Windows Keyboard Issues

Are you experiencing issues with your device's keyboard? Whether you're having issues with unresponsive keys or unexpected keyboard layout changes, this guide will help you diagnose and resolve the issue. 

Incorrect Keyboard Layout

Symptom: The keys produce different characters than expected e.g. @ symbol appears as ".
Solution: This usually happens due to the wrong keyboard language settings

Change Keyboard Layout Within Windows

  1. Press the Windows key and type 'Language Settings'.
  2. In the Language & Region menu, adjust the 'Windows display language' to your desired setting, in Australia for English, we use the 'English (United States)' or 'English (Australia)' language setting.

If you cannot access Windows due to the keyboard layout being incorrect, you can use the 'On-Screen Keyboard' to show a keyboard on the screen. 

  1. On the bottom right-hand side of the login screen, click the 'Ease of Access' icon (this icon looks like a person). 
  2. Select 'On-Screen Keyboard'. 

Windows Keyboard Language Settings

Unresponsive Built-In Keyboard

Symptom: Some or all of the keys don't work
Solution: Connect an external USB keyboard to your device. If this works, it's likely that there is an issue with the built-in keyboard. 

  1. Navigate to 'Device Manager' (Win key + X then press M)
  2. Expand the 'Keyboard' section
  3. Right click on 'HID Keyboard Device' and select 'Uninstall Device'
  4. Restart your laptop. Windows will automatically reinstall the necessary driver. 

Sticky or Physically Damaged Keys

Symptom: When typing, keys feel sticky or don't spring back after being pressed.
Solution: Clean the keyboard. 

  1. Power down your laptop
  2. Gently remove any visible debris, dirt or dust with a soft brush or compressed air (don't use a vacuum cleaner as these create static electricity which can be harmful to electronic components). If keys are physically damaged, consider having the keyboard replaced by a professional laptop repairer. 

Keyboard Issues FAQs

What can cause my keyboard to produce different characters than expected?

This usually happens due to incorrect language settings. Adjusting the Windows display language in 'Language Settings' should resolve the issue.

How can I check if my built-in keyboard is faulty or if it's a software issue?

You can connect an external USB keyboard to your laptop. If the external keyboard works correctly, it's likely an issue with your built-in keyboard.

Why do some keys only work when I press the Fn key at the same time?

Some laptops have settings where function keys (like F1-F12) operate as multimedia keys by default. To toggle this feature, you can often press Fn + Esc or check for a keyboard-related utility in your laptop's software.

I've tried all the solutions, but my keyboard still isn't working correctly. What next?

If you continue to experience issues after attempting all the provided solutions, consider consulting with a professional technician or think about a keyboard replacement. If your device is newly purchased, or still under warranty from Australian Computer Traders, you can contact our support team to arrange an RMA and repair under warranty. 

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