Introduction

Use this guide to replace the keyboard in your Framework 16" laptop.

Note: the laptop used in this guide is a generic setup of one US keyboard, one numpad module, and two touchpad spacers. Your setup might vary, but the procedure should remain the same.

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    • Unplug all cables and fully shut down your laptop.

    • If your repair requires a spudger, a T5 Torx, or a Phillips screwdriver, you can use the included Framework screwdriver. Whichever works best for you!

    Step 1 is not really necessary, it is up to you. The keyboard, trackpad, etc, can be hot-swapped, meaning you can remove them at any time when the laptop is off OR on. The keyboard and the macropad/numpad/spacers/LED matrixes all lose power anyways when the trackpad is slid out of its resting spot. Turning off the power or doing a restart may help if some software of yours isn't happy with you swapping your keyboard on the fly.

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    • Use your fingernail to pull out the two Input Module latches and unlock them.

    • The latch will show red if it's unlocked.

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    • Use your fingers to slide the touchpad spacer toward the bottom edge of the laptop and unclip it.

    • If you're having trouble, check if the corresponding Input Module latch is properly unlocked.

    • Lift the touchpad spacer off the laptop and remove it.

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    • Repeat the same procedure for the other touchpad spacer.

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    • Use your fingers to slide the touchpad toward the bottom edge of the laptop and disconnect it.

    • If you're having trouble, check if the Input Module latches are properly unlocked.

    • Lift the touchpad and remove it.

    • During reassembly, perform the following:

    • Place the touchpad flat on its cutout so its clips are properly aligned.

    • Press the touchpad down and slide it into place so it lines up evenly with the bottom edge of the laptop.

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    • The keyboard is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the keyboard violently eject.

    • Grip the two pull tabs along the bottom of the keyboard.

    • Lift the pull tabs until the keyboard magnets release.

    • Remove the keyboard.

    • During reassembly, make sure the keyboard is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits evenly with the edges of the laptop.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.

Repair didn’t go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting, or ask our Answers Community for help.

Alex Diaz-Kokaisl

Member since: 16/01/22

151892 Reputation

One comment

this is a pretty funny guide, i genuinely like that it exists lol, only thing is you dont need to shut down your system; the keyboard, trackpad, numpad/macropad, spacers, LED matrix strips, etc, can be hot-swapped. same with the input modules

ChazIsBuns -