Locking the laptop keyboard when an external keyboard is plugged in can be a useful feature for many users. Whether you’re giving a presentation, gaming, or simply prefer the tactile feel of an external keyboard, preventing accidental keystrokes on the built-in keyboard can prevent interruptions and ensure a seamless computing experience. In this guide, we’ll explore various methods to achieve this functionality, catering to different operating systems and user preferences.
Before delving into the technical details, let’s understand why one might want to lock the laptop keyboard in the first place. Accidental keystrokes on the built-in keyboard can disrupt workflow or gameplay, leading to frustration and potential errors. By locking the laptop keyboard when an external keyboard is connected, users can avoid such inconveniences and maintain their focus on the task at hand.
The method to lock the laptop keyboard when an external keyboard is plugged in varies depending on the operating system (OS) being used. Windows, macOS, and Linux each have their own set of tools and settings that can be leveraged to achieve this functionality. Let’s explore the steps for each OS:
Windows:
- Using Device Manager:
- Open Device Manager by pressing Win + X and selecting “Device Manager” from the menu.
- Expand the “Keyboards” category.
- Right-click on the built-in keyboard device and select “Disable device.”
- Confirm the action and test by typing on the external keyboard.
- Third-party Software:
- Several third-party software solutions are available that offer advanced keyboard management features, including the ability to automatically disable the built-in keyboard when an external keyboard is connected. Examples include “KeyboardLocker” and “AutoHotkey.”
macOS:
- Using Terminal Commands:
- Open Terminal from the Applications folder or using Spotlight (Cmd + Space, then type “Terminal”).
- Type the following command to disable the built-in keyboard:sqlCopy code
sudo kextunload /System/Library/Extensions/AppleUSBTopCase.kext/Contents/PlugIns/AppleUSBTCKeyboard.kext/ - Press Enter and enter your administrator password if prompted.
- Test by typing on the external keyboard.
- Keyboard Maestro:
- Keyboard Maestro is a powerful automation tool for macOS that allows users to create macros and trigger actions based on various conditions. You can create a macro to disable the built-in keyboard when an external keyboard is connected and enable it again when the external keyboard is disconnected.
Linux:
- Using udev Rules:
- Create a udev rule to automatically disable the built-in keyboard when an external keyboard is connected.
- Open a terminal and navigate to the “/etc/udev/rules.d/” directory.
- Create a new file, e.g., “99-disable-internal-keyboard.rules,” and add the following rule:makefile
ACTION=="add", SUBSYSTEM=="input", ATTRS{name}=="AT Translated Set 2 keyboard", RUN+="/bin/sh -c 'echo 0 > /sys/\$devpath/device/disable'"- Save the file and restart udev or reboot your system.
- Test by connecting an external keyboard.
- xinput:
- Use the xinput command-line tool to disable the built-in keyboard manually when an external keyboard is connected. You can create a script to automate this process.
- Run the following command to list available input devices:
xinput list- Identify the ID of the built-in keyboard and use the following command to disable it:pythonCopy code
xinput float <device-id>- Test by typing on the external keyboard.
Final Conclusion on How to Lock Laptop Keyboard When External Plugged In?
In conclusion, locking the laptop keyboard when an external keyboard is plugged in can be achieved through various methods depending on the operating system being used. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, or Linux, there are built-in tools, third-party software, and scripting options available to cater to your needs. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enhance your computing experience and avoid accidental keystrokes on the built-in keyboard.
