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Anyone who has experienced their keyboard suddenly refusing to respond or behaving erratically would agree that it is a disconcerting experience. And when it’s your Apple USB keyboard, an essential piece of hardware for your MacBook Pro, the situation becomes even more stressful. However, before panicking, remember that like every other technical glitch, this too has its own set of solutions. Read on to explore them.
Decoding the Problem: Why Is Your MacBook Keyboard Misbehaving?
In the vast majority of cases, MacBook Pro or MacBook Air are incredibly smooth-running machines. But like every technology, they aren’t immune to issues, especially when it comes to hardware like keyboards. Sometimes, a small bug can cause a keyboard glitch, or perhaps some settings have been inadvertently altered. If you’re using a MacBook with a Butterfly keyboard, it could be that dust or dirt particles are obstructing the keys’ travel path. Whatever the case may be, we have compiled the most common root causes and their corresponding solutions.
Resolving the Issue: Steps to Fix Your MacBook Keyboard
1. Refresh with a Reboot
While it may seem too basic to be true, a simple reboot can work wonders. If your device has been running non-stop for a while, some software settings or overheating might be the culprit. Restarting your MacBook resets several settings, thereby resolving the issue without much hassle.
2. Spruce up with a Clean
Dust particles lodged in the keyboard can cause serious problems with your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro. Apple recommends cleaning your keyboard with compressed air. But remember, use compressed air along with a straw to limit the airflow. Overdoing it can cause more harm than good. If you’re unsure about your cleaning skills, it might be best to seek professional help.
3. Update the macOS
Updating your macOS is an age-old troubleshooting tip, and it works like a charm. To update your macOS, navigate to System Preferences and the Software Update section. If an update is available, initiate the OS update by clicking on ‘Upgrade Now’.
4. Reset PRAM and SMC
PRAM (Parameter Random Access Memory) stores core values, and SMC (System Management Controller) manages your CPU fan and lighting. Resetting them could resolve the issue. However, remember to take proper backup before you reset the PRAM and SMC. Also, ensure no other external device is connected to the Mac while you perform the process.
5. Remove Recent Apps
A recently installed or updated app could be causing the glitch. This may happen if the latest version is unstable. In such cases, removing the app can restore the keyboard’s functionality. You can find the recently installed applications in the ‘System Report’ under ‘About This Mac’.
Seeking Professional Help
If your MacBook Air or Pro’s keyboard still isn’t working or the problem recurs, get it checked by a professional or Apple Support. Here’s hoping your Mac regains its former glory soon.
Understanding the Problem: Why Is Your Mac Keyboard Typing Incorrect Characters?
If your Mac keyboard is typing the wrong characters, or symbols are appearing unexpectedly, it could be due to a changed setting. There are seven possible solutions that you can try to fix this issue. Let’s go through them one by one.
Solving the Problem: How to Correct Your Mac Keyboard’s Behaviour
1. Mouse Keys
Mouse Keys is a feature that allows you to use keys on your keyboard to control the pointer on the screen rather than your Mouse or Trackpad. If you have switched this feature on by accident, it may cause your keyboard to behave strangely. Make sure to turn it off if you don’t need it.
2. Input Sources
The keyboard layout you are using could be causing the issue. Make sure you have the correct keyboards included in your input sources and that you’re using the right one.
3. Sticky Keys and Slow Keys
Sticky Keys allows you to press the Shift or Option key once for it to be activated. With Slow Keys turned on, you need to press and hold a key for it to register. If you’re not aware that these features are turned on, it may seem like your keyboard is acting up. Check these settings and adjust them according to your preference.
4. Modifier Keys
You can reassign modifier keys like Control, Option, and Command to perform different functions. If you’ve played around with these settings and left them in a state that doesn’t make sense, your keyboard may not behave as expected. Make sure each key is mapped to its default function.
5. Hardware Issues
If none of these solutions work, the issue could be more serious. In such a case, you can reset your Mac’s NVRAM or PRAM or the System Management Controller (SMC). If only one or two keys aren’t working, it could be due to dirt trapped in the keyboard. Clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If all else fails, you may need to take your Mac to Apple Support.
Dealing with Hardware Issues: What to Do When Cleaning and Settings Don’t Work
When all software solutions fail, it’s time to consider hardware issues. If only one or two keys are malfunctioning, it could be that some dirt has gotten trapped in the keyboard. Apple provides specific instructions for cleaning different types of keyboards. If you’re not confident in cleaning the keyboard yourself, it’s best to seek professional help or take it to Apple Support. However, if the entire keyboard is not working, there may be a more serious hardware issue at hand.
Final Word
If your Apple USB keyboard is not working with your MacBook Pro, it’s important to remember that most problems have a solution. Whether it’s a quick reboot, a cleaning session, or a trip to Apple Support, there’s always a way to get your keyboard back in shape. Keep calm, follow these steps, and you’ll be back to typing in no time.
Why is my MacBook keyboard not working?
There could be various reasons why your MacBook keyboard isn’t working. It could be a minor software glitch, some settings that have been mistakenly altered, or dust particles obstructing the keys’ travel path. Sometimes, a recently installed or updated app can cause such glitches. If none of these issues apply, you may need to consider hardware problems.
What steps can I take to fix my MacBook keyboard?
There are several steps you can take to fix your MacBook keyboard. These include rebooting your MacBook, cleaning the keyboard, updating the macOS, resetting PRAM and SMC, and removing recent apps. If these don’t work, you may need to check for hardware issues or take your MacBook to Apple Support.
What could be causing my Mac keyboard to type incorrect characters?
If your Mac keyboard is typing incorrect characters, it could be due to a changed setting such as Mouse Keys, Input Sources, Sticky Keys, Slow Keys, or Modifier Keys. If none of these settings are causing the issue, you may need to consider a more serious problem and take your Mac to Apple Support.