MacBook Pro keyboard illumination not functioning

[CrimsonHeat]

I just bought a new MacBook Pro. The keyboard's backlight seems to not be working.

It's this model: http://www.teamdigital.com.au/online_news/0908/pics/MacBook Pro 13.jpg

Here's a screenshot: http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/4961/screenshot20091120at8829.png

Notice there is something missing...

When I hold my hand over the built in camera the screen's backlight fades, but nothing happens with the keyboard.

I'm at a loss what to do. Does this model not come with a backlit keyboard?

It just works?

 

[arrash]

It definitely has backlit keys. Did you recently upgrade the RAM or any other component? I accidentally knocked the ribbon cable that controls the backlit keys loose while upgrading my RAM. I took it to the genius bar and played dumb. They took care of it.

 

[CrimsonHeat]

I have done no hardware modifications. Got the MacBook in the mail today, turned it on, let it update, and noticed that the keyboard illumination is not functional.

I'm seeing if a clean install of Snow Leopard will fix anything now... 28 minutes left.

 

[ARF900]

In case you havent already tried this, there are separate controls for keyboard brightness, its possible that they are just turned down. Look on the top row of keys. press F5 and make sure that the brightness indicator that appears onscreen is all the way up, then try again.

If that doesnt work... take it back. Enjoy your new laptop

 

[arrash]

If that doesn't work then try this:

* If the computer is on, turn it off by choosing Shutdown from the Apple () menu.
* Connect the power adapter to a working power source.
* On the built-in keyboard, press (left) Shift-Control-Option along with the power button once.
* Wait 5 seconds and press the power button to start the computer. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * **

Otherwise, back to Apple it goes! Good luck!

 

[CrimsonHeat]

Thanks guys,

I did try holding down F5 and F6 for a while.

I'll try what you suggested, arrash, if it doesn't work after this install.

 

[ARF900]

yeah... F6, thats what i meant...

Long day

 

[CrimsonHeat]

Lame, it's still not working. First Mac purchase too.

I was on the fence about getting a Mac or another laptop because I needed something new, and at the last minute decided on getting a Mac. Next Monday I'll be flying out for a twenty day trip, and I was anticipating bringing the laptop with me, but now, gah.

Edit: Wow, I doubt I'll be able to return the MacBook in time. I'll be gone for twenty days, and I have no time to set up the return before I leave! And if I am able to return it in time, I'll still be without a laptop during my trip!

****

 

[arrash]

Take it to the Genius Bar. It may be something simple internally. They might even be able to swap it right then and there.

 

[CrimsonHeat]

Unfortunately I don't live near a Apple retail store, and won't be going near one on my trip either. I'm having "Apple Expert" call me tomorrow morning, and trying to find a resource which explains what to do if it's just a loose cable. I'd appreciate any links related to this if you know of them.

 

[ARF900]

well, it is just the keyboard illumination...

if the apple cant help you youll just have to send it back after your trip. I cant think of anything else causing it. Im not sure what the default settings are, but is the laptop plugged in when your trying this?

And heh, if you wouldve bought a PC you wouldnt get a backlit keyboard at all.