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Sunday, January 30, 2011

How to Fix Keyboard Problems

Keyboards form an important part of the computer user interface and a keyboard problem can be very annoying.  Some of the common keyboard problems are:
1. Some keys work, while other keys don't
2. A key comes out or is stuck
3. No or wrong character appears on the screen when entered on the keyboard
4. Keyboard test failure appears during startup or a series of beeps are heard when the computer is started
5. A character/letter repeat itself too fast when you place your finger on a key.
6. discolouration or fading. etc


How to fix Keyboard problems:
1. Due to wear and tear, the keys for certain characters on a keyboard will wear out. This happens for more commonly used characters.  If the problem is due to loose or improper contact, you can try to fix the key back. If this does not work, you can replace the key with a new key purchased from a computer store. Love your keyboard by handling it gentle.Don't press any key when starting the computer.
2. Sometimes the keyboard drivers can get corrupted. You need to change them or test the driver.
Go to My Computer(right click) :::>Hardware:::>Device Manager and uninstall the keyboard. For windowsXP Start:::>Control panel:::>Keyboard:::>Hardware:::> uninstall keyboard. Restart the computer, the keyboard should get reinstalled automatically.The keyboard should start working again. If not so get keyboard drivers by updating windows or keyboard manufacturer website.
Always use a computer protection like antivirus protection - run a free computer antivirus scan or any other anti-virus since virus can corrupt  system files. get one  now!
3. Try to swap the keyboard with another keyboard which works properly on another computer. If the alternate keyboard has the same problem, there may be a problem with the keyboard circuit on motherboard.    
If the alternate keyboard works properly, check if your keyboard cable is damaged or properly connected, whether wires in the keyboard cable are connected properly to all the pins on motherboard.
4. Open out the keyboard and check if the keyboard fuse is working. If the fuse has blown, replace it with another fuse of the same rating and size.
5. If you spill water or any liquid on the keyboard, switch off the computer immediately. Unplug the keyboard, turn the keyboard upside down and keep it out for drying either in the sun or under a fan. If some other sticky fluid has been spilled on the keyboard, use a moist cotton swab or ear bud to  clean computer or wipe away the fluid.  Only when it is completely dry, (it will take a minimum of 24 hours depending on the weather), connect the keyboard back to your computer.
6. For USB keyboard change the USB ports or unplug the keyboard from the USB port then plug it back until it responds or detected. Usually the keyboard led(indicator) lighting up and a beep should show a successful connection.
7. Set the speed of character repetition. For windowsXP Start:::>Control panel:::>Keyboard:::>Speed:::>make adjustments.
8. Set the blinking rate of cursor. For windowsXP Start:::>Control panel:::>Keyboard:::>Speed:::>make adjustments.
9. Go for a typing course or get a tutorial on how to use keboard features.
10. For discolouration or fading of white keyboard. Use good computer cleaners,soft cloth, whiteners or vinegar mixed with water to keep the original white colour or clean. don't use bleach or rough material to clean. disconnect the power supply. switching to good black keyboard can comfort you.
11. Always read your computer error screen for instruction and test failure error solutions.
12. Clean dust and foreign particles from your keyboard by turning keyboard upside down and blowing air through the keys.

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