HT203157: OS X: Unable to type while Mouse Keys is enabled

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neptune2000

Q: Keyboard stops working in every app but Spotlight. Any ideas?

The title says it all. OS X 10.10.2 Yosemite

 Mac Pro 3.00/16GB/6T Mac OS X Server (10.5.8) +  MacBook Pro 17in, Mac OS X (10.5.8), + EBSn (2 w/ Firmware 7.3.1) + tv

Posted on Mar 20, 2015 5:27 PM

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Q: Keyboard stops working in every app but Spotlight. Any ideas?

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  • by Linc Davis,

    Linc Davis Linc Davis Mar 20, 2015 6:23 PM in response to neptune2000
    Level 10 (208,000 points)
    Applications
    Mar 20, 2015 6:23 PM in response to neptune2000

    Please read this whole message before doing anything.

    This procedure is a diagnostic test. It’s unlikely to solve your problem. Don’t be disappointed when you find that nothing has changed after you complete it.

    The purpose of the test is to determine whether the problem is caused by third-party software that loads automatically at startup or login, by a peripheral device, by a font conflict, or by corruption of the file system or of certain system caches.

    Disconnect all wired peripherals except those needed for the test, and remove all aftermarket expansion cards, if applicable. Start up in safe mode and log in to the account with the problem. You must hold down the shift key twice: once when you turn on the computer, and again when you log in.

    Note: If FileVault is enabled in OS X 10.9 or earlier, or if a firmware password is set, or if the startup volume is a software RAID, you can’t do this. Ask for further instructions.

    Safe mode is much slower to start up and run than normal, with limited graphics performance, and some things won’t work at all, including sound output and Wi-Fi on certain models. The next normal startup may also be somewhat slow.

    The login screen appears even if you usually login automatically. You must know your login password in order to log in. If you’ve forgotten the password, you will need to reset it before you begin.

    Test while in safe mode. Same problem?

    After testing, restart as usual (not in safe mode) and verify that you still have the problem. Post the results of the test.

  • by neptune2000,

    neptune2000 neptune2000 Mar 20, 2015 7:25 PM in response to Linc Davis
    Level 3 (670 points)
    Mar 20, 2015 7:25 PM in response to Linc Davis

    Maye I should add more info:

     

    - if I reboot the Mac, keyboard works again

     

    - after working a white with programs like Safari and TextEdit, the bug will show. No keys do anything any more

     

    - If I click in the Spotlight search, keys work fine