PSA: PX13 / ASUS laptop won't power on after disassembling / removing back cover for SSD upgrade or cleaning fans? Don't panic!
Quick notes:
- When removing the back cover, use a flat-headed T6 Torx screwdriver
- Download the Asus PX13 HN7306EA_EAC Customer self repair guide
https://www.asus.com/us/laptops/for-creators/proart/proart-px13-hn7306/helpdesk_service_guide/?model2Name=HN7306EA
After about a year of use, I helped a friend who wanted the visible dust removed from the intake fans of the PX13.
I shut down the laptop, unplugged all and every cable from the body itself. I carefully removed the back cover while the laptop was off and & then began removing the dust carefully with a combination of a fine-bristled paint brush & Wolfbox MF100 duster while holding the fans so they wouldn't spin.
On reassembly, my worst nightmare happened, it seemed dead / non-responsive when trying to power it on, no sign of life! I do recall some PC's having a screw that is used for security and have read anecdotal reports that the PX13's rear central screw under the grommet is the culprit, but it was securely in.
I researched some more and read that higher end laptops by Asus feature something called 'ALS'
"ASUS introduced an Ambient Light Sensor (ALS) protection design that automatically cuts off system power when the user removes the bottom cover. The purpose is to prevent motherboard damage from battery power remaining connected during upgrades. After replacement, assemble the bottom cover properly and plug in the AC power adapter to release the power-off protection."
The USB-C charger won't do it, you have to use that big old brick.
The mechanism: bottom cover removed → ALS detects light → power cut → reinstall cover → connect AC adapter → laptop wakes