Keyboard Failure 2

[fallyhag]

Dell P2 300 Mhz

I have just bought a PC and have the following problem:

There is a keyboard failure on boot up. It appears to be due to a poor connection to the motherboard? as I have replaced the keyboard supplied by the company with my own but the problem still exsists. With the computer booting up, it makes repeated beeps until the lead is manipulated at the back. This provides intermittent use of the keyboard which always lead to a failed attempt in setting up the PC. I have tried to use the serial ports via an adapter but neither the keyboard or mouse are recognised and a keyboard failure is once again reported. I have attempted to rectify this problem as best as I can but up to now my attempts have been unsuccessful.

So far I have managed to install W98 SE up to the point of entering my personal details, but with no use of my keyboard I am unable to continue.

Can anyone advise how I may rectify this problem before I have to go thru the slow motions of getting the company to fix it?

Thank you in advance

Fallyhag

 

[fallyhag]

Further to my last, is there a reason why the keyboard will not work via the serial port on boot up? I have used the correct adapter but it is not recognised?

Cheers

Fallyhag

 

[s0121]

Seem u have tried all u can. ASK DELL for another computer. the mobo is defective.
"my buddie is a Dell repair tech"

Frank Smith
s0121@starband.net
"SomeWhere in Kansas--"Near Dodge City"

 

[jpm121]

And just FYI -- that adapter isn't for the keyboard, it's for a PS/2 mouse to go into your serial port. Yeah, the keyboard fits in there, but your PC won't recognize it. Keyboards are either PS/2, USB, or the AT style (big circle with pins inside).

 

[s0121]

Keyboard adapter.... i was sure that he was refering to the adapter to modified AT style keyboard to work as ATX.
bu reading back i see ur 100% correct. Drats I missed that.. thanks for the input jpm121 Frank Smith
s0121@starband.net
"SomeWhere in Kansas--"Near Dodge City"

 

[FatesWebb]

yeah sounds to me like you have a bad motherboard like s0121 says FatesWebb

if you do what I suggested it is not my fault...

 

[MA5]

Hi Fallyhag
Your problem is a faulty mobo keyboard socket or a dry solder joint where the socket sitts on the mobo.
It can be sorted out very cheaply by yourself. However as you say, you have just bought the pc and if your pc is still under warranty, you must let the Supplier to sort your problem.
Good luck

 

[fallyhag]

Ma5

It is a new PC but it is second hand and has no support.

Could you possibly explain the simple solution that you hinted towards with regards to the possible dry joint.

Thank you and a big thanks to all those you have responded.

Fallyhag

 

[MA5]

Hi fallyhag
1-Some keyboard plugs cannot fit properly in to the sockets because of the metal casing obstruction. Make sure they fit properly and there is no gap between the plastic faces of the plug and socket. Then start your pc and check.
If you are sure the above is not your problem then you need to do what I suggested earlier on.
Take the mobo out of its case. (All precautions not to damage PC or electric shock to yourself must be observed)
2-With a Continuity tester/AV meter check to see if each Keyboard Socket Contacts has contact with the mobo (one end of the tester into the keyboard end of the socket and the other end on the corresponding soldered leg of keyboard socket on the mobo). Make sure, no force is used when testing as this may give a false reading.
Re-solder the ones that have no contact with the mobo and retest. If it still has no contact, then keyboard socket is faulty and must be re-placed.

Please re-post with the result or if you require any more help.
Good luck

 

[tlcscousin]

Also if you bought the PC second hand and it is still within the DELL warranty period, you can have the original owner transfer the ownership to you and you get the warranty that is left.

 

[MA5]

Thanks for the star