Can't get a PS/2 keyboard to work using a USB adaptor

Question

Can't get a PS/2 keyboard to work using a USB adaptor

Anonymous

Trying to add a PS/2 keyboard to my new HP Z2 and not having much luck.

I have a PS/2 to USB adaptor I got cheap on ebay, no idea if I need anything special or not. Maybe it doesn't work right with USB3, who knows.

Windows 11 sees there's a USB device but the "Device Descriptor Request Fails" which doesn't surprise me one bit!

Any way to fix this? I have a lovely old style KB I've used for 20 years and want to keep it.

I have tried updating drivers but can't find anything suitable. Also tried rescanning hardware, etc.

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2 answers

Answer 1

Anonymous

I found an Active ps/2 to usb adaptor and it fixed this.

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Answer 2

Dear John Burns,

Welcome to the Microsoft Community

If you're having trouble getting a PS/2 keyboard to work via a USB adaptor, there are several suggestions and considerations that might help resolve the issue. PS/2 to USB adapters can sometimes be finicky, and not all adaptors are made equal.

Here’s a detailed guide to troubleshoot your issue:

Ensure Adapter Compatibility

Not all PS/2 to USB adapters are created equal. Some only support mice, some only keyboards, and some support both. Ensure that the adapter you have is specifically designed to work with PS/2 keyboards.

If possible, try a different adapter, preferably from a reputable brand or one specifically designed to support both PS/2 mice and keyboards.

Check BIOS Settings (UEFI)

Restart your computer and press the appropriate key during boot (usually F2, F10, DEL, or ESC).

Look for an option called Legacy USB Support or USB Emulation, and make sure it is enabled.

Save changes and exit BIOS/UEFI.

Test on Different USB Ports

In fact, many desktops have both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports on the back.

Try plugging the adapter into different USB ports, including USB 2.0 ports if available. Some older USB devices have better compatibility with USB 2.0 ports as opposed to USB 3.0 or USB 3.1 ports.

If your computer only has USB 3.0/3.1 ports, consider using a USB 2.0 hub to connect your adapter.

If none of the above methods work, consider purchasing an active PS/2 to USB converter. Active converters, unlike passive ones, have built-in electronics to handle the conversion process and often work more reliably with older devices.

Tags:

Active converter.

Have a USB integrated controller (IC).

You can refer to the product shown in the screenshot below:

Good luck getting your keyboard to work well on your new PC!

Best Regards,

Martin | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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Can't get a PS/2 keyboard to work using a USB adaptor

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