Keyboard Usage and Troubleshooting Guide

When your Wired USB, Wireless USB or Bluetooth® keyboard is not working as it should, refer to the expanding section below that best matches the issue you are having and follow the instructions.

Suggested Quick Fixes:

Reseat the USB cable or wireless USB receiver.
When you have a wireless USB or Bluetooth mouse, install new batteries.
Save any data, close any open program(s) and restart the computer.

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How to Connect a Wired, Wireless or Bluetooth Keyboard to Your Computer

Select the tab below that matches the type of keyboard you have. Follow the steps on how to connect your keyboard to your computer.

Locate the wireless USB receiver that came with your keyboard.
Note:
When buying a keyboard or mouse with a computer:
- Look in every compartment of the box that the device(s) came in. The wireless USB receiver is small and can be easily over looked. The receiver will have a informational tag attached to help you locate the receiver. Refer to Figure 1 to see the size and shape of the receiver.
When buying a keyboard or mouse separately from a computer:
- The wireless USB receiver will be under the keyboard when buying a keyboard or keyboard, mouse combination, and under the mouse when bought separately. The receiver will have a informational tag attached to help you locate the receiver. Refer to Figure 2 for the typical location, size and shape of the receiver.
Figure 1: Wireless Receive
Figure 2: Wireless Receiver Location in Packaging

When you cannot locate your wireless receiver after you have unpacked the devices, some mice and keyboards have a place to store the wireless receiver. Look under the mouse buttons where the batteries are or in the battery compartment on keyboard.

Insert the wireless USB receiver as shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3: Wireless USB Receiver Insertion
Notes:
- The receiver only goes in one way. When the connector does not seem to fit, adjust the angle or flip it over.
- When using the receiver that came with the keyboard, no driver or configuration is needed for the keyboard to work.
- Your receiver and keyboard may have a connect button; if so, press the connect button on the receiver and on the bottom of the keyboard. See the example in Figure 4.
  
  Figure 4: Wireless Keyboard Connect Button Location

Look at the connector on the end of the USB keyboard cable.
Look for a matching port and USB symbol on the notebook. For more information, refer to Figure 1.

Figure 1: USB Port Locations
Notes:
- The connector only goes in one way. When the connector does not seem to fit, adjust the angle or flip it over.
- No drivers or configuration are needed for the keyboard to work.

For information on how to connect to your Bluetooth keyboard, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Fix, Connect to and Learn About Bluetooth.

The Cursor Moves Around Erratically While Typing on the Notebook Keyboard

Select the tab below that matches the Operating System (OS) that is installed on your computer. Follow the steps to make sure the settings are correct to prevent the cursor from moving around erratically while typing.

In the Search box type main.cpl.

Touch or click main.cpl in the list of programs.

Touch or click the Dell Touchpad tab.
Notes:
When the Dell Touchpad tab is not listed, it means one of two things:
- The utility is not installed. In that case, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Drivers and Downloads FAQs, for more information on downloading drivers. The Dell Touchpad Driver/Utility is listed under Mouse, Keyboard & Input Devices.
- That your newer computer has a Precision Touchpad. To determine whether your computer has the Precision Touchpad, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article How to Use the Precision Touchpad Features in Windows 8(8.1) and 10 and refer to the "The Cursor Moves Around Erratically While Typing on the Notebook Keyboard" section for instructions on how to change the settings, when necessary.

Touch or click on the picture of the touchpad.

Touch or click Sensitivity.

Make sure there is a checkmark in the Turn On box to the right of Touch Guard.

Move the circle under Touch Guard all the way to the right (this can always be adjusted back if the setting is too high).

Touch or click Save.

Touch or click the X in the upper-right corner to close the Dell Touchpad Utility.

Touch or click OK on the Mouse Properties window.

Note: For more information, refer to the Microsoft Knowledge Base Article Touch and Keyboard. External Link

Press and hold the Windows () key, and then press the q key.

In the Search box type main.cpl.

Click or touch main.cpl in the list of programs.

Click or touch the Dell Touchpad or Cypress Trackpad tab.
Notes:
When the Dell Touchpad or Cypress Trackpad tab is not listed, it means one of two things:
- The utility is not installed. In that case, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Drivers and Downloads FAQs, for more information on downloading drivers. The Dell Touchpad or Cypress Trackpad Driver/Utility is listed under Mouse, Keyboard & Input Devices.
- That your newer computer has a Precision Touchpad. To determine whether your computer has the Precision Touchpad, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article How to Use the Precision Touchpad Features in Windows 8(8.1) and 10 and refer to the "The Cursor Moves Around Erratically While Typing on the Notebook Keyboard" section for instructions on how to change the settings, when necessary.
  For more information, refer to the following video How to Check If Dell Touchpad Drivers are Installed - Windows 8(8.1) (English only).

