hp ProtectTools security manager startup disables keyboard on exit

Not really sure if this warrants a thread, but I've just run across a nasty bug in hp ProtectTools that is preventing me from entering my BitLocker PIN at startup. I made the mistake of enabling the POST behavior that asks for password/fingerprint when I start my computer. I say mistake because now the application is disabling my keyboard upon exit, preventing me from typing my BitLocker PIN, or even typing F12 for network boot.

I tried plugging in a USB keyboard, which got me in exactly once. I thought I had fixed the issue. (I should have uninstalled the startup options when I had the chance!!) Now the startup security manager is disabling the onboard keyboard when it starts AND the USB keyboard when it exits. I have tried almost every path through the menu options in hopes for a different outcome. My only remaining option seems to be reinstalling the O/S from a DVD.

This is really more of lodging of a complaint rather than a cry for help. I enjoyed single-login for a short while, but curse hp for releasing a product that so easily loses sight of its own hardware. Another day down the toilet as I reinstall -- assuming I can reinstall...

I believe hp ProtectTools has been exonerated, as it now appears to be a general keyboard problem. The boot manager has been disabled, but I still cannot type. It looking more and more likely that I will need to reinstall and/or return the laptop for replacement.

Tracking in http://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Other-HP-Consumer-Products-and/hp-ProtectTools-security-manager-startup-disables-keyboard-on/m-p/938623