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Why doesn't my keyboard work until Windows is running?

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My keyboard doesn't work before my Windows XP boots, after which it works well. Mine is a USB keyboard. I find it difficult while reinstalling the OS. I now have to borrow a PS2 keyboard every time. Is my problem solvable?!

Solvable? Perhaps, but probably not.

But if it makes you feel any better, I have exactly the same problem.

The answer is in your question - you (and I) have a USB keyboard.

The process of booting your computer is handled first by the BIOS, and then by the Windows bootstrap loader. Neither of those have the drivers required for every possible hardware configuration, so they rely on a default. Sadly for you and me, USB keyboard support is not part of that default. It's not until Windows loads that all the hardware on your system, including the USB keyboard, becomes available, and ready to use.

I believe, but I'm not certain, that newer computers may include a BIOS with more robust USB support. I kind of expect it, since USB has become such a popular standard for peripheral devices.

Even then, though, I think I'm still screwed. I happen to have a USB Bluetooth keyboard. As a result, USB support in the BIOS is not enough ... I'd need it to support Bluetooth (a short-range wireless technology) as well. So depending on the specific type of USB keyboard you have, you may also be out of luck.

And yes, I do keep an old style PS2 keyboard in a drawer nearby, in case I need to do something with computer at some point before Windows XP starts up.

Related:

Article 9755 | Posted January 30, 2006

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37 Comments

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I don't know of a solution other than getting that keyboard adapter fixed. :-(

Leo
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Posted by: Leo Notenboom at March 19, 2007 10:17 AM

I have a different problem. My keyboard works on startup but then as soon as windows starts it doesn't! I I can't use my pc! help? x

Posted by: Claire at April 4, 2007 12:47 AM

I have recently had the problem of F8 not working with my USB keyboard when trying to install WinXP and after several attempts and ensuring my bios supported USB keyboard. I finally, out of frustration, tried switching on all three lock keys (Caps, Scroll and Num) when at the licence agreement screen and it worked.

Posted by: Trevor at September 30, 2007 2:11 AM

what about in the bios enable legacy usb support?

Posted by: ryan at December 17, 2007 8:29 PM

Any update on this? I have only usb. Works in BIOS and POST but not at Login. Im on a 2003 domain and must hit CTRLALTDEL to log in.

Suggestions?

Posted by: Kevin Bromberg at March 18, 2008 10:07 AM

I have the same problems i try installer the XP and my keyboard don't work, after the set up....wh....same body tell me whats go in on with this matter?

Thx....

Posted by: Andres Larenas at May 9, 2008 3:04 PM

I have a problem with my ps2 keyboard working in BIOS. I think my little niece and nephew were messing with the settings. My system in an IBM Netvista 8305-pcu.

Posted by: Justin Johnson at May 19, 2008 7:12 PM

Hi, i tried to overclock with a ECS NF650iSLIT-A moderboard, and after that it wouldn't start. util we put the stock values back. After this the USB keyboard Logitech G15 won't work in boot menu. What's the problem?

Posted by: Henrik at July 3, 2008 12:55 PM

i have an idea of this problem. Just buy a new keyboard with a round adapter and not for USB port.
i bought a new one and now it works perfectly.

Posted by: jan at July 16, 2008 9:33 AM

I have recently had the problem of F8 not working with my PS2 keyboard when trying to install WinXP and after several attempts.How can I install winXP ?

Posted by: Rakesh maurya at September 26, 2008 8:08 AM

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