Track-pad problems?

Hi Guys!

I've recently bought an iBook G4, second-hand... Just as something to take around with me and with a bit more portability than my iMac!

However, I switched it on for the first time and the track-pad is not responding, at all. It came with a mouse, so I've used that to check the settings on the preferences, to make sure that it's all turned on etc.

But it's still not responding!


I've read that this was a common fault with the G4?


I'm wondering if there's any way to fix it. I've heard contradictory stories of it being more expensive to repair than is really worth it, but how much are we talking?


I really need the track-pad to work, as I need the portability!

If it's not fixable, how much would it be worth in its current state?

It's running OSX 10.3.9.



Thank you

Looks like about $100 for the top case assembly and trackpad if you need to replace it. Maybe the ribbon's been torn? I dunno.

Is the click button working? If not, the upper case is probably disconnected from the board. This can be seen by removing the keyboard.

There is also a ribbon connector that runs from the track pad sensor to the aforementioned board cable. That can also get disconnected. It's a delicate little molex connector, but it's easy enough to replug.

Both things are worth checking before forking out for a new part.