Win11/64 Laptop: Left Alt Key Stuck

Hi! Recently, I've been having a frustrating problem with my main work laptop: the left Alt key sometimes does not work. I sometimeshave to press hard on it to get it to register, and even then, it doesn't work. I don't want to replace the whole laptop just for one key. Is there something I can do to get it to work? This poses a real problem, because I sometimes use keyboard shortcuts while interfacing with the GUI, and I'm left-handed and rely on that particular side of the keyboard. Thank you.

 

It could be a cookie crumb or piece of lint. I would try some compressed air. If that does not work, it could be something sticky like spilled soda. so you might try some quality electrical contact cleaner. I recommend using CRC QD Electronic Cleaner or WD-40 Electrical Contact Cleaner.

If it still does not work, the keycap may need to be removed for some thorough cleaning. And finally, if that does not work, the mechanism is likely worn out and you will need to replace the keyboard.

Alternatively, change your typing habits to use the right Alt key. Or use an external USB keyboard.

 

Well, when I look at the key, there seems to be a little gunk on its surface. I see the same on other keys, but they still work fine. I don't have any compressed air available, and I don't see a way to remove the key. I prefer using the left Alt key, as I'm left-handed, so it would be a little awkward to use the right Alt key. On several emulators, I switched a joystick fire button from the right Ctrl key to the left for the same reason. I can't use an external USB keyboard, as all my laptop's USB ports are in constant use: I'm already using a USB mouse, as my laptop's internal mouse is broken, and its other two USB ports contain a flash drive that contains most of my software and a floppy drive, as much of the rest of my software is on floppies. Thank you for your advice.

 

You might consider using a self powered USB hub then. A hub lets you connect several USB devices to the hub, then the hub connects to the computer via a single USB cable/port. You would need it to be self powered (comes with its own power supply) to ensure all the connections do not exceed the power capability of the computer's port.

 

You're right. I should. Thank you.

 

What make of laptop is it? Some laptops you can remove the keyboard and replace it. Similarly with the internal mouse.

 

Acer Aspire 3. I don't think I can replace the mouse except with a USB, as it is totally internal and unremovable.

 

The keyboard can be replaced by: WIKIPARTS New Non Backlit UK Layout English Laptop Keyboard Replacement For ACER Aspire 3 A315-21 A315-41 A315-31 A315-32 A315-51 A315-53 Keyboard : Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories

The "mouse" is a trackpad and built-in and can also be replaced: How to replace just the touch pad — Acer Community

 

Thank you. I don't want to replace the whole keyboard--just the one key--and I'm fine with my USB mouse , so it wouldn't be worth upgrading.