dv2000t: new BIOS and the Fn keys

I read something about the new BIOS update and something to do with the Function keys (a "fix" of some sort?). Is this for all HP dv2000t's or is this only a case by case problem?

I'm still awaiting my dv2000t (should be here no later than the 14th), but my friend's dv2000t's function keys don't 'function' properly and I thought that this might be some kind of fix for it.

I've posted on this issue previously, but basically, the Fn key does not allow you to use the numeric keypad, you have to activate the Number Lock button first and then type on the numeric keypad. To return to normal typing, you have to turn off Number Lock. Does anyone else find it annoying that you can't just hold down Fn to type the numeric keys? This would be the same as if there were no shift button and you had to do Fn+CAPS to type capital letters, and then Fn+CAPS again to go back to typing lowercase.

If the BIOS hasn't fixed this issue, will addressing the issue to HP help out in any way?

 

The new BIOS does not address that issue -- as far as I know, it's by design. Holding down the function button causes the numeric keypad to operate in its alternate function mode -- ie, arrow keys, home, page up, page down, end.

 

Well, here's the way I see it.

Caps Lock activated = Types all capital letters (non-letter keys are not interrupted)

Number Lock activated = Types numbers using the numeric key pad (letters ARE interrupted and do not work unless Number Lock is turned off or Function key is held down as well)

Function (Fn) button held down = Activates functions such as displaying battery power, hibernating computer, and controls such as stop, start, play, etc.

What Fn doesn't, but should do is type the numbers (and other symbols) in the numeric keypad. I mean, the numbers are inside the little squares that note that they are in fact function keys.

I find it inconvenient to have to turn on Number Lock first to use the numeric keypad. Mainly for two reasons:

1. I have passwords that use both letters and numbers. Sure I could use the numbers up top, but it's a heck of a lot faster to type letters and then simply hold down Fn to type the letters on the numeric keypad.

2. I have software that simultaneously uses letter keys and the numeric keys which includes "plus" and "minus" keys as shortcuts (using the plus and minus between the "0" and "backspace" don't work). If I need to activate a function that calls for "L, +, +, +, H, -, -" then I'm gonna have to activate the Number Lock (Fn+Number Lock) and then deactivate it to switch back and forth. This is not acceptable for this software (which I pay for).

So, I hope someone understands what I'm trying to say. Oh, and there are already home, pg up/down, and end keys located at the right (odd place for them, but whatever).

Also, I would like to know if there is anything I can do to program the Fn key to work the way I want it to.

 

We do understand what you are saying and most probably you are absolutely right. Yet, this is not an "issue" with HP and it's not a "bug", that's simply the way it is. You cannot remap the FN key as it is BIOS controlled; I don't believe HP will change that but maybe you can make a case and list is as an innovation idea (I think they have this). Till then, get a 10-dollar usb numpad