Touch or click on the picture of the touchpad.

Touch or click Sensitivity.

Make sure there is a checkmark in the Turn On box to the right of Touch Guard.

Move the circle under Touch Guard all the way to the right (this can always be adjusted back if the setting is too high).

Touch or click Save.

Touch or click the X in the upper-right corner to close the Dell Touchpad or Cypress Trackpad Utility.

Touch or click OK on the Mouse Properties window.

Press the Windows () key.

In the Search box type main.cpl.

Touch or click main.cpl in the list of programs.

Touch or click the Dell Touchpad tab.
Note:: When the Dell Touchpad tab is not listed, it means the utility is not installed. Refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Drivers and Downloads FAQs for more information on downloading drivers. The Dell Touchpad Driver/Utility is listed under Mouse, Keyboard & Input Devices.

Touch or click on the picture of the touchpad.

Touch or click Sensitivity or Touchpad Settings.

Make sure there is a checkmark in the Turn On or Enable box next to Touch Guard, Palm Check or TouchCheck.

Move the Touch Guard, Palm Check or TouchCheck slider all the way to the right (this can always be adjusted back if the setting is too high).

Touch or click Save or OK.

Close the Dell Touchpad Utility.

Touch or click OK on the Mouse Properties window.

Click Start.

In the search box type Mouse.

Click Mouse.

Click the Dell Touchpad tab.
Note: When the Dell Touchpad tab is not listed, it means the utility is not installed. Refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Drivers and Downloads FAQs, for more information on downloading drivers. The Dell Touchpad Driver/Utility is listed under Mouse, Keyboard & Input Devices.

Click the picture of the touchpad.

Click Sensitivity.

Make sure there is a checkmark in the Turn On box to the right of Touch Guard.

Move the circle under Touch Guard all the way to the right (this can always be adjusted back if the setting is too high).

Click Save.

Click the X in the upper-right corner to close the Dell Touchpad Utility.

Click OK on the Mouse Properties window.

Keys on the Keyboard Are Typing Characters Intermittently or Not at All

Note: When your computer has a touchscreen the On-Screen Keyboard can be used until issues on your keyboard are resolved.

When at the login-in screen, touch the Ease of Access icon , and then touch On-Screen Keyboard.
From within windows touch or click the On Screen Keyboard icon (located in the lower right-hand corner).
For more information, refer to Microsoft Base article Use the On-Screen Keyboard (OSK) to type.

Make sure the Number Lock Key is set correctly.
Notes:
- For notebooks that have a numeric keypad on the right-hand side, it is normally turned on. When it is off, no numbers appear when the keys are pressed. Press the Number Lock Key to toggle the numeric keypad on and off.
- Some notebooks simulate a numeric keypad by using dual purpose keys. When the Number Lock Key is active, numbers appear instead of letters when pressed. Press the num lock key to toggle the numeric keypad on and off.
  
  Refer to Dell Knowledge Base article How to Obtain Manuals and Documentation for your Dell Product, for more information on where the Number Lock Key is.

Turn off the computer.

Unplug everything except the power cord, including the following:
- Speakers.
- Printers.
- Scanners.
- USB devices.
- USB flash drive or other external storage devices.
- External monitor.
- External keyboard.
- External mouse.
  When your computer is attached to a docking station, undock it.

Turn the computer back on and retest the keyboard. When the keyboard does work correctly, attach one external device at a time and test the keyboard to see which one may have caused the issue.

Make sure the BIOS is updated to the latest version. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge base article What is BIOS and How to Download and Install the latest BIOS?

When the keyboard still only works intermittently, refer to the instructions below that best matches the issue you are having:
1. When a specific key is not working or sticks, turn off the computer and use a can of compressed air to clean around the problem key and then retest the keyboard. For more information, refer to the How to Clean Your Keyboard section.
2. When the issue only occurs in a specific application program, test the keyboard in another application program, such as Notepad. If the problem only occurs in a specific program, you need to troubleshoot that specific program.
3. When you have software that may change how the keyboard operates, uninstall or disable it, including:
  - Keyboard macro programs.
  - External gaming keyboard software or drivers.
  - KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switch software.

