Keyboard problems, External keyboard problems, Unexpected characters – Dell Inspiron 9400 User Manual

Page 98

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98

Troubleshooting

Keyboard Problems

CAUTION:

Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product

Information Guide.

NOTE:

Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the

system setup program. When you

attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

External Keyboard Problems

NOTE:

When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

C

HECK

THE

KEYBOARD

CABLE

Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for

damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the
computer.

C

HECK

THE

EXTERNAL

KEYBOARD

1 Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.
2 Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.
3 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to Accessories, and click

Notepad.

4 Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.

T

O

VERIFY

THAT

THE

PROBLEM

IS

WITH

THE

EXTERNAL

KEYBOARD

,

CHECK

THE

INTEGRATED

KEYBOARD

1 Shut down the computer.
2 Disconnect the external keyboard.
3 Turn on the computer.
4 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to Accessories, and click

Notepad.

5 Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external
keyboard. Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 155.

R

UN

THE

KEYBOARD

DIAGNOSTICS

TESTS

Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell

Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87. If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard,
contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 155.

Unexpected Characters

D

ISABLE

THE

NUMERIC

KEYPAD

Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are

displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

PD598a01.book Page 98 Monday, February 6, 2006 2:24 PM

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