Hi, Jim, It sounds like you might not have selected a keyboard. Your first prompt should be language. The cursor should be sitting on "English". Press carriage return. Next will be the keyboard type. You'll be sitting on "US". You don't want this one. Press the T key. Since you're using an external keypad, I imagine you won't want the laptop selection although it shouldn't hurt. Press the up-arrow key until you hear the word speakup. Check with the 8 key to make sure you're on it. When you get there, hit carriage return and you'll be off and running. Any questions, call or write. Calling will usually get a quicker response. 73. Bill