XPS M140 keyboard/motherboard

I'm having an issue with my XPS M140's keyboard - some of the keys are not working.

I've narrowed it down to a problem with the keyboard connector on the motherboard - external USB keyboards work, and I've also tried a known good spare onboard keyboard with the same issues.

The laptop's been great for me - and I really don't feel like shelling out the money for a replacement laptop at this point.

I can replace the motherboard (I support desktops/laptops as my day job, so I'm technically adept and not afraid of disassembing a laptop), but that seems to be slightly overkill.

Am I stuck replacing the motherboard (it's out of warranty, so I'll have to hunt one down from somewhere other than Dell - not gonna pay their inflated parts prices), or is it possible to find the keyboard connector separately that I can replace?

(I've also assembled Heathkit H19 green-screen terminals in a past engagement, so soldering irons are not a problem for me either. Yes, I know - I'm showing my age. I refused to put together any of the Heathkit television sets, however.)

--Chris

 

I've seem motherboard power connectors, but I doubt you would find keyboard connectors. My suggestion would be to try eBay, but I think you'll end up have to replace the whole thing.

 

You might be able to find a broken motherboard or laptop for "parts". That way you wouldn't have to put out very much on the laptop.

 

Thanks. I had a feeling that I'd have to find a broken MB (not easy to find!) or purchase an entire MB (not worth the $300 or so I'm seeing for prices).

I'll keep trolling - maybe I'll trip over something. Thanks for the info!

--c

 

Hi, I am also facing the same issue where some keys of my XPS M140 are not working. If any one can let me know how to narrow down the problem is this because of keyborad or some thing else?

Thanks
Manoj