Try an external wired USB, wireless USB or Bluetooth keyboard when available, to test if it responds correctly.

When the Keyboard still does not work after following the preceding steps, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Resolve Hardware Issues Using ePSA or PSA Diagnostics and Guide to Error Codes.
Notes:
- The test will determine if the keyboard is detected at a hardware level below the Operating System (OS). When it is detected, it means the OS or installed software is preventing the touchpad from working. You can use a restore point to return the OS to a previous state when the keyboard worked (in Windows 10 it is called refreshing the OS). If that does not work you may need to reinstall your OS. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article How To Restore or Reinstall Microsoft Windows on a Dell Computer.
- When an error is reported during the test, write down the error and the validation code as seen. Then on another internet device, browse to the SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance Check page to submit the issue.

Reseat the USB cable into the computer.

Make sure the Number Lock Key is set correctly.
Note: The numeric keypad on a desktop keyboard is normally turned on. When it is off, no numbers appear when the keys are pressed. Press the Number Lock Key to toggle the numeric keypad on and off.
For more information on where the Number Lock Key is, refer to the document that came with the keyboard or browse to the Keyboard and Mouse Manual page for the manual.

Turn off the computer.

Unplug any non-essential external devices, including the following:
- Speakers.
- Printers.
- Scanners.
- USB devices.
- USB flash drive or other external storage devices.

Make sure the BIOS is updated to the latest version. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge base article What is BIOS and How to Download and Install the latest BIOS?

Turn the computer back on and retest the keyboard. When the keyboard does work correctly, attach one external device at a time and test the keyboard to see which one may have caused the issue.

When the keyboard still only works intermittently, refer to the instructions below that best matches the issue you are having:
1. When a specific key is not working or sticks, turn off the computer and use a can of compressed air to clean around the problem key and then retest the keyboard. For more information, refer to the How to Clean Your Keyboard section.
2. When the issue only occurs in a specific application program, test the keyboard in another application program, such as Notepad. If the problem only occurs in a specific program, you need to troubleshoot that specific program.
3. When you have software that may change how the keyboard operates, uninstall or disable it, including:
  - Keyboard macro programs.
  - External gaming keyboard software or drivers.
  - KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switch software.

Try another wired USB, wireless USB or Bluetooth keyboard when available, to test if it responds correctly.

When the Keyboard still does not work after following the preceding steps, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Resolve Hardware Issues Using ePSA or PSA Diagnostics and Guide to Error Codes.
Notes:
- The test will determine if the keyboard is detected at a hardware level below the Operating System (OS). When it is detected, it means the OS or installed software is preventing the touchpad from working. You can use a restore point to return the OS to a previous state when the keyboard worked (in Windows 10 it is called refreshing the OS). If that does not work you may need to reinstall your OS. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article How To Restore or Reinstall Microsoft Windows on a Dell Computer.
- When an error is reported during the test, write down the error and the validation code as seen. Then on another internet device, browse to the SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance Check page to submit the issue.

Make sure to use the wireless USB receiver that came with your wireless keyboard. Using another receiver may mean it uses another technology and it will not be compatible with the mouse. For more information on the latest technology offered by Dell, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article How to use the Dell Universal Pairing For products that are labeled Logitech , please browse to the Logitech Downloads Site for drivers and software.
Note:
When buying a keyboard or mouse with a computer:
- Look in every compartment of the box that the device(s) came in. The wireless USB receiver is small and can be easily over looked. The receiver will have a informational tag attached to help you locate the receiver. Refer to Figure 1 to see the size and shape of the receiver.
When buying a keyboard or mouse separately from a computer:
- The wireless USB receiver will be under the keyboard when buying a keyboard or keyboard, mouse combination, and under the mouse when bought separately. The receiver will have a informational tag attached to help you locate the receiver. Refer to Figure 2 for the typical location, size and shape of the receiver.
Figure 1: Wireless Receive
Figure 2: Wireless Receiver Location in Packaging

When you cannot locate your wireless receiver after you have unpacked the devices, some mice and keyboards have a place to store the wireless receiver. Look under the mouse buttons where the batteries are or in the battery compartment on a keyboard, but they are not shipped in those locations.

Reinsert the batteries or install fresh batteries. For more information on how to install the batteries, refer to the document that came with the wireless keyboard or browse to the Keyboard and Mouse Manual page for the manual.

