Microsoft Keyboard USB problem

[Guest]

I have two MS keyboards...the natural ergonomic variety...the old one,
an Elite, works in USB and PS/2 modes but the newer Multimedia v.
1.0a will only work in the Ps/2 mode. I have the legacy mode set in
the bios. The USB connection is via an adaptor from the PS/2
connector. Issue for me is to switch to a USB KVM and the Elite works
but I prefer the Multimedia board.

So, I am stumped. Any ideas on next steps?

Thanx for any help.

Henry

 

[JS]

I had a similar about 2 years ago, keyboard would work when using PS2, but
not with a PS2 to USB adaptor.
Tried a different USB port and for me at least the problem was solved.

JS
http://www.pagestart.com

 

[Guest]

No joy. Even on a different computer the Multimedia board only works
as a ps/2 device...usb port selection doesn't matter. Any other ideas?
Could it be the ps/2 to USB adapter? It isn't the original, though it
works with the plain old elite.

Henry

 

[smlunatick]

No joy. Even on a different computer the Multimedia board only works
as a ps/2 device...usb port selection doesn't matter. Any other ideas?
Could it be the ps/2 to USB adapter? It isn't the original, though it
works with the plain old elite.

Henry

It should be note that to have a USB to PS/2 adapter, the keyboard
needs to also have the PS/2 support. If the keyboard does not work
correctly with the plain adapter, you will need to get an enhanced
adapter:

Such as: http://www.startech.com/item/USB2PS2-USB-to-PS2-Keyboard-and-Mouse-Converter.aspx

 

[M.I.5¾]

I have two MS keyboards...the natural ergonomic variety...the old one,
an Elite, works in USB and PS/2 modes but the newer Multimedia v.
1.0a will only work in the Ps/2 mode. I have the legacy mode set in
the bios. The USB connection is via an adaptor from the PS/2
connector. Issue for me is to switch to a USB KVM and the Elite works
but I prefer the Multimedia board.

A PS2 keyboard will not necessarily work in USB with a PS2->USB adaptor.
They are 2 completely different interfaces.

It will work only if the keyboard knows how to speak USB. Basically a
PS2/USB keyboard autodetects which system it is connected to and
communicates accordingly. A PS2 only keyboard doesn't know how to do this
and will not talk to USB.

 

[Guest]

Since the two keyboards are MS keyboards and are PS/2 with a packaged
adapter for USB...and sold as compatible with either...it is logical
to assume that perhaps the MS adapter is the critical piece...not all
adapters are created equal. I may not be using an official MS adapter.

Given my preferance for USB, it would appear that a USB wireless
keyboard is in my future, but I hate throwing out working hardware. I
will look into the "universal" adapter and if the cost makes it worth
while, I may buy it...but at some point the cost of a keyboard just
makes it more cost effective to scrap the old one.

I am wrestling with this issue on an old beloved laser printer that is
not as frisky as it once was. Sic transit gloria mundi.

Thanks for the suggestions.

Henry