No Number Lock

Hi, Everyone

This is my first visit here. This forum was recommended by a good friend of mine.

Here's my problem with my Asus g74sx.

It's a great computer, except for one thing~~there is no number lock!! Where one usually is brings up a calculator.

So, I can't do any Alt Codes.
I'm totally and completely frustrated. I wouldn't have bought this model if I had known. It's something that I wouldn't even think to ask.

Help, please.

tia,
Mrs Pugs

 

It is confusing because the manual from the site shows a different keyboard.

Is this your keyboard http://images.anandtech.com/galleries/1440/asus-g74sx-02-keyboard.jpg

If it is it looks like those keys only have one function which is as numbers. They don't double for arrow keys which would mean nums lock is always on. This is just my initial interpretation.

Do the keys not function for inputting numbers in a program like Notepad? I realize you are asking about alt codes but want to know if the keys will produce numbers.

 

Yes, that's the keyboard.

I have no problem with the number keypad. That works just fine.
I use it in word, on the web, and in Paint Shop Pro.

I've been reading that gamers are really ticked off, as they need the numlock for certain functions.
Why Asus took that option off a gaming computer is beyond me.

I think there was supposed to be a bios update to fix it, but am not sure about that at all. And am deathly afraid of those.

I've tried using alt + the #'s, but that doesn't work, so the numlock isn't always on.

 

Just to be sure on the alt codes have you tried holding alt, tapping in your code and then releasing alt to see if the code letter appears? I don't use alt codes often but just noticed on mine that the code letter didn't show up until I released the alt key.

I'll take a look at the BIOS updates to see if there is anything relevant. Edit: I didn't find anything addressing num lock in the available BIOS updates.

I hope others jump in if they find anything interesting.

 

Thanks for checking out the bios updates for me.

Nope, holding down and letting up on the alt key does zippo.

I've tried every combo I could come up with~~~fn+alt, ctrl+alt, and nothing works.

 

I took a quick look around and see there are many people complaining. I'll read through some threads tonight and see if I find a workaround.

I just find it curious that the keypad produces numbers in other programs and yet doesn't respond to the alt code request. I let you know what I find.

 

It looks like most people are complaining about it being on all the time by design.
Test this little program to lock num lock on that I am sure you have seen mentioned.
I extracted just the files to run it so it won't install. Just unzip it and run the exe file. It puts the Numlocker icon down in your system tray. Right click the icon and go to Num Lock and select ON. Then try an alt code. See if it makes a difference.

If it makes no difference you can just right click the icon and select NumLocker Menu and Exit. Nothing will have been installed and no changes to your system.

 

Perhaps, I was wrong about the BIOS update. This thread seems to indicate the fix was included in version 202 although there is no mention of it in the description. (Unless the reference to "add new version model" is meaninful.)

I would try the numlocker program to see if that is a workaround. If not then check which version of BIOS you have installed. It should be available by hitting delete during the ASUS startup screen and going into BIOS. You just use Esc to exit BIOS when you have your BIOS version. Choose to Exit Without Saving Changes if prompted.

 

I got so excited when I opened the program you sent and a little light went on beside the caplock light.

Unfortunately, my hopes were dashed, as it made no dif for the alt codes. *sigh*

I checked out the bios update thread, but was a bit concerned that some people had issues after the update and wanted to return to an earlier bios.

Wonder if Asus tweaked it after that, as the thread is from 2011.

Anything else to try?
Am I out of luck?

Not fair the light goes on and nothing happens.

I sure do appreciate your time and expertise.

 

I'll read a bit more before recommending the update. I think those that are complaining are complaining because after the update nums lock cannot be turned off. This would be a problem for gamers. For your alt code problem it would probably be the correct choice.

When you get a chance do see if you can find your BIOS version. Since it is a laptop you may have an ASUS utility in Start>All Programs that could also give you BIOS information. I have something called Asus Update where when it opens I can use the dropdown menu to select BIOS information and it gives me my BIOS version.

I think from what I have been reading is that they mapped those numpad keys to be the same as the number keys across the top of the keyboard. They should actually have different values. You probably know that the number keys across the top of the keyboard don't work with Alt Codes. I was originally thinking that with numlock on they work as numpad keys and with numlock off the work as the number keys across the top of the keyboard but that doesn't seem to be the case with you or NumLocker could not make the change.

