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How To Enable Keyboard Backlight on Dell G5 Laptop Running Ubuntu 20.04.02

Ubuntu 17

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the methods of enabling the keyboard backlight on a Dell G5 laptop running Ubuntu 20.04.02. This feature can be highly beneficial for those who often work in low-light environments. Let’s get started.

Method 1: Using Power Settings

The first method we will explore involves using the built-in Power Settings of your Ubuntu system.

  1. Open the Power Settings on your Ubuntu system. You can do this by clicking on the battery icon on the top right corner of your screen and selecting ‘Power Settings’.
  2. Look for the option to adjust the keyboard brightness. If available, you can adjust the brightness level according to your preference.

Please note that not all laptop models will have this option available in the Power Settings.

Method 2: Using Terminal and brightnessctl

If the first method is not applicable to your laptop model, you can use the Terminal and a tool called brightnessctl to adjust the keyboard backlight.

Installing brightnessctl

  1. Open the Terminal on your Ubuntu system. You can do this by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T on your keyboard.
  2. Install the brightnessctl tool by running the following commands:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install brightnessctl

The sudo apt update command updates your package list, ensuring you have the latest information about what software you can install and from where. The sudo apt install brightnessctl command installs the brightnessctl tool.

Checking Keyboard Brightness Settings

  1. Check if the keyboard brightness settings are accessible by running the command:
brightnessctl --device='tpacpi::kbd_backlight' info

This command checks the information about the keyboard backlight device. If the settings are accessible, you will see the current and maximum brightness levels.

Changing the Keyboard Brightness

  1. To change the brightness, use the command:
sudo brightnessctl --device='tpacpi::kbd_backlight' set <brightness_level>

Replace <brightness_level> with an integer value between 0 and the maximum step supported by your keyboard. This command sets the brightness level of the keyboard backlight.

Method 3: Using Keyboard Shortcut

Some Dell G5 models may have a keyboard shortcut to toggle the keyboard backlight. Try using the “Fn” key along with the “Space” key to toggle the backlight on or off. Please refer to your laptop’s user manual to confirm if this shortcut is available.

Method 4: Check Manufacturer’s Documentation

If none of the methods mentioned above work, it’s recommended to refer to the manufacturer’s documentation or support website for specific instructions on enabling the keyboard backlight for your Dell G5 model.

Please note that the availability of these methods may vary depending on your specific laptop model and configuration. If none of the above methods work, it is possible that keyboard backlight control is not supported on your particular hardware configuration.

Unfortunately, no information is available regarding the RGB LED backlight control for some G5 models, as it requires a Windows-based application.

In conclusion, adjusting the keyboard backlight on a Dell G5 laptop running Ubuntu 20.04.02 can be achieved through various methods. It’s essential to adjust the solutions according to your specific laptop model and configuration. Happy computing!

What should I do if the Power Settings method doesn’t have the option to adjust the keyboard brightness?

If the Power Settings method doesn’t have the option to adjust the keyboard brightness, you can try using the Terminal and the brightnessctl tool as described in Method 2.

Can I adjust the keyboard brightness using the Terminal without installing any additional tools?

No, you will need to install the brightnessctl tool to adjust the keyboard brightness using the Terminal. The installation process is outlined in Method 2.

How can I check if the keyboard brightness settings are accessible?

You can check if the keyboard brightness settings are accessible by running the command brightnessctl --device='tpacpi::kbd_backlight' info in the Terminal. This command will display the current and maximum brightness levels if the settings are accessible.

What is the range of values I can use to set the keyboard brightness?

The range of values you can use to set the keyboard brightness is between 0 and the maximum step supported by your keyboard. Replace <brightness_level> in the command sudo brightnessctl --device='tpacpi::kbd_backlight' set <brightness_level> with an integer value within this range.

How can I toggle the keyboard backlight using a keyboard shortcut?

Some Dell G5 models have a keyboard shortcut to toggle the keyboard backlight. You can try using the "Fn" key along with the "Space" key to toggle the backlight on or off. Refer to your laptop’s user manual to confirm if this shortcut is available for your model.

What should I do if none of the methods mentioned work?

If none of the methods mentioned work, it is recommended to refer to the manufacturer’s documentation or support website for specific instructions on enabling the keyboard backlight for your Dell G5 model. The availability of these methods may vary depending on your specific laptop model and configuration.

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