Make sure the keyboard is within 10 feet (3 meters) of the computer.

Reseat the wireless USB receiver into the USB port.

Make sure the keyboard is turned on. Refer to Figure 3 for an example on what the power button may look like. For more information on where the power switch is, refer to the document that came with the wireless keyboard or browse to the Keyboard and Mouse Manual page for the manual.

Figure 3: Power Button Example

Make sure the Number Lock Key is set correctly.
Note: The numeric keypad on a desktop keyboard is normally turned on, when it is off, no numbers appear when the keys are pressed. Press the Number Lock Key to toggle the numeric keypad on and off.
For more information on where the Number Lock Key is, refer to the document that came with the wireless keyboard or browse to the Keyboard and Mouse Manual page for the manual.

Save any data, close any open program(s) and restart the computer.

Your receiver and keyboard may have a connect button, if so, press the connect button on the receiver and on the bottom of the keyboard. Refer to Figure 4 for an example.

Figure 4: Wireless Keyboard Connect Button Location

Make sure the BIOS is updated to the latest version. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge base article What is BIOS and How to Download and Install the latest BIOS?

When the keyboard still only works intermittently, refer to the instructions below that best matches the issue you are having:
1. When a specific key is not working or sticks, turn off the computer and use a can of compressed air to clean around the problem key and then retest the keyboard. For more information, refer to the How to Clean Your Keyboard section.
2. When the issue only occurs in a specific application program, test the keyboard in another application program, such as Notepad. If the problem only occurs in a specific program, you need to troubleshoot that specific program.
3. When you have software that may change how the keyboard operates, uninstall or disable it, including:
  - Keyboard macro programs.
  - External gaming keyboard software or drivers.
  - KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switch software.

Try the wireless USB receiver in another USB port on the computer. A notice that drivers are being installed may appear; if so, wait until a message that the drivers were installed before using the keyboard.
Note: When using a wireless USB keyboard with a connect button, make sure to press the connect button on the receiver and on the bottom of the keyboard again.

Try another wireless USB mouse and receiver when available. A notice that drivers are being installed may appear; if so, wait until a message that the drivers were installed before using the keyboard.
Note: When using a wireless USB keyboard with a connect button, make sure to press the connect button on the receiver and on the bottom of the keyboard again.
When the Keyboard still does not work after following the preceding steps, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Resolve Hardware Issues Using ePSA or PSA Diagnostics and Guide to Error Codes.
Notes:
- The test will determine if the wireless USB keyboard receiver is detected at a hardware level below the Operating System (OS). When it is detected, it means the OS or installed software is preventing the USB wireless keyboard from working. You can use a restore point to return the OS to a previous state when the keyboard worked (in Windows 10 it is called refreshing the OS). If that does not work you may need to reinstall your OS. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article How To Restore or Reinstall Microsoft Windows on a Dell Computer.
- When an error is reported during the test, write down the error and the validation code as seen. Then on another internet device, browse to the Enhanced Preboot System Assessment page to submit the issue.

Reinsert the batteries or install fresh batteries. For more information on how to install the batteries, refer to the document that came with the Bluetooth keyboard or browse to the Keyboard and Mouse Manual page for the manual.

Make sure the keyboard is within 10 feet (3 meters) of the computer.

Make sure the keyboard is turned on; refer to Figure 1 for an example on what the power button may look like. For more information on where the power switch is, refer to the document that came with the wireless keyboard or browse to the Keyboard and Mouse Manual page for the manual.

Figure 1: Power Button Example

Make sure the Number Lock Key is set correctly.
Note: The numeric keypad on a desktop keyboard is normally turned on, when it is off, no numbers appear when the keys are pressed. Press the Number Lock Key to toggle the numeric keypad on and off.
For more information on where the Number Lock Key is, refer to the document that came with the Bluetooth keyboard or browse to the Keyboard and Mouse Manual page for the manual.

Save any data, close any open program(s) and restart the computer.

Make sure the BIOS is updated to the latest version. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge base article What is BIOS and How to Download and Install the latest BIOS?

