First, I am running a Framework 13 with Windows 11 on Intel 12th gen.
The event:
The other day, I dropped my laptop, thankfully it was it a rugged-ish case… At first, I thought I got lucky and there was nothing wrong with the laptop.
The problem:
About a day later, I noticed that the trackpad was not clicking (depressing when I apply pressure) or responding to gestures.
Additional Information gained from troubleshooting:
When I first log on, the selector box for Windows is toggled. For these reasons, I believe the trackpad is already ‘activated’.
When looking at the laptop screen (clamshell open), the closest right corner of the keyboard module is separated slightly from the chassis.
The fastener attached to the chassis for screw 1 of 3 for the battery has broken off and was wedged under the battery (I have since removed this screw point).
When the outer screws on the bottom of the laptop are removed and the bottom of the laptop is facing up, there is a slight rock when pushing on the left corner of the laptop (same corner where there is a gap between the keyboard module and chassis.)
When I unfasten all the screwson the bottom of the laptop chassis, the trackpad works fine.
The Ask:
I am hoping for any guidance on how I should troubleshoot this & get my trackpad working again.
I was unable to download more images showing the issue. Happy to upload more if it will help with troubleshooting.
The second picture is normal when you unscrew that one. It has a lever mechanism to make removing the keyboard module easier.
In case it helps, if you look at the backside of the trackpad, you can see a small metal plate on the bottom. That’s where the button assembly is, and clicking works by pressing into that plate. You should check if that plate is supported when the screws are tightened.
Thanks for the advice. When I remove the keyboard module, I can see the metal plate you are referring to. When the keyboard module is ajar and the ribbon cable is still seated in the mainboard, the trackpad works fine. I can even see the metal pad move slightly with enough pressure.
Though, I have also realized that when I apply pressure to screw 2 for the battery, there is about 3-4mm of give (this may be normal, I am not certain).
Once I have tightened 2 of the outer screws the trackpad is almost unusable and after tightening any 3 screws, the trackpad does not work at all. I believe there is too much pressure between either the chassis and the trackpad or the battery and the trackpad. Though, I am not certain.
Hello to the community! I am reaching out to follow up on this. I have no new updates & am seeking advice on troubleshooting to determine which part(s) I need to replace.