About the Caps Lock turning on--Did you use the program in the bottom right of the desktop, where you click the up-triangle to get to the "N" (for NumLocker) icon and right-click it to get the menu and try to set numlock to On?

 

I looked at my system info (didn't have the option under my Asus utility)
and it said:

Bios ver 201

4/27/11
American Megatrends

Also, the help menu said that for "specific information about the BIOS used by your computer, check the information that came with your computer or go to the computer manufacturer's website".

Yes, I did do the numlock program as you instructed. Tried it with "on" and "always on".

 

Good on running the program, I think it must then have something to do with the mapping since I have seen that mentioned several places.

You have version 201 which is before the "fix" so that makes sense.

I'll spend some time tomorrow to see if there are any other workarounds or more recent threads that might discuss BIOS version 203. I'll also keep in mind to look for any problems associated with updating the BIOS.

I'll post back when I have a more thorough understanding of the problem and the why the "fix" works, or why a different workaround might work.

 

Thank you so very much.

See you tomorrow.
Again, I appreciate your time.

 

By that image of your keyboard, I would think that key with the calculator is your Numlock on and off switch. At least that would be its expected location. But ASUS has decided to remap the keyboard to have that key call up the calc. That would leave me to believe (hope?) there is a keyboard Control Panel applet for your keyboard and hopefully, from there, you can change its function back.

Curious - What's special about the 1 and 6 keys? They might be programmable too.

If there is no BIOS update or keyboard driver update/fix for this, I wonder if a USB numeric keypad will work? I think it would and for $10, not too much of a risk if it doesn't. I think you could take the notebook to your local OfficeMax, Best Buy or other computer store and try one out - telling them you'll buy it if it works (if price is right). That is better for them rather than processing a return.

 

Hi Digerati,

I think I am going to recommend a BIOS update to ver. 202. (I found no reports of a bad flash to 202 but did see two reports of problems with ver. 203 but they were probably anomalies.)

This thread pretty much sums up the situation and a BIOS update seems to be the correct fix. It sets the keyboard up the way it was designed to be with NumsLock always on and no dual functionality for the numpad keys. They will always produce "numpad" numbers and never can be used as up/ arrows and pgup/pgdwn keys (Note they have no symbols for the dual use printed on them so it was never intended for this keyboard). The BIOS update remaps the keys to numpad keys and sets NumLock permanently on.

I'd be interested in your input.

 

Hi,

This is what I found out about the 1 and 6 keys:

The two circled keys, as well as circled up-down arrows is because the keyboard is LED back lit, and it makes the 1, 6, up, and down keys more visible in full dark environment.

I bought the super gamer model as I do graphics and wanted a lot of ram and power, plus it has a good graphics card.

I think there was some discussion about the extra num pad, but not sure about that.

How hard/safe is it to update the bios?

Thanks to both of you, and as much info as you can give me is very much appreciated.

 

These days a BIOS flash is relatively safe due to built in safeguards. The reason people recommend against unnecessary flashes is because a failed flash makes the computer inoperable. BIOS is a tiny program that initiates when you power on your computer and "looks" around and gets information about the hardware and then passes that information off to Windows. If it doesn't run then your computer simply does nothing. That said, it is rare to have a problem and they usually result from a power failure during the 1 minute it takes to perform the flash. I always keep my BIOS updated and have never had a problem.

In your case I think you do need this flash to get the keyboard working the way you want. As I just posted you want to be aware that the numpad keys will not work as arrow keys after the flash but only as number keys but they should be the correct numpad number keys that will allow you to use alt codes.

There are a couple ways to flash BIOS on that laptop. I think the preferred/most reliable way would be to do it from within BIOS itself. That requires a USB flash drive. Do you have an empty flash drive?

 

As the arrow keys are separate, that function won't be affected. Please say that's right!

Will I be able to just update to the 202 and not to the 203?

I do have a flash drive, but there is something on it. Does that matter?

I can always copy the info to my external hard drive and then erase the flash drive.

I also have a techie who can take over my computer~~can it be done that way? That way I know it will be done correctly, but would like to have as much set up as I can for her.

 

First, what was ASUS thinking? I just looked at 9 keyboards - all have NumLock above the 7 key. Since that Calc key on your keyboard is only labeled with the Calc symbol, I have to think that was intentional, and not a BIOS or driver bug.

