How to troubleshoot keyboard issues

SafeBytes Software

Keyboards are not the first thing that you would think of when discussing renegade computers but the truth of the matter is that they too can give us issues. You may find certain keys unresponsive or they could produce output on the screen that is at odds with the key that you have pressed.

Others seem to get fixated on one string of text and keep repeating it until the end of the document you are working on. Needless to say; these disruptions make it difficult to enjoy your PC user experience. This article highlights some of the troubleshooting steps that you might take.

1 - When the keyboard does not work at all: Ensure that the keyboard is properly plugged in. Where you are using a USB port you can plug and unplug it for testing purposes. Alternatively you may try another USB port to see whether it works. For those that are using wireless keyboards you also need to check the special driver that was used in the installation because if it does not work then the chances are the keyboard will fail as well. The software must be properly installed and upgraded as recommended by the manufacturer.

2 – Bluetooth Devices: Make sure that the system is enabled to accept Bluetooth and that you have made the right connections using the login/passwords that are specified. It may be a good idea to rediscover the Bluetooth device in order to refresh the connection.

There are times when the keyboard is just old and broken. In that case it may be cheaper for you to replace it than tampering with expensive Bluetooth equipment. Also make sure that you check the warranty because you could be covered for a free replacement. Make sure you turn off the computer before connecting or disconnecting the keyboard.

3 – Lack of Windows recognition: If the Windows software program does not recognize the keyboard or certain keys; it could be a case of a missing driver. Get the software disc that you got from the manufacturer and insert it into the computer. This will start the reinstallation process for the drivers. Alternatively you can update the driver manually. You do this by going to the start button and drilling to the control panel. Click on the hardware and sound tab before selecting the keyboard option. Double click on the keyboard and then select the driver tab. Update the driver using the prompts that will follow. Once you restart the computer, the drivers will be updated.

4 – Sticky and Non-Responsive Keys: If this is the case then you need to turn the keyboard upside down and shake it. This will remove any debris that may be stuck and prevent proper impressions from being made. Take the opportunity to examine the physical condition of the keyboard in order to ensure that it is not damaged in any way.

Other practical issues may involve language settings that do not match. In that case you go to the keyboard settings and select the language that you would like to use.