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If the trackpad on your HP Chromebook 14a-na0031wm fails to register finger swipes, taps, or physical clicks, follow this page for possible solutions.
Software Glitch or System Freeze
- A temporary bug in ChromeOS can cause the trackpad to stop communicating with the operating system.
- To fix this, perform a hard reset by turning off the Chromebook completely (do not just put it to sleep).
- Press and hold the Refresh key (the circular arrow key), and while holding it, tap the Power button.
- Release the Refresh key when the Chromebook starts up and the screen turns on.
Dirty Surface
- Accumulated dirt or natural finger oils can interfere with the sensors inside the trackpad, preventing it from picking up your movements.
- Power down the Chromebook dampen a clean, microfiber cloth with a small amount of 70% or higher isopropyl alcohol.
- Gently wipe the entire surface of the trackpad, then dry the area completely with another clean cloth before turning the device back on.
Outdated OS or Corrupted Settings
- An outdated version of ChromeOS or corrupted user profile settings can cause peripheral inputs to malfunction.
- Plug in an external USB or Bluetooth mouse to navigate, then go to Settings > About ChromeOS > Check for updates and install any pending updates.
- If the trackpad is still unresponsive, back up your local files and navigate to Settings > Advanced > Reset settings to perform a Powerwash (factory reset).
Loose or Disconnected Ribbon Cable
- If the chromebook was dropped or bumped, the ribbon cable connecting the trackpad to the motherboard may have come loose from its socket.
- Power down the chromebook, remove the bottom cover screws, and carefully pry off the bottom casing. Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts, then locate the trackpad ribbon cable.
- Carefully flip up the small plastic locking flaps on the ZIF connectors at both ends, remove and reseat the cable firmly, then secure the flaps and reassemble the chromebook. For more detail, click here for trackpad replacement guide.
Faulty Trackpad Hardware
- If software resets and cable reseating fail to fix the issue, the trackpad's internal circuitry has likely failed and requires a full replacement.
- Open the Chromebook's bottom casing and disconnect the battery.
- Disconnect the trackpad ribbon cable, remove the screws securing the metal trackpad bracket to the palm rest assembly, lift the old trackpad out, and install a replacement module. For more detail, click here for trackpad replacement guide.
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