Backlit keyboard on unibody 13" 2 GHz Macbook

You can install a backlit keyboard on a non-backlit Unibody MacBook. All that needs to be done is to replace the upper case with keyboard.

[quote|ben]You can install a backlit keyboard on a non-backlit Unibody MacBook. All that needs to be done is to replace the upper case with keyboard.[/quote]

So I guess that means I can purchase the backlit keyboard "structure" from the 13" macbook with the backlit keyboard and install it into the non-backlit keyboard 13" macbook?

Sorry, I know it's worded weird, but thanks for the reply.

[quote|Phhhabian]So I guess that means I can purchase the backlit keyboard "structure" from the 13" macbook with the backlit keyboard and install it into the non-backlit keyboard 13" macbook? Sorry, I know it's worded weird, but thanks for the reply.[/quote]

yes, the only difference is the backlit one has special clear diffuser plastic and the white reflective backing with LED's. You dont even need the whole keyboard just these 2 "layers". Another note although not really important, the keyboard keys do not have the backlight info on them on the non backlight version. But as long as you memorize this you will be fine.

[quote|clever]yes, the only difference is the backlit one has special clear diffuser plastic and the white reflective backing with LED's. You dont even need the whole keyboard just these 2 "layers". Another note although not really important, the keyboard keys do not have the backlight info on them on the non backlight version. But as long as you memorize this you will be fine.[/quote]

clever! could you help me out. I just purchased the 2ghz macbook unibody and was wondering if i could replace only the keyboard .... would this be worth it or should i just spare the extra $300 and return this before my 14 day return time is up

[quote|bmw07x]clever! could you help me out. I just purchased the 2ghz macbook unibody and was wondering if i could replace only the keyboard .... would this be worth it or should i just spare the extra $300 and return this before my 14 day return time is up[/quote]

It's possible, but it's an arduous process. The upper case is the part that most things are screwed into, so you must remove almost everything from the laptop. Then there are nearly 50 tiny screws that hold the keyboard in place. It's not impossible, but it may not be worth your time.

[quote|ben]It's possible, but it's an arduous process. The upper case is the part that most things are screwed into, so you must remove almost everything from the laptop. Then there are nearly 50 tiny screws that hold the keyboard in place. It's not impossible, but it may not be worth your time.[/quote]

Will you guys eventually sell just the keyboards?

It may be 50 screws, but you underestimate what lengths some of us will go to in order to try to save some money.

Also, a second question- do you know if the unibody MB, MBP, and MBA possibly use the same keyboard?

Thanks.

[quote|madmaxmedia]Will you guys eventually sell just the keyboards? It may be 50 screws, but you underestimate what lengths some of us will go to in order to try to save some money. Also, a second question- do you know if the unibody MB, MBP, and MBA possibly use the same keyboard? Thanks.[/quote]

I have looked into this extensively. (i would say too extensively) but here are my conclusions.

1. the easiest route to go is to purchase a backlit topcase from the 2.4gh macbook. It is about $200 right now. Everything else is plug and play. Both logic board has a built in connection for the backlit keyboard. It just in the 2.0 the keyboard does not plug into it. (since it is not backlit) thus if you buy a 2.4gh top case, it would work. part number is 661-4944

2. MBA is a no go, it is basically engineered so specifically to fit the small enclosure that it would be close to impossible to transplant it.

3. MBP unibody has a different layout. (two fans etc.) and just by looking at the teardown, the keyboard connection to the logic board is at a different placement. and it's not like a cable where you can move around or extend.

In conclusion, if you really couldn't let this feature go, spend $200, or wait a little more. Remember you can also try to sell your non-lit topcase for probably $170, which makes this a $30 upgrade. (well worth the money) The only problem with that is there are not as much demand for unibody parts right now. most people go to apple warranty at this point, but in time it would get easier.

let me know if i could be of help,

John

[quote|qbo412]I have looked into this extensively. (i would say too extensively) but here are my conclusions. 1. the easiest route to go is to purchase a backlit topcase from the 2.4gh macbook. It is about $200 right now. Everything else is plug and play. Both logic board has a built in connection for the backlit keyboard. It just in the 2.0 the keyboard does not plug into it. (since it is not backlit) thus if you buy a 2.4gh top case, it would work. part number is 661-4944 2. MBA is a no go, it is basically engineered so specifically to fit the small enclosure that it would be close to impossible to transplant it. 3. MBP unibody has a different layout. (two fans etc.) and just by looking at the teardown, the keyboard connection to the logic board is at a different placement. and it's not like a cable where you can move around or extend. In conclusion, if you really couldn't let this feature go, spend $200, or wait a little more. Remember you can also try to sell your non-lit topcase for probably $170, which makes this a $30 upgrade. (well worth the money) The only problem with that is there are not as much demand for unibody parts right now. most people go to apple warranty at this point, but in time it would get easier. let me know if i could be of help, John[/quote]

• close to impossible in the sense that Macbook is a man made machine and you could make it work, some how. I know this guy who put the MBA keys into a white MB. he has a degree in EE tho.

[quote|qbo412]* close to impossible in the sense that Macbook is a man made machine and you could make it work, some how. I know this guy who put the MBA keys into a white MB. he has a degree in EE tho.[/quote]