what is the equivalent of the option key on a windows keyboard
Computer keyboard


the modifier keys are the Option key and Command key, respectively. On Sun Microsystems and Lisp machine keyboards, the Meta key is used as a modifier and for Windows keyboards, there is a Windows key. Compact keyboard layouts often use a Fn key. "Dead keys" allow placement of a diacritic mark, such as an accent, on the following letter (e.g., the Compose key). The Enter/Return key typically causes a command line, window form or dialog box to operate its default function, which
18965423
Microsoft ergonomic keyboards


(above  —  and the numeric keypad), including multimedia keys and Power management keys. In versions of Windows prior to Windows Vista, Microsoft's Intellitype software is required to configure the behavior of the shortcut keys. Vista and Windows 7 have the ability to customize shortcut key behavior without additional software when using the "internet keyboard" keyboard layout. Some other modern operating systems, such as FreeBSD and most Linux distributions, have comparable configuration options. The Natural Keyboard Pro also included an internal two-port USB hub, which
1855162
Option key


key was known as the closed apple key, and had a black line drawing of a filled-in apple on it. (See command key for information about the history and the "open apple".) Since the 1990s, "alt" has sometimes appeared on the key as well, for use as an Alt key with non-Mac software, such as Unix and Windows programs; as of 2017, the newest Apple keyboards such as the Magic Keyboard no longer include the "alt" label. The Option
13982253
Option key


key in a Mac operating system functions differently from the Alt key under other Unix-like systems or Microsoft Windows. Most notably, it is not used to access menus or hotkeys, but is instead used as a modifier for other command codes, and also to provide easier access to various accents and symbols. In this regard, it is akin to the AltGr key, found on some IBM-compatible PC keyboards. The use of the Option key is similar to that of the AltGr key on European keyboards of IBM-
13982254
Alt key


but in macOS it is always referred as the Option key. The Option key's behaviour in macOS differs slightly from that of the Windows Alt key (it is used as a modifier rather than to access pull-down menus, for example). The key is well known as part of the key combinations: In Microsoft Windows, holding down the Alt key while typing in numbers (often referred to as Alt codes) on the numeric keypad allows the user to type special characters not normally available on the keyboard. For
12497476
QWERTZ


key to the right of the left Shift key. To adapt to 101/102-key keyboards which don’t have that key, the MS Windows QWERTY layout has put the í on the usual key for the 0 (zero) while the 0 has been moved to that key’s AltGr/Option level; On the Mac both layouts (QWERTY and QWERTZ) have this adaptation. A variant of the QWERTZ keyboard has been used in Poland, but QWERTY keyboards have been dominant since the early 1990s. The standard keyboard layout as established by
19367212
Esperanto orthography


For X11 and KDE, it's only necessary to switch to a keyboard layout that has Latin dead keys (for example, the "US International" keyboard), whenever the user wants to write in Esperanto. Some keyboards with dead keys are: Another option is to use a keyboard layout that supports the Compose key (usually mapped to the right alt or to one of the windows keys). Then, "compose-u u" will combine the character u with the breve, and "compose-shift-6 s
11265375
Windows key


taskbar. However, this feature was added back into Windows 10. Pressing the key in combination with other keys allows invoking many common functions through the keyboard. Holding down will not substitute for the Windows key in these combinations. Which Windows key combinations ("shortcuts") are available and active in a given Windows session depends on many factors, such as accessibility options, the type of the session (regular or Terminal Services), the Windows version, the presence of specific software such as IntelliType and Group Policy if applicable
9075321
Windows key


The Windows logo key (also known as Windows-, win-, start-, logo-, flag-, command-, or super-key) is a keyboard key which was originally introduced on the Microsoft Natural keyboard in 1994. This key became a standard key on PC keyboards. In Windows tapping the key brings up the start menu. performs the same function, in case the keyboard lacks this key. Historically, the addition of two Windows keys and a menu key marked the change from the 101/102-key to 104/105-key layout for PC keyboards.
9075316
Modifier key


() on Amiga computers, are usually handled equivalently. Under the GNU/Linux operating system, the desktop environment KDE calls this key Meta, while GNOME calls this key, neutrally, Super. (This is a bit confusing, since the original space-cadet keyboard and the X Window System recognize a "" modifier distinct from "".) The Sinclair ZX Spectrum has a Symbol Shift key in addition to Caps Shift. This was used to access additional punctuation and keywords. The MSX computer keyboard, besides Shift
1027068
Start menu


to the design used in early preview builds of Windows 10. It allows applications to be pinned to the top of the left column, with recently used apps listed below (much like 7), and as with 10, allows tiles to be pinned to the right column. The Start menu may be launched either by pressing (the Windows key) on a keyboard or its equivalent on a tablet device, pressing CTRL+ESC on a keyboard, or by clicking on the visual Start button. With the exception of Windows 8 and
4718189
Diaeresis (diacritic)


key, such as right-click or press-and-hold. Soft keyboards may also have multiple contexts, such as letter, numeric, and symbol. In Windows 8, the standard (but not extended) touch US keyboard allows entry of "ä ë ï ö ü ẅ ÿ" by holding the corresponding un-accented keys, and of spacing ¨ by holding ~ or ^. Upper-case equivalents are accessed with the Shift key, as would be expected. iOS provides accented letters through press-and-
697938
Keyboard layout


