Broken Key

I have a Dell laptop, "Inspiron 5000e" that a key has come off (d). The key seems to have the tabs broke off. Is it possible to replace this key with a new one. I have been reluctant to call dell since that is a day long process in this case.

If anyone has knowledge of this or where to get a key if it can be replaced that would be great. Another option is if someone knows how to skirt all the problems of calling Dell.

 

I can't say that this is fact but I'd bet dollars to donuts that Dell won't want to sell you a key. They will want to sell you a new keyboard.

I would take a real good look at the key mounts and see if I could come up with another way to mount it. If it rested on a post, not directly touching the contacts I MIGHT even consider super glue.

 

NOLA3716--Have you lost the D key? Or rather wonder if you can reattach it?
In the latter case, have you tried to just push it back--with, if necessary, perhaps a spot of SuperGlue or perhaps Epoxy Glue?
You could try posting on the Dell users forum
http://forums.us.dell.com/supportforums/
Or maybe even Chat with Dell--one of the options here
http://www1.us.dell.com/content/top.../dellcare/en/contact_us?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs
Are you still within warranty?
And perhaps a local PC store could help?

 

NOLA3716: I think you're in luck. If I understand your explanation correctly, the same thing happened to my wife's Dell laptop one month ago and thanks to the help I received on this BBS I was able to fix the problem.

Here's the link to the thread I posted:

http://www.windowsbbs.com/showthread.php?t=48937

Scroll down to the last three posts. That's where the solution is that worked for me. Use the Dell Document Number in the third-to-last post (it's by Erronius) to find the Dell page that will show you how to fix the broken key. BTW, the link in my very last post turns out to not show what I'd intended it to. I'm not sure if it's what gets you to your starting point or not.

Get back to us and let us know how it works out for you or if you need further help. Good luck.

 

Fixed it!

I swear I am not home, never thought of looking on eBay. I really did not want to try the glue and I think I have found a new keyboard for under $40. But just to check out the repair first I went to the Dell Support page and although the pic was not exactly like mine, I was able to get it reconnected.

Thanks to all for your help.