How do I get to the boot menu on Dell Optiplex to install 64bit W7?

[atikovi]

This is a recent model Optiplex 7010 running 32bit. Got a 64bit disc I want to install but can't even get to the boot menu. The Dell manual says to press F12 when the Dell logo appears on the screen after a restart. Tried that a dozen times but it still goes to Windows. Any way to access the boot menu from Windows?

 

[badger906]

Pressing Delete is another option, or on some its F8, but push it too late and it will take you to safe mode.

Theres no way to access it from windows. but as default your DVD drive should be the primary boot order, so simply booting with the disc in will take you too the windows installation process

 

[atikovi]

Turns out it's the keyboard. I was using the keyboard from my Dell Dimension and the computer wouldn't recognize F12 I guess. Connected the keyboard that came with the Optiplex and got it to use F12. Now why wouldn't the older model keyboard work?

 

[whs]

Now why wouldn't the older model keyboard work?

No driver.

 

[atikovi]

But all the other keys and functions work. And isn't the driver built-in on a keyboard?

 

[badger906]

could just be a dodgy key. or theres crud stuck under it. the driver used pre windows is part of the bios/chipset. But sometimes keyboards are jsut dodgy like my cyborg v7.. takes me about 4 attempts to boot as it keeps flagging up "no keyboard" anyother keyboard works fine.. jsut gives me an excuse to buy a corsair k70 this weekend ^_^