OS X as an install option) or MS Windows. The key can generally be used to produce a secondary mouse click as well. There is also a key on modern Mac keyboards, which is used for switching between use of the , , etc. keys either as function keys or for other functions like media control, accessing dashboard widgets, controlling the volume, or handling exposé. key can be also found on many IBM PC laptops, where it serves a similar purpose. Many Unix workstations (and also home computers
12524660
Command key


the Mac Command keys, as is the key on a Sun or another Unix-oriented keyboard. Conversely, when an Apple USB keyboard is used with other operating systems, the Command keys function as Windows keys or Meta keys. On a Windows keyboard the position of the and keys are swapped compared to the position of and keys on an Apple keyboard. In macOS this can be configured in the keyboard preferences (Modifier Keys ...) so that the Windows key (next to the space bar) becomes the Mac key and
3751591
AltGr key


AltGr key are: The two latter symbols interchange places in UK keyboards according to the operating system in use. In OS/2, the "UK keyboard layout" (specifically: the UK166 layout) requires AltGr for the vertical bar and the broken vertical bar is a shifted key—which matches the actual symbols that are printed on most UK keyboards; in Windows, the "UK keyboard layout" requires AltGr for the broken vertical bar and the vertical bar is a shifted key—the reverse of what is usually printed on the
9060829
Alt key


keyboards. In their original function, both Alt and Meta would set the high bit of the signal generated by the key to 1 (for example, A generates 01000001 while generates 11000001). However, in modern software, due to the requirement of the high bit for internationalization, Alt no longer works in such a way. Since the 1990s Alt has been printed on the Option key () on most Mac keyboards. Alt is used in non-Mac software, such as non-macOS Unix and Windows programs,
12497475
Option key


The Option key is a modifier key (ALT) present on Apple keyboards. It is located between the Control key and Command key on a typical Mac keyboard. There are two option keys on modern (as of 2011) Mac desktop and notebook keyboards, one on each side of the space bar. (As of 2005, some laptops had only one to make room for the arrow keys.) Apple commonly uses the symbol to represent the Option key. From 1980 to 1984, on the Apple II series, this
13982252
Windows key


Apple keyboards however, as Apple keyboards place the Command key where the Alt is on most keyboards (next to the Space bar). If Windows is installed on an Apple desktop or laptop then in Windows the Command key will function as the Windows key. On Xbox 360, pressing the Windows key performs the same action as the Guide button on Xbox 360 Controller or remote controls, opening the Xbox Guide. Holding down the Windows key and pressing M opens a pop up conversation window over gameplay, if an instant message conversation
9075325
Command key


not the Control or Option keys) for this purpose. A small set of keyboard commands (such as cut and paste, open and save) are standard across nearly all applications, and many other commands are standardized (Find, Show Fonts). If an application needs more shortcuts than can be obtained with the twenty-six letters of the Latin alphabet, double modifiers such as Command+Option are used. One advantage of this scheme, as contrasted with the Microsoft Windows mixed use of the Control and Alt keys, is that
3751586
Mission Control (macOS)


it is possible to select a window using the Scroll Ball, by scrolling in the direction of that window. The keyboard shortcuts used for activating Exposé can be customized to be any of the function keys, the shift, control, option or command key, the fn key on Mac laptops, or even a mouse button on multiple-button mice (including Apple Mighty Mouse). Different features of Mission Control can also be activated by moving the mouse to a 'hot corner' of the desktop. This system is off
7010556
QWERTZ


, or foreign characters like “Æ” or “Ə”. Sorbian QWERTZ is practically identical to the German layout, but the additional Sorbian characters can be entered with dead keys; it has three different layouts: Standard, Legacy, and Extended. All are supported by Microsoft Windows (Windows 7 and later only). The QWERTZ keyboard layout is commonly used in the Czech Republic, but the QWERTY variant is an unofficial option. The characters from the American keyboard (@#$&\|[]{}<>^`~*) and some other characters and diacritic signs
19367209
Windows key


preferred. Microsoft regulates the appearance of the Windows key logo picture with a specially crafted license for keyboard manufacturers ("Microsoft Windows Logo Key Logo License Agreement for Keyboard Manufacturers"). With the introduction of a new Microsoft Windows logo, first used with Windows XP, the agreement was updated to require that the new design be adopted for all keyboards manufactured after 1 September 2003. However, with the release of Windows Vista, Microsoft published guidelines for a new Windows Logo key that incorporates the Windows logo recessed in a chamfered lowered
9075319
Keyboard layout


. An additional defining (albeit optional) feature of the Colemak layout is the lack of a caps lock key; an additional backspace key occupies the position typically occupied by Caps Lock on modern keyboards. Operating systems such macOS, Linux, Android, Chrome OS, and BSD allow a user to switch to the Colemak layout. A program to install the layout is available for Microsoft Windows, as well as a portable AutoHotKey implementation. Colemak variants exist, like Colemak Mod-DH. Workman is an English layout supported out-
12524705
Cwm (window manager)


several menus: All these menus operate in a "search as you type" manner. cwm allows raising, hiding, switching between, and searching for windows using just the keyboard, making it suitable to use as terminal emulator multiplexer. Furthermore, it allows manipulating pointing devices, such as mice, with the keyboard. Additional key bindings and configuration options can be specified in the configuration file codice_1. cwm is generally well received in software minimalist communities. cwm is noted to be used mainly due to its status as one of
18167183
ß


such as US-International also AltGr+s in Microsoft Windows or Option+s on the US, US-Extended, and UK keyboards in macOS. In Windows, one can also use alt code 0223. Some modern virtual keyboards show ß when the user presses and holds the s key. The HTML entity for ß is codice_1. Its code point in the ISO 8859 character encoding versions 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16 and identically in Unicode is 223, or DF in
20122812
Super key (keyboard button)