I think sach2's advice is spot on. I didn't really join to provide any help (I don't know how in this case). I was curious reading about no numlock. But I think his course of action is what I would do.

The real fix is to knock the programmer, and his peer review team, and the approving authority upside the head. Hopefully the BIOS update corrects their poor judgment.

If you visit this ASUS page, you will see a couple links to BIOS Utilities. One runs within Windows, the other run from a disk you have to create. Since your Windows works, I would use the Windows version.

WAIT - I just found something in your manual, also downloaded from that site.

First is says "The keyboard differs for each territory". And it shows that key labeled as NumLock. But it also shows the Insert key is a dual function key. Fn + Insert = NumLock.

Just looked at your keyboard again. No insert key either???

What if you press Fn + Calc?

 

Yes, those people should be knocked upside the head just to get their attention, then give them another one just because!

Nothing works, no combinations, no sledgehammer, nada, nunca, zippo.

I know everyone wants a calculator instead of a numlock. NOT.
And it's a gaming machine. What's wrong with that picture?

 

Your separate arrow keys will still work. I just wanted to spell out that the numpad keys don't have arrow functionality because some touch typists might consider that a deal breaker and want to return the laptop for a model with a more standard keyboard. If you can get used to the keyboard layout as it is but just want to get alt codes working then I think the flash is the answer.

These are the basic instructions for flashing from within BIOS. The 202 version of BIOS will fix your problem. Usually, I would say to update to the latest version which is 203 but out of an abundance of caution, I'm going to say go ahead and use the 202 version.

The link for your BIOS is here. You have to select Windows7 64bit as your OS. Then expand BIOS and use the Global link to download the version 202. It gives you a file G74SxAS.202 which you put on a flash drive. (I don't think the drive has to be empty because the flash program will check the validity of the file before allowing a flash. The navigation may be a bit more complicated then the instructions present.)

What you can do is go ahead and download the file and put it on your flash drive. Start your computer with the flash drive inserted. Go through the steps to Step 6 and see if you can find the G74SxAS.202 file in the interface. Instead of saying Yes, go ahead and Cancel or say No. And then use ESC to exit BIOS. That will let you know if the steps match what you see without actually doing the flash.

@Digerati, Yes the flash to 202 will correct the problem.

 

Well, don't get me started on that. IMO, no notebook makes a good gaming machine or desktop replacement.

Performance is not the issue, but part of the problem. It is pretty easy to put real desktop power into a tiny notebook case. But full tower cases are often challenged to keep the interiors cool and they can have 3, 4 or more large fans pushing and pulling cool air through the case. Notebook cases don't and cannot provide that kind of cooling support.

Also, PC case side panels pop off for easy access to clean out all the heat trapping dust drawn in by the fans. Thorough cleaning of notebook interiors is not something "normal" users can easily accomplish.

For those reasons, notebooks use mobile CPUs that toggle down in speed to generate less heat.

So unless the notebook can accommodate enough cooling and easy cleaning so the CPU never needs to slow down, "gaming notebook" and "desktop replacement" are really just marketing terms.

That said, if a notebook is marketed as a game machine, you would think it would be configured for gaming! Shame on ASUS - certainly not a top-tier company move that time.

Yeah, from some of the other threads on this, that looks most promising. I just wish the change history for 202 stated that fix was in the update.

While BIOS updates typically occur without problems, there is always a risk something might happen. Power outage, kids trip over wire, really bad luck. So I would back up any personal files you don't want to lose, just to be safe.

 

I'm sure you are correct in all you say. It makes perfect sense.

I'm not a gamer, just wanted the power. Maybe I didn't get the best model for me.
As I said, I do a lot of graphics so thought this would be great.

This machine has huge fans that blow out the back. So that helps. My old laptop used to
heat up a lot.

I have everything backed up in a zillion places. I even have my entire computer backed up so I can restore it with the programs and not have to re-install any programs.

Using DriveImageXML , and also Fbackup.

Yes, it would've been nice if they directly said the update would fix it. But it's worth a try.

 

That's great. Just remember to keep the vents clear of dust. And of course, laptops should NEVER be operated on your lap, bed, carpet, etc. That's why I try to always say notebook.

Smart lady!

 

I had a Western Digital one time, and it erased itself. Then the info re-appeared. After that, I had dvd's and bought a different external hard drive.

