How to Troubleshoot XP & USB Keyboard Problems
USB keyboards are easy to use because they offer plug and play functionality. This means that you don't have to do anything but plug in the keyboard to use it on a computer running Windows XP. However, sometimes your USB keyboard may not work as expected, such as by not being detected, keys working incorrectly or turning off at intervals. There are few steps you can take that may resolve your USB keyboard problem.
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Instructions
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Unplug the keyboard and plug it into a different USB port. Use a port in a different section of the computer. For example, if your keyboard was plugged into the back of the computer, try a port in the front. It is possible that a single port, or set of ports, on your computer is no longer functioning correctly.
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Connect the keyboard to a different computer. Install any necessary software for the keyboard. If it doesn't work on a second computer, it is likely that the keyboard is damaged and will no longer work properly.
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Download and install the latest Windows XP drivers for your keyboard from the manufacturer's website.
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Clean the keyboard by turning in upside down and shaking out any debris. Consider using compressed air to more thoroughly clean it. Debris may prevent key strikes from being registered correctly.
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Change the power saving settings to prevent Windows XP from turning off USB ports. This setting can cause your keyboard to not work after you restart your computer from standby or hibernation modes. This setting can be found by going to the control panel, double clicking on “System,” clicking on the hardware tab and then on “Device Manager.” Expand the section labeled “Universal Serial Bus Controllers.” Right click on “USB Root Hub” and click on “Properties.” Click on the “Power Management” tab and uncheck the box next to “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.” Save your changes and close the dialogue window.
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References
- Photo Credit keyboard #4 image by Adam Borkowski from Fotolia.com
