Resolving Issues with My Number Keys and FN 5-12 on My Laptop

Have you ever experienced a situation where your number keys or the FN 5-12 keys on your laptop stop working, except for a few specific ones? This can be frustrating, especially if your keyboard seems to reset and the issue still persists. Here are some steps to help you troubleshoot and resolve this issue.

Common Causes and Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with malfunctioning number keys or the FN 5-12 keys, there are several possible causes:

Hardware Issues: The number keys or FN 5-12 keys might be physically damaged or loose. Software Issues: Some software settings or keyboard drivers might have been accidentally changed or are outdated. Dirty Keys: Food, dirt, soft drinks, beer, pet hair, or any foreign materials can accumulate around or under the keys, causing them to malfunction.

Hardware Issues

Finding a hardware issue is one of the most common scenarios. In such cases, the number keys or FN 5-12 keys might be damaged, loose, or disconnected. While you can try cleaning around the keys, sometimes the problem lies deeper within the hardware.

If the number keys or FN 5-12 keys are completely non-functional, you might need to replace the entire keyboard. However, before going that route, you should try a different keyboard to rule out the possibility of the hardware failing on your current setup.

Software Issues

Another common problem could be a software issue. Sometimes, the NUM LOCK key might be the culprit. Here are some steps to troubleshoot:

Check for NUM LOCK: Ensure that the NUM LOCK key is off. On most laptops, there's a dedicated NUM LOCK indicator on the keyboard. Turn off the NUM LOCK if it is on. Use Mouse Keys: In the Control Panel, go to the Ease of Access Center. Scroll down and click on Make the mouse easier to use. Here, you can Set Up Mouse Keys. In the Other Settings, make sure that the Use mouse keys when NUM LOCK is: option is set to OFF. Restart your PC after making these changes.

Cleaning the Keyboard

Frequently, the issue can be due to dirt and debris accumulating around the keys. Here's what you can do:

Gentle Cleaning: Use compressed air to blow out the debris around the keys. Soft Cloth: Use a soft clean cloth gently around the keys to remove any dust or debris. Alcohol Solution: You can use a solution of alcohol mixed with water to clean the keys. However, be cautious and don't soak the keyboard, as this could damage it.

External Keyboard as a Backup

If all else fails, consider using an external keyboard. This is both a cost-effective and time-efficient solution. By using an external keyboard, you can bypass any issues with your laptop's built-in keyboard and ensure smooth operation.

Conclusion

Resolving issues with number keys and FN 5-12 keys on your laptop requires a combination of troubleshooting steps and patience. Start with software adjustments and cleaning, and only consider hardware replacement as a last resort. By following these steps, you can effectively address the issue and continue using your laptop without any interruptions.