The keyboard on a Chromebook can be susceptible to some common problems. This article will walk you through some of these scenarios and provide tips that will assist you in resolving them. 

 

Wrong Keyboard Type

One of the most common issues that can occur is that the user selected the wrong keyboard type in the settings of the Chromebook. This can result in some keys not typing, or typing other characters.

 

Check this by following these steps:

• Turn on your Chromebook and click in the oval that contains the time in the lower right of the screen
• A window should appear containing the word keyboard "Keyboard" (see image below). Underneath "Keyboard" will be some letters indicating the current keyboard your device is set to
• Change the setting by clicking on "Keyboard" to see a list of options. The most commonly used keyboards are the INTL option and the US. Both of these should allow the keyboard to type normally.

 

One of the most common mistakes is that the keyboard is set to "CO" and this will result in the keyboard typing incorrect characters.

 

 

Some Keys will do the Wrong Function

Chromebooks have an option that lets you change the function of the Search, Ctrl, Alt, Escape and Buttons.

 

Check this by following these steps:

• Open the settings on the Chromebook and type "keyboard" into the search function and hit enter
• This should bring you to the window shown in the image below. Here the user can change what the key stated on the left does, by changing the option shown on the right

 

 

Obstructed/Sticky Keys 

Keys becoming obstructed is a common issue with Chromebooks. This will often appear as a key that only partially presses down and does not always type. It is usually caused by debris under the key. If you discover a key like this you can try using canned air to clear out the key. Make sure the device is turned off when you are clearing it out. If the debris remains under the key, submit a HappyFox ticket.

 

Chromebook keys can also become sticky. This can cause difficulty typing and in some cases the functionality of the keyboard is impacted. If you find a Chromebook with a sticky keyboard, you can use a mixture of half isopropyl alcohol and half water to slightly dampen a cloth. Make sure that your Chromebook is turned off before wiping down your keyboard. Give the device time to dry out completely before turning it on and testing the keys. If they remain sticky submit a HappyFox ticket. 

 

Keys Not Typing 

If you find that you have keys that are not obstructed, but do not type when pressed, you should first make sure that you are not trying to type on a Chromebook that is stacked on top of another device. There are times when the magnets in the devices, can disrupt the keyboard functionality. If this is not the case, there is a chance that the keyboard input (user pressing the keys) is not being recognized by the motherboard. In this case it is a hardware issue and you should submit a HappyFox ticket to have your Field Tech take a look to determine any next steps.

 

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our Support Center via a HappyFox ticket or by calling 719-520-2211. 

 

Please Note: 
The information provided in this knowledge base article is a living document and is subject to change. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content per the last edited date, but due to the evolving nature of the subject matter, updates and revisions may occur at any time. Please continue to check back to the knowledge base for the most updated information or call the Support Center at the number above.