Windows keyboard -- Command key not recognized at startup

I know the Command key maps to the Windows key on Windows keyboards. But it only seems to work once the Mac has started up. In other words, it can't be used to issue special startup commands, such as to zap PRAM.
Does anyone out there successfully use the Windows key as the Command-key at startup?
Background:
My brother is a switcher with a Mac mini with a Windows keyboard. He has a startup problem that has been diagnosed as a potential PRAM problem. But he couldn't zap his PRAM. In fact he hasn't been able to do any startup functions that require the Command key. He uses the Windows key as command key during normal operation, but it isn't recognized at startup. He tried many times, and I'm certain he was holding the keys down at the correct time. Afterward he borrowed a Mac keyboard, and was able to zap the PRAM with it with no problems.
Do all Windows keyboards have this problem?
mini   Mac OS X (10.4.6)   1 GB RAM

Yes, using various keyboards including generic Dell models, a Logitech, and an early IBM USB device. There is a possibility though with some keyboards - perhaps those with a number of extra function keys - that MacOS doesn't recognize the keyboard and waits until it is told what the device is by the usual 'keyboard not recognized' dialog/assistant. In those instances I would imagine the keyboard would fail at modifying boot options because in effect the system would have to be booted fully and go through that recognition sequence first!

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