I have an HP Omen 16 Slim that I bought last year, and it has already given me several problems. I picked it up with one hand while the screen was open, and afterward it began typing backward, scrolling on its own, and behaving strangely. The cursor and keyboard still respond, but the laptop is difficult to use. Restarting did not help, and I need it working before classes start on Monday. What should I check before assuming it needs repair?
3 Answers
This could be a stuck key or a keyboard/touchpad contact being triggered incorrectly, especially since the problem started right after lifting the laptop by one side. Check whether an arrow key, modifier key, or the touchpad is registering input constantly. Try connecting a separate keyboard and mouse; if the issue disappears, the built-in keyboard or touchpad is the likely cause.
The fact that changing its position made the problem disappear points more toward a physical issue than Windows itself. The chassis may be flexing against the keyboard or touchpad, or something inside may be loose. Avoid bending it or trying to force the case back into shape, since that could make the damage worse. If the behavior returns, document it and have HP inspect it under warranty.
Before reinstalling Windows, install all normal and optional Windows updates and check for keyboard, touchpad, and chipset driver updates. Also look through the laptop's preinstalled utilities, since one of them could be causing unusual input behavior. If updates do not help, use Windows repair tools and contact HP support while the laptop is still under warranty.
Oddly, I closed the screen and left the laptop resting on its side while packing. When I checked it later, everything was working normally again. I still have no idea what caused it, so I am going to test the keyboard and touchpad carefully.