Chosen Solution
Hi! I just finished a keyboard replacement on a MacBook Pro 17’ from 2011, It starts when i press the power button, but the keyboard/backlight doesnt work. Trying to do a SMC Reset, but since the Keyboard doesnt respond, i cant do it. I do have an Wireless Windows keyboard that i’ve tried with too, but it doesnt work either.. Tried to press Shift + Windows + Alt, and also Shift, CTRL and Windows key, but still doesnt work… Is there any other way i can fix this problem?
You may need a USB keyboard & mouse to regain control. I don’t think a SMC reset will alter things here. In the act of replacing the keyboard you disconnected the battery which would have been functionally the same as the keyboard method. You can try doing again by disconnecting the battery (and charger), pressing and holding the power button for a good minute or two than reconnect the battery. Are you sure you got the correct keyboard? Did you fully seat the ribbon cable into the connector on the logic board? Hint: take a small piece of electrical tape (as narrow as the ribbon cable is wide) and fold over the end to create a pull to help you seat the cable in and using in the reverse help in pulling it out. Also, make sure the clamp piece is open when you cull the cable and pressed closed when you have seated the cable.
