15 R2, touchpad stopped working

Question

It is important to note that the touchpad was working correctly. Then I plugged in an external usb mouse to play a game. There was no dropping of the laptop or spilling of anything, or any damage of any kind. I shut down after the gaming session properly. The next day, when I started up the laptop, the touchpad no longer functioned.

I have updated BIOS, uninstalled/reinstalled drivers (new and old), swore at it, turned it off and on in every way imaginable, cursed the gods, and stomped my feet.

I can turn the backlight on in the BIOS, so there's that. But the thing is dead.

I'd be interested to hear any thoughts on what might have happened while it was sitting there safely turned off over night.

But really, I'm asking: How difficult is the touchpad to replace? This a DIY scenario?

DELL-Chris M · Answer

Before you disassemble this out of warranty 15 R2, did you try toggling the FN + F11 keys? Per the online 15 R2 Specifications PDF, that enables/disables the touchpad.

watsoja_nh · Answer

Thanks so much!! a few days ago my touchpad stopped working I have been updating drivers, re-booting etc, trying to get it to work again.   I had no idea it could be disabled.   Not sure how I hit FN-F11 to disable it, but thanks anyhow..  It is working fine now.

Alienware

15 R2, touchpad stopped working

Was this post helpful?