Inspiron 14 5000 'tablet mode' issues

Question

Hey, I hope you can help me troubleshoot this issue.

Sometimes, but not always, when I close my laptop but don't shut it down (for example, to step away to get a drink, or if I want to continue working the following day) it opens up fine but the keyboard and trackpad won't work, only the touchscreen.

I've tried fiddling with all the touchscreen mode settings, but nothing seems to prevent this problem. It wouldn't be a huge issue, except for the fact that once it's gone into 'tablet mode' the only way to get the keyboard and trackpad working again is to restart the computer entirely, since touching the 'tablet mode' on off button doesn't do anything. It's not a huge problem if, say, I didn't have anything open but was planning on coming back to it since it only takes a few seconds to reopen, but it's a nightmare if I was in the middle of something important and have to reopen everything I was doing.

I really hope there's some setting I just can't find that will stop this happening; I bought the laptop second hand but in pretty much as-new condition and it's perfect for my needs, just this frustrating having to restart all the time is getting on my nerves xD

Thanks in advance

DELL-Cares · Answer

Thank you! We have received the required details. We will work towards a resolution via private messages to ensure the security of your information. In the meanwhile, you may receive assistance or suggestions from the community members as well.

dntzZz · Answer

Hi  Please I'm having a very similar issue with my laptop...I'll appreciate if I can get help too Thanks

AdrianG001 · Answer

I suggest you to try to switch it on by following the below steps:
1.     Select the horizontal stripes icon (All Apps) on the bottom left corner of the screen.
2.      Select Settings on the menu.
3.     Go to System and then click on Tablet Mode.
4.     Turn the option ON.
5.     Close the window.

jacqscot · Answer

Did you ever resolve this?  I have the same issue, only my company requires me to use Bitlocker encryption and there is no keyboard option, so I am effectively locked out of my new Dell computer!  Help!

Buoyant11 · Answer

Hello, I've been having the exact same issue: when closing the lid and opening at a later time the computer is locked in tablet mode and only known option that restores laptop mode is to restart the computer. Mine is a brand new computer. Please advise how to fix the condition that places the device in tablet mode unprompted.

Inspiron

Inspiron 14 5000 'tablet mode' issues

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