Losing the USB receiver for your Logitech MK540 Advanced keyboard and mouse combo is stressful, but unlike some older Logitech sets, the MK540 is recoverable. You usually do not need to replace the entire combo.
This guide explains what receiver the MK540 uses, what replacements work, and exactly how to get your keyboard and mouse working again.
Table of Contents
🔗 How the Logitech MK540 Connects
The Logitech MK540 uses Logitech’s Unifying wireless technology.
Key facts:
- ✅ Uses a Logitech Unifying Receiver (orange star logo)
- ❌ No Bluetooth support
- ❌ Not compatible with Logitech Bolt
- ❌ Not compatible with Lightspeed gaming receivers
Both the keyboard and mouse connect through one Unifying receiver.
🔍 What Happens When the Receiver Is Lost?
Without the receiver:
- The keyboard will not type
- The mouse will not move
- The devices cannot connect directly to your computer
- Bluetooth pairing is not possible
However, because the MK540 uses Unifying, you can replace the receiver and re-pair both devices.
✅ Best Fix: Buy a Replacement Logitech Unifying Receiver
This is the correct and recommended solution.
What to look for:
- Product name: Logitech Unifying USB Receiver
- Orange star / sunburst logo
- Supports pairing up to 6 devices
Avoid:
- Logitech Bolt receivers (lightning icon)
- Gaming Lightspeed receivers
- Generic 2.4 GHz USB dongles
Only the Unifying receiver will work.
Many users buy a two-pack, because these tiny receivers disappear frequently.
🧩 How to Pair the MK540 to a New Receiver
Step 1: Install Logitech Software
Install one of the following:
- Logitech Unifying Software (most reliable for MK540)
- Logitech Options (also works)
Step 2: Plug in the New Receiver
Insert the Unifying receiver directly into a USB port on your computer.
Step 3: Pair the Keyboard
- Open the software
- Select Add a device
- Turn the keyboard off, wait 5 seconds, then turn it on
- Follow on-screen instructions
Step 4: Pair the Mouse
Repeat the same steps for the mouse.
Both devices can share the same receiver.
🔋 Battery Issues That Can Block Pairing
Low battery power is a very common cause of pairing failure.
Before pairing:
- Replace batteries in both keyboard and mouse
- Use fresh, name-brand batteries
- Confirm the power switches are turned on
- Pair within 1–2 feet of the receiver
A mouse may pair successfully while the keyboard silently fails if its batteries are weak.
❓ Mouse Works but Keyboard Doesn’t?
This happens often.
Try:
- Pairing the keyboard first
- Removing other Unifying devices temporarily
- Plugging the receiver directly into the PC (not a USB hub)
- Restarting the computer and retrying pairing
🧠 Why Generic Receivers Will Never Work
Even though the MK540 uses 2.4 GHz wireless, it relies on Logitech’s encrypted Unifying protocol.
Generic receivers:
- Cannot detect the keyboard
- Cannot be programmed
- Cannot emulate Unifying pairing
Only Logitech’s software can complete the pairing process.
🔁 Can Logitech Support Replace the Receiver?
Sometimes.
Logitech may replace a lost receiver if:
- The product is under warranty
- You contact support with proof of purchase
- Replacement stock is available
For older units, they usually recommend buying a Unifying receiver instead.
🔄 Is It Worth Replacing the Combo?
Replace the entire combo only if:
- The keyboard has worn or failing keys
- The mouse buttons are unreliable
- The cost of a receiver approaches a new combo price
Otherwise, replacing the receiver is still the most economical option.
✅ Quick Summary
- Logitech MK540 uses a Unifying receiver
- Lost receivers can be replaced
- Buy a Logitech Unifying receiver (orange star logo)
- Pair using Logitech Unifying Software or Logitech Options
- Replace batteries before pairing
- Generic or Bolt receivers will not work
🏷️ Logitech Keyboard Deals ⭐⭐⭐⭐