In Openbox the Super key is an available modifier key, but is not used in any default shortcuts. Under Unity, the key is used to control launcher and manage windows. In elementary OS, the Super key shows a shortcut overlay and is used for several system, window, and workspace functions. X11 emulation on macOS puts the Super shift state on the Command key. Since macOS uses the Windows key as the Command Key if a non-Macintosh keyboard is connected, this means that the layout on such keyboards is
14807333
Apple Wireless Keyboard


of Mac OS X 10.7/OS X Lion, Apple updated the keyboard slightly, updating the label on the Exposé key to Mission Control and changing the Dashboard key to a Launchpad key. Keyboard layouts with a rectangular Enter key are available in American English and Korean. Keyboard layouts with L-shaped Enter keys are available in: Due to the missing keys for Windows PCs (such as the PrintScreen Key), Apple has made mappings. Note. These keyboard mappings will work on a Mac operating under Windows 7 when running
8319381
Menu key


of keyboards intended for use with the Windows operating system, the menu key is frequently omitted in the interest of space, particularly on portable and laptop keyboards. The key's primary function is to launch a context menu with the keyboard rather than with the usual right-mouse button. It can be used when the right-mouse button is not present on a mouse. Some Windows public terminals do not have a Menu key on their keyboard to prevent users from right clicking; however, in many Windows applications, a similar
12832279
Computer keyboard


in the icon is not present, showing the menu only. This key was created at the same time as the Windows key. This key is normally used when the right mouse button is not present on the mouse. Some Windows public terminals do not have a Menu key on their keyboard to prevent users from right-clicking (however, in many Windows applications, a similar functionality can be invoked with the Shift+F10 keyboard shortcut). Many, but not all, computer keyboards have a numeric keypad to the right of the
18965434
Niqqud


the classic Ashkenazi pronunciation, for example, differs in several respects. Both consonants and niqqud can be typed from virtual graphical keyboards available on the World Wide Web, or by methods integrated into particular operating systems. In GTK+ Linux systems, niqqud can be entered by holding down AltGR and pressing the same keys as for Windows below. Or by pressing ctrl+shift+u followed by the appropriate 4 digit Unicode. Using the Hebrew keyboard layout in Mac OS X, the typist can enter niqqud by pressing the Option key together with a number on
225746
Menu key


In computing, the "menu key" or "application key" () is a key found on Microsoft Windows-oriented computer keyboards, introduced at the same time as the Windows logo key. Its symbol is usually a small icon depicting a pointer hovering above a menu, and it is typically found on the right side of the keyboard between the right Windows logo key and the right control key (or between the right alt key and the right control key). While the Windows key is present on the vast majority
12832278
Aquamacs


a window, or Command-S to save the file, are available. A standard printing dialog and functions to efficiently use the Option key on Mac keyboards as Emacs Meta key have been added. The styles of windows can be automatically changed to suit the major mode used in the buffer shown. Visually, Aquamacs has been adapted in its icons and fonts to look similar to other Mac applications. Aquamacs is a distribution that includes a number of extensions to GNU Emacs to provide an integrated development environment and to support, among
755238
Windows key


circle with a contrast ratio of at least 3:1 with respect to background that the key is applied to. In Common Building Block Keyboard Specification, all CBB compliant keyboards were to comply with the Windows Vista Hardware Start Button specification beginning in 1 June 2007. On Windows 9x and Windows NT families of Windows operating system, tapping the Windows key by itself traditionally revealed Windows Taskbar (if not visible) and opened the Start menu. In Windows Server 2012 and Windows 8, this key launches the Start menu but doesn't show the
9075320
Hebrew keyboard


this form, there would be an additional key to the right of the left shift key. This would be an additional backslash key (). Keyboards with 102 keys are not sold as standard, except by certain manufacturers who mistakenly group Israel into Europe, where 102 keyboards are the norm (most notable of the later group are Logitech and Apple). On computers running Windows, Alt-Shift switches between keyboard layouts. Holding down a Shift key (or pressing Caps Lock) in Windows produces the uppercase Latin letter without
1291707
Computer keyboard


the command or Windows keys. There is no standard computer keyboard, although many manufacturers imitate the keyboard of PCs. There are actually three different PC keyboards: the original PC keyboard with 84 keys, the AT keyboard also with 84 keys and the enhanced keyboard with 101 keys. The three differ somewhat in the placement of function keys, the control keys, the return key, and the shift key. Keyboards on laptops and notebook computers usually have a shorter travel distance for the keystroke, shorter over travel distance, and a
18965399
AltGr key


English text on such keyboards, Windows allows it to be emulated by pressing the Alt key together with the Control key: Therefore, it is recommended that this combination not be used as a modifier in Windows keyboard shortcuts as, depending on the keyboard layout and configuration, someone trying to type a special character with it may accidentally trigger the shortcut, or the keypresses for the shortcut may be inadvertently interpreted as the user trying to input a special character. In the US-International keyboard layout, the AltGr key can be used
9060827
Piano


equivalents of the player piano include the Bösendorfer CEUS, Yamaha Disklavier and QRS Pianomation, using solenoids and MIDI rather than pneumatics and rolls. A silent piano is an acoustic piano having an option to silence the strings by means of an interposing hammer bar. They are designed for private silent practice, to avoid disturbing others. Edward Ryley invented the transposing piano in 1801. This rare instrument has a lever under the keyboard as to move the keyboard relative to the strings so a pianist can play in a familiar key while the music
3275056
Enharmonic keyboard


