Broken Keyboard in Windows XP

Having broken your keyboard is not the end of the world. And if you’ve been thinking that you’ll have to forego a day’s work if you don’t install a new keyboard, you’re wrong. For the time being, there’s an awesome in-built option in XP that’ll work fine as a navigator cum typist for you- the Virtual On-Screen Keyboard.

In this post, the Windows XP support crew gives you a comprehensive account on how to tap the virtual keyboard option on your PC.

Setting Preferences for your Virtual Keyboard

The following steps are in order for setting your preferences for your virtual keyboard:

1. Begin by navigating to the “Start” menu, followed by “All Programs”, “Accessories” and then “On-Screen Keyboard”.
2. As you enter the keyboard menu, choose the type of keyboard that is appealing and convenient to you. You can choose between an Enhanced keyboard or a Standard one, in either the Regular or Block layout. You may also choose the number of keys you wish to have i.e. 101, 102 or 106 keys.
3. Now set your preferences in the Settings menu. The default setting Always On Top is quite a convenient option. If interested, you can configure the system to produce a click sound every time a key is selected. Similarly, choose between the input types Click to Select, Hover to Select, or Use Joystick to Select; and set the time periods for such actions. Also select the font in the next menu.

How to Use the Virtual Keyboard?

1. Start off by launching the program you would like to use the virtual keyboard for. Click on the area where the text is to be entered.
   

   Broken Keyboard in Windows XP

2. Hover over the keys to get acquainted with the functioning of the keyboard. A selectable key would get highlighted when you move the mouse over it.
3. From here, you wouldn’t need much of help to explore the possibilities of your on-screen keyboard, as its options and keys are very much like that of your peripheral one. In case you have any doubts or clarifications all you need to do is click on the “Help” menu and search for concerned topics.

Well, that’s it! You’ve successfully completed the crash course on how to use your on-screen virtual keyboard. For any further assistance, do get in touch with Windows XP support.