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Model A1181: 1.83, 2, 2.1, 2.13, 2.16, 2.2, or 2.4 GHz Core 2 Duo processor

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Option key doesn't work when booting

Hi. My option key stopped working when I boot and I try to use it (for instance, to choose another startup disk or to reset the PRAM). It works normally when I'm using the computer afterwords (after signing in). Also, when my login screen appears, there are a bunch of dots filling in the password field, like if the computer was filling in the password itself (but it doesn't, I have to delete the chain of dots and enter my password). But this dosen't happen when I try (without success) to use the option key on boot.

So:

- If I try to use the option key on boot, nothing will happen but my login screen will have a normal behaviour (empty password filed)

- If I do nothing on boot, I have a self-filling password field on the login screen.

Any help?

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

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Still didn't work with an external USB keyboard.

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The dots sound like a stuck key. Check each key on a blank text... there may be another key that is damaged. As a work around You might try a key-remapper OR an external keyboard at boot up. Try holding down the mouse or trackpad at startup, that too may take you to the choose startup disk dialog.

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I actually found a stuck key. It wasn't well in place (after cleaning). Now it's ok but still doesn't work. It's a key that I almost never use. Anyway, the dots are still apearing... But the worst is actually the optionkey, still not working on boot. I also tried to hold down the (external) mouse and the trackpad but nothing happened: no boot menu, the apple appeared immediately.

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Try using Any USB keyboard (doesn't have to be Apple) holding down the option key.

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I tried that (with a regular Logitech keyboard which I'm using with my PowerMac) but it still didn't work. I also did a clean install of Mac OS (erasing the HD) and it still doesn't work. It's strange, because if it was a problem with the built-in keyboard the external keyboard should work.

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The external keyboard will not work on this type of problem. If the key that is repeating can't be stopped by removal, you will need to replace the keyboard. Some of these keyboards can be replaced and some require a top case replacement. Please give us the last three figures of your serial number so we can determine your exact machine.

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