How to Troubleshoot a Bluetooth Keyboard
By Editorial Team
Updated July 21, 2017
Whether it's dropped keys or the lack of a signal altogether, it can be frustrating when your keyboard doesn't work the way you expect it to. Learn some easy ways to troubleshoot your Bluetooth keyboard to get it working properly again.
Unplug or switch off other devices that are connected to your computer, such as a mouse or printer, before you troubleshoot. Having multiple devices connected to your computer can interfere with the Bluetooth keyboard.
Check for any physical damage to the keyboard, such as small particles spilled between the keys. You can clean the inside of the keyboard by carefully unscrewing the face and using a soft, dry cloth to wipe the underside of the keys.
Determine whether the keyboard is within sight of the receiver and whether it's within the range specified by the manufacturer. If you need to move it closer to your computer, switch the keyboard off before doing so. Switch it back on when it's in its new position.
Make sure your batteries are good. A keyboard may not work properly simply because the batteries are old or are depleted of charge.
Look for anything blocking the receiver. It doesn't take much to interfere with the signal that is supposed to go to the keyboard.
Ensure that the receiver has been plugged into your USB or other port properly. Test the connection by unplugging the receiver, then plugging it back in. If the keyboard still does not function, try plugging it into a different USB port on your computer or USB hub.
Reboot your computer if it can't connect with the keyboard. If you have a laptop and you've taken it out of range of the Bluetooth device, it may fail to find the device again when you come back within range. Restarting your computer will fix this.
Check a site such as CyberTechHelp to learn how to troubleshoot less common problems with your Bluetooth keyboard, and to see whether your particular keyboard model has any known issues with prescribed solutions (see Resources below).
Tips
The LED light on the keyboard should indicate whether the keystrokes are getting through to the computer. For instance, a green light usually indicates a complete link, while a red light signals dropped keystrokes. The instructions that come with your keyboard also have steps to help you troubleshoot any problem or malfunction. The company that manufactured your keyboard may have an online support system that includes step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting your issue. See an example of an extensive tutorial at Microsoft (see Resources).
Resources
Tips
- The LED light on the keyboard should indicate whether the keystrokes are getting through to the computer. For instance, a green light usually indicates a complete link, while a red light signals dropped keystrokes.
- The instructions that come with your keyboard also have steps to help you troubleshoot any problem or malfunction.
- The company that manufactured your keyboard may have an online support system that includes step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting your issue. See an example of an extensive tutorial at Microsoft (see Resources).
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