How to start a MacBook with a broken power button

[abramson1111]

I've got an old, 1st gen opened up MacBook. The wire between the top and the motherboard is severed, so the button won't work. I've learned from some other forums that one can turn it by sparking something, but I could never figure out what, or how, so I was wondering if one of you guys could give me some detailed instructions on how to.

 

[rgarjr]

the power button usually has 2 contacts which need to be jumped for it to turn on.

 

[mattais]

you can get a new top case for cheap, I got one from ebay.

This will solve your problem much more easily.

 

[Machnikowski]

Agree with above. A new top case can be had from eBay for cheap.

Or, because it's a 1st-gen from 2006, you may consider just getting a new computer.

 

[tofagerl]

If it's a very complicated cable, the top-case seems like the smart bet, but you might want to at least try fixing/replacing it first. If you think you can, that is.