Definition

function key

Part of the Peripherals glossary:

On a computer keyboard , a function key is one of a sequence of special keys labeled "F1" or higher (usually up to "F12" on most keyboards) that can be assigned a specific use in order to save a user time. Some function keys have uses assigned by an operating system such as Windows and somewhat different uses when interacting with an application program. In some cases, the meaning of a function key can be described by the user to an application program.

Next Steps

Check for encryption key
This tip describes how to check for encryption ...
(SearchDomino.com)
Disabling the Enter Key on a Web Browser
(SearchDomino.com)

A function key may be assigned a second use when it is pressed in combination with the shift key, ALT key, or Control key. A function key is sometimes considered to be a form of hot key .

This was last updated in April 2005

Posted by: Margaret Rouse

Related Terms

Definitions

hot key
- A hot key is a key or a combination of keys on a computer keyboard that, when pressed at one time, performs a task (such as starting an application) more quickly than by using a mouse or other inpu... (WhatIs.com)
keyboard
- On most computers, a keyboard is the primary text input device. (SearchCIO-Midmarket.com)
scan set (scan code set)
- The scan set, also called the scan code set, is a function that converts keyboard key closures to digital signals the computer interprets as alphanumeric characters and special symbols. (WhatIs.com)

Glossaries

Peripherals
- Terms related to peripheral devices including definitions about keyboards or mice and words and phrases about printers, monitors, digital cameras and scanners.
Internet applications
- This WhatIs.com glossary contains terms related to Internet applications, including definitions about Software as a Service (SaaS) delivery models and words and phrases about web sites, e-commerce ...

Dig Deeper

Check for encryption key

This tip describes how to check for encryption keys. (SearchDomino.com)
Disabling the Enter Key on a Web Browser

(SearchDomino.com)
List of SEM functionalities

(SearchSAP.com)

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