When the keyboard still only works intermittently, refer to the instructions below that best matches the issue you are having:
1. When a specific key is not working or sticks, turn off the computer and use a can of compressed air to clean around the problem key and then retest the keyboard. For more information, refer to the How to Clean Your Keyboard section.
2. When the issue only occurs in a specific application program, test the keyboard in another application program, such as Notepad. If the problem only occurs in a specific program, you need to troubleshoot that specific program.
3. When you have software that may change how the keyboard operates, uninstall or disable it, including:
  - Keyboard macro programs.
  - External gaming keyboard software or drivers.
  - KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switch software.
Install the latest Bluetooth drivers for your computer. For more information, refer to the Dell Knowledge base article How do I download and install a device driver?.
Notes:
- The driver will be located in the Network category.
- For additional drivers and software on products that are labeled Logitech , please browse to the Logitech Downloads Site.

Re-pair the mouse to the computer. For this information and more on Bluetooth mice and keyboards, refer to the Dell Knowledge base article Fix, Connect to and Learn About Bluetooth.

The Keyboard Outputs Incorrect Characters

Make sure the Number Lock Key is set correctly.
Notes:
- The numeric keypad on a desktop keyboard is normally turned on. When it is off, no numbers appear when pressed. Press the Number Lock Key to toggle the numeric keypad on and off.
- For notebooks that have a numeric keypad on the right-hand side, it is normally turned on. When it is off, no numbers appear when the keys are pressed. Press the Number Lock Key to toggle the numeric keypad on and off.
- Some notebooks simulate a numeric keypad by using dual purpose keys. When the Number Lock Key is active, numbers appear instead of letters when pressed. Press the Number Lock Key to toggle the numeric keypad on and off.
  
  Refer to Dell Knowledge Base article How to Obtain Manuals and Documentation for your Dell Product, for more information on where the Number Lock Key is.
Make sure the keyboard language setting in Windows is correct (select the tab below that matches the Operating System (OS) that is installed on your computer for more information).

In the Search box, type language.

Touch or click Edit language and keyboard options.

Using the drop down menu, select the preferred language.

Close Time and Language window.

Make sure the BIOS for your computer is up to date. For information on how to download the BIOS, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Dell BIOS Updates.
Note: Using the SupportAssist application provides automatic computer updates and detects issues that will be resolved for you. Let us take the effort out of maintaining your Dell Computer or Tablet. For more information about SupportAssist, browse to the SupportAssist for PCs and tablets page.

Refer to the Microsoft Knowledge Base Article, Change your keyboard layout, and then select your Operating System (OS) using the drop down menu and follow the instructions. External Link

Notes:

Make sure the BIOS for your computer is up to date. For information on how to download the BIOS, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Dell BIOS Updates.
Using the SupportAssist application provides automatic computer updates and detects issues that will be resolved for you. Let us take the effort out of maintaining your Dell Computer or Tablet. For more information about SupportAssist, browse to the SupportAssist for PCs and tablets page.

Refer to the Microsoft Knowledge Base Article, Change your keyboard layout, and then select your Operating System (OS) using the drop down menu and follow the instructions. External Link

Notes:

Make sure the BIOS for your computer is up to date. For information on how to download the BIOS, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Dell BIOS Updates.
Using the SupportAssist application provides automatic computer updates and detects issues that will be resolved for you. Let us take the effort out of maintaining your Dell Computer or Tablet. For more information about SupportAssist, browse to the SupportAssist for PCs and tablets page.

Click Start.

Click Control Panel.

Click Clock, Language, and Region.

Click the Keyboard and Languages tab.

Click Change keyboards.

Using the dropdown menu, select the preferred language for your keyboard.
Note: You can also add another language by clicking Add under Installed Services. Select the preferred language and click OK.

Click OK twice.

Make sure the BIOS for your computer is up to date. For information on how to download the BIOS, refer to Dell Knowledge Base article Dell BIOS Updates.
Note: Using the SupportAssist application provides automatic computer updates and detects issues that will be resolved for you. Let us take the effort out of maintaining your Dell Computer or Tablet. For more information about SupportAssist, browse to the SupportAssist for PCs and tablets page.

Toggling Between the F1-F12 Function Keys and the Special Keys on a Notebook

There are four options to switch between the F1-F12 function and special keys located on the top row of your Notebook keyboard.

Single key stroke:
1. Press and hold the Fn key (), and then press the desired function key to activate the special key associated to that function key.
Function Key Lock Toggle:
1. Press and hold the Fn key (), and then press the Escape key ().
  Pressing the function key will now activate the special key associated to that function key, without having to press the Fn key first.
  
