How To Install a Wireless Keyboard on a Laptop

Acquiring a wireless keyboard for a laptop is a new trend for laptop users. Wireless keyboards are suited for laptop users who are not at ease using the laptop’s keyboard. As most of us know, the embedded keyboard of a laptop is designed with a bit of complexity, because many of the keys have dual functions. For the simpler laptop user, a separate keyboard would be the best option. The following are the steps on how to install a wireless keyboard on a laptop.

1. First of all, compatibility should be checked. Make sure that the laptop is compatible with wireless technology. Currently, there are two wireless technologies available for wireless keyboards: Bluetooth technology and radio signals. If your laptop is not wireless capable, you must first install a wireless receiver. The wireless receiver ensures that there is wireless connectivity for your laptop.
2. Take out the wireless keyboard from the pack. A standard product box includes the wireless keyboard, CD software and a users’ manual. It may also include a wireless receiver and batteries. If something is missing, contact your retailer immediately or the manufacturer.
3. Insert the keyboard’s batteries. If batteries are included in the package, check to see if they are well charged. However, it is strongly recommended to insert new batteries to ensure maximum energy supply.
4. Locate the wireless keyboard in the most restful location. The most common injuries related to keyboards and computers are tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome. These may be prevented by positioning the new wireless keyboard where your hands are most comfortable.
5. For laptops that do not support wireless technology, place the wireless receiver following the “rule of 8” – at least 8 inches away from any wireless interference and 8 inches away from the wireless keyboard. As earlier mentioned, the wireless receiver acts as a bridge from the wireless equipment to the non-wireless supported computer. Since this is a wireless bridge, wave interference created by the monitor, light sources, metallic objects and mobile phones must be kept at least 8 inches away to achieve optimal performance. But at this point, do not connect the receiver to the laptop. The wireless receiver should be connected at a later step.
6. Install the software. Insert the CD installation software included in the package. As of now, there has been no plug and play format for wireless keyboards, because they still require drivers (like printers and motherboards). So check the product package to see if the CD is included. After inserting the CD, just follow the on-screen directions or the user’s manual on software installation. This should be the last step for wireless technology compatible laptops. For non-wireless technology supported laptops, proceed to the next step.
7. Plug the USB connector into the wireless receiver, and connect it into a free USB port. In such cases that there are no free USB ports, consider getting an external USB hub for your wireless keyboard. After connecting the receiver, a hardware configuration will commence and will affirm if the hardware is properly installed.

Do not forget to test the new wireless keyboard. Check for malfunctioning keys. Inspect also to see if there are interferences. You can also try troubleshooting – just follow the user’s manual.