12th September 2002
Question: Why can't I get into the BIOS with my USB keyboard and is this related to the error I get that says "keyboard not detected" during startup? The USB keyboard works fine in Windows?
Answer: In a short-answer, yes the two are related. In some BIOS you need to turn on USB keyboard support. Of course you will need to use the regular PS/2 keyboard to make these BIOS changes and I would refer you to your system documentation on how to enter and edit your BIOS. Once turned on, your system should let you enter the BIOS with your USB keyboard and the error should go away. If your BIOS doesn't have this option, I would recommend that you check your motherboard manufacturer's Web site for a BIOS upgrade. Make sure you printout the directions for "flashing" your BIOS and follow them directly, otherwise you can cause serious system damage. If you are worried about whether you downloaded the right BIOS upgrade file, a quick phone call to your motherboard manufacturer may put your mind at ease, as they can look up your system and tell you for certain.