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If your Mac keyboard is not working, don’t worry, you can troubleshoot and fix it without having to replace the entire device. Whether you have a wired or wireless keyboard, certain modifications to software settings or hardware components can make your keyboard functional again. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step troubleshooting guide for fixing a broken Mac keyboard.
Troubleshooting a Broken Wired Keyboard
If you have a wired keyboard that is not working properly with your Mac, here’s what you can do:
1. Check for power
Check that your keyboard is properly connected to your Mac, plugged into a USB port, and not accidentally unplugged.
2. Change the USB port
Try a different USB port if available. If another USB port works, you may have a problem with the first port that you need to address.
3. Restart Your Mac
Restart your Mac, as it may recognize the keyboard during the restart. Alternatively, try logging out of your user account and logging into another account.
Troubleshooting a Broken Wireless Keyboard
If you have a wireless keyboard that is not working properly with your Mac, here’s what you can do:
1. Check the Power
Ensure that the batteries are charged and the keyboard is powered on. You can check for the power button on the right side of the Apple wireless keyboard. Press it to activate the keyboard.
2. Check the Bluetooth Connection
Check if your Mac’s Bluetooth is activated and if the keyboard is paired. If the keyboard is not paired, select “Set up Bluetooth Keyboard” and follow the steps.
3. Restart Your Mac
As with the wired keyboard, try restarting your Mac or logging out of your user account and logging into another account.
4. Disconnect the Keyboard
If you have replaced the batteries and checked the power and connection, try unplugging and reconnecting your keyboard to your Mac.
Repairing a Broken Keyboard
If you suspect that your keyboard is broken, follow these steps to identify and repair the issue:
Fixing a Water-Damaged Keyboard
If you have accidentally spilled water on your keyboard, act quickly to dry it out using the following steps:
- Disconnect the keyboard
- Turn the keyboard over
- Dab the keys
- Blow compressed air over it
- Allow the keyboard to dry for at least 12 hours
- Make sure the keyboard is dry before reconnecting it
If you have spilled something stronger or a sticky residue has covered your keyboard, drying it out may not be sufficient. Instead, consider cleaning your keyboard or replacing it if necessary.
Fixing Swapped Keys on a Mac Keyboard
If your keyboard issues are related to specific characters and keys that are not registering as expected, go to System Preferences > Keyboards and check that the input language and keyboard are correct for your country.
Fixing Non-Functional Volume Keys
If your volume keys are not responding, check that you have not accidentally turned on Mouse Keys. To disable this feature, go to System Preferences > Accessibility > Mouse and Trackpad > Turn off Enable Mouse Keys.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a broken Mac keyboard can seem like a significant problem, but with some troubleshooting and repair, you can fix it at home without needing a replacement. We hope that this guide has helped you to identify and solve the issue with your Mac keyboard.
FAQs
How do I clean my Mac keyboard?
If you need to clean your Mac keyboard, don’t immerse it in water. Instead, use a guide to cleaning your keyboard and removing the keys (if necessary).
Can I replace a broken keyboard on my Mac?
It is possible to replace a broken keyboard on a Mac, but it is not recommended as Mac keyboards are integrated with the device’s physical case and can be difficult to replace yourself. Consider bringing it to an Apple store or getting a second-hand keyboard to try and fix the issue. Alternatively, use a USB or Bluetooth keyboard as a solution.