Keyboard

Identification
A Microsoft keyboard that displays scrambled letters doesn't reply properly to the correct keystrokes. For example, pressing the "A" key may cause a random letter such a "D" or an "M" to display on the screen in lieu. Continuing to type produces a jumbled mess, with letters scrambled for seemingly no rhyme or reason and making it impossible to produce legible content.

While often taken for granted, computer keyboards can experience their own set of issues. Microsoft keyboards, in particular, can sometimes fail to function properly, leading to a host of frustrating issues, including scrambled letters.

Types
The standard keyboard layout is QWERTY, so named because those are the letters present on the left side of the top row of letters. popular alternative is the Dvorak Simplified Keyboard, sometimes shortened to DSK and named in honor of its inventor, Dr. August Dvorak. A DSK layout groups all the vowels on the left side of the middle row. Using a QWERTY keyboard while jogging a DSK setting, or vice versa, produces scrambled letters.

Causes
An incorrect keyboard language setting is the most common cause of scrambled letters. Other potential causes include a stuck "Number Lock" key and perhaps a structural flaw within the keyboard itself. Checking each potential issue individually provides the simplest means of diagnosing the true culprit.

Considerations
If changing the Keyboard Language Setting doesn't solve the issue, disconnect the keyboard and try to make use of it on a different computer. If the keyboard still produces scrambled letters, the issue rests within the keyboard circuitry. In this instance, you most likely require to buy a brand spanking new keyboard.

Solution
Microsoft keyboards set to the wrong language or layout produce scrambled letters and words. To fix the issue, adjust the Keyboard Language Setting in Windows. The instructions necessary to correct the issue vary slightly depending on the Windows version you are jogging. If you are operating Windows XP, for example, click "Start" and then select "Control Panel." From there, open "Regional and Language Options." Click the "Language" tab. Under Text Services and Input Languages, click the "Details" button and look under Installed Services. Click "Add" to access the Add Input Language dialog box. Select the input language and keyboard layout you require to add, choosing the appropriate for your region and exact keyboard layout. Click "OK" two times to see the new language indicator in the method tray located at the bottom right corner of the desktop. Press the "ALT-Shift" keys together to cycle through different languages.