Chosen Solution
I plugged in USB external keyboard. Now the mac book pro 17" will recognize this. I could then type in my admin. However, when trying to use my track pad and curser to access any system items like safari or anything, computer would go to applications list only, instead of launching the application. track pad will move cursor around but cannot nothing more. Only responsive to external key board and I would assume, mouse.
Sounds like you may have spilled something into the keyboard & trackpad causing both to fail. Do you remember spilling something in, or did you open the system and forget to reconnect the keyboard & trackpad ribbon cables? Review this IFIXIT guide Steps 16 & 17 MacBook Pro 17" Unibody Logic Board Replacement. Also make sure there is no damage to the ribbons as they do tear as well as the locking connector. I must warn you replacing the top case is a very big job if the keyboard and/or the trackpad is damaged. Review this guide MacBook Pro 17" Unibody Upper Case Replacement. You will need to order the trackpad separately as its not part of the case.
