XPS 8500 CANNOT ACCESS BIOS USING MICROSOFT KEYBOARD MODEL 1878

Question

Have been unable to access XPS 8500 BIOS using Microsoft Keyboard [Ergonomic] Model 1878, while the Microsoft keyboard being replaced, Model 1048, had worked OK.

Noted some internet chatter suggested BIOS reset as a solution; and tried it without success.

I don't fully understand the ins and outs of the BIOS settings, but I noted on internet traffic references to a Fast Boot BIOS entry having been responsible for a similar problem. I noted no fast boot setting on my BIOS. I have opted out of Windows 10 "Fast Start" option.

Any one else had this problem with this particular keyboard?

Thanks.

Wayne

speedstep · Accepted Answer

Used one of these for over 20 years without issue on XPS 400 XPS 8900 etc.

Make sure its plugged into the rear USB2 ports underneath the Ethernet port.

There is also software associated with this model

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/mouse-and-keyboard-center-download-f5b10905-7887-eedb-2f1c-d0737a36a3b2

speedstep · Accepted Answer

@WayneXPS

This is a very old keyboard. USB3 ports can have comm issues.

The other thing to try is press F2 then F12 as soon as you turn it on. Pressing F2 too many times in a row can cause some keyboards to lock up.

F2 then F12

WayneXPS · Accepted Answer

Hi redxps630

Thanks for your comments. It seems appropriate that I contact Microsoft to see if they feel the design of the Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard Model 1878 somehow precludes BIOS access inherently, or, if, indeed it's a malfunctioning keyboard. Thanks.

WayneXPS · Answer

I'll give that a try. I presently am using a USB port at the same level as the the Ethernet port. It was the USB port used by the earlier Microsoft model 1048 which had worked OK. I'll try it in a couple of hours, I have some other commitments.

I really appreciate your suggestion, I had no idea there might be preferred USB ports. I've also installed the latest Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center. Thanks.

XPS_Man · Answer

Microsoft Drivers and Keyboard center don't even come to picture until machine has completed POST. Keyboards are generic devices and their basic features should work without Drivers.

Clearly firmware is not accepting F12 key.

I am not sure how plugging to a different port will help, it would be interesting if it works

Can you take the machine to BIOS using your old keyboard and leave this one plugged in as well.

Now in BIOS see if this new keyboard responds.

redxps630 · Answer

Re: the Microsoft keyboard being replaced, Model 1048, had worked OK

you said “had”, does it mean the old keyboard is no longer available for test now?

if the old one is still around, can you try plug in both the new and old keyboard into pc rear USB ports and verify that the old one responds to F2 to enter bios while the new one does not?

I had one XPS 8500 that did not respond to generic usb keyboard F2. My solution: reset CMOs jumper on motherboard. have you tried that already?

WayneXPS · Answer

Thanks for suggestion.  Plugged both keyboards into rear usb ports.  Used older keyboard {1048) to enter BIOS successfully, newer keyboard keys had no affect on BIOS screen.  Thanks.

WayneXPS · Answer

The older keyboard (1048) is still available and I intend to keep it if for only for BIOS entry. I've tested it and the newer (1878) alternatively with same issues.

I did reset the BIOS using the somewhat more familiar technique of removing the CMOS battery, pressing the machine power button for 15 seconds or so then replacing the CMOS battery.

I don't know if resetting the CMOS jumper on motherboard is a more effective method to reset BIOS.

Thanks.

WayneXPS · Answer

Thanks for the help.  Still no success pressing alternatively F2 and F12. Thanks again.

XPS_Man · Answer

Interesting  !!!  Seems like firmware of newer Keyboard is adopted as per USB 3.0 requirements  Great Find though.

redxps630 · Answer

Your most recent report seems to indicate bios has no issue but problem is with new keyboard not functioning as it should.  All generic usb wired keyboard should behave the same regardless of maker or brand or model.

XPS Desktops

XPS 8500 CANNOT ACCESS BIOS USING MICROSOFT KEYBOARD MODEL 1878

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