How to *quickly* change Fn keys default on XPS 15 laptop ?

Hi,

See the 3 hot backlit hot keys on top of the keyboard?

Use the first on the left, then select the right end option that correspond to toggle the function back and forth from Multimedia to Function keys

Or you can also get to this menu with Window Key + X

MEC

MEC,

I think we both know that method, what we're (or at least I'm) looking for, is a way to do it faster, without having to go into a menu.  I don't have anything else that I feel the need to use the user defined touch button for, and would LOVE to be able to use it to switch the function key behavior without either opening a menu or repeatedly pressing/holding the function key down.  I assume someone could write a simple command line script that could be assigned to the run program option, but I don't have that knowledge.

Basically, I want a way to switch them that involves only 1 step, not 4.

Why don't you just switch it to Function Key mode, then hold down the Fn key when you want the alternative functions ?

If you keep switching the "functions" of the function keys, then how will you ever know what's going to happen each time ?

IMO having it default as normal keys F1 to F12, and holding down Fn to select the top row functions makes perfect sense :emotion-1:

Because for some applications, I need the FX keys, and for others (notably media related one) I want the media F keys.

And when I want to use the media keys, I prefer to have to press only one key. Yes, I can then change the F key mode by clicking through a dedicated configuration app and submenus, but it would be easier to just use the customizable special key to do the switch.

Yes it's only a minor inconvenience, like the shift key. For this reason, they made a caps lock key.

I would like to make use of the otherwise useless tactile key "quick launch" to switch the F mode.

No there is no fast way to switch them. I phoned dell support and asked.

For anyone like me who didn't know how to switch from function to multimedia keys here is how.

step 1 restart your computer and tap F2 as it is booting up. this should bring you to the "PhoenixBIOS Setup Utility" if it doesn't restart and try again.

step 2 use your arrow keys to navigate over to "Advanced" then down to "Function Key Behavior" press enter

step 3 It should give you the choice of either "Function Key First" or "Multimedia Key First" change it to Function Key First and press enter. (or media if you want the opposite)

step 4 Exit and save changes.

Castor I would suggest phoning dell support with your second issue. Both times i have phoned with problems they have been amazing.

Run Well. Big tank!

There should be a simpler way to do it: Fn key + Esc should toggle this. If you escape key has a padlock with Fn on it, then it will work.

Fn + Esc works for me.