CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)Mobile DevicesMedium
A user reports that a laptop's touchpad no longer responds to any input, though the keyboard and screen work normally. A technician opens the laptop and finds the touchpad ribbon cable is disconnected from the motherboard. Which of the following is the MOST likely next step to resolve the issue?
- AReplace the laptop's motherboard
- BUpdate the touchpad driver software
- CReplace the entire top cover assembly
- DReseat the ribbon cable into its connector
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Reseat the ribbon cable into its connector
A disconnected ribbon cable is a simple physical connection issue; reseating it into the connector is the least invasive and most direct fix before considering component replacement.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Motherboard replacement is excessive for a loose cable connection.
- B. Driver issues would not cause complete non-responsiveness if the cable is unplugged.
- C. Replacing the whole assembly is unnecessary if the cable is simply disconnected.
Ribbon Cable Connections
Flat flexible cables connecting internal laptop components like touchpads and keyboards to the motherboard.
- Can loosen or disconnect during disassembly
- Reseating is the first troubleshooting step
- Damage to the cable itself may require replacement
Memory trick: Loose cable, loose function—reseat before you replace.