I am a fontaholic, and with over 10,000 of them I wasn't taking a chance on losing anything. At least it's a hobby that doesn't take up wall space.

This machine weighs over 12 lbs, so it is not going anywhere. I did buy it as a desktop replacement. I work with mouse, so even if I wanted to my lap wouldn't work. And with 2 dogs climbing on me that definitely wouldn't work.

Which is also why I make sure my machine is clean. They shed 24/7, 365.

I'm working up the courage to download the bios...

 

Do be careful. It seems malware makers are dinking around with fake, or malicious fonts. See here.

 

Well, geez, I would never have thought about an infectious font.

Guess that's why they used a font.

Hmm, when I follow the link to get to the bios, I can't get past where to put in my operating system.

Could you just check and see if that link brings you to the right place?

 

Ok, found the link.

About to download....

 

Sorry about the extra posts.

I found this thread about what the bios 202 fixes, and it specifies the num lock problem.

Thought you'd like to see it.

 

I think you forgot your link in your post.

Asus' website often freezes on the OS selection, it is annoying.

Go ahead and run through the steps in that step by step link to see if you can navigate up to the point of the flash then back out. It will let you get comfortable with the interface.

As Digerati said there is a Windows utility available if you have problems navigating. And I just saw under the Utilities download link there is a Live Update which is what I used for a recent BIOS flash from Asus (I'm not real worried about flashes as I have done many using various methods). I only recommended the BIOS method because it is the absolute safest since it eliminates Windows altogether.

 

Oops,

Here's the link:

http://rog.asus.com/forum/showthrea...ues-ATK-1.0.00010-BIOS-202-Available-(SOLVED)

Have you read about people having trouble with the update saying it doesn't match their machine?

I have the bios downloaded and unzipped on my flash drive.

I think I will wait a day or so before attempting what you suggested.

My head is spinning right now, and I need to be sharp or I will mess something up.

 

That is fine to wait. You will definitely get a warning about proceeding and a chance to back out so there is really no risk it taking a look at the utility. You can always get out of BIOS with esc key. However, once you do actually start the flash you must let it complete.

It makes sense to take precautions and not perform a flash during a thunderstorm but some people take the warnings too far. There are reasons for BIOS updates and if one corrects a problem that you need fixed they are appropriate.

And the warning about a file not matching is a good thing which helps prevent a bad flash. They may have a machine that had a component changed due to a repair or in production. A flash utility will not perform the flash if the file is not compatible with that computer.

Here is a little video that gives you a look at the utility. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQKQj_aASCQ

And one more that is a little larger and easier to see the screen: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkUb7qglfIY

 

I will sure let you know what happens.

You are super duper.

What time and effort you have used to help me out.

I just tried the you tube link, and the video won't play.

I think I going to take the dogs for a walk and clear my head.

 

Found the issue~~didn't work in FF. Had to use IE.

 

The navigation to your flash drive is really the hardest part. You just have to move around till you find the flash drive in the list. Since it is a laptop it should only have the HD and the flash drive.

A couple of things I thought of reading that thread that I had forgot to mention are:

1) When you get ready to do the flash make sure you have both battery and AC power connected.

2) Make sure your flash drive is formatted to FAT32. Most come that way but you should check. Start>type in Disk Management and hit enter. You will get a list of drives, find your flash drive going by size and double check that it is FAT32 rather than ntfs.

 

Flash drive was easy to find.
I have that and my external hd.
And it's FAT32.

That doesn't sound like the hard part!

 

Haha! I meant in the EzFlash program.

Take a day or so to consider it. You'll be more comfortable. If you have any questions post back.

 

Good Afternoon!

I just looked and saw that update utility for the live update.

Does that do everything by just clicking thru, like installing a program? Or would I have to search like the other way and figure out what to click on?

I wonder if it would give a choice between the 202 and 203?

Kinda looked easier....but if I understood you correctly I could have more problems doing it that way?

 

Hi,

I just tried the Live update utility to find and download my current BIOS file and it was quirky and eventually failed to find the appropriate file. I don't think I would use that utility. (I know I said I had used it and I did, but I don't like the way it just acted. Perhaps it was odd because my BIOS is already up to date and there is no update but it did not state that.)

And everything I read about WinFlash is not good either.

I really think the EasyFlash method is best. Either program requires you to point out the BIOS file. There is a built-in check of the file to see if its integrity is good.

