Retina MacBook - backlit keyboard issue

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Level 1

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Retina MacBook - backlit keyboard issue

I have been noticing for the past week something weird with my backlit keyboard on my rMBP.

First, I noticed that the "esc" and "F1" keys are not as lit as the others. Then when I was playing a movie (I can confirm discrete graphics were in use), the keys lit up again.

I have played this scenario over and over, and the keys do light up properly when I am watching movies.

From your experience, do you guys think this is a major logic board issue or a minor issue with LED lights beneath the keys. Since this is my two month old laptop, I would hate my laptop to go through a major repair. 😟

MacBook Pro (Retina, Mid 2012), OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.1)

Posted on Sep 17, 2012 10:58 AM

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Answer 1

Aceattack Author

Level 1

10 points

Sep 17, 2012 2:29 PM in response to Aceattack

It seems it is a loose connection somewhere. Because I can confirm that the backlight flickers when I :

- tilt my screen backwards and forwards

- type fast (with more pressure)

*sigh* this and the display IR issue are making me go nuts 😮

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Answer 2

saguro

Level 1

10 points

Oct 2, 2012 7:58 PM in response to Aceattack

I had the same problem throughout my keyboard. I tried a few tips from the forums -i.e. control+option+shift on reboot, control+P+R, but the problem would not correct itself.

I made an appointment at the local genius bar and they had to change the top case (Keyboard, trackpad, battery) in order to solve this. They had the part in stock so I had my laptop back within 24 hours (kudos Apple!), but the tech suggested that since the part was $450 plus labour, it might be worth purchasing the extended warranty ($250 as a student) as a safeguard since there are so few replaceable parts on the Retina.

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Answer 3

Aceattack Author

Level 1

10 points

Oct 9, 2012 2:05 PM in response to saguro

Yes they changed my top case as well. Problem solved.

Apparently since everything is glued together (battery for example) they must replace it as a whole.

Good advice about the extended warranty. I shall be doing the same.

Cheers!

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