Linux lite newbie problems

[puppyfat]

I have installed 3.8 on my low spec Asus eee 1005HA because I read it was the best choice for such a machine. Installation went well but the standard keyboard (not extended) produces rubbish. Have selected various UK keyboard options - so many! - no improvement; turning off Number Lock bios offers no option on this. No matter what I do still rubbish. Characters appearing no relevance to the letters on the keys. As is it is unusable. Help appreciated or I'm afraid LL will have to be dumped. Have also turned number lock off using Fn key. No improvement.