Overview
Most Tough Keys issues come from the USB-C Direct Connect piece not being fully seated or from outdated keyboard firmware. Tough Keys is a rugged iPad case with a built-in keyboard that connects through the iPad's USB-C port, it uses no Bluetooth and has no battery.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Product | ZAGG Tough Keys (Apple iPad) |
| Model | ZKB10GPCN53 |
| SKU | 1103116125 |
| Connection | USB-C Direct Connect (no Bluetooth pairing) |
| Power | Draws power from the iPad (no battery, no charging) |
| Water resistance | IP57 |
Quick checks before anything else:
- The iPad is awake and unlocked. Tough Keys turns on with the iPad and sleeps when the iPad is closed.
- The Direct Connect piece is pushed fully into the iPad's USB-C port.
- All four corners of the iPad are snapped into the case.
Keyboard not responding
Tough Keys does not pair over Bluetooth, so there is nothing to look for in Bluetooth settings. If the iPad doesn't respond to typing:
- Wake the iPad. The keyboard turns on automatically when the iPad is activated and goes into Sleep Mode when the case is closed.
- Reseat the Direct Connect piece. Loosen the two small screws if they're tightened, pull the piece out of the USB-C port, then slide it firmly back in. It should feel snug.
- Re-tighten the screws (optional). Use the included screwdriver to secure the Direct Connect piece so it can't work loose.
- Update the keyboard firmware. Download the ZAGG Keyboard Firmware Utilities app from the App Store and install the latest update. More details: bit.ly/3R8q6yO.
- Restart the iPad and test again.
Power and charging
Tough Keys has no battery and never needs charging. It draws power directly from the iPad through the Direct Connect piece.
- "How do I charge the keyboard?" It doesn't need it. Keep the iPad charged and the keyboard will work.
- "How do I turn it on or off?" There's no power switch. It turns on when the iPad wakes and sleeps when the iPad is closed.
- Keyboard stops working when the iPad battery is low or the iPad is asleep: this is expected. Charge or wake the iPad.
Case, video and other common issues
| Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
| No video on an external display through USB-C | The Direct Connect piece doesn't carry video. Use screen mirroring (AirPlay) instead. |
| iPad doesn't sit flat or a corner pops out | Press the bottom half of the iPad into the case, then the top half, and check each corner is snapped in. |
| Can't get the iPad out of the case | Loosen the screws, then remove the Direct Connect piece first by pressing down with both thumbs while pushing away from the port. Hold the top lip, press against the back of the case, and lift the iPad out from the exposed side. Never pull the iPad out with the Direct Connect still plugged in. |
| Asset/ID tag can't be seen | Reinsert the iPad so the tag lines up with the clear window on the back of the case. |
| Need a different viewing angle | Pull the kickstand out from the top of the case; the continuous hinge holds any angle. |
| Case is dirty or wet | It's rated IP57 water-resistant. Wipe it with a damp cloth. |