Upgrading E6400 keyboard

Hi,

I have purchased a refurb E6400 at a great price, the only spec it didn't have was the backlit keyboard. Does anyone know if the keyboard can be upgraded to a backlit one (assuming I can buy the part) or is there some fundamental connection or something else missing?

Cheers in advance

 

The backlit keyboard should be plug and play. You will not have to do any modifications on an E6400 that doesn't have one. Good luck finding a backlit keyboard on its own, though...

 

The backlit keyboard has a single connector. I'm sure that the non-backlit keyboard will have the same connector since Dell need to be able to put in either keyboard during assembly.

I recall that someone previously found a source of keyboards (ebay?) that were less expensive than Dell's own prices.

John

 

I did a little looking on ebay and I couldn't find any. But that doesnt mean their not out there.

 

A lot of folks went through this process on the consumer side with the Dell Studio 15 and 17 shortly after they were released. Dell was selling the backlit keyboard for that model for $75 (it was a $50 upgrade if ordered on the system). But Dell was selling the part, so you might want to call them and see if they sell it. If they don't yet, they eventually will.

 

Just thought I would update this thread for future reference. I found a new backlit E6400 keyboard on ebay for £35. Installed in 5 minutes last night and works perfectly; DCP even picked up the change automatically. In the limited time I've been using the new keyboard it is definitely quieter (less 'clack') and has a nicer action (dare I say more Thinkpad-like!).

Now does anyone want a nearly new non-Backlit E6400 keyboard in perfect condition?!

Cheers