How to fix keyboard lock up when I use cursor keys

[Pere_Q]

My new laptop’s keyboard locks up when I use the cursor arrow keys to navigate through the text I’m typing, for example, when searching for a word, etc. When this happens, the computer functions correctly, but I can’t input text via the keyboard. I have to close all applications and shut down the computer, which doesn’t turn off until I force it by holding down the power button for a few seconds. Once it’s off, I turn it back on, and everything works fine until it locks up again.

I can’t identify any specific pattern for when this occurs: not related to keyboard presses, applications, or situations. It has happened with various types of software (both word processing and non-word processing), while working online and offline, on different days, and multiple times in a day.

Can anyone advise if there is a solution within my control?

[Raj_05]

Hi @Pere_Q,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like a frustrating issue. Here are several steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the keyboard lock-up problem on your HP Envy x360 15.6 inch 2-in-1 Laptop PC.

Update Keyboard Drivers

• Windows Update: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. Install any available updates.
• Device Manager:
  1. Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Keyboards section.
  3. Right-click on your keyboard device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

Check for BIOS Updates

• Visit the HP Support website and enter your laptop’s model number to find the latest BIOS updates.
• Follow the instructions to download and install the update.

Run the HP Hardware Diagnostics

• HP Support Assistant: Open HP Support Assistant from the Start menu, go to Diagnostics, and run the hardware diagnostics for keyboard issues.
• Built-in Diagnostics: Restart your laptop and press F2 during startup to enter HP Diagnostics.

Check for Software Conflicts

• Clean Boot: Perform a clean boot to see if a background application is causing the issue.
  1. Press Windows Key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Services tab and check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
  3. Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager. Disable all startup items.
  4. Restart your laptop and check if the issue persists.

Perform a System File Check

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator (search for cmd in the Start menu, right-click, and select Run as administrator).
• Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This will scan and repair corrupted system files.

Check for Overheating

• Ensure that your laptop is not overheating. Overheating can cause various hardware issues, including keyboard malfunctions. Clean any dust from vents and ensure the laptop is placed on a hard, flat surface.

Reset Keyboard Settings

• Go to Settings > Time & Language > Language.
• Under Preferred languages, select your language and click Options.
• Ensure that the correct keyboard layout is selected. Remove any unnecessary or incorrect layouts.

[Raj_05 · Accepted solution]

Check for Malware

• Run a full system scan with your antivirus software to rule out any malware that could be affecting system performance.

Reinstall the Keyboard Driver

• Go to Device Manager, right-click on the keyboard driver under the Keyboards section, and select Uninstall device.
• Restart your laptop, and Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.

Perform a System Restore

• If the problem started recently, you can try restoring your system to a point before the issue began.
• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and select Open System Restore.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4

HP Support