Red bull on my keyboard!

A few weeks ago I accidentally spilled a red bull on my desk. Luckily it barely hit my computer, there were a few drops on the side, and a tiny bit on the right side of the keyboard. I quickly wiped it off, but didnt notice some had gotten under the right shift key. Luckily I never, ever use this key, but its still annoying. When I press it down, its like it doesnt actually click, then it sticks, and takes a few seconds to pop back up.

I remember taking my keyboard out to clean my fan, and it looked extremely delicate! The entire keyboard could easily bend. Im guessing I cant pop the keys out like in a desktop keyboard. Is there any way to clean it?

 

Q-tip? Maybe a piece of thick-ish string in a VERY diluted soap solution?

OH, you have a 1210, awesome. If something goes wrong, just call dell and tell them it's sticking or something, just don't be quick to mention the redbull, and they'll send you a new keyboard. It is a user-servicable item on our laptops. They'll get the old one back and clean it up to refurb or something.

 

You can pop keys off a laptop computer. Just pull up carefully-gently but firmly-on one edge/corner of the key. To replace it, just line it up and push it gently but firmly back on until it clicks into place. I'd be careful getting the keyboard wet though, make sure everything is powered off and that you allow the keyboard plenty of time to dry before powering on again. If you have a warranty, give Dell a call and have them send a replacement keyboard.

 

Ill try to pop the key off when im back from class. Its probably just a matter of removing some gunk. If not, ill get a new one.

 

unless you have complete care warranty spills in the laptop will not be covered under warranty, if you have to send the old one back I am sure they will check this.

 

You cannot remove individual keys on *ALL* laptop computers, FYI. Tread lightly!

 

You can try removing keys as suggested, but be very careful. I did that, and ended up ruining the keyboard. Good news: if you break a key, Dell will send you a replacement if you have limited/regular warranty. The keyboards on the inspirons break really easily, so don't be surprised if you have to replace your keyboard more than once during its life time.

I'm on my 3rd keyboard right now and need to order a new one. Dell doesn't give you any hassle either about replacing the keyboard.

 

2 Southern Girl:
thanks for an interesting bit of information!

 

whatever happened to the old days when you could disassemble your keyboard, throw the contact board in the dishwasher, dry it, reassemble it and .... NEW!

But then again, though they work, I have been told my methods are sometimes odd but inspiring... lmao

 

Lmao you try iy first lets see if it still works

 

I've done that >.>

Actually fully disassembled my wireless keyboard las week and scrubbed it down (4 years old). Worked great!