Razer BlackWidow X Chroma Support
Common Questions
Are the keyboards water-resistant? I need to clean the keyboard.
The keyboards are not water-resistant. Do not immerse the keyboards to clean them or place them in a dishwasher. They can be cleaned with compressed air. Spilling liquids on it can result in damage to the keyboard.
Why do some of the keys have reversed graphics when compared to other keyboards? For example, all the number keys and keys like > and
This is normal and intentional. The graphics are reversed on these keys due to the placement of the individual LED backlighting under each key. We chose to illuminate the part of the key that was active during normal key presses and not when the shift key was used.
What is this “Gaming Mode” found in Razer keyboards?
Razer keyboards feature a “Gaming Mode” that allows the deactivation of the Windows key for specific applications preventing it from being pressed accidentally during games, so the user does not get alt-tabbed to desktop at critical moments.
What is Ultrapolling?
Ultrapolling is a technology developed by Razer that heightens the frequency of the keyboard reporting actuation information back to the computer.
How does Razer measure the polling rate (ultrapolling) and response rates of their keyboards and mice?
Razer uses digital scopes and USB analyzers connected directly to the motherboard to obtain real and accurate measurements of polling rates.
Will my Razer USB PC product work on a console (Xbox360, PS3, etc)? It has USB ports.
Our PC USB products are meant for PC use only and we do not support using them on a PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360 console.
Troubleshooting
My Razer product does not work at startup after a cold start, what should I do?
Make sure that USB ports are not in hibernation mode.
- Go to Windows Device Manager and click the arrow next to “Universal Serial Bus Controllers”.
- Right-click on any Root Hub and select “Properties.”
- Click the “Power Management” tab and ensure that “Allow computer to turn off this device to save power” is ticked.
Proceed to do this under each Root Hub.
When I try to perform On-the-Fly recording on my Razer BlackWidow X Chroma, the LED lights three times and then goes off. I am unable to perform on-the-fly recording. How can I fix this?
The Razer BlackWidow X Chroma does not have any options to disable the delays in the on-the-fly macro recording. To ignore delays between recorded events, open the BlackWidow X Chroma configurator in Synapse and record the Macro there. In Synapse, you will see a box that can be checked in order to ignore delays.
I cannot find my Razer mouse or keyboard in Windows Device Manager under “Mice and other pointing Devices”.
Razer mice and keyboards are not typically listed under the “Mice and other pointing Devices” section of the Windows Device Manager. They should be listed under “Human Interface Devices.”
My Razer keyboard keeps changing the default language on my system when Synapse is opened.
Razer keyboards have a default language set in their firmware. Once Razer Synapse loads up, it will read the default language on the keyboard and set the system keyboard to that layout. To change the default layout, you’ll need to go back into your system settings and change it to your preferred language layout after you restart your computer and start Synapse. We are aware of this inconvenience and are looking into improving this in the future.
My Razer product does not work correctly with a specific program or game. What should I do?
If you are experiencing issues with the Razer device in an application, test the device in another application to confirm if the issue is specific to that application. If the Razer device functions properly in another application, then the program is likely the cause of the issue.
Hardware
Are Razer products available in PS/2 versions? Can I use the products with a USB to PS2 adapter?
Razer products are only available and supported in USB mode only. There are no plans to release a PS/2 version, and they will not function properly using a USB to PS2 adapter.
Can I program the “FN” key on my Razer keyboard?
No, you cannot customize the function of the FN button. This key is used for various functionalities including on-the-fly macro recording, changing keyboard LED, switching to gaming mode, and more.
Can I turn off the Razer Triple Headed Snake Logo that is at the bottom of the Razer BlackWidow X Chroma?
Yes, the logo lighting can be turned on and off in conjunction with the back panel lighting.
Can I use On-the-Fly Macro Recording without installing the drivers? Do I have to keep the application running by keeping the system tray icon open?
On-the-Fly Macro Recording only works when the driver is installed and running in the background. The system tray icon should show up in the Windows Taskbar. If you start the recording without the drivers or the system tray application, the LED for the On-the-Fly Macro Recording will blink three times and go off instead of remaining lit. Install the driver and allow the system tray application to run in order to make use of this recorder.
Does the Razer BlackWidow X Chroma have anti-ghosting capability? How about N-key rollover?
Yes, the Razer BlackWidow X Chroma features a gaming optimized key matrix that allows the recognition of up to six simultaneous key presses. N-key rollover (NKRO) only works with a direct connection to a native PS/2 port on the computer which provides for other limitations that USB overcomes. The Razer BlackWidow X Chroma’s gaming optimized key matrix serves a similar purpose while using an ordinary USB port.
My Razer Blackwidow has an issue where a key will sometimes seem to stick and the key will keep repeating itself. It is like the key is being held down when it is not.
Ensure the problem is not caused by a Synapse profile error. To do this, you can try your keyboard using another Synapse profile or try turning off Razer Synapse and see if the issue is still present.
My Razer peripheral will not work properly when used with a KVM switch.
We recommend plugging your Razer product directly into your PC. KVM switches are known to cause interruptions in communications between devices and PCs. If your Razer product works when plugged directly into the computer, then it is operating correctly, and the issue is most likely due to the KVM switch.
What are the five (5) extra gaming buttons used for?
