MacBook touchpad and keyboard don't work

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I recently bought a MacBook off 2006.
But it doesn't work properly, the internal keyboard and touchpad do not work.

The previous owner told me that he had installed the MacBook with a Dell keyboard and therefore he thought that 'custom' firmware was installed. This initially seemed a strange story, but when I took the test my Apple keyboard does not work (external) and a Dell keyboard (external) does work.

So with this keyboard (Dell) i've installed Snow Leopard from a formatted drive.
In summary, what it comes down to the keyboard and mouse only work externally. Could this really a Firmware / software related problem?
 
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I've just opened the topcase, and re-connected the keyboard,
Everything looks fine under the hood (as far as I can see).

I hope this is a software problem :Blushing:
 

chscag

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It sounds very much like a hardware problem, not software. When a keyboard and trackpad are not working while an external one does, it's not caused by software.

I would go back to the person who sold it to you and ask if they may have spilled something on the keyboard - water, liquid, etc. That may be the reason neither the keyboard or trackpad are working. It sounds to me the seller was not being entirely honest with you.
 
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Are you certain that it's NOT a software issue? The touchpad and mouse are USB aren't they? I'd look for the driver (if available), or try a third-party USB program like Overdrive and see if it helps.
 

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Read his post closely. He said the internal keyboard and trackpad are not working. Has nothing to do with software or drivers. Very likely a spill as I stated previously. Also note he said an external keyboard works which means his USB port is OK.
 

chscag

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Is it most likely that the Topcase or the Logic Board causes the problem?

It depends. If it was a spill, then it could very well be logic board damage. If it wasn't a spill or other damage, then perhaps a new keyboard assembly would fix it. Anyway, take a look on the iFixit: The free repair manual web site for parts replacement and instructions on how to change out the keyboard assembly.
 
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It is a very odd and suspicious story.

Check that the keyboard cable is in good condition and with no apparent kinks or cracks. Then check out the liquid in the keyboard theory.
 
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Read his post closely. He said the internal keyboard and trackpad are not working. Has nothing to do with software or drivers. Very likely a spill as I stated previously. Also note he said an external keyboard works which means his USB port is OK.

You're exactly right my friend. Thanks for correcting me.
 
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It is a very odd and suspicious story.

Check that the keyboard cable is in good condition and with no apparent kinks or cracks. Then check out the liquid in the keyboard theory.

I took it out, and the cable looks all fine.
No signs of a spill under the hood. Everything looks perfectly fine.

Hmm.. what to do? :Blushing:
 

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