Lockups and software problems, Keyboard problems, External keyboard problems – Dell Latitude 120L User Manual
Page 95: Unexpected characters, The computer does not start up
Keyboard Problems
Fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist
as you perform the various checks.
External keyboard problems
Check the keyboard cable —
Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.
If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.
Check the external keyboard —
1.
Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.
2.
Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.
3.
From the Windows desktop, click the Start button® Programs® Accessories, and click Notepad.
4.
Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.
To verify that the problem is with the external keyboard, check the integrated keyboard —
1.
Shut down the computer.
2.
Disconnect the external keyboard.
3.
Turn on the computer.
4.
From the Windows desktop, click the Start button® Programs® Accessories, and click Notepad.
5.
Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. See
Technical Assistance
.
Run the keyboard diagnostics tests —
Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See
Dell Diagnostics
. If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, see
Technical
Assistance
.
Unexpected characters
Disable the numeric keypad —
Press
Lockups and Software Problems
The computer does not start up
Ensure that the AC adapter is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet.
CAUTION:
Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTE:
Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the
integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
CAUTION:
Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.