An enharmonic keyboard is a musical keyboard, where enharmonically equivalent notes do not have identical pitches. A conventional keyboard has, for instance, only one key and pitch for C and D, but an enharmonic keyboard would have two different keys and pitches for these notes. Traditionally, such keyboards use black split keys to express both notes, but "diatonic" white keys may also be split. As an important device to compose, play and study enharmonic music, enharmonic keyboards are capable of producing microtones and have separate keys for
13951138
Fn key


the keys in two of the keyboard's corners. Notably, IBM did not include Windows keys on any of their keyboards until 2006, which meant that though the left Control key was displaced by the Fn key, neither it nor the left Alt key needed to be made smaller. The inclusion of Windows keys on ThinkPad models from mid-2006 onwards was achieved mainly by shrinking the left Alt key, which means that ThinkPad keyboards now generally have larger left Control keys than those of many other manufacturers, and are unique in preserving on
17039897
AutoHotkey


AutoHotkey is a free, open-source custom scripting language for Microsoft Windows, initially aimed at providing easy keyboard shortcuts or hotkeys, fast macro-creation and software automation that allows users of most levels of computer skill to automate repetitive tasks in any Windows application. User interfaces can easily be extended or modified by AutoHotkey (for example, overriding the default Windows control key commands with their Emacs equivalents). The AutoHotkey installation includes its own extensive help file, and web-based documentation is also available. AutoHotkey scripts can be
8987431
AltGr key


, which are indicated on the keyboard: Windows 8 introduced the ability of pressing to produce ẞ (capital ß). Even though this is usually not indicated on the physical keyboard—potentially due to a lack of space, since the ß-key already has three different levels ( → "ß", → "?", and, as shown above, → "\")—, it can be seen in the Windows On-Screen Keyboard by selecting the necessary keys with the German keyboard layout selected. On Hebrew
9060834
Ơ


Ơ is one of the 12 Vietnamese language vowels. It is pronounced (an unrounded [o]). As with most special Vietnamese letters, this letter is not well-supported by fonts and is often typed as either o+ or o*. The VIQR standard is o+. On the Windows default Vietnamese keyboard Ơ can be found on where the ] key is on a US English keyboard layout. Because Vietnamese is a tonal language this letter may optionally have any one of the five tonal symbols above or below it.
7366502
Command key


Macintosh also had an Option key which was used primarily for entering extended characters. In 1986, the Apple II was introduced. Like the newer Macintosh computers to come, such as the Macintosh SE, it used the Apple Desktop Bus for its keyboard and mouse. However, it was still an Apple II. Apple changed the keys on the II's keyboard to Command and Option, as on Mac keyboards, but added an open-Apple to the Command key, for consistency with applications for previous Apple II generations. (
3751582
Apple Keyboard


the standard keyboard with integrated keypad with the enhanced cursor keys above the keypad. The keyboard had a power key on the top right side, and was the last keyboard to have the power key. This keyboard can be used with Windows (although the power key has no function). Originally introduced as the Apple Pro Keyboard in 2000, but discontinued three years later, this keyboard reintroduced the additional extended function keys last seen in the Apple Design Keyboard and debuted in a clear case with black keys. A version with white
8119389
Super key (keyboard button)


The Super key refers to several different keys throughout keyboard history. Originally the Super key was a modifier key on the space-cadet keyboard. Recently "Super key" has become an alternative name for the Windows key when using Linux or BSD operating systems or software that originated on these systems. Tom Knight created both the Knight keyboard and the space-cadet keyboard. The improvement from the Knight keyboard to the space-cadet keyboard was the presence of two more modifiers for the bucky bits, Hyper and "Super";
14807328
Control-Alt-Delete


Mac OS X Server had an Easter egg in which pressing (as the Option key is the equivalent of Alt key on a Mac keyboard) would show an alert saying "This is not DOS." On some Linux-based operating systems including Ubuntu and Debian, is a shortcut for logging out. On Ubuntu Server, it is used to reboot a computer without logging in. As computers became ubiquitous, so too, has the jargon. Control-Alt-Delete can also mean "dump," or "do
12208854
Computer keyboard


least 0.150 inches (3.81 mm). Desktop computer keyboards, such as the 101-key US traditional keyboards or the 104-key Windows keyboards, include alphabetic characters, punctuation symbols, numbers and a variety of function keys. The internationally common 102/104 key keyboards have a smaller left shift key and an additional key with some more symbols between that and the letter to its right (usually Z or Y). Also the enter key is usually shaped differently. Computer keyboards are similar to electric-typewriter keyboards but contain additional keys, such as
18965398
Computer keyboard


Windows, prior to the implementation of the Windows key on keyboards, the typical practice for invoking the "start" button was to hold down the control key and press escape. This process still works in Windows 95, 98, Me, NT 4, 2000, XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10. The Enter key is located: One in the alphanumeric keys and the other one is in the numeric keys. When one worked something on their computer and wanted to do something with their work, pressing
18965431
Compose key


Compose). Installable keyboard layouts (such as KbdEdit) are available that contain a compose key assigned to one of the keys like or . They work by using the dead-key chaining feature that is more commonly used to input letters with multiple diacritics. Such keyboard layouts can also be programmed directly in C (the language Windows drivers are written in), compiled using the free-of-charge Windows Driver Kit, and packaged using the free-of-charge Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator 1.4, compatible up to the
16661079
Software remastering


