Keyboard trouble on Wallstreet

[macbwizard]

I just got a Powerbook G3 Wallstreet to use as a backup. Everything works great with the exception of the keyboard. Right now it is running 10.2.3.

The problem with the keyboard is that it doesn't work at all. Some keys work every once in awhile when I try to test them in text edit, but then the computer thinks that they're "stuck" and keeps entering the same character over and over. So far, I have only gotten two or three keys to actually work. The trackpad works fine if that's any indication.

The funny thing is that any key on the keyboard wakes the system from sleep perfectly, but once the OS is awake they don't work anymore.

Any ideas? I have already reset the PRAM and reconnected the keyboard. I'm hesitant to buy a new keyboard because this one works when the computer is asleep.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[ahunter3]

I've replaced WallStreet keyboards from time to time, not too difficult, cheap on eBay.

You say the keyboard "works" when the computer is asleep, but presumably only in the sense that signals trap when the keys are depressed — you have no way of knowing if a "C" is recognized as a "C" or a spacebar as a spacebar, right?

Sounds to me like something's shorted out in it.

Have you tried an external keyboard? That would verify that it's hardware and not software (or at least make it far more likely to be so), if an external works fine. Of course you'll need either a USB CardBus card or a vintage ADB external keyboard.

 

[macbwizard]

An external keyboard works fine.

Also, when the few keys have worked... they are recognized as the corresponding button. (Space was mapped as a space and command mapped as a command)

Thanks

 

[ahunter3]

Almost for sure, then, the keyboard itself is hosed. Snag a replacement (eBay, as I said, is one suitable source); pull out the expansion bay devices, flip the levers on the inside so the keyboard can lift up and flip over; then take a skinny screwdriver and manipulate the clip-connectors. There are two that hold the electronic ribbon cable (one on each end) and two others that are more robust that are the main "tendons" holding the keyboard to the Powerbook. Attach new keyboard via corresponding cables, snapping closed the clip-connectors, and you should be good to go.

 

[macbwizard]

The keys above the keyboard (brightness, volume) with the exception of the power button do not work. Is this a separate issue?

 

[macbwizard]

I just wanted to thank you for your help. Today I finally got my new keyboard, popped it in, and the wallstreet is as good as new! Thanks much!