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Microsoft Surface Pro 8 Keyboard Issues: 2 Simple Solutions

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14 Dec 20252 min read
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Understanding the Keyboard Issue

Have you ever faced a situation where your Microsoft Surface Pro 8 keyboard suddenly stops working? This can be frustrating, especially when you need to type something important. Let's explore the common symptoms and reasons behind this issue.

Common Symptoms

When your keyboard is not working, you might notice a few signs. The most obvious symptom is that you can't type at all. Additionally, the trackpad may also become unresponsive. Sometimes, the keyboard may work intermittently, which can be even more confusing. These issues can arise suddenly, leaving you wondering what went wrong.

Why It Happens

There are several reasons why your Microsoft Surface Pro 8 keyboard might stop functioning. One common cause is a software glitch that can be resolved by accessing the BIOS. Another reason could be dirt or debris on the keyboard contacts, which can interfere with the connection. Cleaning the contacts can often restore functionality. Understanding these issues is the first step in troubleshooting your keyboard problems.

Symptoms Possible Causes Solutions
Keyboard not responding Software glitch Access BIOS and restart
Trackpad not working Dirty contacts Clean contacts with alcohol
  • Check for software updates.
  • Restart your device.
  • Access BIOS to reset settings.
  • Clean keyboard contacts with alcohol.

How to Enter BIOS

Are you struggling with your Microsoft Surface Pro 8 keyboard not working? This can be frustrating, especially when you need to type or navigate. Fortunately, there are simple solutions to get your keyboard back in action. One effective method is to access the BIOS. This process is straightforward and can often resolve keyboard issues.

Step-by-Step Guide

To enter the BIOS, follow these steps carefully. First, press and hold the power button and the volume up button at the same time. Make sure you hold both buttons until you see the BIOS screen. This screen may appear white instead of blue, but that’s normal. Once you see the BIOS, simply select the option to exit and restart your device. After rebooting, check if your keyboard is functioning again.

Expected Results

After following the steps to access the BIOS and restarting your Microsoft Surface Pro 8, you should notice that your keyboard is now working. If it still isn’t responsive, don’t worry! There’s another method you can try involving cleaning the contacts.

Step Action Expected Outcome
1 Press and hold power + volume up Enter BIOS
2 Select exit and restart Reboot device
3 Check keyboard functionality Keyboard should work

In case the keyboard is still unresponsive, you can try cleaning the contacts. Grab some rubbing alcohol and a Q-tip. Lightly dampen the Q-tip with alcohol and gently rub the metal contacts on both the keyboard and the tablet. After cleaning, reattach the keyboard and check if it works.

Cleaning the Contacts

Is your Microsoft Surface Pro 8 keyboard not working? This can be frustrating, especially when you need to type or navigate quickly. Fortunately, there are simple solutions to get your keyboard back in action. One effective method is cleaning the contacts. This process can help remove any dirt or debris that may be causing the keyboard to malfunction.

Materials Needed

To clean the contacts, you will need a few basic materials. Gather the following items:

  • Rubbing alcohol (or any type of alcohol)
  • A Q-tip or cotton swab
Having these materials ready will make the cleaning process easier and more effective.

Cleaning Process

Now, let's go through the cleaning process step by step. First, remove the keyboard from the Surface Pro 8. Next, take the Q-tip and dampen it slightly with the rubbing alcohol. Make sure it’s not dripping wet, just a little damp. Then, locate the metal contacts on the keyboard and the tablet. Gently rub the damp Q-tip on these contacts to clean them. This will help ensure a good connection between the keyboard and the device. After cleaning, reattach the keyboard and check if it’s working properly.

Materials Purpose
Rubbing Alcohol Cleans contacts
Q-tip Applies alcohol to contacts
  • Remove the keyboard from the Surface Pro 8.
  • Dampen a Q-tip with rubbing alcohol.
  • Gently rub the Q-tip on the metal contacts.
  • Reattach the keyboard and test it.
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