| Introduction Mice and keyboards are fundamental devices that are required to operate the computer. In this module, you will learn about the different types of keyboards and mice eMachines is currently shipping as well as proper care and cleaning instructions for these devices. Keyboards Currently eMachines is shipping keyboards that connect mostly via PS/2 or sometimes USB. The PS/2 keyboard connector is color-coded purple for easy installation. Properly Cleaning the Keyboard A keyboard can be cleaned in a number of ways. Try using a slightly damp paper towel or cloth to run over the keyboard, then wait a lengthy period of time for it to dry. Compressed air can also clean the keyboard. Lights on the Keyboard One way to determine if a keyboard is working at all is if when you power the system on--the keyboard lights will flash. If they don’t flash, then there is a physical problem with the keyboard or the motherboard connection itself. You can test this by tapping the caps lock key, which should cause the caps lock light to go on and off. New Multimedia Keyboard There are a few different types of keyboards and one of our newest is a black multimedia keyboard. All the keys except cut, copy, and paste are supported by Windows XP. To get the cut, copy, and paste to work you need to have a program called “mHotkey” or “zHotkey” running at startup. Old 19-Key Keyboard The older style of keyboard has some additional software that is needed to run the keys across the top of the keyboard. This software is no longer available on eMachines website. Other than the possibility of running the restore and that is not a guaranteed fix those keys will simply not work anymore. Mice Currently eMachines is shipping ball mice that connect via PS/2. The connector is color-coded green or teal for easy installation. Properly Cleaning the Mouse Cleaning the mouse is very simple to do with either a fingernail or Q-tip and a bit of rubbing alcohol. Open the mouse using the bottom access panel and use the Q-tip to scrub away whatever dust or debris has built up on the rollers.
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Caution: Never attempt to reseat the mouse or keyboard while the
computer is on. These devices are not hot-swappable.