Windows: Using the fn key as a toggle, rather than holding it

Question

Possible Duplicate:
Standard F* keys need holding Fn key on Compaq CQ62

I've got an HP dv6t-6100 with the fn key functioning so that by default, the F keys change the volume, brightness, etc. When I press the fn key and hold it, I can use the F1-12 keys like normal.

Is there any way to use the fn button similarly to the numlock button, allowing my to toggle between functions and F keys without holding the fn key?

Answer 1

By default, no.
But, you can write an autohotkey script for this.

Create a toggle variable in script which will act as On or Off status indicator. When the status is On, send Fn+F# keystroke instead of just F# when you press it.
(More advanced, you can create a custom OSD for this as well)

I can write the script for you if you cant get it. But, I recommend you try it yourself.
Get authotkey(its free) and start scripting.

I cant guarantee working....because Fn is handled at a little deeper level than standard keys. These might prove handy:
http://www.autohotkey.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=30483
http://www.autohotkey.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=298

Answer 2

There is an option to toggle this feature in your BIOS (aka "Setup Utility").

For more information, see your notebook's Getting Started Guide.

On page 22, under "Using the keyboard/Using the Action Keys":

Action keys are customized actions that are assigned to specific keys at the top of the keyboard. The icons on the f1 through f4 and f6 through f12 keys represent the action key functions. To use an action key, press and hold this key to activate the assigned function.

Under that description is a "Note":

The action key feature is enabled at the factory. You can disable this feature in Setup Utility. If this feature is disabled in Setup Utility, you must press fn and an action key to activate the assigned function.

Additionally, according to your notebook's Reference Guide:

To start Setup Utility (BIOS), follow these steps:

1. Turn on or restart the computer, and then press esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen.
2. Press f10 to enter Setup Utility (BIOS).

Additional information