How to Set Up a Wireless Keyboard & Mouse

Set up a wireless keyboard and mouse with Bluetooth.

To set up a wireless keyboard and mouse on your computer, you'll need to make sure your computer has Bluetooth installed. Most computers have Bluetooth capability, but double-check for "Bluetooth Support" in your computer manual or in your computer's help file before you set up your wireless keyboard and mouse. Also, make sure your computer meets the system requirements for the keyboard and mouse you want to install. Setup should take less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Instructions

1. Enable Bluetooth on your computer. In Windows, go to the Start menu and navigate to "Programs," then "Services," then "Bluetooth Support," then "Start." With Mac, click on the Apple menu and choose "System Preferences," then "Bluetooth," then "Turn Bluetooth On."

2. Keep the "Bluetooth" (Mac) or "Bluetooth Support" (Windows) menus open during the rest of the setup process.

3. Check to make sure batteries are installed in the mouse and keyboard, then switch one of them on. You'll need to set them up individually.

4. When the indicator light on your mouse or keyboard flashes or changes color (depending on manufacturer), the device is ready to be paired to your computer.

5. Follow the instructions that appear in the "Bluetooth" or "Bluetooth Support" menus. You should see the name of the device appear, and the computer will pair the devices.

6. Set up the second device in the same way. Both the keyboard and mouse are ready to be used with your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have built-in Bluetooth on your computer, you can purchase a USB Bluetooth adapter that plugs in like a thumb drive.

• FM radios and metal can interfere with Bluetooth signal transmission. Avoid using your wireless keyboard and mouse on or near radios and metal surfaces.

References

• Apple: How to Set Up Your Apple Wireless Mouse
• Microsoft: Connect a Bluetooth Device That Does Not Have or Require a Transceiver