These are dedicated keys on the keyboard specifically designed to bind macros to or to reprogram into specific functions. Macros enable you to program one button on a peripheral to perform a string of timed commands, whenever the button is pressed.
What type of mechanical key switch does the Razer BlackWidow X Chroma use?
The Razer BlackWidow X Chroma uses tactile and clicky Razer mechanical key switches. Each of these mechanical switches has been sorted prior to manufacture, adhering to a strict design guideline.
Do you have spare parts available?
We do not carry internal parts such as mouse sensors. However, we do have certain spare parts available for purchase from the Razer Store.
How can I modify or disassemble my Razer product?
We cannot help you in modifying or disassembling your Razer product since that will void the manufacturer’s warranty on the unit.
How do I clean my Razer keyboard?
The overall finish can be cleaned with wipes generally used for cleaning your computer monitor or sunglasses. Ensure that the surface is free of large dust particles or debris before wiping the surface with any product. Wiping debris into the surface can lead to minor scratches on the surface of the unit.
If you wish to clean under the keycaps, Razer suggests holding the unit upside down and/or using compressed air from a can. We do not recommend removing the keycaps from your mechanical switches.
We suggest unplugging the device from your computer before cleaning.
Note: Under no circumstances should you ever submerge the keyboard in any type of liquid. Submerging the keyboard in any liquid will void the warranty on your keyboard.
How do I request or purchase replacement parts for my Razer product?
You can view our list of current spare parts and accessories at the Razer Store. If the item you need is not listed, don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Support team.
How do I remove the keycaps from my Razer BlackWidow X Chroma?
Razer does not recommend removing keycaps from the Razer BlackWidow Chroma. Several caps have springs that are very difficult to replace once the cap has been removed. Excessive force can also damage the key itself. If you desire to clean under the keycaps, Razer suggests holding the unit upside down and/or using compressed air from a can.
Software
How do I change the language of Configurator?
The language selection is based on the driver version installed on the computer. There is no option in the Customizer. To correct this issue, uninstall the software and download the specific drivers at the Razer Support site. This time, select the correct language of your preference when installing the software.
What is on-the-fly macro recording on Razer Mice and Keyboards?
On-the-fly macro recording allows users to record lengthy macros in the game, without having to access driver menus or other software. For example, hitting the “Macro Record” key and then inputting a sequence of multiple spells in World of Warcraft saves this action to the specified key. The same sequence of spells can then be executed automatically with the actuation of that one button.
What is the difference between “driver” and “firmware” updates the Razer Support Site?
Drivers are installed onto your computer and allow your computer to communicate with your Razer product. Firmware updates are hardware level code to install directly onto the Razer device that can update, fix, or change the functionality of the product.
Where can I find drivers for my Razer product?
You may find your Razer product’s drivers by going to its Support page.
What are profiles?
Profiles are templates that are used to define a keyboard’s settings for different games or applications. These customization options can be saved into profiles via the driver menu. This allows you to fully customize the keys to suit each different game and application. For example, it could require different sets of macros for different games. You can then conveniently switch between various saved profiles, saving the hassle of reprogramming the keys each time you launch a game.
How many profiles can I save on my Razer keyboard?
Using Razer Synapse 2, you can save up to 10 profiles and switch between them on-the-fly without the hassle of going into complex driver menus. If the keyboard supports Razer Synapse 3, the number of profiles is almost unlimited.
Can I use the Razer BlackWidow PC driver with the Mac layout of the Razer BlackWidow X Chroma?
No, the Mac drivers and the PC drivers were designed to be used exclusively with the Mac layout and PC layout of the keyboard respectively. These drivers are not interchangeable.
Can I use the Razer BlackWidow X Chroma Mac drivers with the PC layout of the Razer BlackWidow X Chroma?
No, the Mac drivers and the PC drivers were designed to be used exclusively with the Mac layout and PC layout of the keyboard respectively. These drivers are not interchangeable.
Do I need software drivers to use the Razer BlackWidow X Chroma?
You may use the standard keyboard functions by simply plugging the Razer BlackWidow X Chroma to any available USB port on your computer. However, you will need to download the software and drivers in order to enable advanced features such as macro recording and profile settings.
When I use fast-user switching to change between Windows accounts, my configuration of my Razer product is no longer active.
This is a general problem with fast-user switching. The configuration of the product is unique and set for the logged-in user. Once you switch users, you will have to re-configure the product. There is no other workaround currently.
When iTunes is minimized, the media player commands on the keyboard do not activate. How can I fix this?
This is expected behavior from the iTunes software. The commands coming from your Razer Keyboard are standard multimedia key strokes and iTunes will respond to them only when it is active onscreen.
Why is a Chroma SDK-supported game not displaying lighting effects on my Razer Chroma keyboard or I am not able to turn on Chroma Apps in Synapse?
To display the Chroma SDK effect on your Razer Chroma keyboard, ensure that you have the latest MS Windows hotfix “Update for the Universal C Runtime in Windows” installed. You may look for an update for your OS on the Microsoft site.
To see more general faqs for peripherals, go to the KEYBOARD FAQs.
Razer Synapse 3
Maximize your unfair advantage with Razer Synapse 3, the unified cloud-based hardware configuration tool that takes your Razer devices to the next level. Razer Synapse 3
