same keys randomly stop working sometimes

[nikotgi]

I have an Hp laptop 17, and I noticed a couple days ago, my p, semicolon, slash, apostrophe, right bracket, dash, and zero keys stopped working. As we speak, I am copy pasting the p in every word that requires it. Sometimes if I press really hard or spam the key, it will just randomly start working again, but for the most part those keys havent been working. I dont spill anything on my keyboard nor have any crumbs on it, so other than dust, Im not sure what the problem could be. Is it a hardware issue and how can I fix this myself

[Raj_05]

Hi @nikotgi,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

The issue you're experiencing with your HP laptop keyboard could be due to a few different reasons, including both hardware and software problems. Here are some steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the issue.

Software Troubleshooting

a. Restart Your Laptop

Sometimes a simple restart can resolve keyboard issues caused by temporary software glitches.

b. Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers

Outdated or corrupted keyboard drivers can cause keys to stop working.

Update Drivers:

• Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
• Expand the "Keyboards" section.
• Right-click on your keyboard device and select "Update driver."
• Choose "Search automatically for updated driver software."

Reinstall Drivers:

• Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
• Expand the "Keyboards" section.
• Right-click on your keyboard device and select "Uninstall device."
• Restart your laptop. Windows will automatically reinstall the drivers.

c. Check Keyboard Settings

Ensure that the correct keyboard layout is selected.

• Go to Settings > Time & Language > Region & Language.
• Make sure the correct language is selected.
• Click on the language and ensure the correct keyboard layout is applied.

[Raj_05]

Hardware Troubleshooting

a. Clean the Keyboard

Dust and debris can interfere with the proper functioning of keys.

1. Turn off your laptop.
2. Use a can of compressed air:
   • Hold the laptop upside down.
   • Spray compressed air between the keys.
3. Use a soft brush or cloth:
   • Gently brush between the keys to remove any dust or debris.

b. Check for Physical Damage

Inspect the keyboard for any signs of physical damage or warping.

c. Test the Keyboard in BIOS

To determine if the issue is hardware-related, you can test the keyboard in BIOS.

1. Restart your laptop and press the appropriate key (usually F2, F10, or Esc) to enter BIOS.
2. Once in BIOS, try pressing the problematic keys.
3. If the keys don't work in BIOS, it's likely a hardware issue.

Advanced Solutions

a. Reseat the Keyboard Ribbon Cable

If you're comfortable opening your laptop, you can check if the keyboard ribbon cable is properly connected.

1. Turn off and unplug your laptop.
2. Remove the battery (if possible).
3. Open the laptop casing:
   • Refer to your laptop's service manual for instructions.
4. Locate the keyboard ribbon cable:
   • Carefully disconnect and then reconnect the ribbon cable to ensure it’s properly seated.
5. Reassemble the laptop and test the keyboard.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support