Laptops with goofy key layouts…and how to fix
Figured I would post this here since I encountered this problem mostly when using C3D. I recently got upgraded to a 17″ Dell laptop (Precision 7760) and the keyboard is…not good.
Like many laptops, the function keys F1-F12 have alternate functions on them, like volume controls, screen brightness, etc.
But this is the first one I have operated where the Home and End keys are alternative functions (of F11 and F12).
I use F2-F4 a lot in C3D, mostly F3 for turning snaps on and off, but I also use Home/End when editing text. So the way this thing is designed, I can either have my standard function keys, or my Home/End keys, but not both at the same time. Aggravating as hell. I’m sure they are limited in space considering how much stuff has to get packed into the case, but it sure seems like they have enough real estate to split out those keys.
Of course, the ultimate solution was to call upon my Google-Fu and spend a couple of minutes reading the rants of other afflicted Dell users, because someone had already found an easy workaround: AutoHotKey, which is slicker than snot. Figured I’d at least throw it out there in case anyone else has this issue with a similar laptop.
I’d seen the program before, but several years ago and had forgotten about it. It lets you map keys to other keys with custom scripts.
I have now gamed the system, even on my work machine that does not grant me admin rights, and all is right with the world again. I just felt good about it and wanted to brag.
Nothing to see here, carry on.
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