Unfortunately, I don't own any other USB keyboards, however, your idea still led me to the problem. Examining the setting revealed I had my Xbox controller enabled, it was sitting in a position with its joystick against the desk, moving it fixed the issue. Thank you, I doubt I'd have thought of that if you hadn't given me…
That's interesting, because I've already played through to level 50 as a romulan without spending any money, and it let me activate them as I needed, is that supposed to be only be how it is for Federation players?