My keyboard does not work

Cause: If your keyboard does not respond at all, there is a communication problem between the keyboard and your computer, and a few possible explanations.

I need to stop a device from working without uninstalling it

Cause: Windows XP gives you the option to disable a device for a period of time instead of uninstalling it. This feature gives you the chance to troubleshoot problems or make configuration changes.

To disable a device, follow these steps:

1. Log on with an administrator account.
2. Click Start--> Control Panel--> System.

3. Click the Hardware tab--> click the Device Manager button.

4. Expand the desired category--> then right-click the desired device and click Disable--> Click Yes to the message that appears. You can return to the device at any time--> rightclick it--> and then click Enable to begin using it again.

Prevention: Do not try to disable a device by removing its driver. This uninstalls the device from your computer. If you do, Plug and Play will redetect it on the next reboot, so it will end up working again anyway. Always use the Disable option.

I don’t know how to install a new driver

Cause: If a new driver becomes available for a hardware device, Windows XP will help you install it so that you can begin using the new driver.

I can’t connect my new device to my computer

Cause: Hardware devices attach to a computer in some way. Some devices, such as sound cards and video cards, are installed into internal slots inside of the computer’s case; most attach to ports that are available on the back (or even front) of your computer. Common ports used on Windows XP are

• ParallelParallel ports are mostly used for printers. They are wide ports with rows of pins that look like teeth.

• SerialSerial ports are small and square, with pins inside of them. Mice, keyboards, external modems, and other devices may connect to serial ports, especially if you are using older mice and keyboards.

• Keyboard and Mouse PS/2These connections are often round with small pins inside. These kinds of connections are more commonly used today instead of serial ports.

• Universal Serial Bus (USB)First used in Windows 98, USB ports are square and
flat. You can connect all kinds of devices to USB ports—everything from printers to digital cameras.

• InfraredMany computers today ship with an infrared port, which allows you to use wireless keyboards, mice, and game controllers.

• FireWire (IEEE 1394)FireWire ports work like USB ports, but they are capable of very high data transfer. Some new computers now support FireWire.