How to Add a Keyboard to a Computer
Computer keyboards that feature a cable connection use either a USB or PS/2 connector type. USB keyboards (like most USB devices) can be installed using the "Plug and Play" capability of the operating system. However, for computers that support only the PS/2 keyboard connector type, more care should be taken to ensure the keyboard is plugged in properly and in a specific sequence so that the computer will recognize the keyboard. Follow a three-step procedure specific to the connector type to add a cabled keyboard to a computer.
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Instructions
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Add a USB Keyboard to a Computer
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1
Locate an open USB port on the computer. USB ports are shaped like a small, long oval with a plastic piece inside.
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2
Plug the USB connector on the keyboard into the USB port on the computer oriented with the plastic piece inside the USB connector in line with the open space inside the USB port.
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3
Tap on the keyboard "Spacebar" until the computer makes a sound acknowledging that the keyboard has been recognized and installed.
Add a PS/2 Keyboard to a Computer
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4
Shut down the computer. Locate an open PS/2 socket on the computer. PS/2 sockets are round with six pins and a flat-shaped hole in the middle. PS/2 ports designated for keyboards include a keyboard graphic label and are colored purple.
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5
Insert the PS/2 plug on the keyboard into the open PS/2 port on the computer. Turn the PS/2 connector to line up the pins while gently applying pressure toward the PS/2 socket until the connector slips into the socket.
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6
Boot the computer and tap the "Num Lock" on the keyboard until the "Num Lock" LED light powers up. If the LED does not light up, reboot the computer to force the computer to detect and recognize the keyboard.
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References
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