7 and later was publicly released. After the user chooses the wanted 'functionality' options, nLite attempts to warn the user against removing dependent components during the creation of a custom installer. It also lets users add device drivers, integrate Service Packs and other Windows Updates as well as remove drivers for obsolete or unwanted hardware and remove unwanted language and keyboard options and unwanted applications. It allows customization of the installation process, including Product Key entry, administrator's password, regional settings and creating user account names and other options normally
11773899
Esperanto orthography


characters. Another more recent free download to adapt a Windows keyboard for Esperanto letters is Tajpi - Esperanto Keyboard for Windows 2000 / XP / Vista / 7 / 8 by Thomas James. A simple and free utility with all the Esperanto keys already installed is called Esperanto keyboard layout for Microsoft Windows – (QWERTY version) this is available as a free download. A similar tool is Ek, and is available without charge. You can download the keyboard by clicking on Instalilo: ek(version#)inst.exe. Ek uses the cx keying function to produce
11265371
IBM System/36


moving between these operating systems, some things to consider include the following: First, the SSP user interface is command-based rather than graphical user interfaces like Windows; interacting with the computer is about what commands are typed and what keys are pressed, rather than the mouse click. Keys F1-F12 are also called Cmd ("command") keys. Most standard S/36 keyboards have 24 Cmd keys (on some models, shifted F1-F12 keys are called F13-F24.) SSP menus associate a number, not an icon, with a
17913678
Computer keyboard


addition to this, Linux and variants, as well as many DOS programs, treat this combination the same as Ctrl+C. On modern keyboards, the break key is usually labeled Pause/Break. In most Windows environments, the key combination Windows key+Pause brings up the system properties. The Escape key (often abbreviated Esc) "nearly all of the time" signals "Stop" - "QUIT" - let me "get out of a dialog" (or pop-up window): LET ME ESCAPE. Another common application
18965429
Compose key


the "fourth keyboard level modifier", a different key). As this is rather inconvenient (especially for keyboards without an ) it is common to select a keyboard layout where another key such as the right-hand or is mapped to the compose key, this option is normally available in the settings of the desktop environment. The X keyboard driver does not allow the key used for Compose to also function as a modifier. On modern systems a vast number of compose sequences are supported. Under DOS, compose key support
16661077
QWERTY


key where the ~ ` key is in the usual layout. An alternative layout uses the physical US keyboard to type diacritics in some operating systems (including Windows). This is the US-International layout, which uses the right key as an key to support many additional characters directly as an additional shift key. (Since many smaller keyboards don't have a right key, Windows also allows + to be used as a substitute for .) This layout also uses keys , , , and as dead keys to generate characters
5303088
Safe mode


environment with multiple versions of Windows installed side by side, the F8 key can be pressed at the OS selector prompt to get to safe mode. However, under Windows 8 (released in 2012), the traditional press-F8-for-safe-mode-options UI convention no longer works, and either Shift-F8 or a special GUI-based workaround is necessary. An equivalently minimal setting in Unix-like operating systems is single-user mode, in which daemons and the X Window System are not started, and
4260410
AltGr key


"left" and "right" Alt keys. The right Alt key is usually an equivalent of the AltGr key because both the right Alt key and the AltGr key share the same scancode and are indistinguishable by software. However, on some keyboards it may not be the case, i.e. the keyboard has two Alt keys, each of which acts as the left Alt key. On compact keyboards like those of netbooks, the right Alt key may be missing altogether. To allow the specific functionality of AltGr when typing non-
9060826
Option key


compatible PCs, in the sense that it can be used to type additional characters, symbols and diacritical marks. The options available differ depending on the keyboard input locale that the user has selected. For example, in the U.S. English keyboard input, produces the "å" character, and produces the cent sign "¢". The Option key can also provide access to dead key functionality. For example, holding down while pressing will create a highlighted grave accent which will be added to the next letter if possible – so
13982255
Windows key


Compared to the former layout, a Windows key was placed between the left and the left and another Windows key and the menu key were placed between the right (or ) and the right key. The key is predated by the key on a Apple computers in 1980 and the key in LISP/UNIX computers in 1970. In laptop and other compact keyboards it is common to have just one Windows key (usually on the left). On Microsoft's Entertainment Desktop sets (designed for Windows Vista), the Windows key
9075317
Computer keyboard


wants to type the quotation mark but pressed that key alone, the symbol that would appear would be the apostrophe. The quotation mark will only appear if both the required key and the Shift key are pressed. The Menu key or Application key is a key found on Windows-oriented computer keyboards. It is used to launch a context menu with the keyboard rather than with the usual right mouse button. The key's symbol is usually a small icon depicting a cursor hovering above a menu. On some Samsung keyboards the cursor
18965433
Computer keyboard


of another key, when the two are pressed in combination. For example, in Microsoft Windows will close the program in an active window. In contrast, pressing just will probably do nothing, unless assigned a specific function in a particular program. By themselves, modifier keys usually do nothing. The most widely used modifier keys include the Control key, Shift key and the Alt key. The AltGr key is used to access additional symbols for keys that have three symbols printed on them. On the Macintosh and Apple keyboards,
18965422
Super key (keyboard button)


were commonly available on keyboards). Initially on PC hardware it was just impossible to produce these shift states as there was no key to push for them. The only software that commonly used these modifiers was Emacs. With the appearance of keyboards with the Windows key there was now a key available on standard keyboards that could be used for one of these. Initially, circa 1996, it was most common to make this key be the "Meta" shift key. However, due to the high number of Emacs commands using
14807330
Esc key


key for the "Stop" button in many web browsers. On machines running Microsoft Windows, prior to the implementation of the Windows key on keyboards, the typical practice for invoking the "start" button was to hold down the Control key and press escape. This key combination still works as of Windows 10. Microsoft Windows makes use of "Esc" for many key shortcuts. Many of these shortcuts have been present since Windows 3.0, through Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10
3333555
Break key


