MacBooks are one of Apple's primary notebook models.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images
The Apple MacBook is the lower-end cousin to the MacBook Pro, but it still features specifications in line with most high-end notebooks. Like with any computer though, the MacBook's keyboard can experience a variety of problems through normal use. These issues can range from cleanliness to major functionality failure.
Dirt
Through regular use, your MacBook's keyboard can build up grease marks and dust. The grease usually shows up as black streaks on the keyboard, while dust can build up underneath and in between the individual keys. Dirt and grime are usually a cosmetic issue and can be solved by giving the MacBook's keyboard a thorough washing. Anything from a wet paper towel or compressed air to a commercial liquid cleaner can be used, but avoid spraying liquid directly on the keyboard. Always spray your cleaning solution onto a paper towel first.
Broken Keys
On a MacBook, the individual keys are structured similarly to any other notebook, but through frequent use or physical damage, they can pop off. If the physical key is damaged, though, you'll have to turn to a third-party vendor, because Apple does not make replacement keys available for purchase.
Liquid Damage
If you spill liquid into the MacBook's keyboard, turn off the computer immediately. Flip over the keyboard, so that the keys are pointing toward the ground, and allow for the computer to air dry. If soda or another sugary liquid is spilled underneath your MacBook's keyboard, you may be in a much sticker situation. Like most laptops, the MacBook's keyboard is a single component. Permanent damage will require a keyboard replacement.
Eject Button
The "Eject" button is the only feature that's specific to a MacBook keyboard -- otherwise, a MacBook QWERTY keyboard works identically to a PC QWERTY keyboard. If your "Eject" button fails to release a CD or DVD, open up the Terminal and type in "drutil tray ejec." This command will force the disk drive to release anything that's inside, allowing you to use the drive again.
Broken Keyboard
If your MacBook's keyboard completely refuses to respond, it also means that you'll have to have a replacement keyboard installed. The keyboard is connected to the MacBook's motherboard by a single cable, so if one part of the keyboard fails to function, it likely means that the entire unit is broken.
References
Photo Credits
- Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images
