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General discussion

COMPAQ Secret code for USB keyboard

Apr 22, 2005 5:56AM PDT

I have a Compaq desktop with the first generation of XP Windows. I just reformatted it and the USB keyboard would not work. The alphabet part does not respond. I bought an IBM USB keyboard hoping it would not be affected by Compaq idiosyncracy, the keyboard still would not work after the driver is downoaded.
Compaq tech support said the Senior Tech Advisor will give me the code to activate the USB keyboard again if I paid 40$...
Is it illegal or not nice from Compaq?
Can anybody help?
Thank you very much.
Kitty

Discussion is locked

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I can't help.
Apr 22, 2005 6:09AM PDT

Here's why. Your post neglected the basic make/model information.

Why?

Bob

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Do any other USB devices work?
Apr 22, 2005 8:18AM PDT

If you don't have at least SP1 installed, it could be why it won't work.

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Don't pay the money
Apr 22, 2005 8:35AM PDT

Somebody is just trying to make money on you.

There is no "secret code" to enable a USB keyboard.
All that is needed is for the USB ports to be recognized by your computer.

Now, if you are trying to get the keyboard recognized before the WinXP is loaded, then that means your BIOS must be able to read the USB ports. Not all BIOS' have the ability to read the USB ports during the POST (Power On Self Tests). Some BIOS' have a selection to turn that ability on. (I had one computer that required me to go into the BIOS and turn on "Legacy USB" so that a keyboard could be read during POST.)

Once the OS is loaded, the OS has to be capable to read the USB ports, and Windows XP is. Some people will tell you that SP1 is needed, that is not true. SP1 is only needed for the "Hi Speed" (480 Mbps speed) to function, otherwise it will only go at "Full Speed" (12 Mbps) which is just fine for a keyboard. (In fact, the USB Low Speed of 1.5 Mbps is more than sufficient for a keyboard, don't worry about the speed.))

For any USB keyboard to work, you of course, will need ports, plugs, and a keyboard to work. I have to assume you know how to troubleshoot them, like with item substitution. Good luck.