My PC is turning off when I press any button on my keyboard, my keyboard is with strange configurations.

Troubleshooting a Sudden Computer Shutdown Triggered by Keyboard Input: A Case Study

Experiencing unexpected computer shutdowns can be a perplexing and frustrating ordeal, especially when the issue is directly linked to peripheral input devices like the keyboard. Recently, a user reported that their PC would turn off instantaneously whenever any key was pressed on the keyboard, which also exhibited unusual configuration behavior, including altered key mappings. This article explores potential causes for such issues, shares a practical resolution approach, and offers guidance for similar troubleshooting scenarios.

Understanding the Issue

In this case, the user observed that:

Pressing any key on the keyboard resulted in an immediate system shutdown.
The problem began suddenly, with no prior indication.
Keyboard keys were functioning abnormally, with certain keys producing unexpected characters (e.g., Shift generating ‘{‘).
The user noted that mouse activity did not trigger shutdowns.
Attempts to find similar issues online yielded little results, leaving the user uncertain about the root cause.

Possible Causes

Such a peculiar problem can stem from various hardware or software issues, including:

Hardware Malfunction: A faulty motherboard component or loose connections could cause erratic behavior.
Peripheral Issues: A defective or misconfigured keyboard might send incorrect signals, potentially causing system instability.
Software Conflicts: Corrupted drivers, malware, or incorrect system settings may interfere with normal operation.
Electrical Shorts or Poor Connections: Since the user mentioned temporarily “running on sticks and tape,” it suggests the hardware might not be securely assembled, increasing the likelihood of hardware misbehavior.

Resolution Approach

Given the symptoms, a comprehensive hardware inspection and some troubleshooting steps are advisable:

Power Down and Unplug: Always start by ensuring the system is completely powered off and unplugged to prevent potential damage.
Check Connections: Open the PC case and verify all internal connections. Re-seat the keyboard cable, RAM modules, and other critical components to ensure they are properly connected.
Inspect Hardware Components:
Examine the motherboard, CPU, RAM, and GPU for visible damage or loose fittings.
Ensure all fans and cooling systems are correctly installed to prevent overheating.
Simplify the Setup: Remove extraneous hardware and boot with minimal components to isolate the cause.
Test with a Different Keyboard: Connect an alternative keyboard to determine if the issue persists across different peripherals.
Update or Reinstall Drivers: Use