How to install a keyboard

A keyboard is computer's main input device.

Installing a keyboard may seem like a simple task, but it is something you must do to use your computer. Whether you are installing an older PS/2 keyboard or a Bluetooth model, it takes only a few minutes to set one up. However, installing a keyboard improperly could create headaches down the road. Avoid damage to your computer or the need to troubleshoot errors by installing your keyboard correctly the first time.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Some keyboards are quite large, so make sure there is plenty of room on your desk. computer classroom image by Christopher Meder from Fotolia.com

   Prepare your computer area for the keyboard. Make sure you can access the back of the computer and that there is enough room on your desk to use the keyboard. You may need to pull your desk out or move the PC to access the rear side.

2. Some wireless keyboards use the USB 2.0 interface. usb image by Cyril Comtat from Fotolia.com

   Plug the keyboard into the back of your computer. Depending on the type of keyboard you have, it will use either a USB or PS/2 connector. USB dongles are thin and flat. They plug into a the similarly thin USB port. PS/2 connectors are round. PS/2 keyboards connect to a purple plug with six pins.

   If you have a wireless keyboard, it will connect to the computer either through a USB dongle or Bluetooth. Install batteries if your keyboard doesn't already them. Those with wireless USB keyboards can just plug the dongle in as if it were a wired keyboard. Bluetooth keyboard owners should enable Bluetooth on their computers, then turn the keyboard on.

   Modern operating systems like Mac OS X Tiger, Snow Leopard, Windows Vista and Windows 7 automatically detect and install most keyboards, including Bluetooth models.

3. You may need to install drivers for your keyboard. closeup cd-rom in hand image by Terrapanthera from Fotolia.com

   Install the driver software that came in the same box as the keyboard if the operating system does not detect the keyboard. If you no longer have the driver CD-ROM, most manufacturers offer drivers for all their products online.

4. Some keyboards have wrist rests. keyboard #4 image by Adam Borkowski from Fotolia.com

   Configure the keyboard for optimal use. Most keyboards have risers on the back you can lift to increase the typing angle, if desired. Some models also have wrist supports you can attach or remove to suit your ergonomic needs. Depending on how you type, you may want to move the keyboard closer to you or away from you.

Tips & Warnings

• If your monitor includes USB ports, it may be more convenient to plug in a USB keyboard there.

References

• Gateway: Installing Your Keyboard or Mouse
• Microsoft: Cordless Desktop--Using a Wireless Mouse and Keyboard with Windows XP

Resources

• Division of Occupational Health and Safety: Ergonomics for Computer Workstations