Using the keyboard
Using the action keys
An action key performs an assigned function. The icon on each of the f1 through f4 keys and f6
through f12 keys illustrates the assigned function for that key.
To use an action key function, press and hold the key.
The action key feature is enabled at the factory. You can disable this feature in Setup Utility (BIOS)
and revert back to standard settings by pressing the fn key and an action key to activate the assigned
function. Refer to
Using Setup Utility (BIOS) on page 84 for instructions.
CAUTION: Use extreme care when making changes in Setup Utility. Errors can prevent the
computer from operating properly.
Icon Key Description
f1 Opens Help and Support, which provides tutorials, information about your Windows
operating system and computer, answers to questions, and updates to your computer.
Help and Support also provides automated troubleshooting tools and access to
customer support.
f2 Decreases the screen brightness level incrementally as long as you hold down the
key.
f3 Increases the screen brightness level incrementally as long as you hold down the key.
f4 Switches the screen image among display devices connected to the system. For
example, if a monitor is connected to the computer, pressing this key alternates the
screen image from the computer display to the monitor display to a simultaneous
display on both the computer and the monitor.
Most external monitors receive video information from the computer using the external
VGA video standard. This action key can also alternate images among other devices
that are receiving video information from the computer.
f6 Plays the previous track of an audio CD or the previous section of a DVD or a BD.
f7 Plays, pauses, or resumes a track of an audio CD or a section of a DVD or a BD.
f8 Plays the next track of an audio CD or the next section of a DVD or a BD.
f9 Decreases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key.
f10 Increases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key.
32 Chapter 5 Pointing devices and keyboard