Replace ANY welded / plastic riveted keyboard the CORRECT WAY.

Summary

In this tutorial, the host, an experienced engineer with 25 years in device repair, demonstrates how to replace a keyboard on an HP Omen 15-inch laptop. The repair is challenging due to the keyboard being held in place by plastic rivets, requiring a meticulous method for removal and reattachment. The video provides a step-by-step guide, from disassembling the device and marking rivets to using a Dremel tool and a soldering iron with zip ties to create secure, permanent rivets. This process is detailed and requires precision, offering a cost-effective solution for device repair enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start by completely disassembling the device to safely access the keyboard, removing the battery, RAM, hard drive, and other components.
• 😀 Carefully circle each plastic rivet before removing to ensure you don't miss any during reassembly.
• 😀 Use a Dremel tool with a grinding stone on low speed to safely remove the rivet heads without melting or damaging the surrounding parts.
• 😀 Avoid methods like pulling off the metal plate or using a soldering iron to melt rivets, as these can cause damage and affect the keyboard's stability.
• 😀 Be methodical and take your time during the repair process to ensure everything is properly aligned and secured.
• 😀 Once the rivets are removed, carefully push the keyboard and back plate apart by gently applying upward pressure from the underside.
• 😀 Recreate the rivets using melted zip ties. Cut the zip tie into a thin strip, melt it with a soldering iron, and press it into the rivet holes.
• 😀 The zip tie plastic fuses with the original rivet, creating a solid, permanent bond to hold the keyboard in place.
• 😀 After creating the new rivets, allow them to cool before moving to the next one to avoid damage or misalignment.
• 😀 Reassemble the device carefully, ensuring that all components are securely reinstalled and the new rivets are firmly holding the keyboard in place.

Q & A

What is the primary repair discussed in the tutorial?

The tutorial focuses on replacing a keyboard in a laptop, specifically an HP Omen 15-inch model, which uses plastic rivets to hold the keyboard in place.

Why is replacing the keyboard in this laptop challenging?

The keyboard is held together between the faceplate and a metal backplate using plastic rivets, which are melted to hold everything firmly, making the repair process complex.

What is a common mistake people make when attempting this repair?

One common mistake is using adhesives that fail over time or not properly preserving the plastic rivets, which leads to a loose or mushy keyboard.

Why does the adhesive method often fail in these repairs?

Adhesives often fail because they do not form a permanent bond between two distinct pieces. They do not fuse the rivet and keyboard properly, leading to instability after a short period.

How can bending the metal plate during disassembly affect the repair?

Bending the metal plate during disassembly can cause air pockets, resulting in a mushy keyboard because the keyboard will not be held firmly in place.

What is the importance of circling the rivets before disassembling the keyboard?

Circling the rivets ensures that none of them are missed during the repair process, allowing for proper reassembly and a stable keyboard after the fix.

What tool is recommended for removing the rivet heads and why?

A Dremel tool with a small grindstone at low speed is recommended because it removes the rivet heads without melting the plastic, thus preserving the original rivet structure.

What mistake should be avoided when removing the rivets from the keyboard assembly?

Avoid pulling the metal bracket too harshly or using excessive force, as it can bend the plate, causing gaps that will affect the stability of the keyboard.

What is the method used to recreate the plastic rivets?

To recreate the rivets, a zip tie is melted and fused with the original rivet plastic using a hot knife or soldering iron, creating a strong bond between the components.

How long does the repair process take, according to the tutorial?

The repair process takes around three to four hours, depending on the complexity of the device and the methodical approach taken during disassembly and reassembly.