What are the connectors underneath the keyboard keys called? I need a new one

I have an x201 and one of the regular-sized blue connectors underneath the "2" key to be precise has broken when I cleaned the keyboard.

1) What are these things underneath each key actually called? Im having difficult googling without the correct name
2) Anyone know anywhere good to order replacements in the Uk?

 

A (black) key cap sits on top of a (white, x-shaped) retainer clip that sits on top of a (usually blue) rubber spring.

The rubber spring, when depressed, makes the connection which sends the key code, etc...

Check here for possible solution.

 

Would I be ok just buying this keyboard:

IBM LENOVO Thinkpad X200 X200S X200T X201 UK Laptop Keyboard 42T3741 NEW | eBay

it seems more cost-effective and i'll get the delivery sooner? Technically-speaking the above should fulfil my needs of obtaining a spare retainer clip AND give me spare keys?

 

You would be fine buying the entire keyboard if you want to replace the entire keyboard. I'm not sure you'll get extra caps or clips though, since the design may differ by keyboard ODM.

 

Hi,

No I was thinking of harvesting the keyboard- keeping it for spare parts. The keyboard would come with the retainer clips and everything I presume- as it is being sold as a functional keyboard???

 

I was thinking about the option of replacing the whole keyboard, but since you asked about a damaged key...

Anyway, your decision. BTW, the X200 and X201 keyboards should be the same. (I've actually replaced individual ThinkPad keyboard keys. It's fairly delicate, especially in handling the retainer clips.)

 

duplicate post

 

Do you have any experience in removing the retainer clips? I would need to remove a good one from the "harvesting keyboard" and they dont seem so easy to get off without snapping.

 

Yes, removing and installing, with my fat fingers and a tweezer (and plenty of patience), but have no idea how to describe it in words.