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Inspiron 15 3525 Backlit keyboard
Inspiron 15 3525
Hello All,
Less than 2 months ago I bought an Inspiron 15 3525 and I do have a couple of questions. If somebody can help I would really appreciate it.
#1
Is there any way to replace the non lit keyboard with on that lights up. When buying the laptop I though that would not be much of an issue but it turns out it is !
#2
Given the fact that the laptop is still under warranty, am I allowed to open it up ? Would that invalidate the warranty. The reason I want to open it up is to check if I can install a HDD along side the SDD because space is really limited.
filbert
4 Operator
4 Operator
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1.8K Posts
1
February 6th, 2023 13:00
I agree with you, I would not want to be without a backlit keyboard.
1. Yes, you could install the palmrest assembly with backlit keyboard. On your model, the entire palmrest assembly must be replaced, as it is a single part. Normally I would direct you to Parts-People, which is a reliable source of genuine Dell parts. However, they don't yet have parts for your model, perhaps because it is so new.
2. Your model does support a 2.5" drive. However, if you have a larger battery it may take up space that would be needed by a 2.5" drive, so check on that. If you're uncertain, ask Dell. An alternative is to replace your M.2 drive with one of larger capacity, though if you need just storage then I'd understand why you might prefer a cheaper hard drive option.
3. My understanding is that you won't invalidate your warranty simply by opening your case. However:
Follow the disassembly and reassembly steps in Dell's Service Manual.
Look on YouTube for videos showing disassembly of your model. But, be cautious with them, as some use steps or methods that are not appropriate. Use the videos to add to your understanding of what to do, but follow the steps in Dell's manual.
Whenever touching components or working inside a computer, wear a grounded wrist strap, also called anti-static wrist strap, ESD wrist strap, or ground bracelet. It's a cheap and sensible precaution. Rest the laptop on an anti-static mat or at least a reasonable alternative such as corrugated cardboard.
ejn63
10 Elder
10 Elder
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24.5K Posts
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February 6th, 2023 16:00
I would give thought as to whether you really want the backlit keyboard enough to justify the replacement procedure -- essentially the entire system needs to be torn apart to replace it -- literally everything inside from the drives to the system board, display panel, etc. need to be removed.
While opening the system doesn't void the warranty, note that any damage done in replacing the keyboard assembly won't be covered -- and you're going to be tearing apart the system and reassembling it just as was done on the production line.
Service manual is here:
https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-us/product-support/product/inspiron-15-3525-laptop/docs
trbus
2 Posts
0
June 27th, 2023 03:00
I am interested in doing the same thing. No backlit keyboard is a bigger issue than I thought it would be. Just out of curiosity, did you end up replacing your keyboard with a backlit one?
rahlquist_cfafbd
2 Posts
0
August 17th, 2023 18:03
Has anyone done this successfully? I'd love to get the proper assembly part number. I bought one from ebay that is not the right one (has two usb A ports on the left, mine has usb a and usb c). For that matter I wish Dell would include a part # list in the Service manual.
rahlquist_cfafbd
2 Posts
1
August 18th, 2023 18:25
So just another user going to relate my own experience.
The palmrest you need if you have the USB C port on the left of the keyboard is 0C6D40
The palmrest you need if you have two USB A port on the left of the keyboard is 054WVM
That part number is just the wristrest, you need to verify you get one of those parts with a backlit KB attached. You cant remove them from the palmrest as the KB is attached by slipping it over posts on the new palmrest then melting the 50 or so posts down.
I have not found a single 0C6D40 with a backlit English KB yet.
I have found the KB(new $20) and the plamrest(new $50) separate on ebay.
I did mistakenly order a 054WVM. After examining them closely other than the wrong USB port hole, there was one mounting boss on the palmrest (that has the top screw for the metal shield around the usb C port) that on the 0C6D40 has a brass sleeve in it on the 054WVM it is only plastic. Here is a photo of the port cutout differences. I can make a dust cover for it from Sugru otherwise the laptop is reasseembled and working fine, including backlit keys.
You are on your own if you try this, but for me its an acceptable risk.
TIP, if you connect the backlight upside down, in the bios it will say that its a non backlit KB on the first page and the settings will disappear from the second. Good lucjk!