F_lock Key?

I have a Dell keyboard and I see no key for the above function. I found how to enable/disable F-LOCK but no real info on how to initiate it or where to begin.

 

You seem to contradict yourself. You say found how to enable/disable then you say you don't know how to initiate it. To me, enable and initiate are the same thing.

The function of the F-Keys is determined by both the operating system, and by the application running at the time but ONLY if secondary functions have been assigned to the F-Keys.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F-Lock

 

Didn't mean to contradict, the topic I found talked about F-Keys but not about F-Lock. There was a photo of a keyboard with F-Lock indicator light from the same wiki.

 

Not all keyboards have an F-lock key so that is probably why it was not mentioned.

My keyboard, as seen here, has a F Lock key (above the Backspace button). But there is no light for it. I only know it is enabled or disabled when I press a F-key and something unexpected happens.

 

These directions are for a laptop keyboard.

As the system is booting hit F2 to go to Setup. From there click 'System Configuration' then 'Function Key Behavior'. Switch to 'Function Key First' then hit the 'Apply' box, then 'Exit'. Now the function keys will work normally and you can hold 'Fn' to use the multimedia functions.

 

As you noted, that's assuming this is a notebook. Typical external (PC) keyboards don't have a "Fn" key.

I guess we need some clarification.

 

New Dell desktops come with a keyboard that has a function key, which messes with the way my users use a certain program. I called Dell and they were no help. I think I used auto hot key to do the function lock.

 

Bill, the OP asked how to enable or disable. I provided instructions for a laptop where it is possible to do. I did not assume the OP had a laptop, I just wanted him/her to be aware of how to enable or disable the function.

If it is a standalone keyboard and has no lock, clearly it is not possible.

 

I know plodr. I was not questioning you - just pointing out we need the OP to clarify. Sorry if my comment appeared otherwise.

Did you mean to say F-Lock? Many if not most keyboards have function keys. Mine, as seen in that image above, has 12 plus the F-lock key. All of mine are pre-programmed. For example, F1 is help and will call up the help screen for whatever program has current focus (if that program supports it). F2 and F3 are undo and redo respectively. Those are typical. So is F5 for screen/page refresh and F11 for full/minimize screen. But I can also program my keys for secondary functions. For example, I have F1 programmed to enter my primary email address and the F-Lock key will toggle between help and my email address.

I forgot about that program. That is certainly an option for those without a separate F-Lock key.

 

Here is the KB, notice the ESC key has a lock. The users use Print Screen, which, on this keyboard requires a FN modifier - so I used SharpKeys (Not AHK) to change the key.

 

Why? Is pressing Fn + Print Screen too confusing for them?

 

A little off topic, but when you've used an app for 10+ years, it becomes memory, so adding a new key would be to confusing, when it can be fixed. I could of replaced the KB. Also I had one that would click the start menu, go to the top and click again, when I swapped PCs the app got moved down by one spot, guess what? The user clicked start & went to the top & clicked, then called me when the program no longer worked. Not everyone has kung-fu skills when it comes to computers, some just use them for "work".

 

No one should have kung-fu skills, be computer or security expert to use a computer. But every user needs to be flexible enough to adapt to such minor changes like this.

I understand and think it admirable you want to cater to their needs. But this just sounds like hand-holding spoiled brats to me. And as an IT support person since 1972, I know what that's about.

And guess what? Show the user the app was down by just one spot and eventually they will get embarrassed and remember next time.

Are you suggesting they have had the same log in credentials for that last 1o years? Same combination or entry procedures to the facility? What are they going to do when they get a new car and have to figure out how to pair their phone to the information console? Or even how to start the thing?

It is human nature to resist change. But it is also human nature to be able to adapt and move on.