Function keys on Dell laptop requires Fn+F1-F12 (default is multimedia/oem key)

Function keys on Dell laptop requires Fn+F1-F12 (default is multimedia/oem key)

In most dell laptop (e.g. Studio 1555, Inspiron 1545, Inspiron 3000, Inspiron N5010 etc) the F1-F12 keys at the top of the keyboard are dual function with Multimedia/OEM keys such as volume and screen brightness etc. The problem is, is that the Multimedia/OEM keys are the default, and you have to press the Fn key to get the F1-F12 key to work.

Asked by: Guest | Views: 221

Total answers/comments: 5

Comments display order:

Guest [Entry]

"From Whirlpool's KB article on the Dell Studio 1555:

The media buttons are switched on by default instead of the F keys so to perform a task such as closing a window (Alt-F4), you are required to press Alt-Fn-F4. To reverse this function, it is necessary to go into the BIOS."

Guest [Entry]

"On Dell XPS 13 9370 it's depends on the BIOS settings. See the picture below.

You have three options:

With ""Fn Lock"" you can toggle between Functions and Media keys with Fn+Esc.
With ""Lock mode disable"" you can use F1-12 keys as Media keys.
With ""Lock mode enabled"" you can use F1-12 keys as Functions keys."

Guest [Entry]

You set the media keys in the bios from media to function. It will toggle the Fn keys to the top and media where you hold the Fn key.

Guest [Entry]

"Just search for Windows Mobility Center and change the option from there. No need to goto the BIOS.

Cheers"

Guest [Entry]

"For Dell
Control Panel->Hardware and sound ->Adjust Commonly used Mobility Settings
Change the Function Key Row to 'Function Key'
thats all"