Keyboard grid short -- how do I remap a key/make my screen brighter (Fn-F9) in software?

I have a short on my keyboard grid for my 9262. Its not terrible, I lost left shift, left ctrl, left alt, esc, and every other function key. The problem is I lost F9 (00_43), so I can't do Fn-F9... and my screen is very dim. F8 works, which is how the screen got dark in the first place.

I tried remapping the F9 key with SharpKeys but it doesn't recognize the new combo. I tried using windows onscreen keyboard... same problem.

I tried using the nVidia control panel, but it doesn't change the same bright/dark setting as Fn-F9. It changes different settings, but not the one I'm looking for (back light)... note that my nvidia control panel does not have a "mobile" tree, which is where this setting is supposed to be.

Does anyone know how I can repair a keyboard short, somehow emulate/remap my F9 key in software so it works with the Fn key, OR change my backlight in software. I wouldn't mind getting an external USB keyboard, but I strongly suspect that won't work. I'm living overseas, so sending it to Sager for repairs isn't an option atm.

Thanks guys.

 

Tried plugging in an external USB keyboard?

 

try reseating the keyboard connector, take the kbd out, unplug it and replug it, use the service guide for your model in my sig

 

No dice Going to try unseating. Hope it works, because local shops don't have parts for American keyboards.

 

Thanks for the tip... I tried that, and it didn't work. Although I got the model number of the keyboard from the under carriage so I hope ordering a new one won't be too painful.

 

Is there any way in software to change the backlight of my 9262?

 

If you're running vista opening the Mobility Center (windows + x for me) gives you a bunch of options, one of which is changing backlight brightness. If you windows key got shorted also, you can just type "Mobility Center" into the start menu and it'll show up there too.

 

Yeah I'm running Vista 64. The mobility center has no backlight slider. I don't know if that's because I have home, and not premium... or what.

 

the last gen clevos (ie non MV ones) do not integrate the backlight into windows, so it is a hardware only function

 

I would like to say guys... I ordered a new keyboard from ebay... installed it myself... incredibly easy using theriko's service guide. Took like 5 minutes tops. Thanks for all the help.