My keyboard doesn't register characters

[Jeeer34]

The physical keyboard on my hp laptop does not working properly.

I'm running windows 11 home, version 24H2.

In tablet mode, the virtual keyboard works as intended. So I can use the laptop in tablet mode only.

The physical keyboard makes the electronic 'click' when I press the keys, but it does not register letters or numbers in any program. 

Some of the function keys work. e.g. f8 turns the mic on/off and f12 displays app launch menu. But the cap lock doesn't register and the light doesn't illuminate on that key when pressed.

There is not physical obstruction under the keys. They all register an audible 'clicks' through the speaker.

I have connected an external usb keyboard and the same things happens. 'Clicks' but no characters.

I have restarted many times (and after each of the following steps) which does not fix the problem. 

I have updated the windows software.

I have checked for updated keyboard drivers.

I have uninstalled and reinstalled the keyboard.

I have run the hp troubleshooting software, and it says the keyboard is working correctly. 

I have changed the keyboard settings trying to find a fix.

Maybe this is just a setting with the keyboard that I cannot find. Any other suggestions on troubleshooting this are greatly appreciated.

[Pallipurath]

Hi @Jeeer34,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query.

I am sorry to hear to your HP laptop's physical keyboard is not registering characters but the function keys and virtual keyboard work, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:

Restart the Laptop:

• Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary software glitches. Shut down the laptop, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on.

Check Keyboard Settings:

• Ensure that the keyboard layout and language settings are correct. Go to Settings > Time & Language > Language and check the languages listed. Verify that the keyboard layout matches your preference.

Check for Updates:

• Windows updates can sometimes resolve hardware issues. Check for any pending updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select "Check for updates."

Reinstall Keyboard Driver:

• You might need to reinstall the keyboard driver. To do this, follow these steps:
  • Right-click on the Start button and select "Device Manager."
  • Expand the "Keyboards" category.
  • Right-click on your keyboard device and select "Uninstall device."
  • Restart your laptop which will reinstall the keyboard driver automatically.

Run Keyboard:

• Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that might detect and fix the problem. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters. Find "Keyboard" and click "Run the troubleshooter."

Check for Hardware Issues:

• Ensure that there are no physical blockages or damage to the keyboard. Dust and debris can sometimes obstruct keys.

Check for Keyboard Cable:

• If you're confident and your laptop model allows it, you might want to check if the ribbon cable connecting the keyboard to the motherboard is properly seated. Opening the laptop should be done cautiously and ideally by a professional if you're not familiar.

Use an External Keyboard:

• As a temporary solution, try using an external USB keyboard to ensure the issue is with the laptop’s built-in keyboard.

Reset Your PC:

• As a last resort and if the above methods do not work, consider resetting your PC. This can be done by going to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and then selecting "Reset this PC." Make sure to back up your data before proceeding.

Take care and have an amazing day!

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Regards

Pallipurath.

[Pallipurath]

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