  Note: Repeating the key strokes returns the function keys to their normal state.
Change the Function key behavior in the BIOS:
1. Restart or power on the computer.
2. When you see the Dell logo during POST, press the F2 key once a second to enter the System Setup.
  Note: When the computer boots into Windows. Restart the computer and try again.
Depending on the type of BIOS (System Setup) your Dell computer has, the screen will look one of two ways.

Select the picture that matches the one on your computer for information on how to set the Function keys default.
1. On the BIOS (System Setup) screen, click Post Behavior.
2. Click Fn Lock Options.
3. Read the information as what the options are, and make the desired selection.
4. Click Exit.
5. Confirm saving the changes.
Your computer will restart at this time.
1. On the BIOS screen, press the Right Arrow key to until the Advanced menu is highlighted.
2. Press the Down Arrow key until Function Key Behavior.
3. Using the Up or Down arrows, select the desired Function Key Behavior default, and press the Enter key.
4. Press the Right Arrow key until the Exit menu is highlighted.
5. Press the Down Arrow key until Exit Saving Changes or Save Changes (or similar wording) is highlighted, and then press the Enter key.
6. Press the Enter key on Yes to Save Configuration (or similar wording).
Your computer will restart at this time.
Windows Mobility Center:
1. Press and hold the Windows () key, and then press the q key.
2. In the Search box, type mobility center.
3. Click Mobility Center, in the search results.
4. On the Windows Mobility Center screen find the Function Key Row option. Using the drop down menu select the desired option.
  Note: There many not be a Function Key Row option depending on the version of your Operating System.

Keyboard Hotkeys and Sound Controls

Internet Keys
Multimedia Keys
Notebook Keys
Audio Cluster
Audio Controls
Sound Wheel
Link to Keyboard Manuals

Internet Keys

For information on a button's action, locate it in Table 1.
(Not all keyboards have every button shown.)

Button	Action
	Go to the Home Internet page
	Launch E-mail
	Go to Web page or Web menu (configured by software)
	Start Web Search

Table 1: Internet Keys

Multimedia Keys

For information on a button's action, locate it in Table 2.
(Not all keyboards have every button shown.)

Button	Action
or	Mute Sound
or	Volume Down
or	Volume Up
or	Play / Pause
or	Media Stop
or	Previous
or	Next
	Audio Key (starts Windows Media Player)
	CD/DVD Ejection Key - Quickset may need to be installed before this key will work. (You may have to Press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)

Table 2: Multimedia Keys

Notebook Keys

For information on a button's action, locate it in Table 3.
(Not all keyboards have every button shown.)

Button	Action
	Number Lock (You may have to press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)
	Scroll Lock (You may have to press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)
	Brighten Display - Tap it to brighten the display. (You may have to press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)
	Dim Display - Tap it to dim the display. (You may have to press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)
	External Display - Pressing this key toggles between an external or internal monitor or both. (You may have to press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)
	CD/DVD Ejection - This key only works if Quickset is installed. (You may have to press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)
	Standby - This key only works if Quickset or Dell ContolPoint is installed depending on your model. (You may have to press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)
	Battery Status - This key only works if Quickset or Dell ContolPoint is installed depending on your model. (You may have to press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)
	Battery Charging - Allows you to disable battery charging until the next reboot. It has no effect on battery usage, and only works if Dell ContolPoint is installed. (You may have to press and hold the Fn key first, for it to work.)
	Fn Key - Fn stands for function. Pressing and holding this key allows you access the alternative function of a key. It is typically located between the CTRL and Windows key on the lower-left of the keyboard. (The alternative function of the key may be in blue or red letters under the main function. For more information refer to the pictures above for descriptions of what the key does.)
	Latitude ON: Boots to the Latitude ON module or Reader if installed when the computer is off. Reboots from Windows to the Latitude ON module or Reader if installed (Dell ContolPoint has to be installed).
	Disables or Enables the Touchpad on some computers. Press and hold the Fn key then press the F3 key to toggle the Touchpad off or on.
	Disables or Enables the Touchpad on some computers. Press just the F6 key to toggle the Touchpad off or on.
	Disables or Enables the Touchpad on some computers. Press just the Touchpad Disable/Enable key, (the key is located to the right of the F12 key) to toggle the Touchpad off or on.

Table 3: Notebook Keys

Audio Cluster

When the buttons and knob on your keyboard do not look like Figure 1, refer to the Audio Cluster or Sound Volume Wheel section.

