XP Pro desktop, suddenly can't type, WTH?

[Muse]

I'm using my laptop right now because my desktop has gone nuts. A reboot didn't help. I can't even type a message such as this. Some keys cause context menus to appear and it's ridiculous. Absolutely impossible to compute. This happens in text editors, browsers, email client, everything! What could be wrong?

I decided to run a full AV scan (Avira Free) and quick scan with superantispyware (simultaneously, not sure if that's a good idea but WTH). Those may have nothing to do with the problem, I figure. I've made no changes, no new software.

 

[theevilsharpie]

Stupid question, but...

Is your Alt key stuck?

 

[Malak]

Stupid question, but...

Is your Alt key stuck?

My first thought too. If you have a spare keyboard hook it up.

 

[Muse]

Stupid question, but...

Is your Alt key stuck?

You know what, I think you might have nailed it. Doesn't look stuck but I think it's acting like it is... Damn!

 

[Muse]

My first thought too. If you have a spare keyboard hook it up.

I have another keyboard just like the one I'm using (old, but virtually unused, and sitting upside down for a number of years so as not to gather dust) sitting in the next room. I'm a swappin' 'em! :awe:

Strangely, I was able to type these last two posts without error, incredible. It got unstuck somehow. Is there some way I can clean this KB? It hadn't occurred to me that my KB was the problem. Never happened to me before. I've seen a lot of worse looking keyboards, but looks aren't everything. Right now, it's not sticking... These KBs are MS ergonomic, cheapies (got them for around $20 each at computer shows almost 10 years ago). I like the touch and I think they are easier on my hands and wrists.

 

[theevilsharpie]

I clean my keyboards using a three-step process:

1. Turn it upside down, shake it, and (gently!) bang on the read of the keyboard to loosen up dirt
2. Clean out any remaining dirt with compressed air
3. Using a damp towel to wipe the exterior

 

[Muse]

I clean my keyboards using a three-step process:

1. Turn it upside down, shake it, and (gently!) bang on the read of the keyboard to loosen up dirt
2. Clean out any remaining dirt with compressed air
3. Using a damp towel to wipe the exterior

Thanks. You mean bang on the backside?

 

[theevilsharpie]

Yeah. That shoud've said rear

 

[Muse]

Yeah. That shoud've said rear

Oh, like burping a baby... Problem resurfaced again today, went away. It's shy. Still haven't replaced the KB. Wonder if it's possible to clean that one key. I think I've heard of removing a key. I could try to snap it off, clean underneath and snap it back on. I'm assuming it's the left Alt key, that's the one I use 99% of the time.

 

[Antique]

Oh, like burping a baby... Problem resurfaced again today, went away. It's shy. Still haven't replaced the KB. Wonder if it's possible to clean that one key. I think I've heard of removing a key. I could try to snap it off, clean underneath and snap it back on. I'm assuming it's the left Alt key, that's the one I use 99% of the time.

If you have a good knowledge on the insides of the keyboard, you can remove the screws and open it. This way, you can REALLY clean the remaining dirt inside the keyboard.

 

[Malak]

Just pop the alt key off, probably got a corn chip stuck in there.

 

[AFurryReptile]

1) Stick the keyboard in the dishwasher (with no soap!)
2) Run dishwasher
3) Let dry
4) Profit!!!

I'm not even joking. I actually learned this from my college professor, and have done it several times. I probably wouldn't do this with a $100 keyboard, but with a cheapo $10 one like most of us use, what's to lose?

Here's proof that I'm not just pulling this out of my arse
http://gizmodo.com/270007/npr-asks-can-you-clean-your-keyboard-with-a-dishwasher