Dell Computer Keyboard Instructions

Proper Dell keyboard use will make productivity much easier.

When it comes to interacting with your Dell computer, the Dell keyboard is arguably the most important component. The keyboard and keys allow you to do everything from typing out emails to accessing your files. While manipulating the keyboard is a straightforward process, many higher-end Dell keyboards feature some nontraditional features. Nevertheless, efficiently typing on the majority of Dell keyboards remains simple and easy to pick up.

Wired Installation

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Step 1

These are examples of USB and PS/2 ports.

Locate the appropriate input jack on the front or back of the Dell computer for your keyboard. Depending on the keyboard, it has either a USB or PS/2 connector.

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Step 2

Insert the keyboard's cable into your computer's appropriate input jack. If you're using an external keyboard with a Dell laptop, the USB and PS/2 jacks are located on the sides or backside of the chassis. On a desktop, the PS/2 connector are also on the backside, though USB ports can be found on the front and back.

Step 3

Wait for any backlights on the keyboard to turn on. Additionally, a prompt within Windows may pop up, indicating that a new keyboard has been detected. After Windows automatically installs the appropriate driver, your Dell keyboard is ready for use.

QWERTY Typing/Shortcuts

Step 1

Move your mouse to the text entry field for whatever Windows element you wish to manipulate. This could include browsing the Internet, locating files or playing songs.

Step 2

Look for a flashing vertical line in the text entry field. Place both hands onto the keyboard and align them onto the middle row, so your fingers rest on the "a", "s", "d","f", "j","k","l" and ";" keys. Place both thumbs over the space bar.

This position is commonly used when typing on a QWERTY-style keyboard. Keeping your fingers in this position allows for users to type efficiently and quickly.

Step 3

Begin typing, using both hands to locate and strike whichever keys you wish to hit. Once finished, use the mouse or keyboard to move onto the next Windows element you wish to use.

Step 4

Locate any special non-QWERTY keys on your Dell keyboard. These can vary, depending on the specific keyboard model, but most will have media control keys and Internet navigation keys.

The media control keys work similarly to a DVD player — "Play" starts playing multimedia content and "Fast Forward" fast forwards through a song or movie, for instance — while the Internet keys allow for users to do functions such as going to a designated email client or homepage.

Wireless Installation

Step 1

Open up the battery bay on the wireless keyboard and mouse. Install the required number of AA batteries into each device and close the battery door.

Step 2

Take the USB receiver and plug it into an available USB port. These can be found in the front or backside of any Dell laptop or desktop. The receiver does not need to have a clear line of vision to the mouse or keyboard.

Step 3

Insert the included CD and launch the automated Setup wizard. This will calibrate both the mouse and keyboard to the Dell computer.

Step 4

Test to see if both devices are connected by pressing and clicking elements on the Windows desktop.