The ezflash interface is old fashioned in that you don't use a mouse but not really difficult to navigate. Tab and arrow keys get you to your flash drive and then the file. Click on the file and it will "check" it and then ask if you want to do the flash. Say No. This will let you get more familiar with the navigation. Try it a few times until you feel more comfortable.

 

Ok, I just looked at the live update again. And I remember that I did not let it download my file but did as you said and pointed it to my already downloaded BIOS. So yes you could use that utility and Select: Update BIOS from File then point it to your downloaded .202 file. It will check the file and give you a chance to Flash or Exit.

You could try it and see if you would rather use that program. You don't have to flash just let it check the file and see how the interface works.

 

That sounds a lot easier.

Going to take a look at the interface.

thx

Just tried it, and took a screen shot.
I got a dif update screen than you did.

In the message box it says:
The Bios file version does not match the BIOS ROM version.

There is no dropdown box.

How do I attach it here from my computer so you can see it?

It seems as if it is looking for a rom update, and mine is says G74SxAS.202, with no rom extension.

 

You would be checking in the Flash/Exit window that the models match and that your current ROM should indicate ver. 201 and the Image should be ver. 202. And message window says ok to flash. (My versions are the same but yours would be different.)

 

Did you see my edited post?

The update file is not a rom one.

It says the versions don't match. arrgghhhh

 

I'll have to get back to you on that. Was your Asus Update already installed on your computer? It may be an older version. Which version are you running it should say in the window that first opens.

I don't think the name of the BIOS file makes a difference.

I'd still recommend EzFlash method but I will take another look when I get back.

Attachments can't be larger than 99kb but zipped attachments can go to 2mb. So just zip up the picture and attach if you think it will be useful.

 

From what I have been reading, the EZ flash, as you said, is the safest one.

I was also reading something about installing a new ATK? atk1.0.0010?

And needing to reset defaults?

 

ATKACPI driver and hotkey-related utilities is a Windows program and can be updated any time. It is found on your Asus download page under Utilities. You can update it now if you like. the version now is Version V1.0.0015
I think that is unrelated to the BIOS update but was something others had tried before the BIOS update was available.

The Ezflash is the safest because it takes any potential problem with Windows out of the equation. The update is done directly from the program and doesn't have to be transmitted through Windows. It really is safest and really quite simple. If you only have your USB flash plugged in to the laptop, the choices should only be HD or USB. You select USB and arrow down to your file. Hit enter and it will check it and then prompt whether or not to do the flash. Give it a quick look and you will see there is nothing particularly mysterious about navigating to the file. The instructions for navigating are at the bottom of the screen.

Any BIOS flash resets defaults. On a laptop that should not mean you will see anything different. On a desktop that might mean that you would have to go in to BIOS after the flash and tell it which HD to boot from etc. But on a laptop you only have one HD so it is the default. So you shouldn't have to do anything. In all the threads I have read no one said anything about having to go in and change any default settings after the flash.

 

The default setting stuff was in the 2nd You Tube video. But I think that was a desktop.

So, I just shut down the machine and keep hitting delete when it comes back on?
Then the screen should come up with the bios, right?

Just going back over the procedure. It is sounding easier now that you have explained it (soooo patiently, I must add) and with all the reading.

 

YESSSSS!!! We have liftoff

I did what you suggested, and got comfortable.

Then I got REALLY brave and just went for it!

And it worked like a charm.

The numlock light is on, and the alt function works!

WooHoo!!

I don't know how to thank you enough.

You are so very patient, and have spent such a LOT of time with me. I'm really very grateful for your time and expertise.

And you were right again~~~easy as could be.
I am such a happy camper.

It's great to be able to use the extra characters in my fonts, and well as the regular stuff.

:hyper :heart :celebrate

Did I say thank you?

 

You are very welcome!

Congratulations on your first (and hopefully last) BIOS flash.

It is always a fine line on being careful and getting paranoid. They wouldn't issue BIOS updates if they weren't useful but there is always the tiny but real chance that something won't go right which is difficult to recover from without professional help.

Enjoy your Alt codes.

 

Believe me, I already am.

I tube for a company that lets me use the stuff I make for free.
Kinda hard to put a cr on them when ya can't make one.

Off to rest my eyes and pat myself on the back for learning something new.