I can't type in a username and PC name when setting up Windows 7

[Machtri]

I just installed windows 7 Pro on a brand new computer and now it's time to type in a Username and a name for the computer. Problem is, I can't for some reason. When I go to the BIOS, I can navigate fine using the arrow keys and Enter, so I know the keyboard is working. Ideas?

 

[rcald2000]

Yeap, expected. I'm presuming that you have a skylake CPU I'm sure. In Microsoft's attempt to force us users off Windows 7 and eventually to Windows 10, it doesn't natively support USB 3.0 drivers. You will need to google or contact your motherboard manufacturer for the work-around to get Windows 7 to work with your motherboard. It's going to be a pain in the butt unfortunately. I'm sure that this is your problem.

 

[rcald2000]

When I attempted to install Windows 7 Pro on a family member's new build, I came across this same issue. So common is this complaint that Asrock has a site dedicated to the problem. I'm reasonably sure that the other vendors do as well: http://www.asrock.com/microsite/win7install/

Simplest work-around: If your motherboard has a PS/2 port (many do) then you could simply swap between a PS/2 mouse & keyboard to get Windows 7 installed. I'm not sure if a USB-to-PS/2 adapter would work but probably. Another solution which I never thought to try is to plug your storage into a different non-skylake build, install Windows 7, and then transport that storage back to your new Skylake build. I can't see why that wouldn't work, but I've never tried it.