None of the keys on my keyboard are working... number lock doesn't light up either. I've tried another keyboard as well as different ports but neither keyboard works.

Now I can't log into Windows because I have a password-protected admin account and the onscreen keyboard doesn't open until you log into Windows. I've tried to start in safe mode by pressing F8 before the windows screen comes up but it didn't open in safe mode... i arrived at the log in screen as usual. How can I log in? Why is my keyboard not working? Is there any way to open the on-screen keyboard USING the mouse at the welcome screen?

FYI:

I have Windows XP Home and have tried restarting the computer several times with both keyboards.
None of the keyboards are wireless keyboard and they plug into the purple port in the back of my hard drive.

Any help will be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.I'm assuming this is a USB keyboard...have you tried a PS2 keyboard ? ?He said 'purple plug' so it is a PS/2.

Most likely scenario is a bad PS/2 connection on the HOBO. They sometimes either break the solder joint or that get bent out of shape. Not a good idea to fool with it with power on, there is a chance he may zap both keyboards. It sure does zap the mouse.

If this is a recent mobo he can use a USB keyboards and the BIOS will acknowledge it by flashing the three LEDS during POST.

Or get a PS/2 to USB adapter. That can extend the life of the mobo without the need to buy a USB keyboard. If the keyboards are OK.

EDIT: Cell phones and wireless mice and some other devices can STOP a keyboard for working properly.ROFL...


a bad connection on the hobo

that's a good one