Alternative button for turning a laptop "ON"

Alternative button for turning a laptop "ON" I have a Dell 6400, and the power button has trouble working sometimes, I was wondering if there is anyway to swap its function with a some of the buttons I don't use, like the front media buttons or the MediaDirect button (which also turns the laptop on but in a low-level media-only mode). Or to fix the laptop power button itself?
Asked by: Guest \| Views: 211

Total answers/comments: 2

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Guest [Entry]

"I agree with the osther comments from Molly and Niek but would add one thing.

I have seen some Latitude D820/830 that get some dirt or something under the power button and then work sometimes and not others. Have you removed the cover that runs just below the screen (assuming it is same, can't find a parts diagram)and had a look at the actual button that is usually at the top of the main board?"

Guest [Entry]

"As Molly said, there would be no software solution for this.

Is this laptop still under warranty? If so, please do consider sending it in. In most cases, they should be able to fix this for you for free. (However, please do make backups of all your important data before sending it in. Some factories format all machines (or even replace the harddrives) by policy before even beginning on hardware work)

Otherwise, I am afraid the only way would indeed be by soldering."