, interrupts screen output by BIOS until another key is pressed. This is effective during boot in text mode and in a DOS box in Windows safe mode with 50 lines. On early keyboards without a key (before the introduction of 101/102-key keyboards) the Pause function was assigned to , and the Break function to ; these key-combinations still work with most programs, even on modern PCs with modern keyboards. Pressing the dedicated key on 101/102-key keyboards sends the same scancodes as pressing , then , then releasing them in the reverse
4412514
Bucky bit


In computing, a bucky bit is a bit in a binary representation of a character that is set by pressing on a keyboard modifier key other than the shift key. Setting a bucky bit changes the output character. A bucky bit allows the user to type a wider variety of characters and commands while maintaining a reasonable number of keys on a keyboard. Some of the keys corresponding to bucky bits on modern keyboards are the alt key, control key, meta key, command key (⌘), super key, and option
12141549
ETAOI keyboard


virtual keyboard for mobile devices with touchscreen that run the Android operating system. It is characterized by needing a small amount of space leaving as much space as possible to the software that needs the keyboard. As the name indicates there are exactly five keys on the keyboard on one line of keys. Characters are typed by tap and swipe gestures. The five keys of this keyboard all have different colors to be easily distinguishable. You have the following options to type a character: The concept of this keyboard was invented in 2004.
8056026
Boot Camp (software)


supports Windows 10 on a range of Macs dated mid-2012 or newer. By default, Mac will always boot from the last-used startup disk. Holding down the option key (⌥) at startup brings up the boot manager, which allows the user to choose which operating system to start the device in. When using a non-Apple keyboard, the alt key usually performs the same action. The boot manager can also be launched by holding down the “menu” button on the Apple Remote at startup. On older
22167287
Option key


governed by a preference — to be invertible in this way. In text areas, the Option key can be used for quick keyboard navigation. When keeping the Option key pressed when using the mouse, the mouse action can change behaviour In browsers such as Safari and SeaMonkey, the option key can be used to download a file. Pressing down the option key when hitting return in the address bar causes the URL-specified file to be downloaded. Also, pressing the option key when clicking a hyperlink causes the link target to
13982259
Model M keyboard


and 3 metres). From about 1994 onwards, flat non-detachable cables were used to reduce manufacturing costs; however, IBM retained its 101-key layout, never implementing the Microsoft Windows keys common on other keyboards from that time. Unicomp later designed a 104-key Model M with Windows keys. On March 27, 1991, IBM divested a number of its hardware manufacturing operations, including keyboard manufacturing, to the investment firm Clayton & Dubilier, Inc. in a leveraged buyout to form Lexmark International, Inc. Lexmark continued manufacturing the Model M
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Windows Phone 8.1


API. Microsoft has added a Word Flow keyboard in Windows Phone 8.1 that, similarly to the Swype keyboard option available on Android devices, allows users to swipe through letters to type. As the user swipes, the keyboard generates space automatically for the next word to be entered. The keyboard was touted for its speed and accuracy, and brought fame to Microsoft's research division when fifteen-year-old Lakeside School student Gaurav Sharma, using a Nokia Lumia 520 equipped with Windows Phone 8.1 and the "Word Flow" keyboard
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Dvorak Simplified Keyboard


distributions of letter frequencies. Hence, non-QWERTY-derived keyboards for such languages would need a keyboard pattern that might be quite different from the Dvorak pattern for English. Whether Dvorak or QWERTY, a United Kingdom keyboard differs from the U.S. equivalent in these ways: the " and @ are swapped; the backslash/pipe [\ |] key is in an extra position (to the right of the lower left shift key); there is a taller return/enter key, which places the hash/tilde [
12524303
Power key


The power key, or power button, is a key found on many computer keyboards during the 1980s and into the early 2000s. They were introduced on the first Apple Desktop Bus keyboards in the 1980s and have been a standard feature of many Macintosh keyboards since then. They are also found on an increasing number of Microsoft Windows keyboards, sometimes supplanted with additional keys for sleep. The power key is becoming increasingly rare, as most modern personal computers using USB allow the system to be started up by pressing any key on the
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Keyboard layout


, these third-level and fourth-level symbols may appear on the right half of the key top, or they may be unmarked. Instead of the and keys, Apple Keyboards have ("command") and keys. The key is used much like the , and the key like the on IBM PCs, to access menu options and shortcuts. Macs have a key for compatibility with programs that expect a more traditional keyboard layout. It is especially useful when using a terminal, X11 (a Unix environment included with
12524659
QWERTY


Bangladesh, Singapore, New Zealand, and South Africa), local spelling conforms more closely to British English usage, while the supplied keyboard is or based on the English (US) keyboard. In Windows 8 and later versions, the backslash key (left of Z or space) is duplicated onto the hash key (left of Enter), press which with key to type backslash , with and keys to type vertical bar . This aids users who are familiar with UK keyboard layout while the keyboard lacks this key (e.g.
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AltGr key


AltGr (also Alt Graph, or Right Alt) is a modifier key found on some computer keyboards and is primarily used to type characters that are unusual for the locale of the keyboard layout, such as currency symbols and accented letters. On a typical, IBM-compatible PC keyboard, the AltGr key, when present, takes the place of the right-hand Alt key. In macOS, the Option key has functions similar to the AltGr key. AltGr is used similarly to the Shift key: it is held down
9060823
LK421


