Keyboard locking up while holding down shift key too long

[Karin]

A message appears and leaves fast after holding down the
shift key on the keyboard too long. I can't read the
message because it is lengthy and disappears too fast. I
cannot get out of this locked state except rebooting. Is
there a combination of keys that will unlock the
keyboard? Rebooting takes too long.

 

[Jim]

Karin,

You didn't give any clue as to "why" you are holding down
the shift key for a long time or what you are doing.
Holding down the key itself should not "lock-up" the
computer.

As for the message that "flashes" on the screen that you
are unable to read, you can try this if you have access to
a video camcorder. Aim it at the screen and turn it on.
Then do what ever the procedure is that causes the message
to appear and lock the computer. You will then be able to
play back the video tape and "read" the message. That may
help you solve what is actually causing the problem.

Jim

 

[Mike Brown - Process Manager]

A message appears and leaves fast after holding down the
shift key on the keyboard too long. I can't read the
message because it is lengthy and disappears too fast. I
cannot get out of this locked state except rebooting. Is
there a combination of keys that will unlock the
keyboard? Rebooting takes too long.

It's a long shot, but this may be part of the "Accessibility" features. If
you hit the Shift key 5 times, StickyKeys will be turned on. If Windows is
having trouble accessing the Accessibility features, you may get an error
message. Possibly your holding of the shift key is being received by the
computer as repeated pressing. Try looking in the Accessibility settings,
or in your system CMOS settings under "key repeat." Doubt this will help,
but good luck anyway.