Special keys (windows 7 keyboard)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying the functions of two specific keys on a Windows 7 keyboard, focusing on the keys' appearances and potential uses. The scope includes technical clarification and user experience with keyboard layouts.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes two keys: one with a rectangle and "Fn" inside, and another resembling a list with an arrow.
  • Another participant suggests checking the make and model of the keyboard for an operator's manual, indicating that this might provide more specific information.
  • A participant shares a link to a Wikipedia article about the "Fn key," implying it may offer relevant insights.
  • One participant identifies the keyboard model as HP KU-0841 and notes that the Wikipedia article does not provide detailed help.
  • A participant mentions that the "Fn" key may switch the function keys from standard to user-programmable functions, based on their experience with similar keyboards.
  • Regarding the key resembling a list with an arrow, it is suggested that this key functions as a standard Windows key to open a pop-up menu, serving as an alternative to right-clicking.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present various interpretations of the keys' functions, with some agreement on the potential uses of the "Fn" key and the Windows key, but no consensus on the exact functionalities or the need for further clarification.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of specific information about the keyboard's functions and the reliance on general descriptions from participants, which may not cover all variations of the keyboard model.

mathman
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On my keyboard (bottom row) there are two keys which I have no idea what they do. I tried Googling "keyboard", but couldn't get anything useful. the keys look like this:

1. Rectangle with Fn inside
2. Something that resembles a list (blank) with an arrow
 
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What is the make and model of the keyboard (look on the bottom side for the label)? Maybe that will point you to an operator's manual online...
 
Keyboard hp KU-0841

The Wikipedia article isn't much help, since it just gives a general description.
 
mathman said:
1. Rectangle with Fn inside
FWIW I've seen keyboards with a similar key (not necessarily on the bottom row) which switches the function keys F1 - F12 from their standard meaning to user-programmable functions.

2. Something that resembles a list (blank) with an arrow
If that is to the right of the space bar, it's the standard Windows key to get a pop-up menu, as an alternative to right-clicking the mouse. (People who can touch type sometimes prefer keyboard shortcuts to using the mouse, and blind computer users never use mice.)
 

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