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Randomly Malfunctioning Keyboard

Anonymous
2024-10-20T23:59:55+00:00

Hi, a few years ago I bought a Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/use-microsoft-ergonomic-keyboard-c917dad0-3797-d97b-efb3-fbe27ac9703c

Recently (two weeks or so ago) all keys started to malfunction. Either no input is registered at all or the key seems to be stuck (although not physically) and the continued input of that key can only be interrupted by pressing another key. All keys seem to be affected to the same extent and it is totally unpredictable when the malfunction is manifesting. Can become better or worse during the same windows session, can be gone or not after a reboot, will happen independently of the programme.

I already checked different USB ports and re-installed the driver under device manager.

https://keyboardhunter.com/keyboard-key-stuck-but-not-physically/ recommended going into safe mode to see whether the issue persists. However, the malfunction is not persistent so I would not know whether the problem is gone because of safe mode.

Any other suggestions? I though about getting a new keyboard but my layout is German, I am currently in Canada, and when ordering online I need to pay import taxes in addition to shipping (costing me more then the keyboard itself...).

Edit:

I am trying to manually find a driver for this device (the current one is from 2006 and the automatic search says this is the most recent one) but have so far not been able to find any information on this. I tried searching for the Hardware ID's but that brought up a Dell website, not exactly what I was looking for. Any ideas?

Best, Stevie

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

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  1. Anonymous
    2024-10-21T18:01:50+00:00

    Hey Yang, thank you for all these suggestions.

    First thing I tried is plugging in the keyboard into another device, the malfunction was appearing there as well. I should have tried this way earlier but I was somehow convinced it must be a software related issue. I will work on further narrowing the actual problem with your suggestions and try to get a new keyboard as soon as possible.

    Thanks again, Stevie

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  2. Anonymous
    2024-10-21T11:10:01+00:00

    Dear Stevie!

    Welcome to the Microsoft Community!

    Here are some additional tips and considerations for issues with your Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard:

    Diagnostic Steps

    1. Check the Internal Cleanliness of the Keyboard:

    • Even though you've tried some basic troubleshooting, sometimes dust and debris inside the keyboard can cause a bad connection. Use compressed air to carefully clean the space under the keyboard and between the keycaps.

    2. Check the Keyboard Wiring:

    • Sometimes the internal cables of a keyboard can be broken or frayed, which can cause erratic signal transmission. If your keyboard is wired, try replacing the keyboard cable.

    3. Test the Keyboard on Another Device:

    • Connect the keyboard to another computer and see if the problem persists. This can help you determine if the problem is related to a specific computer system.

    4. Try a clean boot to check for software related issues:

    To do so, right-click Start->Task manager. Go to the "Startup" tab, and disable all startup items. Then, press Wondows+R and enter "msconfig". Go to the "Services" tab, select "Hide all Microsoft services", and then select "Disable all". Select Apply and reboot. See whether the issue persists.

    Please refer to this support article for details, and how to pinpoint the application causing the issue.

    How to perform a clean boot in Windows - Microsoft Support

    Disclaimer: A "clean boot" starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs.

    It helps to determine whether a background service is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem.

    These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance; however to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by-step, so that it will help you get back on track.

    Buying a New Keyboard

    5. Buying a New Keyboard:

    • If you do decide to buy a new keyboard, here are some suggestions, considering that your German layout keyboard may be difficult to find in Canada:
    • Search online for websites that specialize in selling keyboards, such as Amazon Canada or Newegg Canada, which may offer options for international keyboard layouts.
    • Consider contacting a local computer accessories retailer to ask if they can order a keyboard with a specific layout.
    • Consider purchasing a keyboard with free shipping and tax included, which may reduce the extra costs.

    Other suggestions

    6. Backup plan:

    • If you are unable to purchase a new keyboard, consider using a virtual keyboard as a temporary solution.

    Hopefully these suggestions will help you resolve your keyboard issues. If the problem persists, you may need to consider replacing your keyboard. Good luck!

    Best regards,

    Yang.Z - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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