Dell Studio XPS 1647 media buttons not lighting up or working

Hi SFsorrow,

This may be an issue with the software, I would suggest you to perform factory default settings (PC restore) referring to the link below.

Note: Performing PC restore will lead to data loss. Once the above step is performed please check if the issue persists.

Thank you for the response!

But I should clarify that the media buttons do not flash or light up at all during the boot sequence. Before this happened each would light up in sequence when the laptop would power up before it started to load the OS. My assumption is that it has nothing to do with the Windows drivers/software.

-Mark

According to this post the media buttons need to be replaced. How can I do that and where can I buy the parts needed?

Hello Mark. I have tried to research this but can't find anything. I haven't found any replacement part at the usual places I search, and the service manual does not have a section that indicates that the keys are replaceable. Rajath N might have been incorrect in implying so.

You can go to the Studio Studio XPS 1647 documents page to get the Service Manual. An obvious problem is that the link gives you the Studio XPS 1640 manual. I don't know if that is a mistake or if the 2 models are so similar that the same manual does for both.

You might have to partially disassemble the laptop to determine if the buttons are part of the motherboard. If so then they are not replaceable. If they are separate then they ought to show up on ebay now and then, as salvaged parts.

Hi SFsorrow,

Just to clarify the system model confusion the XPS 1647 and XPS 1640 are similar. you may refer to the XPS 1640 manual for any help.

Thank you.

After reading the service manual, I believe the touch-sensitive media buttons are part of the palm rest. I'll order a replacement and will report back if that works.

-Mark

Problem solved! I ordered a replacement palm rest and the media buttons work again.