Dell PP21L - Keyboard Problems; External Keyboard Problems

66 Solving Problems
UNEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED MODE — The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or a
memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller test in the
Dell Diagnostics. See “Dell Diagnostics” on page 57.
X :\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY — Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
WARNING: BATTERY IS CRITICALLY LOW — The battery is running out of charge. Replace the battery, or
connect the computer to an electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate hibernate mode or shut down the
computer.
Keyboard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the “Dell Diagnostics” on page 57 or the system setup program.
When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
External Keyboard problems
NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
C
HECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for
damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.
If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the
computer.
CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —
1 Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.
2 Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.
3 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button → Programs → Accessories , and click Notepad .
4 Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.
TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD, CHECK THE INTEGRATED KEYBOARD —
1 Shut down the computer.
2 Disconnect the external keyboard.
3 Turn on the computer.
4 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button → Programs → Accessories , and click Notepad .
5 Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external
keyboard.
See “Contacting Dell” on page 112.