This is part two of how to address common PC problems and the solutions to them. In this round we will talk about problems related to the keyboard and mouse.

Now, these are two integral pieces of hardware that are used to interact with the computer. As of late, many keyboards and mouses (or is it mice?) are wireless, i.e. they use infrared technology to communicate with the computer. Let us consider the problems related to both the wired and wireless keyboards and mouses (once again, or is it mice? – the English language can be so cruel!).

WIRED KEYBOARD

No Response: First of all, check to ensure that the keyboard connection at the back of your PC is not loose or has not fallen out. If either is the case then push it back in place. Press the Caps Lock or Num Lock key to see if the LED for each lights up. If there is still no response, restart your computer. Normally, this tactic should resolve the issue.

If after restart you still have the problem, unplug the keyboard from your PC and shut down the machine. Then re-attach the keyboard to the computer and turn it on. Still no response? If your keyboard uses a Serial Port simply plug it into another Serial Port to see if the problem persists. If it is a PS2 connection, get it checked out. If all else fails, get a new keyboard or have someone check it out for you.

Sticking Keys: Pull your keyboard open and clean out the inside. Many times dirt and moisture accumulate under the keys, so a regular cleaning out under them should prevent the keys from sticking in the future, unless there has been some serious damage done to the keyboard.

Keyboard Error on Machine Bootup: Check to ensure that the keyboard is firmly connected to the port at the back of your computer.

Consistent Beep When Computer Is On: Make sure that there is nothing resting on the keys of the keyboard. A weighty object resting on any key for a prolonged period can cause the computer to start beeping.

Capital Letters Are Typed Even Though Caps Lock Is Off and I am Not Holding Down The Shift Key While Typing: I have found that this generally happens after a few successive cut and paste operations while editing a document. To remedy this problem, hold down the Right SHIFT Key and press the LEFT Mouse Button a few times. Release all keys and start typing again. Everything should be back to normal now.

WIRED MOUSE

No Response: First of all, check to ensure that the mouse connection at the back of your PC is not loose or has not fallen out. If either is the case then push it back in place. If there is still no respose, restart your computer. If it still does not work after restart, disconnect it from the PC while it is on and then shutdown the machine. Reconnect it to the computer and start it up.

A persistent problem would indicate a defective mouse. Seek a replacement as soon as possible.

Erratic Mouse Movements (Cursor Movement Seems Weird): This generally indicates a dirty mouse wheel (does not apply to an optical mouse). To remedy this problem, turn the mouse upside down and unscrew the area around the ball (ususally shows two arrows so you know which direction to turn it). Remove the ball and then take a flat object that is small enough to fit into the space where you took the ball from. Gently scrape off any trace of dirt on the rollers inside the mouse. Be careful not to let the dirt fall into the mouse. If this happens, flip the mouse right side up and knock it out. Then replace the ball and ball lock piece. The mouse should be fine after this.

If the problem recurrs later, repeat the steps I have just outlined.

In part 3 we will look at problems with the Wireless Keyboard and Wireless Mouse.