Figure 1: Audio Controls


Numbers reference image above:
	Mute On / Off
	Media Stop
	Previous Track
	Volume Knob - Volume Up / Volume Down (turns right to left, not a push button)
	Next Track
	Play / Pause
	Audio Key (starts Windows Media Player)

Audio Controls

When the buttons and knob on your keyboard do not look like Figure 2, refer to the Audio Controls or Sound Volume Wheel section.

Figure 2: Audio Cluster


Numbers reference image above:
	Volume Knob - Volume Up / Volume Down (turns right to left, not a push button)
	Audio Key (starts Windows Media Player)
	Media Stop
	Previous Track
	Play / Pause
	Next Track
	Mute On / Off

Sound Volume Wheel

When the buttons and knob on your keyboard do not look like Figure 3, refer to the Audio Cluster or Audio Controls section.

Figure 3: Sound Volume Wheel - Volume Up / Volume Down (turns right to left, not a push button)

How to use the Backlit Keyboard on your Notebook Computer

Press and hold the Fn key (), and then press the Backlit key () to toggle the keyboard light off and on.
Notes:
- Look for the Backlit key first on the Function key row across the top of the keyboard, otherwise it may be in the lower-left side of the keyboard.
- When your computer does not have the Backlit key, your computer does not have this feature.
- For more information refer to Dell Knowledge Base article How to Troubleshoot the Backlit Keyboard on Your Dell Notebook Computer.

How to Clean Your Keyboard

Make sure the computer is turned off.

When using a wired, wireless or Bluetooth keyboard turn the keyboard upside down and shake it gently to remove any loose material.

Use a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for computers, when available.

Use a can of compressed air to remove any additional loose material, when available.
Caution: Do not turn the can on its side or upside down. This causes a very cold liquid to spray out and can damage your keyboard and skin.

Using a Microfiber or terry cloth wipe the keys and frame around the keys.
Note: When there is build up, take a cotton swab, microfiber towel or terry cloth and dip it in isopropyl alcohol. It should be damp but not wet. Wipe away the buildup and let the isopropyl alcohol evaporate away before using the keyboard again.

Troubleshooting a Keyboard Key That Has Come Off

Notebook Keyboards
Wired, Wireless and Bluetooth Keyboards

When a keycap comes off, perform the following steps to try to put the keycap back on the notebook:

Make sure the area that was under the keycap is clean. Using a can of compressed air is best.
Caution: Do not turn the can on its side or upside down. This causes a very cold liquid to spray out and can damage your keyboard and skin.

Examine the plastic scissor spring that was under the keycap for any damage as indicated by the red circles in Figure 1.

Figure 1: Scissor Spring Mechanism on a Notebook Internal Keyboard
- When the plastic scissor spring looks intact, align the keycap and gently press down to try to reseat the keycap.
  Caution:: Do not try to force the keycap back on, as you may damage other parts of the computer.
- When there is damage to the plastic scissor spring, the keycap cannot go back onto the keyboard.
Notes:
- When you have purchased Accidental Damage coverage please refer to the Accidental Damage for Consumer Customers documentation for information on the scope of service, how to contact tech support, limitations and other important terms and conditions relevant to this coverage (English only PDF).
- For all other hardware support, browse to the Contact Technical Support page.

When a keycap comes off, perform the following steps to try to put the keycap back on the keyboard:

Make sure the area that was under the keycap is clean, a can of compressed air is best.
Caution: Do not turn the can on its side or upside down. This causes a very cold liquid to spray out and can damage your keyboard and skin.

Examine the mechanism that was under the keycap for any damage.
- When the mechanism looks undamaged, align the keycap and gently press down to try to reseat the keycap.
  Caution: Do not try to force the keycap back on, as you may damage other parts of the keyboard.
- When there is damage to the mechanism, the keycap cannot go back onto the keyboard.
Notes:
- When you have purchased Accidental Damage coverage please refer to the Accidental Damage for Consumer Customers documentation for information on the scope of service, how to contact tech support, limitations and other important terms and conditions relevant to this coverage (English only PDF).
- For all other hardware support, browse to the Contact Technical Support page.

Key Presses are Slow to Respond

In the Search box, type settings.

In the list of programs touch or click Settings.

Touch or click Ease of Access..

Touch or click Keyboard..

Make sure Turn on Filter Keys is set to off.

Close the Settings window.

Press and hold the Windows () key, and then press the q key.

In the Search box, type settings.

In the list of programs touch or click PC settings.

Touch or click Ease of Access..

Touch or click Keyboard..

Make sure Filter Keys is set to off.

