Mikie, I didn't know that, but even if I did hit one of those keys, why would I lose all the type? Sometimes a menu drop down comes on, and of course, while I am typing, I don't always catch it in time, and poof all type gone. The puzzle for me is, what keys am I combining to eliminate the type, if I knew that, perhaps I would be able to control things more here? I see where hitting control/all would make the area black as it does, but then, what key am I hitting to take out the type?

As ravencajun said it's important to answer questions because it makes troubleshooting easier. Based on what you describe - the same problem with two different operating systems that doesn't happen in safe mode with either O/S I'm inclined to think there's a conflict at the hardware level. If you've been around since 8088 days, you remember IRQs and maybe manually adjusting those? - If you are using a PS/2 (round connector, typically green and purple) make sure you have the plugged into the right place. We all make mistakes. - If you are using a USB connection (small rectangular connector), try a different USB port. If you are using any kind of USB hub, make sure the mouse/keyboard is plugged directly into the machine. If you have a USB add-on card, plug the mouse/keyboard cable(s) into a onboard (motherboard) port. Just for grins you can try the opposite too to rule out any port problems. - Check with the manufacturer of the motherboard or computer for an updated BIOS or chipset drivers - If you have any add-on peripheral cards (network, sound, video capture, etc.) trying removing them temporarily or moving them to another slot. - Borrow or buy another mouse/keyboard, preferably one that is wired. While most mass merchants (Best Buy, etc.) get a little expensive for that kind of stuff, computer stores (Micro Center, etc.) usually have really cheap mice/keyboards sitting on the bottom shelf somewhere. You can also try a Mom 'n Pop computer store, they typically have used stuff cheap.

If you are running a regular mouse connected to the computer by a cord (mouse tail), the default drivers in Windows XP will work. However, if your mouse has other than standard features such as extra buttons or a wireless link, then you need to install the software that came with the mouse. If you are using a wireless keyboard (and) mouse combination, I'd expect to install new drivers for these. Also, make sure that the batteries are good in the wireless device(s). Sometimes the batteries supplied with equipment are poor, have low capacity, and are barely have enough charge to get the system going. These may soon expire. On the average, batteries need to be replaced about every 6 months in wireless mice and keyboards.

I'm not an Excel User, wish I could help you there! I use only Logitech Keyboards and have never had a number fading problem. Not sure what kind of Keyboards are in Laptops but I've never had a problem with them either. On my Desktop Computer I have a Logitech Combo the MX5500. This is a Bluetooth Combo and the best Keyboard/Mouse Combo I've ever used. I also purchased a Logitech Bluetooth Keyboard for my Android Tablet, this keyboard (even though specifically for an Android) works with my new Acer Iconia W4-820 Windows 8.1 Tablet. I've never used the Ergonomic Keyboards but Logitech also make those. I believe the 2.4GHz Wireless MK550 is the model number of their Ergonomic Keyboard/Mouse Combo. They also have the 2.4GHz Wireless K350 Keyboard and the Wireless Trackball M570 paired together as a Combo. If it were me I would spend a little more and purchase the MX800 Keyboard/Mouse. I like the feel of the Mouse that come with the combo. It has Darkfield and can be used on almost any surface (glass, mirrors, Blue Jeans, etc...).