bios won't accept any commands except "enter" to continue to normal starup

[cryppie]

I just bought this HP Desktop (genuine HP refurbished) and, shortly after setting it up, HP loaded a newer version of the bios.  I entered the bios to configure the PC to restart automatically after power outages but the main bios menu will not accept any of the function key commands.  The only keyboard key it responds to is "enter" to continue to normal startup.

[Nal_NR]

Hi @cryppie,

Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

I'd like to help!

If your HP Pavilion desktop's BIOS is not accepting any commands except "Enter" to continue to normal startup, it could indicate a few possible issues. 

Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the problem:

Check the keyboard: Ensure that your keyboard is properly connected to the computer and functioning correctly. Try using a different keyboard to see if the issue persists.

Clear CMOS: Clearing the CMOS (Complementary Metal-oxide-semiconductor) settings may help reset the BIOS to its default state. To do this, you'll need to access the motherboard or system board and locate the CMOS jumper or remove the CMOS battery. Consult your computer's manual for specific instructions on how to clear the CMOS.

Update BIOS: If possible, update the BIOS firmware to the latest version. HP's website typically provides BIOS updates for their computers. You can usually download the update onto a USB drive and use the BIOS recovery process to install it.

Check for physical issues: Ensure there are no physical issues with the computer, such as loose or damaged cables, and that the computer's components are properly seated.

Try a different USB port: If you're using a USB keyboard, try connecting it to a different USB port to see if the issue is specific to that port.

Reset BIOS settings: If you're able to access the BIOS settings, you might want to try resetting them to their default values. This can usually be done from within the BIOS menu. Look for an option like "Load Setup Defaults" or "Reset to Default Settings."

Note: Please note that making changes to the BIOS can have a significant impact on your computer's operation, and incorrect settings can cause problems. Be cautious when making any changes to BIOS settings, and only do so if you are confident in your understanding of what you are adjusting.
 

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it may be a more complex problem related to the hardware or BIOS itself. In such cases, it's a good idea to contact HP internal support or visit a service center for professional assistance.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.
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