The LK421 was a detachable computer keyboard manufactured by Digital Equipment Corporation of Maynard, Massachusetts and supplied as an option to the standard LK401 keyboard with their DEC 3000 AXP workstations. The keyboard is optimized for use with the Digital Unix line of operating systems, instead of the OpenVMS operating system for which the LK401 was more suitable. The keyboard is notable for the standard position of the Control key for use with Unix operating systems and an Escape key. The keyboard has two compose keys. There is no separate numeric keypad or edit
18919802
Apple Keyboard


first to be sold optionally, was essentially a redesigned version of the "Apple Keyboard," with an enhanced extended keyboard with FKeys and other PC-style keys. It included template guides above the top row of function keys to accommodate shortcut key references which accommodate many software packages. It was the heaviest of all the Macintosh keyboards and set the standard for many typists. It was sold separately from any Apple computer and retailed for US$163. Introduced and sold with the Macintosh Classic and LC in 1990, this keyboard was
8119382
Language input keys


Kanji key) and off (for English, see Alphanumeric key). Prior Windows 98 and older systems, the key was only with Half-width/Full-width function. Used to switch between entering Japanese and English text. It is not found as a separate key in the modern Japanese 106/109-key keyboard layout. On the Common Building Block (CBB) Keyboard for Notebooks, as many 106/109-key keyboards, the Kanji key is located on the Half-width/Full-width key, and needs the key . It
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Keyboard layout


only. Mixed hardware-to-software keyboard extensions exist to overcome above discrepancies between functional and visual layouts. A "keyboard overlay" is a plastic or paper masks that can be placed over the empty space between the keys, providing the user with the functional use of various keys. Alternatively, a user applies keyboard stickers with an extra imprinted language alphabet and adds another keyboard layout via language support options in the operating system. The visual layout of any keyboard can also be changed by simply replacing its keys or attaching labels
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Meta key


on standard keyboards. On keyboards that lack a physical Meta key, its functionality may be invoked by other keys such as the Windows key. Software often provided another workaround, such as using the Alt key (which does not exist on the Knight keyboard), or using the Esc key as a prefix (for example in Emacs). Because of these workarounds the need for Meta, despite being the most-used additional shift key, was less than for other shift keys. Thus it is more common today to use
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Keyboard layout


commercial editor, for Windows) and Keyman Developer (free, open source editor for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, or for sites on the web as virtual keyboards) make it easy to create custom keyboard layouts for regular keyboards; users may satisfy their own typing patterns or specific needs by creating new ones from scratch (like the IPA or pan-Iberian layouts) or modify existing ones (for example, the Latin American Extended or Gaelic layouts). Such editors can also construct complex key sequences using dead keys
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Alt key


characters a US Mac keyboard will produce when the Option key is pressed. The highlighted orange keys show the accents available from the combination of the key and the keyboard characters (on the top letters row) and (on the bottom letters row). The accent then can be applied to associated letters both lower and uppercase. The additional characters a Mac will produce are a combination of both the key and the key pressed down together. With this combination pressed the keyboard will now produce a different set or an uppercase version of
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Gateway AnyKey


, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock lights. Revisions of its design that predate the advent of the “Windows” keyboard have an asterisk (*), backslash (\), or hash (#) in the windows key locations, depending on the intended locale. Since the design of the AnyKey predates the "multimedia PC," it lacks the additional multimedia keys (play, pause, volume) present on many modern keyboards. A unique feature of the AnyKey is its hardware programmability. The keyboard contains an internal
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Microsoft ergonomic keyboards


keyboards, software (Microsoft IntelliType) is bundled with the keyboard for both Mac OS X and Windows, allowing users to customize the function keys and modify keys fairly extensively. The Microsoft Natural Keyboard has had several upgrades and refreshes since its introduction. The first of these was the "Natural Keyboard Elite", introduced in February 1998 at a retail price of . Like the original Natural Keyboard, the Elite was manufactured by Key Tronic, who also assisted in its development. The Elite features a nonstandard layout of the six-
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Language input keys


Language input keys, which are usually found on Japanese and Korean keyboards, are keys designed to translate letters using an input method editor. On non-Japanese or Korean keyboard layouts using an IME, these functions can usually be reproduced via hotkeys, though not always directly corresponding to the behavior of these keys. The OADG 109A and older 109 keyboard layouts which are the standard for Microsoft Windows have five dedicated language input keys: Apple keyboards designed for Mac OS X have two language input keys: alphanumeric () and kana (
15783223
Command key


picked for its Scandinavian usage due to its resembling the shape of a square castle with round corner towers as seen from above looking down, notably Borgholm Castle. The symbol was included in the original Macintosh font Chicago, and could be inserted by typing a control q key combination. In Unicode and HTML it is encoded, respectively, as . On USB keyboards, the Command keys are mapped to standard keycodes reserved for GUI functions. On a keyboard made with the Microsoft Windows logo, the Windows keys are identical in function to
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End key


The key is a key commonly found on desktop and laptop keyboards. The key has the opposite effect of the Home key. In some limited-size keyboards where the key is missing the same functionality can be reached via the key combination of Its standard symbol as described in ISO/IEC 9995-7, ie. , is used on some full-size keyboards instead of a possibly localized text label. In modern Microsoft Windows text editing applications, the key is primarily used to move the cursor to the end of the
18519186
Keyboard layout


a key were added on the bottom row (originally for the Microsoft Windows operating system). Newer keyboards may incorporate even further additions, such as Internet access (World Wide Web navigation) keys and multimedia (access to media players) buttons. As noted before, the "layout" of a keyboard may refer to its mechanical (physical arrangement of keys), visual (physical labeling of keys), or functional (software response to a keypress) layout. "Mechanical layouts" only address tangible differences among keyboards.
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Alt key


the previous set in some cases. When a user presses the key by itself on Microsoft Windows, that moves keyboard focus to the menu bar of the application having keyboard focus, and the key is not delivered to the application. In that state, another press of the key will be delivered to the application. On other platforms, for example Ubuntu, the key pressed by itself may invoke another application and not be delivered to the application having keyboard focus. In Ubuntu 16.04, pressing the key opens the HUD, which
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QWERTY


