HomeIn this guide I’ll explain how to remove the keyboard and replace the internal memory module in a HP Compaq nc6400 series laptop.
HP Compaq nc6400 laptop has two memory slots. One of them could be easily accessed from the bottom but the second one is hidden under the keyboard. In order to replace the memory module in the internal slot you’ll have to remove the keyboard.
First of all, turn off the laptop, unplug it from the power adapter and remove the battery.
There are three screws securing the keyboard on the bottom. You can remove these screws with a #8 torx or flathead screwdriver. Remove all three screws.
There are four small latches located in the top row of keys on the keyboard. Unlock all four latches by moving them down with your fingernail.
Now you can lift up the keyboard as it shown on the picture below. Be careful, the keyboard is still attached to the motherboard.
It is possible to remove and replace the memory module in the internal slot WITHOUT disconnecting the keyboard. Carefully slide the keyboard aside and access the memory slot. I show how to disconnect and remove the keyboard only for readers replacing the keyboard.
Place the keyboard upside down on the palm rest. The keyboard is attached to the motherboard via two flat ribbon cables.
You’ll have to unlock both connectors in order to release the cables.
Each connector has a locking tab (one is white and another one is brown) witch has to be moved about 1-2 millimeters up.
Very carefully move both locking tabs up with your fingernails. Release both cables and pull them from the connectors.
Now you can remove the keyboard and replace it with a new keyboard if needed.
On the picture below you can see the hidden memory slot.
Carefully push on two latches pointed with red arrows until the memory module pops up at a 30 degree angle. Pull the memory module from the slot by the edges.
HP Compaq nc6400 laptop is upgradable to 4GB maximum. You can install up to 2GB RAM module into each slot.
Use DDR2 PC2-5300 667MHz SODIMM memory modules.
November 26th, 2011 at 2:50 am
dear,
laptop tech
1. iam having this machine hp nc6400, can i use my PCMCIA OPTCL broadband in pakistan please guide me in this reagard.
2. how can I replace his battery and also how can I use its SC SLOT located right side of the machine.
November 24th, 2011 at 9:00 am
This particular laptop will not support DDR3 Ram (4GB Module). You will need 2 2GB DDR2 modules to obtain 4GB
November 20th, 2011 at 9:59 pm
@ Arpad,
I doubt that this laptop can support 4GB RAM module in one slot.
I think your only option would be installing two 2GB RAM modules.
512 MB + 4 GB probably will not work at all. Laptop might start properly but will not see all memory.
4 GB probably will not work at all.
2 GB + 2 GB I think the only option.
November 20th, 2011 at 12:41 pm
Dear Laptop Tech,
Currently I have 2 * 512 MB RAM. I will upgrade to 4 GB.
What would be the difference between the following options?
512 MB + 4 GB – in this case I wouldn’t have to take apart the laptop; I would have to change only the easily accessible panel
4 GB – I would take out both modules and insert only 1 piece of 4 GB module
2 GB + 2 GB
Any of the above would do? Would the end result be the same?
Thanks,
Arpad
October 1st, 2011 at 2:30 pm
hi
how can proceed to put back ribbon connector for Fujitsu LifeBook S7020 keyboard? it’s driving me crazy!!
thanks in advance
July 11th, 2011 at 11:56 am
@ Fred,
Is it broken really badly.
Here’s something to try.
Insert the cable back into the connector. Place the retention tab back in place the way it should be. Secure connection with sticky tape.
Something like I explained here: http://www.laptoprepair101.com/laptop/2009/11/17/fix-broken-keyboard-connector-on-laptop-motherboard/
July 11th, 2011 at 11:48 am
AAUGH!! I broke the ribbon cable retention tab!! The larger one. Can anyone recommend where I can get a replacement?
February 11th, 2011 at 6:19 pm
Hi. I had 1 GB of ram in my laptop (2 x 512mb), and when I got a 2gb ram stick and replaced one of my 512mb sticks, I was expecting either 2.5gb of ram or 512mb of ram. I actually got 1gb again. I have tried both slots and got the same result. Any ideas?
January 25th, 2011 at 12:49 am
Hello,
“Fred Wilson mentions adhesive and reglue. Does that mean, that I can’t clean the keyboard underneath. I have the same problem with letters, typing themselves and would like to clean the keyboard.”
Solution is easy: nc6400 has an issue which cause this behaviour, All You have to do it put sheet of paper under keyboard. It works for me and i like my laptop again
January 18th, 2011 at 11:08 am
Hi, I just got a HP Compaq NC6400 PK130060200 for my laptop but when i decide to change it i realise that mine is PK130060100 and the ribbon that connect the system board on it is much narrower and the one i got PK130060200 is much wider so i can’t insert it to the ZIF connector.