Function keys not working?

Question

I have a Toshiba NB205 netbook that is a few weeks old. Certain functions are controlled with function keys: FN+ESC toggles the mute, FN+F8 toggles wireless, etc.

But now the key combinations are totally unresponsive. ALT+F4 works fine, but FN+ anything fails silently. What could be the problem? Did this somehow get disabled? How else can I turn off wireless?

Thanks for your help.

Answer 1

If Fn lock isn't the culprit, reinstall the Toshiba Value Added Package (TVAP), it is responsible for the ACPI functionality of the netbook.

Answer 2

I had the same problem and I solved it following these steps:

1. Download these prgrams from http://www.csd.toshiba.com and install them:

   ConfigFree for Windows 7
   Atheros Wireless LAN Driver for Windows 7
   

2. Restart flash cards:

   Start -> All Programs -> TOSHIBA -> Utilities -> Restart flash cards
   

3. Press Fn, the Fn functions to switch on or off will appear on your screen.

NOTE: When you need to switch it again you will need to restart flash cards.

Answer 3

The FN stuff is controlled by the BIOS, meaning that it's not controlled by Windows.
Some things to try:

1. Search in the BIOS for an option to re-activate it.
2. Try Fn+Numlock or Fn+Shift+Numlock

Answer 4

Disabling the wireless adapter in the OS would be the easiest. If you don't plan on using it, probably in the BIOS.

EDIT: Sounds like your problem is Fn button quit working. I don't know if that can be remapped in the OS using The Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator.

EDIT: I noticed in the BIOS of a laptop I had that there is a Fn key emulation feature. In my paticular laptop I could make the external keyboard's Scroll Lock key act as the laptop's keyboard Fn key. Parhaps this would work for you.