Xah Lee, 2006-06, 2009-08-24
Another bad point is that MS introduced a F Lock key, which functions as a toggle. When it is off, the function keys will not send normal function key signals, but will behave by a pre-set tasks (such as Undo, Redo, open new document, close window...etc). This F Lock key is a pain because the behavior of the function keys depends on the state of the F Lock, so that a user often pressed a function key only to find it do something unexpected. (in this regard, it similar to the pain of the Caps Lock key) It would be better, if the Caps Lock key is a physical flip switch instead of a button, which would clearly indicate the current state, and won't be easily switched by accident. What made it worse is that the state of the F Lock revert to default after a computer restart, and the bundled software Microsoft IntelliType Pro does not provide a mean to disable the F Lock key. (Note: Newer model of keyboard or Windows OS may have retained the state of F Lock after computer restart).
The need of F Lock as a improvement is itself questionable, because the function keys themselves are already intended to be programable, so the pre-programed behavior with F Lock off is a redundant step. For example, with F Lock off, F4 is Open Document. The same Open Document can be programed into F4 without a altered state of the key.
Theoretically, F Lock being a toggle for the function keys, doubles the function key's purpose as if adding another row of function keys. But, in practice, few people actually need more than 12 shortcuts provides by function keys. If they need more, it can be done by holding one of the modifier keys (Ctrl, Alt, Shift) with function keys. (e.g. Alt+F4 to close window) Holding down a modifier key while pressing a function key, is easier to remember as well as operate, than trying to toggle F Lock to the right state followed by pressing a the function key.
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