Introduction
In this article, we will discuss the solution to a common issue where the ThinkPad P14s laptop has both an internal and an external keyboard connected, but only one of them is functioning. We will assume that the internal keyboard is disabled, and the external keyboard is not responding as expected, often referred to as the "purple monster" issue.
Causes
The "purple monster" issue can occur due to several reasons, such as:
- Hardware malfunction: The internal or external keyboard might be physically damaged.
- Software conflict: A software update or conflicting application might be causing the issue.
- Power management settings: The power management settings might be preventing the external keyboard from functioning properly.
Solution
To solve the "purple monster" issue, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check the Hardware
Ensure that both the internal and external keyboards are properly connected to the laptop. Try connecting the external keyboard to a different USB port or a different computer to rule out any issues with the USB port or the keyboard itself.
Step 2: Check the Power Management Settings
Go to the Lenovo Vantage application and check the power management settings for the keyboard. Make sure that the "Disable internal keyboard when external keyboard is connected" option is turned off.
Step 3: Check for Software Conflicts
Disable any recently installed applications or drivers that might be causing the issue. You can do this by going to the "Programs and Features" or "Device Manager" in the Control Panel.
Step 4: Update the Keyboard Firmware
Check for any available updates to the keyboard firmware on the Lenovo website and install them.
Conclusion
If the issue persists after following the above steps, consider contacting Lenovo Support for further assistance.