Chosen Solution
I have a 2008 aluminum MacBook A1278. I seem to have a problem with the on switch it will not turn the unit on. I have read a couple of links describing how to boot from the power pads on other macs. Where are the power pads located on my unit? And where is the keyboard connection to the motherboard located? Can anyone help it would be very much appreciated. Thanks
The two power pads are located directly above the trackpad connection on the logic board. The can be seen clearly in step 15 of iFixit’s guide
Image pulled from the same guide I linked to above and modified to highlight the power pads Bridging these two pads, using a T6 or flat head screwdriver, with power supplied to the Mac should force it to power on. If the Mac still refuses to power on then you might disconnect the keyboard (the flat flex ribbon connection outlined in the red square) as a stuck power button can prevent the power pad method from working. Sometimes just disconnecting/reconnecting this keyboard connection can resolve the issue you describe as well. Good luck!
