Latitude Keyboard Problems

[shenton]

Hi all. New here! I've got a Latitude CPiR 400, and there's a problem with the strip connector for the keyboard. From the Dell forum it's a standard problem where occasionally the 8,I,K & < keys go dead. They recommend opening it up and reseating the connector. That works, but now I need to do it every few days. Not convenient. A repair is expensive (machine not worth much now). Any ideas on a cheap DIY fix? Thanks, regards, Stephen

[mjc]

Are the lockdown tabs for the connector intact?

If they are, are they being firmly engaged when you are reconnecting it?

Not a perfect soultion, but does this machine allow for an external keyboard to be added?

[shenton]

Thanks for the suggest. I'll investigate the 'lock-downs' when I next open up. I think though, it just plugs in w/o any kind of lock. I can plug in an external k/board and will if I have to. I'm a lazy bloke, though, and usually use my laptop as a lap top while in an armchair! Thanks again!