Can't type in password -HELP

Question

Grandson was playing with my computer. Now when I turn it on and it asks for password, I can't type the password - the keyboard won't work. I'm running XP Professional on an XPS 700. Can't get to setup or safe mode. Tried a different keyboard and it does not work either. I can't even figure out how to get to the reinstall mode.

C3PO5 · Answer

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/xps700/en/SM_en/syssetup.htm#wp1055159

Hi

On the motherboard there is a switch that will let you

over ride the password read the link above it will show you how to do it.

This for the bios password not the windows password !

Good Luck

Davet50 · Answer

Are you using a usb or a ps2 keyboard? Have you tried the keyboard on another system?

Buloak · Answer

Try using a boot disk, ether CD, DVD or floppy, to test hardware.

Try a Linux boot, Linux install disk, windows install boot disk etc.

ask a friend to burn a Linux live CD, like knoppix or Ubuntu

boot from cd just to test the hardware, so you can be sure if it's the keyboard or not.

FredinOH · Answer

Hi: I'm using a usb keyboard. I ried another usb keyboard that I knew worked in an empty usb port and got the same bad result. I don't think it's the keyboard. Thanks for the idea, though. I'll try the known good keyboard in the present usd port where the other keyboard is located.

FredinOH · Answer

Thanks. I tried using the Windows XP reinstallation disk, but I can't get the computer to boot - it goes directly to the hard drive to boot. Am I missing something here?

FredinOH · Answer

Thanks. This sounds promising. I'm travelling this week and will try this when I return. I'll let you know.

Davet50 · Answer

I would try and locate a PS2 keyboard and mouse and use the ps2 ports in the back of the system vice the USB.

A question on the password. when does the password request show up? Is it a the very begining of th system boot up or is it when windows is about to start?

FredinOH · Answer

The password shows up immediately after the Windows opening screen.

FredinOH · Answer

Sure. I've added a drive and upgraded RAM and replaced a fan so at least I know how to open it up and have a fairly good idea what the components are inside. Won't be home where the computer is located until the weekend though.

Davet50 · Answer

Ok that means it is the windows user password and not a Bios password. If if was a bios password there would have been a different route to get you up and running.

Let me ask you this are you comfortable in going inside the computer and possible booting into the bios.

Davet50 · Answer

Gonna suggest a cmos reset using the procedure HERE

Keep in mind that this will reset all bios setting to default

Can't believe we haven't even suggested to try unpluging the system. remove the keyboard and mouse and all usb devices press and hold the power button for ~15 sec. Plug in the keyboard and mouse and give it a shot.

Also have seen reports of bent pins on the usb connectors in the system. Might be a good idea to give them a quick check.

Message Edited by Davet50 on 07-08-2008 07:09 PM

FredinOH · Answer

Davet50: Thanks. I'll try that when I get home this weekend.

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Can't type in password -HELP

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