Troubleshooting HP ProBook 450 G4: Brightness, Volume, and Other Function Keys

Are you experiencing issues with the brightness, volume, PRINT SCREEN (PPRT), and other function keys (F1, F2, F12, etc.) on your HP ProBook 450 G4? This article will guide you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix these common issues.

Introduction to Function Keys and Brightness/Volume Controls

HP ProBook laptops come equipped with a variety of function keys and controls, such as brightness, volume, and PRINT SCREEN. However, it is not uncommon for users to experience problems with these controls, especially if the driver is outdated or missing. This guide will help you diagnose and resolve these issues.

Step 1: Update or Install Necessary Drivers

One of the most common reasons for these function keys not working is that the necessary drivers are outdated or missing. Here’s what you need to do:

Access Device Manager: Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager. In the Device Manager window, expand the Keyboards section and ensure the required devices are properly recognized. Locate the Issue: If you see any devices listed as Problem or Not Recognized, you will need to update or install the relevant drivers. For HP laptops, you can download the necessary drivers from the HP website. Download and Install the Drivers: Visit the HP website, locate the Drivers and Software section, and download the appropriate drivers for your laptop. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the drivers on your system. Once the drivers are installed, reboot your laptop to ensure that the changes take effect.

Step 2: Pressing the FN Key for Function Keys

Many function keys require the FN key to be pressed in conjunction with the key itself. Here’s how to use the FN key effectively:

Identify the FN Key: The FN key is usually located at the lower left corner of the keyboard. It is typically marked with FN and is the same color as the function key for brightness or volume. Press and Hold the FN Key: When you need to adjust the brightness or volume, press and hold the FN key while pressing the corresponding function key. Press the Function Key: Once the FN key is held down, press the function key (e.g., the brightness or volume key) to perform the desired action.

Additional Tips for Function Keys

In addition to updating drivers and using the FN key, here are a few additional tips to help you troubleshoot these issues:

Factory Reset: If the drivers and FN key method don’t work, you might need to perform a factory reset. However, be cautious and ensure you have backed up important data before proceeding. Contact HP Support: If the issue persists, it’s a good idea to contact HP Support. They can provide specific guidance based on your laptop model and software version. Replace the Keyboard: In rare cases, the issue might be with the physical keyboard. If you have tried all the above steps and the problem still exists, consider replacing the keyboard.

Conclusion

If you are facing issues with the brightness, volume, or PRINT SCREEN (PPRT) and other function keys on your HP ProBook 450 G4, start by updating or installing the necessary drivers. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, press and hold the FN key while using the function keys. These steps should help you get your laptop functioning properly.