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Keyboard and trackpad do not work properly. Stuck at login page.

Hello,

my macbook was working perfectly until now. I turned it on and I'm now stuck at login page:

- I can move using the trackpad, but can't click.

- keyboard doesn't work. only volume, screen brightness, buttons brightness, caps lock work. Nothing else.

What I tried to do:

turning it on/off a few times

Tried using an external usb keyboard: only the previously mentioned buttons work.

Thanks for your help.

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

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It's a: MacBook (13-inch, Aluminum, Late 2008

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I have the same problem, my trackpad click seems not working in the login screen but I can move the cursor. I use the keyboard arrow keys to navigate the focus and press enter as alternative for click. Then I was able to enter my password and login. And my trackpad click starts working again. It just dont click in the login screen, I don't know why.

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When you depress on the track pad do you feel the click action? If not I suspect your battery has swollen. So the pressure is preventing the button from depressing as it is being held down now from below pressing up.

You can test this by disconnecting the keyboard and trackpad ribbon cables internally from the logic board and using USB connected keyboard & mouse. You will need to use a jumper to startup your system off of the logic board as the power switch will also be disconnected. In any case you'll need to have the battery out as well here.

Follow this IFIXIT guide: MacBook Unibody Model A1278 Logic Board Replacement. Follow the steps to Step 5, then jump to Steps 15 & 16 which are the keyboard & track pad cables. You don't need to go any further. Now plug in the USB keyboard, trackpad and power adapter. In Step 15 you can see two square solder pads just above the trackpad cable connection. carefully short these pads to turn on your system. At this point your external keyboard & mouse should allow you full access.

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Thanks guys,

I removed the battery. It didn't work at first, I tried to press harder on the keys and all of a sudden both the keyboard and trackpad work again as usual.

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Open it up and remove the battery and inspect it for swelling. Here's how to do it: MacBook Unibody Model A1278 Battery Replacement

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I guess I shouldn't have gotten a fresh cup of joe halfway though my answering. Mayer you bet me to it ;-}

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If this answer answered your question please remember to rate (score) and mark it accepted.

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robbb will be eternally grateful.
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