Keyboard removal and installation

I'm having two problems with my keyboard.

1. Connector on motherboard, CN53. It seems the latch for the ZIF (z¬ero insertion force) connector is broken off, or one of the pivot pins of the latch is off.

The latch separates when the cable is removed.

I think this connector is available as a part, and perhaps just the latch can be replaced without desoldering, and soldering the new connector in. Anyone else with this issue?

2. Folding hte flat cables. After replacing the wiring cover, I seem to have more flat cable than I can easily and neatly fold when replacing the keyboard. Is there a technique or method that solves this?

Thanks much,

jv

 

you need toughbook help on this one, he must have a way to put the keyboards back in with out the wires catching.....

 

JV... This is where I had to switch motherboards... I hate to say. Look for where they took a marker and drew a line over the latch and the catch to make sure they line up. My hinges broke and was still able to make it work by switching the way the little catch hooks in. I don't think I could describe it and I know a picture is no help. You just have to fool with it. My problem kept happening as I would screw the cover back on... That would force the cable out of the connector and I'd lose all/some of the keyboard functionality.

I hate to say... If it's the connector I'm thinking about it is definitely a soldered part.

Have any pics?

 

Toughbook,

On the connector, we're on the right track here, I think. Mine is CN53, a brownish color connector soldered onto the motherboard, and a hinged, white plastic latch, or catch piece, if I recall correctly. They are separate pieces. My recollection is also that there are two hinge pins on either end of the latch that engage holes in the brown piece so the hinge can pivot. One of the pins broke off. That means that if I can get a new latch, I should be able to replace it, since at some point someone actually assembled this thing.

If not, if the soldered piece needs replacing, I can find someone at work with a surface mount soldering/de-soldering station and the skill to swap it out.

I found the part for about $3. If I order, do you want one?

jv

 

Any sage advice on tucking/folding these flat cables? Mine "show" at the front edge of the keyboard when assembled, the fold sticking up through the gap from the keyboard to palm rest.

 

JV... Yes... I'd take one if you order. I can Paypal you if you like.

There are two connectors for the keyboard... I don't have the MB in front of me... Which one is it? The larger or the smaller? As I recall... the smaller one was more sturdy and the larger, toward the top (hinge) area is the one I had a problem with.

I think all rubberized keyboards have the little thing poking out. The other keyboard is able to hide it a little better I think.

 

I had to hold my keyboard up, as I put the screws back in for the cover plate, its a bit of stuffing around but can be done....

 

Yup... I had to hold mine up too. I actually leaned it forward just enough to screw back in the screws. This still leaves a little ribbon cable out front though. After a while... You don't notice it.

 

So, I resolved both of these today.

Another TOTAL teardown of the C-28. Not too difficult, actually. You need some skill and dexterity, and good screwdrivers.

1. The connector wasn't broken. The latch had come off, popped of, so to speak, and I originally installed it incorrectly. It's now correct: the "ears" stick up when it's not latched, the cable slips in on top of the latch "bar," adn the ears are pushed down towards the PCB. Fixed!

2. Flat cable tuck. Install "normally," no need to stuff cable under the cover or hold the keyboard up. The excess cable at the fold tucks neatly under the palm rest area of the case. Done!

Let me know if you need help on this.

 

nice, tho mine is all good for the time being lol
till the next mod anyways

 

I am experiencing the same problem with my HP notebook keyboard. The ZIF connector latch is broken on one side causing a loose connection and improper keyboard function. After searching online for 2 days I am unable to find a spare ZIF connector. Here I kindly request jviss, toughbook or ANYONE to please help me find and order a spare ZIF connector.

Thanks!

 

umair... I looked and couldn't find one. Your only alternative to make it like new is to order a new mobo. (Or find one on ebay cheap.)

You may be able to make it work with a shim. Something like a toothpick has worked in the past for others.

Just my two centavos...