Every time I turn on backlit keyboard, then  an annoying noise coming. 

When I turn on backlit keyboard, the annoying noise gone.

I already done windows update, bios update and other new hardware driver update.
Bios version: F.12-12/18/2017
Windows version: 1709 (OS build 16299.192)

Other users have this problem too: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVIl81w4T6k

https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Notebook-Hardware-and-Upgrade-Questions/Backlight-button-and-buzzing-n...

https://www.reddit.com/r/Hewlett_Packard/comments/7jmtne/hp_spectre_x360_13_late_2017_high_pitched_n...

Apart from return the laptop, it is possible that hp would release a driver update to fix this problem? or it's just a pure hardware fault, nothing can do in software level?

[A4Apollo]

Hey there! @CCspectre, Thanks for stopping by the HP Support Forums!

I understand when you enable the backlight keyboard you hear a high-frequency noise from your laptop.

Don't worry I'll try to help you out.

Did you make any software or hardware changes your PC?

Please provide the product number of your PC to assist you better.

As you mentioned when you enable the backlight keyboard you hear a high-frequency noise from your laptop.

I have checked the records and found a service advisory related to the issue you have mentioned with your laptop.

Please try the steps recommended below.

To update the Intel BIOS perform the following steps:

1. Download and install BIOS version F.16 (SP34782).

   Softpaq Description

   Information

   Download

   WinFlash for HP Notebook System BIOS (for Notebooks with Intel Processors) - Microsoft Windows/Vista-Based, VERSION: F.16

   SP34782 File Download

2. After updating the BIOS, reboot the PC and press F10 when the HP logo displays to enter BIOS setup.

3. Use the Left/Right arrow keys to select System Configuration.

4. Use the Up/Down arrow keys to select CPU C4 Function and press Enter.

5. Use the Up/Down arrow keys to select the option to DISABLE the CPU C4 Function, and then press Enter.

   Disabling the C4 function will prevent the notebook from going into the low power state, will cause the CPU fan to run more frequently, and will reduce the battery charge capacity.

6. Press F10 and then press Enter to accept the change and exit the BIOS setup.

If the sound is fairly quiet and does not bother you, accept the default ENABLE setting to allow the notebook to go into the reduced power C4 state.

Refer this article to know more information about High Pitched Noise from the notebook.

Also, refer this article to further troubleshoot keyboard issues with your PC.

If the issue still persists after trying out the steps, It is a hardware issue with the keyboard backlight.

Please contact HP support for service options.

Link to contact HP.

If the solution provided worked for you, please mark accepted solution for this post.

Let me know if this works!

I hope you have a great day! 🙂

Please click "Accept as 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!

[CCspectre]

Thank you for your reply.

It seem not a well solution as the reference article told that it will cause the CPU fan to run more frequently, and will reduce the battery charge capacity.

Whatever, I would try but the download has been expired. I can't download it.

Looking forward to your reply, thank you.

[Riddle_Decipher]

@CCspectre

It looks like you were interacting with @A4Apollo, but he is out for the day & I'll be glad to help you out, 

I'm the Riddle_Decipher & I'm at your service. 

I reviewed your concern and the entire conversation, did some research and here's what I recommend:

Click here to download an alternate driver as the one provided isn't working.

That said, if the issue persists, please Contact HP to have the device repaired:

HP Support can be reached by clicking on the following link:  

* Open link:  www.hp.com/contacthp/

* Enter Product number or select to auto detect

* Scroll down to "Still need help? Complete the form to select your contact options"

* Scroll down and click on HP contact options - click on Get a Case & phone number.

They will be happy to assist you immediately. 

If the unit is under warranty repair services under the manufacturer's warranty will be free of charge.

If you would like to thank me for my efforts to help you, 

feel free to give me a virtual high-five by clicking the 'Thumbs Up' icon below, 

Followed by clicking on the "Accept as solution".

Have a great day!

[EddyK]

Hi CCspectre,

Unfortunately, the "high-frequency noise problem" you are referring to is coil whine - a PC user's biggest nightmare. 

This is a result of a lack of quality control of the motherboards in the HP Spectre x360. I have already witnessed and experienced several motherboard failures. The coil whine may be related to the PSU - however we can't be sure.

I advise you to contact support immediately for support options considering that this laptop is new.

Regards,

kem579