Unlike wired keyboards, where connection issues are very rare,wireless keyboards frequently run into problems. Users often report ‘keyboard not connecting’ issues whether it’s the Bluetooth or RF one.
you may typically fix the problem byreinserting/replacing the batteries. If that doesn’t seem to work, you mustset up your keyboard from scratch. you may also trypower cyclingyour PC and performing asystem restore.
Let’s go through this detailed guide to troubleshoot when your keyboard is not connecting.
Make Sure the Keyboard is Turned On
Not all, but most of the wireless keyboards these days include a separate switch to power it on or off.
These switches generally lie at the edge or top of the keyboard. Some even have it at the bottom. Like myLogitech K230 keyboard. Pleasefind the switch and toggle it to the ON position.
Should the switch be already on, try toggling it off and on again. Check if the keyboard connects now.
Avoid Interference From 2.4GHz Devices
Wireless keyboards, including other devices like router, Bluetooth headphones, and microwaves use the same 2.4GHz frequency to operate.
Should these devices be around the periphery of your wireless keyboard, it can interfere with the keyboard signals.
So, when you are connecting the keyboard to your computer,move as close as you may. If possible, turn off other devices that use the same frequency.
Reinsert/Replace the Batteries
Keyboards start producinginconsistent signalswhen they are low on battery. As a result, you start facing issues whenever trying to connect it to the computer.
My Logitech G613 wireless keyboard came with two AA batteries that lasted 12 months on 7-8 hours of daily usage.
That being said, the battery life heavily relies on yourkeyboard model,usage pattern, andcomputing environmenttoo.
Some high-end keyboards like my Logitech one do have abattery level indicator, but not all include one.
So, the best option would be toreplace the batteries and check, whether or not youknow the battery levels.
Nonetheless, if you don’t have fresh batteries currently, at least try toreinsert the batteriesand connect the keyboard again. While at it, ensure to look after the polarity sign.
Know the Correct Way to Connect Your Keyboard
From my long-term experience with wireless keyboards, I can confidently saythey won’t connectunless you follow the correct procedure.
With that said, let’s now see how to connect the RF and Bluetooth keyboards, the right way.
For RF Keyboards
You should first plug the wireless dongle into your PC when you areconnecting the wireless keyboard.
If you are unaware of the dongle, manufacturers generally place it inside the battery compartment. As you may see, here’s the dongle on my Logitech G613.
ensure youinsert it correctlyinto a functionalUSB port on your computer. Try the rear panel as well as thefront panel ports.
Remove any device like a USB hub and plug the keyboard directly into your computer. The keyboard might not connect if yourUSB hub has run into a problem.
Also note that your keyboard may not always connect right after plugging the dongle. The keyboard might have a dedicated key toenable the RF mode. Please check it and act accordingly.
Consult the keyboard’s user manual to know more about it.
For Bluetooth Keyboards
If you have a Bluetooth keyboard, you should firstmake sure it is in the pairing mode. As you may see, below is the Bluetooth button on my Logitech G613 keyboard.
I have to keep pressing it until the indicator starts blinking. Only then, I can pair it with my computer.
Check if your keyboard has a similar button. But do note that all the keyboards do not have a dedicated key for enabling the Bluetooth mode.
For instance, I need to pressFn + Wkeys on my Royal Kludge RK61 keyboard to activate pairing mode.
Verify the button/shortcut from the user manual and you should be able to pair it with your computer.
I’ve often seen Bluetooth keyboards not connecting automatically after you turn offcomputer’s Bluetoothor the keyboard.
It’s aconnection glitchand there’s nothing you may do except reconnect it. For that,
Find Out if Its a Hardware Defect
If you still have problems connecting your keyboard, I suggest youtake it to another computerand check. Interestingly, Bluetooth keyboards can even be tested on your smartphones.
Should the keyboard work on another PC, come back to your PC andtry power cycling. It will help fix power issues including other software glitches that are possibly preventing your keyboard from connecting. For this,
If that fails, try these fixes:
In case thekeyboard doesn’t workin another computer either, you may confirmit has a hardware defect. Contact your manufacturer for warranty/replacement.