US or traditional UK keyboard. It uses an elongated return key, a shortened left with and in the newly created position, and in the upper left of the keyboard are and instead of the traditional EBCDIC codes. The middle-row key that fits inside the key has and . From Windows XP SP2 onwards, Microsoft has included a variant of the British QWERTY keyboard (the "United Kingdom Extended" keyboard layout) that can additionally generate several diacritical marks. This supports input on a standard physical UK keyboard for many languages
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QWERTZ


(÷×¤€ßĐđŁł°˘˝·˛¸) that are missing on the Czech mechanical typewriter keyboard can be accessed with the AltGr key. The layout on the picture is supported by Microsoft Windows. Note that on some keyboards, the "ű" key is located to the left of the Enter key, while on others it is placed to the left of the backspace key (see the two pictures on the right). An unusual feature of this Hungarian keyboard layout is the position of the 0 (zero): it’s located to the
19367210
Bloomberg Terminal


up, the person can then choose different options by pressing related keys or using the mouse to select the option. Similarly, {USDEUR  } displays the U.S. dollar–Euro exchange spot rate. Other common Bloomberg commands for Equity include: Thus, if someone interested in the Vodafone UK stock price, they can directly type in {VOD LN Equity HP GO}. The Bloomberg keyboard has traditionally been heavier and sturdier than standard keyboards (a previous version, the SEA100 Bloomberg keyboard weighed around 3 kg) with 3mm key
20020827
Microsoft ergonomic keyboards


other repetitive strain injuries associated with typing for long periods of time. Another innovation was the integrated wrist pad helping to ensure correct posture while sitting at the computer and further reducing strain on the neck, arms and wrists. This keyboard also introduced three new keys purposed for Microsoft's upcoming operating system: two Windows logo keys () between the and keys on each side, and a key between the right Windows and Ctrl keys. The three Num Lock/Caps Lock/Scroll Lock status lights are arranged vertically between the two
1855157
Pixel Slate


to open the application menu and lacking traditional Function Keys, with buttons on the function key row specifically assigned to per-application or global shortcuts. Like the Pixelbook, the Pixel Slate keyboard comes with a dedicated Google Assistant button in the location where most keyboards have a Windows key. Google's keyboard was criticized for difficulty in using the tablet and keyboard on one's lap, though not all reviewers found it problematic. Brydge also sells the G-Type, a clamshell-type keyboard for the Pixel Slate which connects via
232116
Keyboard layout


When a key is pressed, the keyboard does not send a message such as "the A-key is depressed" but rather "the left-most main key of the home row is depressed". (Technically, each key has an internal reference number, "raw keycodes", and these numbers are what is sent to the computer when a key is pressed or released.) The keyboard and the computer each have no information about what is marked on that key, and it could equally well be the letter
12524679
Scroll Lock


immediately switch to the next input following a double press of the Scroll Lock key. Some laptops and keyboards do not have a physical key. Some of these have a second function on another key that acts as if a key was pressed. Some common methods are: Another way to press the key is to use an onscreen keyboard. In Windows 8 this can be found through the Control Panel  Ease Of Access Center (), selecting "Start On-Screen Keyboard". This will provide access to an emulation of a
9001421
Computer keyboard


regular keyboards or keyboards with special gaming features, which can expedite frequently used keystroke combinations. A keyboard is also used to give commands to the operating system of a computer, such as Windows' Control-Alt-Delete combination. Although on Pre-Windows 95 Microsoft operating systems this forced a re-boot, now it brings up a system security options screen. A command-line interface is a type of user interface navigated entirely using a keyboard, or some other similar device that does the job of one. While
18965391
Home key


The key is commonly found on desktop and laptop keyboards. The key has the opposite effect of the End key. In limited-size keyboards where the key is missing the same functionality can be reached via the key combination of . Its standard symbol from ISO/IEC 9995-7, ie. , is used on some full-size keyboards instead of a possibly localized text label. In modern Microsoft Windows text editing applications, it is primarily used to return the cursor to the beginning of the line where the cursor is
18519065
Snipes (video game)


game is different because the computer generates a random new maze. The creature is moved using the keyboard arrow keys and shoots in different directions with the , , and keys. By combining keys, diagonal movement and shooting can be achieved. Pressing the spacebar can provide extra velocity to run away from difficult situations from the snipes. Several level options are available. First, a letter is chosen, which controls the environment settings: what bad guys are available, their accuracy at attacking, whether or not the player's diagonal shots
20761990
Jon Kimmich


as the original award-winning Microsoft Natural keyboard. The addition of the Windows-key and application-key, which first appeared on the Microsoft Natural Keyboard in 1994 (and are now standard on most keyboards and laptops designed to support Windows) has been attributed to Jon. In June 2004, Jon Kimmich left Microsoft to become Producer and Director of Business Development for Day 1 Studios. Since this time Day 1 Studios has developed MechAssault 2, F.E.A.R. for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, and Fracture. In 2012,
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