I have a user that I support who is trying to use Microsoft Lync to instant message members of his department, but when Lync starts, the keyboard stops working.

The only way to gain functionality is to disconnect the USB cable and re-connect it.

Windows 7 64-bit
Lync 64-bit
Verbatim 96668 keyboard

Never heard of this one so i would suggest trying another Keyboard for starters.

Try that and report your finding.

Thanks

Is it the first time for this user to use Lync?

I suppose when you re-connect the keyboard, this problem didnt exist.

Did this problem happen every time Lync start?

Try this keyboard with another computer.

This is the first time the user has used Lync.  The issue occurs every time that Lync is started up.

Another keyboard (basic USB) works fine.  When I use the Verbatim keyboard (which has built-in speakers) in another computer running Lync, the issue is also present on the other computer.  So it definitely has something to do with the keyboard.

Start Lync, unplug and plug the keyboard back in and you are able to type.

Could there possibly be a conflict in Lync once it recognizes the keyboard as an audio device to stop keyboard input?

Rob,

I suspect it is something odd incompatibility like that. :-P

To avoid weird compatibility issues always reach for Lync Optimized equipment:
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/lync/gg278173

Glad you isolated the issue.

Thanks for the link, Matt.  Nothing listed for keyboards or just speakers without mics, though.

I put in a support ticket with Verbatim and they just responded that it wasn't tested to work with Lync and to contact Microsoft for compatibility support.

Looks like the two just aren't compatible together.  Thanks for both of your help.

• Proposed as answer by Lisa.zhengMicrosoft contingent staff, Moderator Tuesday, December 11, 2012 6:47 AM
• Marked as answer by Lisa.zhengMicrosoft contingent staff, Moderator Monday, December 17, 2012 10:50 AM

I have the same issue but for me it happens when i start skype and now it does the same thing with unity. I don't have any problem having to disconect and reconect the usb, but  the real problem is that it's constant with Unity. I mean while Unity is open, my Verbatim wont work. i can still use the mic and the speakers work just fine, but i cant type anything or turn the lights it has on and off