Press the Windows () key to close the Settings window.

Press the Windows () key.

In the Search box type ease of access.

Touch or click Ease of Access Center in the list of programs.

Touch or click Make the keyboard easier to use.

Make sure the check box to the left of Turn on Filter Keys is not checked.

Touch or click Apply, and then OK.

Press the Windows () key.

In the Search box type ease of access.

Click Ease of Access Center in the list of programs.

Click Make the keyboard easier to use.

Make sure the check box to the left of Turn on Filter Keys is not checked.

When you have made changes click Apply, and then Save, otherwise click Cancel.

Computer Beeps While Typing

In the Search box, type settings.

In the list of programs touch or click Settings.

Touch or click Ease of Access..

Touch or click Keyboard..

Make sure Turn on Sticky Keys is set to off.

Make sure Turn on Toggle Keys is set to off.

Close the Settings window.

Press and hold the Windows () key, and then press the q key.

In the Search box, type settings.

In the list of programs touch or click PC settings.

Touch or click Ease of Access..

Touch or click Keyboard..

Make sure Sticky Keys is set to off.

Make sure Toggle Keys is set to off.

Press the Windows () key to close the Settings window.

Press the Windows () key.

In the Search box type ease of access.

Touch or click Ease of Access Center in the list of programs.

Touch or click Make the keyboard easier to use.

Make sure the check box to the left of Turn on Sticky Keys is not checked.

Make sure the check box to the left of Turn on Toggle Keys is not checked.

Touch or click Apply, and then OK.

Press the Windows () key.

In the Search box type ease of access.

Click Ease of Access Center in the list of programs.

Click Make the keyboard easier to use.

Make sure the check box to the left of Turn on Sticky Keys is not checked.

Make sure the check box to the left of Turn on Toggle Keys is not checked.

When you have made changes click Apply, and then Save, otherwise click Cancel.

Resolving Keyboard Issues After Waking up From Sleep Mode

Save any data, close any open program(s) and restart the computer. When the mouse and keyboard do not respond at all, you may have to press and hold the power button down for at least 15 seconds to turn the computer off, and you will lose any data not saved.

Make sure the BIOS is updated to the latest version. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge base article What is BIOS and How to Download and Install the latest BIOS?.

Make sure Windows has the latest updates. For more information, refer to Microsoft Knowledge base article Windows Update: FAQ.

Reseat the USB cable into the computer.

Save any data, close any open program(s) and restart the computer. When the mouse and keyboard do not respond at all, you may have to press and hold the power button down for at least 15 seconds to turn the computer off, and you will lose any data not saved.

Make sure the BIOS is updated to the latest version. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge base article What is BIOS and How to Download and Install the latest BIOS?.

Make sure Windows has the latest updates. For more information, refer to Microsoft Knowledge base article Windows Update: FAQ.

Reseat the wireless USB receiver into the computer.

Save any data, close any open program(s) and restart the computer. When the mouse and keyboard do not respond at all, you may have to press and hold the power button down for at least 15 seconds to turn the computer off, and you will lose any data not saved.

Make sure the BIOS is updated to the latest version. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge base article What is BIOS and How to Download and Install the latest BIOS?.

Make sure Windows has the latest updates. For more information, refer to Microsoft Knowledge base article Windows Update: FAQ.

Save any data, close any open program(s) and restart the computer. When the mouse and keyboard do not respond at all, you may have to press and hold the power button down for at least 15 seconds to turn the computer off, and you will lose any data not saved.

Make sure the BIOS is updated to the latest version. For more information, refer to Dell Knowledge base article What is BIOS and How to Download and Install the latest BIOS?.

Make sure Windows has the latest updates. For more information, refer to Microsoft Knowledge base article Windows Update: FAQ.

Additional Information and Videos about Using and Troubleshooting Your Keyboard

How to use the Dell Universal Pairing - This article provides information on which keyboard and mice are compatible with Dell Universal Pairing and how to connect them.
Dell Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard and Mouse, Lock Up or Stop Working After a Restart
Fix, Connect and Learn about Bluetooth
Learn How to Replace a Notebook Keyboard (with Bezel)
For products that are labeled Logitech , please browse to the Logitech Downloads Site for drivers and software.

Using the SupportAssist application provides automatic computer updates and detects issues that will be resolved for you. Let us take the effort out of maintaining your Dell Computer or Tablet. For more information about SupportAssist, browse to the SupportAssist for PCs and tablets page.